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8 COMING HOME MAGAZINE Hydrangeas famously make a statement, but keeping these bountiful bulbs vibrant takes a bit of thoughtful care. This quick guide walks you through simple steps and need-to-knows that help these garden favorites thrive all summer long. Old Wood These blossom on last year's stems (hence the name), which means minimal pruning. Varieties like bigleaf, oakleaf, and mountain hydrangeas keep their buds tucked in during fall, winter, and spring. So, only prune after flowering in late June or early August. ZONES: 5-9 LIGHT: Morning sun or afternoon shade WATER: Consistent moisture, reduce in early fall SOIL: Rich, moist, organic mulch 3-6 inches from stems New Wood Reliable bloomers that are fuss-free, these flowers form on current growth. Panicle and smooth varieties, such as Annabelle and Limelight, are among the most popular, producing tall, hardy stems and bulbs. Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage dramatic growth. ZONES: 3-8 LIGHT: Full morning sun and afternoon shade WATER: Intense moisture 3-4 times per week; daily in hotter regions SOIL: Organic, acidic mulch 6-12 inches below root ball Rebloomers Reblooming hydrangeas are perennial multitaskers, blossoming on old and new growth. Common varieties such as Endless Summer, Bloomstruck, and Twist-n-Shout flourish in a porous, nutrient-dense environment. Continue light pruning, removing only winter damage or spent trusses in spring. ZONES: 4-9 LIGHT: Bright morning sun or dappled afternoon shade WATER: 1 inch per week, aiming deeply at the base SOIL: Organic mix of potting soil, peat moss, and sand Happy Hydrangeas Secrets to big, beautiful blooms. BLUE Use acidic soil with a pH of roughly 5-5.5; add aluminum sulfate or a soil acidifier to promote those iconic blue tones. PURPLE Aim for a balanced pH of 5.5-6, keeping soil conditions light and steady for delicate lavender and violet blends. PINK Raise the soil's pH to 6 or 6.5 by incorporating garden lime; avoid aluminum so blooms stay rosy. GREEN Bulbs typically turn green as they age; maintain consistent moisture to preserve a fresh color. UPKEEP Hue Handbook