Why Hydrangeas Are a Forever Favorite
Big blooms. Soft colors. Major impact. Hydrangeas are the kind of plant that feel effortlessly romantic—but they’re actually tougher (and easier to grow) than you’d think.
They’re one of the most popular flowering shrubs and small ornamental trees for a reason. Homeowners are searching things like:
- “How to grow hydrangeas in full sun”
- “When to prune Limelight Hydrangeas”
- “Best soil for Annabelle Hydrangea”
- “Endless Summer hydrangea bloom time”
We’ve got answers—and some stunning varieties to match.
What Kind of Hydrangeas Do We Sell?
We carry four top-performing varieties, each known for gorgeous blooms and consistent growth across a range of climates.
Annabelle Hydrangea
- Type: Shrub
- Bloom Color: White
- Mature Height: 3–5 ft
- Why We Love It: Classic and clean. The huge white globes are show-stopping in early summer and the shrub has a natural woodland charm. Ideal for mass planting or borders.
Limelight Hydrangea Shrub
- Type: Shrub
- Bloom Color: Bright white lime green aging to soft pink
- Mature Height: 6–8 ft
- Why We Love It: This one’s a superstar. Blooms start green, shift to white, and fade to blush as summer goes on. Handles full sun better than other varieties.
Limelight Hydrangea Tree
- Type: Tree-form standard
- Bloom Color: Same as the shrub—white lime green to blush
- Mature Height: 6–8 ft
- Why We Love It: All the bold color and full sun tolerance of the Limelight shrub, but in a tree form with a tidy trunk. Great as a focal point in smaller gardens or front yards.
Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea
- Type: Reblooming shrub
- Bloom Color: Blue, purple, or pink (depending on soil pH)
- Mature Height: 3–5 ft
- Why We Love It: The name says it all. This hydrangea keeps blooming from spring into fall, and the color changes based on your soil. More acidic = blue. More alkaline = pink.
How to Plant Hydrangeas (Shrubs & Trees)
Timing:
Plant in early spring or fall for best root development. If planting during summer, be sure to water deeply and consistently.
Location:
Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Limelight can tolerate full sun in some climates, but Annabelle and Endless Summer prefer a break from harsh afternoon rays.
Soil:
Well-draining, rich soil is best. Add compost if your soil is sandy or clay-heavy. Hydrangeas like moisture, but not soggy feet.
Spacing:
- Shrubs: 3–6 ft apart depending on variety
- Tree form: Give the canopy room to mature (6+ ft from other trees or structures)
Watering, Fertilizing & Pruning Tips
Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist, especially in the first year. Deep water 2–3 times a week depending on heat and rainfall.
Fertilizing:
Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring. Don’t overfeed—too much nitrogen = more leaves, fewer blooms.
Pruning:
- Limelight: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth. Blooms on new wood.
- Annabelle: Can be cut back almost to the ground in early spring.
- Endless Summer: Prune sparingly. Blooms on both old and new wood. Deadhead for continuous flowering.
- Tree form: Shape lightly in late winter to maintain structure. Avoid heavy pruning.
Bonus Tips for Happy Hydrangeas
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep roots cool
- Amend soil pH with garden sulfur (to turn blooms blue) or lime (to shift toward pink) for Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea
- Protect from wind—large blooms can get top-heavy
- Don’t panic if it wilts mid-day—this is normal in heat. If it’s still droopy in the morning, water!
The Simply Trees Take
Hydrangeas are versatile, lush, and surprisingly tough once they’re settled in. Whether you want a graceful tree-form centerpiece or a full border of big-bloom shrubs, you’ll get something that makes your garden feel instantly elevated.
And because our plants are grown in containers and shipped with care, you’ll be one step ahead before you even plant.
