growing hydrangeas in containers

by Lorrie
(Sheridan, AR)

I know hydrangeas need mostly shade, and my only area is on my east facing large porch. Can I grow hydrangeas, and have them bloom in a reasonably sized pot I can keep on my porch? I love the blooms, but no shade in my yard. How would you winter them if you grew them in pots?

Doug says that he didn't know that hydrangea only grew in the shade. They do quite nicely in sun in his garden. They do appreciate a little noon day shade to be sure (and nothing likes baking hot clay soils) :-) but a little sun isn't going to be a problem if the soil is right (good soils) and the watering is right (adequate water - not drought).

As for containers. If you're talking about florists hydrangea, then this isn't a problem. You can keep them short and bring them into the house for the winter.

If you're talking about the big shrub hydrangea than I wouldn't grow 'em in containers because the pot would have to be so darn big that I couldn't move it indoors or protect it for the winter. I'd have to dig it up and bury/plant it for the winter months. Way too much work for me. But that's in my USDA zone 4 garden and somewhat less than enthusiastic back. If your conditions are different then go for it! :-)

You don't define "reasonably sized pot" but the smallest you could get away with for seasonal long care would be what we'd call a 3-gallon or about a 14 inch pot. You'd have to water it every day - no taking a weekend away or you'd likely come back to wilted plants.

Overwintering - as I said, you'd have to take it out of the pot and plant it or bury it to stop the roots from freezing solid. The plant will not like anything that takes those roots below -5F (mind you, neither do I) :-)

Hope that helps.