Hydrangeas are a beloved summer flower by many thanks to their beautiful, colorful blooms; however, it can be challenging to maintain these beauties without the right care. If youve been noticing wilting or droopy hydrangeas, it may be an obvious sign your flowers need some watering.
Below, we share everything you need to know to water your hydrangeas, including pro tips, so they stay luscious all summer long.
Hydrangeas are a popular flowering shrub grown in gardens across the country. With their lush blooms and attractive foliage it’s no wonder they are a favorite. But in order to keep hydrangeas looking their best, proper watering is essential.
So how long can hydrangeas go without water before the effects of drought become detrimental? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hydrangea water needs including
- An overview of hydrangea water requirements
- How often to water hydrangeas
- Signs that hydrangeas need water
- The maximum time hydrangeas can go without irrigation
- How to revive drought-stressed plants
- Tips for hydrating hydrangeas to avoid issues
Hydrangea Water Needs Overview
Hydrangeas prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil. Irregular watering often causes stress, resulting in wilting, drooping, and stunted growth. During periods of drought, the leaves and flowers will wilt as the shrub tries to conserve water. Prolonged drought causes the leaves to eventually crisp, brown, and fall off.
On average, hydrangeas need about 1-2 inches of water per week from either rainfall or irrigation during the growing season. Plants in hot, dry climates may need more frequent watering. Container-grown hydrangeas also have higher water requirements than in-ground plants. Pots and containers dry out more quickly and may need daily watering during hot weather.
The most effective method for watering hydrangeas is with soaker hoses or drip irrigation placed around the shrub’s drip line This provides steady hydration directly to the roots Overhead watering with sprinklers or hoses can damage the delicate blooms. It’s also important to add mulch around hydrangeas to help retain soil moisture and reduce watering needs.
How Often to Water Hydrangeas
Here are some general guidelines for how often to water hydrangeas based on their type and environment:
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In-ground hydrangeas – About 1 inch of water twice per week. During hot summer weather, they may need daily irrigation.
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Container hydrangeas – Check soil daily and water when the top few inches become dry. Pots require more frequent watering than in-ground plants.
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New plantings – Water new hydrangea plants or transplants daily for the first few weeks until the root system is established.
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During bloom time – Increase watering frequency to support lush, vibrant blooms.
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Fall preparations – Deeply water hydrangeas before winter dormancy sets in to prep for cold weather.
Adjust the watering schedule based on weather conditions, soil type, plant size, and other factors. Target about 1-2 inches of water weekly for most established shrubs.
Signs That Hydrangeas Need Water
It’s important to watch for signs of water stress in hydrangeas and irrigate at the first symptoms. Common indicators that plants need more hydration include:
- Wilting or drooping leaves and flowers
- Soil is dry 2-3 inches below the surface
- Crispy or brown leaf edges
- Lackluster or stunted growth
- Small and sparse blooms
Don’t wait until hydrangeas display these visible symptoms before watering. Plants already under drought stress become more prone to pests, diseases, and long-term damage.
How Long Can Hydrangeas Survive Without Water?
The maximum time hydrangeas can go without irrigation depends primarily on two factors – whether they are in the ground or in containers, and the weather conditions.
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In-ground hydrangeas can survive about 5-7 days without water during cool weather. In hot, dry conditions, they may only last 2-3 days before severe wilting occurs.
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Container hydrangeas have less tolerance for drought. They may survive only 1-2 days without water in hot weather, or up to 2 days during cooler temperatures.
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New plantings have the least drought tolerance and may only withstand 1-2 days without irrigation before permanent damage ensues.
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During bloom time, hydrangeas should not go more than 1-2 days without water to maintain lush, full flowers. Wilt sets in quickly on blossoms under water stress.
Prioritize watering hydrangeas over lawns if water restrictions are in place. It’s better to lose some grass than to have prized ornamentals perish. Hand watering with hoses or watering cans may be necessary if irrigation systems fail during drought.
Reviving Drought-Stressed Hydrangeas
If hydrangeas display significant drought stress, don’t give up on them yet! Here are some tips for reviving plants after periods of insufficient water:
- Water deeply and slowly to saturate the root zone
- Remove any crispy, browned foliage to allow for new growth
- Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture
- Prune back badly damaged stems once new growth appears
- Provide shade if leaves burned due to excess sun exposure
- Stake stems of weakened plants to provide support
- Fertilize to aid recovery after severe stress
With quick action and proper aftercare, many hydrangeas can surprisingly bounce back after wilting from a lack of water. But preventing such stress in the first place through attentive watering is key to success.
Tips for Hydrating Hydrangeas
Here are some extra pointers for meeting hydrangeas’ moisture needs:
- Add 2-3 inches of mulch around plants to reduce watering frequency
- Utilize soaker hoses or drip lines for the most effective irrigation
- Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation loss
- Check soil regularly and water at first signs of dryness near roots
- Prune selectively to reduce transpiration needs for damaged plants
- Fertilize to promote healthy growth that withstands temporary drought
Proper soil preparation at planting time by amending with compost also improves the soil’s ability to retain moisture. Group hydrangeas with other water-loving plants for more efficient irrigation.
Keeping hydrangeas consistently hydrated is critical to prevent wilt and achieve lush, vibrant blooms. By following these tips, you can properly irrigate your hydrangeas and enjoy their beautiful flowers.
When Is the Best Time to Water Hydrangeas?
According to Hankinson, morning watering is generally the best for most plants since it helps prevent evaporation and mildew. Before you water, Hankinson recommends checking the soil to see if its dry at about 6cm beneath the surface.
“If it is, its time to water,” Hankinson says.
Mulch the soil to help retain moisture and temperature, and make sure the soil is well drained throughout, Hankinson suggests.
When to Water Your Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas often show major signs when theyre in need of watering. Morris Hankinson, the director of Hopes Groves Nurseries, explains how the foliage will droop, wilt, or turn brown and crispy.
“Hydrangeas do sometimes droop during the day when the weather is hot, and as the evening temperature drops, they will soon spring back to life,” Hankinson says. “If they don’t, they definitely need some water.”
If you notice any of these signs, make sure to be proactive and not wait too long to water your hydrangeas. Also, take a look at the soil around the base of the plants to see if its dried or cracked.
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FAQ
How long can hydrangeas go without being watered?
The rule of thumb for watering hydrangeas is three times a week. Now since we don’t all live in a bubble there are other factors, such as weather, that you will need to take into consideration when deciding if you need to water or not.
What is the 1/3 rule for hydrangeas?
All dead stems should be removed from hydrangeas every year. After the plants are at least 5 years old, about 1/3 of the older (living) stems can be removed down to the ground each summer. This will revitalize the plant.
How frequently should I water hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas are thirsty plants! We can’t stress enough the need for plenty of water, both at planting time as well as once the plant is established. Newly planted hydrangeas need to be watered once a day, maybe twice according to how much sun they receive. Established plants will shine with regular irrigation.
How long does it take for a hydrangea to dry out?
Allow the water to evaporate naturally from the containers as the flowers dry. Blooms may take two or more weeks to dry. You can add more water to the vase if it has evaporated but flowers are not yet dried. The dried blossoms are ready for use when the petals feel stiff and stem snaps easily.
How long do hydrangeas last without water?
Hydrangeas are pretty resilient but need constant hydration to thrive and maintain their health. Without water, they wilt and suffer from dehydration. The exact duration that hydrangeas can last sans water varies depending on temperature, environmental conditions, and the plant’s overall vigor and health.
How often should hydrangeas be watered?
Be sure to test the soil to know exactly how often you should water. Hydrangeas need about one inch of water per week. How do you figure that out? Well, if you will be getting a lot of rain you can always use a rain gauge in your garden to see how much rain you have gotten. Position this rain gauge near your plant to get an accurate measurement.
Should hydrangeas be watered in the morning?
When watering hydrangeas, direct your watering can or hose towards the base of the plant, rather than at the leaves – the latter can encourage powdery mildew. Remember, too, that it’s always best to water plants early in the morning. Watering later in the day, when the sun is higher in the sky, can cause faster evaporation.
Do hydrangeas need a lot of water?
Yes, they need a lot of water while they are becoming established. They are not considered drought tolerant plants, so they will always need some supplemental watering where other shrubs and perennials may not. Getting a handle on how much water your hydrangea needs, and how to water correctly will set you off to a successful hydrangea garden.
How to keep cut hydrangeas alive?
To maximize the longevity of your cut hydrangeas, you can take the below-listed steps: Trim the stems at a forty-five-degree angle before inserting the hydrangeas in a vase. It aids in better water absorption. Strip off the leaves that should be submerged in the water, as they promote bacterial growth and shorten the flowers’ life expectancy.
How do you care for a Hydrangea plant?
Watering slowly and deeply will help ensure proper growth. Watering with a nice shower setting on your hose is a good way to go with your hydrangeas. This will provide gentle watering that will be able to be absorbed by the soil. If you water with too much pressure, the water will likely just run off.