Plants are susceptible to dying over winter thanks to the hard weather. The cold can kill a plant, as can the wind, and hydrangeas are certainly not immune.
What’s more, it’s difficult to tell if your hydrangea has died over the winter, as they go dormant in this season and show few signs of life.
Forgetting to do a crucial task for hydrangeas now can cause them to be damaged or die in winter.
There are four garden jobs that should be done now to give hydrangeas the best chance of blooming again next year.
Four essential tasks to stop hydrangeas dying over winter
Mulch
Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, around the base of the hydrangea. This will help insulate the roots and retain moisture. Aim for a depth of two to three inches.
Prune at the right time
Avoid heavy pruning in the fall. Hydrangeas can be pruned in late winter or early spring when the worst of the cold has passed.
Pruning in the fall can stimulate new growth that is more susceptible to winter damage. But be warned, pruning hydrangeas wrong can cause them not to bloom next year.
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Wrap with burlap
If you’re in an area with very cold winters and heavy snowfall, consider wrapping your hydrangeas in burlap. Create a frame around the plant with stakes or tomato cages and drape burlap over the top.
This will protect the shrub from heavy snow and ice while allowing some airflow.
Anti-desiccant spray
Consider applying an anti-desiccant spray to the foliage to reduce moisture loss.
This can be particularly helpful in windy winter conditions. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
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