Hydrangeas on the balcony: Floral splendor in violet and blue

For balcony owners there is probably nothing nicer than enjoying the sun's rays between colourful flowers in summer. A classic among them: the hydrangea. They are particularly valued by gardeners for their magnificent colours and large umbels of flowers. We'll show you everything you need to know about planting and caring for hydrangeas on the balcony and how to do it with The Plant Box, even if you don't have a green thumb.

Where does the hydrangea come from?

The hydrangea has its origins in Asia and has long been cultivated, especially in Japan. It has also been widespread in Europe since the 18th century. It peaked in popularity in the 1960s, when a total of more than 7 million hydrangeas were grown in one year. After the hydrangea trend had declined in the following decades, the demand for it has increased again in recent years.

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Which hydrangeas can I plant on the balcony?

In total there are more than 28 different types of hydrangeas. Most variants are very large and therefore only suitable for the flower bed in the garden. However, subspecies of the so-called farmer's hydrangeas do not grow quite so extensively, which means that they can also be cultivated in tubs that fit perfectly on the balcony. They are also sold commercially under the name potted hydrangeas. Hydrangea species that are suitable for the balcony include:

• Little Lime: The dwarf version of the "Limelight" variety is tiny and compact, its greenish summer flowers turning pink in the fall.
• Paraplu: This farmer's hydrangea is characterized by its double flowers in various shades of pink.
• Let's Dance Rhapsody Blue: Despite its name, this small hydrangea species can also have pink flowers. Blue flowers form when the soil reaches a certain pH level. We explain below how this phenomenon occurs.
• Bombshell: This hydrangea forms beautiful, compact, rounded, white flower umbels. Since they grow quite small, they are particularly suitable for pots on the balcony.

What requirements do hydrangeas need on the balcony?

If you want to plant hydrangeas on your balcony, you should pay attention to a few things so that you can enjoy them for a long time. The location is particularly important: The hydrangea is anything but a sun worshiper, which is why it grows particularly well on a west or east-facing balcony - even a north-facing balcony is an option for it. If you have a south-facing balcony, you should place them in a shady location or protect them from the heat with an umbrella or similar during the midday sun. If there is too much sun, there is a risk of sunburn and the flowers will not be as lush.

To ensure that the hydrangea is always well cared for throughout the summer, you should use a special soil for hydrangeas when planting, the nutrient composition of which is perfectly tailored to the needs of the plant. Alternatively, rhododendron soil can also be used.

Since the hydrangea needs a lot of water, while also being sensitive to waterlogging, your flower pots should be equipped accordingly: Pots and pots with drainage holes are particularly suitable - at best, expanded clay drainage should also be used.

When should hydrangeas go outside?

Hydrangeas that grow on the balcony or terrace are usually grown in greenhouses by a gardener or garden center and are sold blooming from March. But be careful; if the plants are then placed directly on the balcony, they cannot cope with the temperature difference and can wither quite quickly.

Your hydrangeas should only be placed on the balcony when the temperature reaches 15 degrees during the day so that the plant can slowly get used to the location. They should be brought into the apartment at night so that they are not damaged by the frost. Only after the ice saints in mid-May can the hydrangeas remain permanently in their intended location on the balcony.

Hydrangeas: Proper care is crucial

The official name of the hydrangea comes from the Greek and means “water-draining”, this name fits perfectly as its water requirements are very high. Finding the right balance is not that easy, as it does feel very comfortable in damp soil, but is sensitive to waterlogging. Especially on hot summer days, it is advisable to water in the morning and evening, as the amount of liquid that the soil can store is limited. Tip: It is best to pour away the excess water on the saucer after a quarter of an hour so that the roots are not permanently in the water.

Hydrangeas should also be supplied with a special fertilizer twice a year. In this way you ensure that it is supplied with all the necessary nutrients. Alternatively, you can also use fertilizer for azaleas.

You have to pay special attention to the care of blue hydrangeas: The blue color only forms when the soil reaches an alkaline pH value, which is particularly cared for. Add a so-called hydrangea blue, which contains the potash alum, to the irrigation water twice a year. So that the hydrangea can also absorb this substance, it must be poured with vinegar water from time to time, which has a pH value of 4.0 to 4.5. To measure the pH of the water, it is best to use test sticks from the garden center.

In regions with relatively mild winters, the hydrangea can hibernate outside, wrapped in fir branches and a coconut mat. You should water them occasionally, even in winter, to keep the roots from drying out. In very cold areas, the hydrangea should be placed indoors in winter, or even better in an unheated greenhouse.

The Plant Box: Balcony planting with hydrangeas & more

You now also have the desire to beautify your balcony with hydrangeas, but you lack the green thumb or simply do not have the time? Then The Plant Box has the perfect solution for you! We put together arrangements of flowers and plants with great attention to detail - always suitable for the current season! Your new flowers will be sent straight to your home and can be placed in the flower box immediately - no lugging or repotting! You can find the hydrangea in our Blue Blossom Box, among other things.

Your advantages with The Plant Box:

• Unique flower combinations for the balcony box - delivered directly to you
• Sustainably produced seasonal flowers from regional cultivation
• Large selection of different combinations, for every balcony and all lighting conditions
• Perfect for this: The balcony box from The Plant Box made from recycled material

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