What Plants Grow Best With Hydrangeas?

What Plants Grow Well With Hydrangeas?

Hydrangeas are a popular choice for gardens, thanks to their beautiful blooms and relatively easy care. But what plants grow well with hydrangeas?

When choosing companion plants for hydrangeas, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of your hydrangeas. Some varieties can grow quite large, so you’ll need to make sure that there’s enough space for them to spread out. Second, think about the light conditions in your garden. Hydrangeas do best in full sun, but some varieties can tolerate partial shade.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start to choose companion plants that will complement your hydrangeas. Here are a few ideas:

  • Azaleas are a good choice for hydrangeas, as they have similar light and water requirements. Azaleas also come in a variety of colors, so you can create a beautiful contrast with your hydrangeas.
  • Hostas are another good option for hydrangeas. They provide a lush, green backdrop for the hydrangeas’ blooms. Hostas also come in a variety of sizes, so you can find one that will fit in your garden.
  • Shrub roses are a beautiful way to add height and interest to your garden. Roses also bloom at different times of the year, so you can enjoy flowers all season long.

These are just a few ideas for companion plants for hydrangeas. By choosing the right plants, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden that will be the envy of your neighbors.

Plant Description Benefits
Astilbe A perennial flowering plant that blooms in late summer and fall. Attracts butterflies and provides late-season color.
Brunnera macrophylla A perennial flowering plant that blooms in early spring. Provides ground cover and attracts pollinators.
Calamagrostis acutifolia A perennial grass that blooms in late summer and fall. Provides structure and movement in the garden.
Coreopsis verticillata A perennial flowering plant that blooms in summer and fall. Attracts butterflies and provides late-season color.
Dianthus barbatus A perennial flowering plant that blooms in early summer. Provides bright color and fragrance.
Geranium macrorrhizum A perennial flowering plant that blooms in early summer. Provides ground cover and attracts pollinators.
Heuchera A perennial flowering plant that blooms in late spring and early summer. Provides colorful foliage and flowers.
Hosta A perennial flowering plant that blooms in early summer. Provides shade and ground cover.
Lamium maculatum A perennial flowering plant that blooms in early summer. Attracts pollinators and provides ground cover.
Liriope muscari A perennial flowering plant that blooms in late summer and fall. Provides structure and interest in the garden.
Monarda didyma A perennial flowering plant that blooms in summer and fall. Attracts pollinators and provides late-season color.
Penstemon digitalis A perennial flowering plant that blooms in summer and fall. Attracts hummingbirds and provides late-season color.
Phlox paniculata A perennial flowering plant that blooms in summer and fall. Attracts butterflies and provides late-season color.
Salvia officinalis A perennial flowering plant that blooms in summer and fall. Provides culinary herbs and late-season color.
Sedum spectabile A perennial flowering plant that blooms in late summer and fall. Provides ground cover and late-season color.
Veronicastrum virginicum A perennial flowering plant that blooms in summer and fall. Provides structure and movement in the garden.

1. Companion Plants for Hydrangeas

Which plants grow well with hydrangeas?

Hydrangeas are a popular choice for gardens, and for good reason. They are beautiful, long-blooming plants that come in a variety of colors. But did you know that companion planting can help to improve the health and appearance of your hydrangeas?

Companion planting is the practice of planting different types of plants together to create a mutually beneficial relationship. When you choose the right companion plants for hydrangeas, you can help to improve their growth, deter pests, and attract pollinators.

Here are some of the best companion plants for hydrangeas:

  • Azaleas: Azaleas and hydrangeas are both acid-loving plants, so they make good companions for each other. They also have similar growing requirements, so they can be planted together without any problems.
  • Bamboo: Bamboo is a tall, graceful plant that can help to provide structure and shade for your hydrangeas. It also helps to improve the soil drainage, which is important for hydrangeas.
  • Coneflowers: Coneflowers are a type of daisy that blooms in a variety of colors. They attract pollinators, which can help to improve the pollination of your hydrangeas.
  • Daylilies: Daylilies are another type of flower that blooms in a variety of colors. They are also very easy to care for, so they make good companions for hydrangeas.
  • Hostas: Hostas are a type of shade-loving plant that can help to provide ground cover for your hydrangeas. They also help to improve the soil quality, which is beneficial for hydrangeas.
  • Lilacs: Lilacs are a type of flowering shrub that blooms in the spring. They attract pollinators, which can help to improve the pollination of your hydrangeas.
  • Roses: Roses are a type of flowering shrub that blooms in a variety of colors. They attract pollinators, which can help to improve the pollination of your hydrangeas.
  • Shrubby cinquefoil: Shrubby cinquefoil is a type of flowering shrub that blooms in the spring. It attracts pollinators, which can help to improve the pollination of your hydrangeas.

What are the benefits of companion planting?

There are a number of benefits to companion planting hydrangeas with other plants. These benefits include:

  • Improved growth: Companion plants can help to improve the growth of hydrangeas by providing them with nutrients, water, and shelter from the sun.
  • Deter pests: Companion plants can help to deter pests from attacking hydrangeas. For example, marigolds are known to repel aphids, and mint is known to repel ants.
  • Attract pollinators: Companion plants can attract pollinators, which can help to improve the pollination of hydrangeas. Pollination is essential for the production of seeds, so attracting pollinators is important for ensuring that your hydrangeas will produce flowers.
  • Improved soil quality: Companion plants can help to improve the soil quality by adding nutrients, water, and organic matter. This can help to make the soil more fertile and healthier for your hydrangeas.

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How to plant companion plants with hydrangeas

When planting companion plants with hydrangeas, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, choose companion plants that have similar growing requirements to hydrangeas. This means that they should have the same soil pH, water needs, and sunlight requirements. Second, plant companion plants at the same depth as they were growing in their original pots. Finally, space companion plants about 18 inches apart to allow them to grow and spread.

Here are the steps for planting companion plants with hydrangeas:

1. Choose a spot in your garden that gets full sun or partial shade.
2. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the hydrangea’s root ball.
3. Add a few inches of compost or organic matter to the bottom of the hole.
4. Place the hydrangea in the hole and fill it with soil.
5. Water the hydrangea well.
6. Plant companion plants around the hydrangea, spacing them about 18 inches apart.
7. Water the companion plants well.

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Tips for caring for companion plants with hydrangeas

Once you have planted your companion plants with hydrangeas, there are a few things you can do to help them thrive.

  • Water your plants regularly, especially during dry periods.
  • Fertilize your plants according to the package directions.

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3. Planting Companion Plants

When to plant companion plants

The best time to plant companion plants is in the spring, when the soil is warm and moist. However, you can also plant companion plants in the fall, as long as the ground is not frozen.

How to plant companion plants

To plant companion plants, dig a hole in the ground that is twice the width of the root ball of the companion plant. Place the companion plant in the hole and fill the hole with soil. Water the companion plant well.

Caring for companion plants

Once you have planted your companion plants, it is important to care for them properly. This means watering them regularly, fertilizing them as needed, and weeding around them. You should also prune your companion plants as needed to keep them healthy and looking their best.

4. Benefits of Companion Planting

There are many benefits to companion planting, including:

  • Increased blooms. Companion plants can help to increase the number of blooms on your hydrangeas. This is because companion plants can attract pollinators, which help to pollinate the hydrangeas.
  • Improved pest control. Companion plants can help to improve pest control by attracting beneficial insects, which help to eat pests that can harm your hydrangeas. Companion plants can also help to repel pests.
  • Enhanced soil health. Companion plants can help to enhance the soil health around your hydrangeas. This is because companion plants can help to improve the drainage of the soil, which can help to prevent the roots of your hydrangeas from rotting. Companion plants can also help to add nutrients to the soil, which can help your hydrangeas to grow healthy and strong.
  • Attracting beneficial insects. Companion plants can help to attract beneficial insects, such as bees, butterflies, and ladybugs. These insects help to pollinate your hydrangeas and eat pests that can harm your plants.

Companion planting is a great way to improve the health and appearance of your hydrangeas. By planting companion plants, you can help to increase the number of blooms on your hydrangeas, improve pest control, enhance soil health, and attract beneficial insects.

Here are some specific companion plants that you can plant with hydrangeas:

  • Astilbe: Astilbe is a perennial plant that blooms in late spring and early summer. It has delicate, feathery flowers that come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and purple. Astilbe is a good companion plant for hydrangeas because it helps to improve the drainage of the soil and attracts beneficial insects.
  • Bee balm: Bee balm is a perennial herb that blooms in late summer and early fall. It has bright, red flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Bee balm is a good companion plant for hydrangeas because it helps to improve the soil health and repels pests.
  • Coneflower: Coneflower is a perennial plant that blooms in late summer and early fall. It has large, daisy-like flowers that come in a variety of colors, including purple, pink, and white. Coneflower is a good companion plant for hydrangeas because it helps to attract pollinators and repels pests.
  • Daylily: Daylily is a perennial plant that blooms in early summer. It has showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and pink. Daylily is a good companion plant for hydrangeas because it helps to improve the soil health and attracts beneficial insects.
  • Lavender: Lavender is a perennial herb that blooms in late spring and early summer. It has small, purple flowers that have a strong, sweet scent. Lavender is a good companion plant for hydrangeas because it helps to repel pests and improve the soil health.
  • Shasta daisy: Shasta daisy is a perennial plant that blooms in late spring and early summer. It has large, white flowers that attract butterflies and bees. Shasta daisy is a good companion plant for hydrangeas because it helps to improve the soil health and attract pollinators.

    What Plants Grow Well With Hydrangeas?

  • Azaleas – Azaleas and hydrangeas are both acid-loving plants that thrive in moist, well-drained soil. They also have similar bloom times, so they can be used to create a beautiful, colorful display in your garden.
  • Hostas – Hostas are another good choice for planting near hydrangeas. They provide a lush, green backdrop for the hydrangeas’ blooms, and they also help to keep the soil cool and moist.
  • Shrubs – Shrubs can also be planted near hydrangeas to add height and structure to your garden. Some good options include rhododendrons, viburnums, and mountain laurels.
  • Perennials – Perennials such as daylilies, coneflowers, and phlox can add a variety of colors and textures to your garden. They also bloom at different times of the year, so you can enjoy flowers in your garden all season long.
  • Annuals – Annuals are a great way to add pops of color to your garden. They’re also easy to grow and care for, so they’re a good option for beginners. Some good annuals to plant near hydrangeas include impatiens, petunias, and marigolds.

How to Plant Hydrangeas with Other Plants?

When planting hydrangeas with other plants, it’s important to consider the following factors:

  • Sunlight: Hydrangeas need full sun to partial shade, so make sure to plant them in an area that gets enough sunlight.
  • Soil: Hydrangeas prefer moist, well-drained soil. If your soil is too sandy or too clayey, you may need to amend it with compost or other organic matter.
  • Watering: Hydrangeas need regular watering, especially during dry spells.
  • Fertilizing: Hydrangeas benefit from fertilization, especially during the growing season.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start planting your hydrangeas with other plants. Here are a few tips:

  • Plant hydrangeas in groups of three or more for a more dramatic effect.
  • Space hydrangeas about 3 feet apart.
  • Water your hydrangeas deeply and regularly.
  • Fertilize your hydrangeas according to the package directions.

With a little care, you can create a beautiful, colorful garden by planting hydrangeas with other plants.

What are Some Common Problems with Hydrangeas?

  • Leaf scorch: Hydrangeas can be susceptible to leaf scorch, which is caused by too much sun or heat. The leaves will turn brown and crispy around the edges. To prevent leaf scorch, plant hydrangeas in an area that gets partial shade, and water them regularly.
  • Powdery mildew: Hydrangeas can also be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease. The leaves will develop a white, powdery coating. To treat powdery mildew, you can use a fungicide or a homemade solution of baking soda and water.
  • Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can damage hydrangeas. They can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Scale: Scale is a small, insect-like pest that can also damage hydrangeas. Scale can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop off. To control scale, you can use a horticultural oil or a systemic insecticide.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent and treat common problems with hydrangeas.

How to Care for Hydrangeas?

Hydrangeas are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you can do to help them thrive.

  • Watering: Hydrangeas need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water them deeply and thoroughly, and make sure the soil is moist all the way down to the roots.
  • Fertilizing: Hydrangeas benefit from fertilization, especially during the growing season. You can use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer, or a fertilizer specifically formulated for hydrangeas.
  • Pruning: Hydrangeas can be pruned in late winter or early spring. Prune them back to about 1/3 of their size. This will help to promote new growth and flowering.
  • Disease and pest prevention: Hydrangeas can be susceptible to a number of diseases and pests, such as powdery mildew, aphids, and scale. To help prevent these problems

    hydrangeas are a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and they can be grown in a wide range of conditions. When choosing plants to grow with hydrangeas, it is important to consider the size, light requirements, and water needs of each plant. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden that will be enjoyed for years to come.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.