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The Vanilla Strawberry hydrangea is a popular cultivar known for its stunning color-changing blooms. Starting as pure white, the flowers transition to a soft pink and eventually mature into a deep strawberry red. This creates a beautiful bi-colored effect on the flower heads, with new white flowers mixing in with the pinkish-red blooms in late summer.
To care for your Vanilla Strawberry hydrangea, plant it in well-drained soil with full sun exposure for six to eight hours a day. Make sure to give the plant plenty of space to grow, as it can reach up to six to eight feet tall and four to five feet wide. Prune the hydrangea in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to maintain its shape.
With its vibrant and colorful blooms, the Vanilla Strawberry hydrangea is sure to add a stylish touch to any landscape.
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The image belongs to The Spruce and was taken by Evgeniya Vlasova.
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Light:
Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas thrive best when exposed to full sun for six to eight hours a day, resulting in vibrant and abundant blooms. If they receive less sunlight, they may grow leggy with fewer flowers, making them prefer morning sun if given a choice.
Soil:
Good drainage is essential for this hydrangea, while the pH of the soil can be neutral or slightly acidic. However, they are not too picky about the soil composition.
Water:
Maintaining average water levels is crucial for Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas. Droughts or hot spells may lead to fewer flowers, so it’s essential to water them regularly, especially during dry summer months.
Temperature and Humidity:
These hydrangeas are winter hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8 and can survive with proper winter protection in zone 3. In humid climates, there might be a higher risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilizer:
To promote healthy growth, regularly amend the soil with compost. Additionally, applying a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in spring after new growth has started can supplement the compost. Avoid fertilizing after late July to prepare the shrub for winter dormancy.
Types of Hydrangeas:
Vanilla Strawberry belongs to the Hydrangea paniculata species, which includes tree hydrangeas. Other types include Hydrangea macrophylla, Hydrangea quercifolia, Hydrangea arborescens, and Hydrangea petiolaris.
Pruning:
Proper pruning of panicle hydrangeas should be done in late fall, winter, or early spring to encourage summer flowering. Overgrown shrubs can be pruned back to the ground level for rejuvenation.
Propagation:
Avoid propagating Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas, as they are patented cultivars. Seed propagation is not possible due to their sterile flowers.
Potting and Repotting:
Growing them in containers is possible, using a pot at least 16 to 24 inches wide with proper drainage. Regular repotting is necessary to prevent root-bound conditions.
Overwintering:
Provide winter protection in colder climates to prevent desiccation from cold winds. Avoid feeding from mid-summer to protect new growth.
Pests and Diseases:
Prevent diseases by maintaining proper spacing and treat insects promptly. Neem oil organic insecticide can help combat pests like aphids and mites.
Blooming Tips:
Ensure proper water, soil, and sunlight levels for abundant blooming. Trim excess stems to promote larger blooms.
Common Problems:
Address drooping stems by ensuring adequate sunlight and regular pruning to maintain a balanced shape.