FlowerRare

Hydrangea care in a pot, and how to change its colour

Hydrangea macrophylla

Hydrangeas are known for their big flower heads and a colour that changes with the soil. The Latin name means water vessel, and it lives up to it.

From seed to harvest

In Verda these six stages pass in real time. It keeps growing while you are away.

For growing it in a pot, on a balcony or a windowsill.

Morning sun, afternoon shade. Harsh midday sun makes the leaves wilt.

Keep the soil moist at all times. In summer a potted hydrangea may need water every day; drooping leaves are the first sign of thirst.

Blue flowers need acidic soil (below pH 6) and aluminium; pink comes from neutral or limy soil. White varieties do not change.

Most hydrangeas flower on last year's wood. Hard pruning in autumn removes next year's flowers; just take off the dead heads.

A wide pot with drainage holes. Move it up a size every two or three years as it fills the pot.

In Verda the hydrangea is a rare, very showy flower, just what the florist wants for the shop window.

Verda

A cozy village farm: plant seeds, harvest, and fill the villagers' orders.

Hydrangea and more than 40 other plants are waiting for you.