how much sun do hydrangeas need
Charlotte Adams
Updated on July 02, 2026
Oakleaf hydrangeas are the best choice for shady conditions. They earn the name from their dramatic oak-shaped leaves! It’s easy to enjoy oakleaf hydrangeas in all four seasons with fuzzy spring buds, giant flowers in summer, vibrant fall foliage, and peeling winter bark.
Where is the best place to plant hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas do best in moist, well-drained soil and dappled shade – not too sunny and not too shady. Avoid south-facing positions, especially if the soil is very dry. For a very shaded spot, such as a north-facing wall, grow the climbing hydrangea Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris.
Will hydrangeas grow in shade?
Hydrangeas thrive with that perfect combination of morning sun and afternoon shade. Even Hydrangea paniculata, which is a sun lover, will do well in partial shade. However, there are some varieties of hydrangea that can tolerate full shade.
Can hydrangeas get too much sun?
Too much sun exposure can cause your hydrangea shrubs to burn on its leaves and blooms. Also, be sure to put your fingers in the soil to see if it needs watering. We do recommend a soak versus light watering each day, but you should be sure that the soil is always moist – not wet – by sticking your fingers in the dirt.
Do hydrangeas like shade UK?
Most hydrangeas will grow in an open sunny situation, but prefer light shade. They grow on most soils and thrive on heavy clay.
Can Annabelle hydrangeas grow in shade?
Annabelle’ Hydrangea is most at home in partial shade and evenly moist but well-drained soil; she’ll grow in full sun if moisture is ample. Because she flowers heavily on the current season’s growth (“new wood”), most gardeners cut the stems to the ground in late winter.
How often should hydrangeas be watered?
Watering Hydrangeas in Pots
The hydrangea should be watered thoroughly at least 3 times a week. Always water the plant all the way around the container, not just in one place. Water should come out the bottom of the pot. Never let it sit in water which will cause the roots to rot away.
What month is best to plant hydrangeas?
When is The Best Time to Plant Hydrangeas?
The best time to plant a hydrangea is well before the high heat of summer arrives. Aim for late spring, well after any danger of frost has passed, or early fall, when night temperatures usher in cooler air.
Do hydrangeas come back every year?
Yes, hydrangeas will come back every year as long as they do not die over the winter. Some gift hydrangeas are not bred to be very winter hardy though. So sometimes hydraneas will not survive the winter. But in general, most hydrangeas will come back every year.
What side of house do you plant hydrangeas?
These bushes do well in partial shade and can not tolerate either full sun or full shade. Hydrangeas also come in a climbing variety, H. anomala. This variety can be planted on a trellis on the north side of the home or be permitted to climb the side of a building.
Do hydrangeas like coffee grounds?
While some plants don’t take to it, hydrangeas do benefit from this soil amendment. Coffee grounds contain nitrogen, and they can increase the acid content of the soil. Both are of interest to hydrangea plants. Adding used coffee grounds to the soil of hydrangea plants can also improve the quality of the soil.
What type of hydrangea is endless summer?
The Endless Summer® hydrangea is a brand of cold-hardy, reblooming hydrangeas. Their stunning blooms are available in many colors: pink, blue, purple, red, and white.
Is 4 hours of sun enough for hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas for Shade
Many hydrangea species grow best in part shade, which is at least four hours of direct sunlight a day, and even full shade, which means less than four hours of sun.
What happens to hydrangeas in full sun?
While a few species of hydrangeas can tolerate more sun, big leaf hydrangeas are among those requiring protection from the midday sun in summer. This species wilts quickly in very hot sunshine and needs to be planted in a wind-protected area.
How can I protect my hydrangea for full sun?
A temporary sunshade or sun cloth during the hottest part of the year provides protection from intense afternoon sunlight. Install two stakes slightly taller than the plants, and stretch a light-colored sheet between them.