Hydrangeas 'will die' if you make one common gardening mistake, expert warns

Hydrangeas are large shrubs known for their vibrant clusters of blooms that put on a show from late spring until autumn. They are a popular choice among both beginner and experienced gardeners due to their low maintenance.

However, despite their reputation for being easy to care for, there are common mistakes that all levels of home gardeners can make with hydrangeas. Madison Moulton, a gardening expert from Blooming Backyard, noted that several hydrangea mistakes can "seriously harm" the plant, and one can kill them.

Despite their ease of care, there are "small quirks in growth that often trip up gardeners" growing hydrangeas. The most detrimental mistake is incorrect watering. Hydrangeas require a balance as they love moisture, but cannot thrive in waterlogged soil.

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"The right balance will keep the roots cool and hydrated, giving you the best possible blooms and glossy foliage above the soil," the expert advised. She warned against watering too frequently, especially when drainage is poor, as this can quickly lead to root rot, reports the Express. "If conditions don't improve, the entire root system will become mushy and the plant will die."

To prevent this, gardeners should wait until the soil has dried out slightly before considering watering again, taking recent rainfall into account. At the same time, it's crucial not to delay watering hydrangeas since insufficient moisture and irregular watering "will lead to stress, limiting new growth and preventing flowering".

How gardeners water their hydrangeas can also impact on the plant's development. Make sure to sidestep overhead watering when possible, focusing the stream of water solely on the soil. Maddison advised: "This keeps the leaves dry and prevents the proliferation and spread of damaging fungal diseases."