In order for the garden hydrangea to winter safely, you need to take care of the bush shelter in advance. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the climatic features of the region of residence, as well as the winter hardiness of certain plant varieties.
Hydrangea paniculata
This crop, popular among flower growers, is characterized by increased winter hardiness and withstands frosts down to -35 ° C. Mature plants do not need shelter from the cold. But young seedlings need reliable protection from frost. In late autumn, I cover the near-stem zone of the bush with a layer (5-7 cm) of fallen leaves, humus or peat.
Hydrangea
This shrub is characterized by increased winter hardiness and does not need special protection. The plant forms flower buds on young shoots of the current year. Therefore, even if the tips of the stems freeze, this will not significantly affect the flowering process.
Large-leaved hydrangea
The flower buds of this variety are formed on last year's shoots. Therefore, the intensity of flowering depends on a quality shelter for the winter. 2-3 weeks before stable frosts, I mulch the soil in the near-trunk circle with peat or humus. I put spruce branches on top of the protective layer.
Preparing a shrub for winter
I begin to prepare for the protection of a decorative perennial in advance. At the end of the season, I put mineral (potassium-phosphorus) fertilizers under each bush and do sanitary pruning.
After water-charging irrigation, I mulch the root zone of the plants with a layer of organic matter 5-7 cm thick. Thoroughly cover the near-trunk circle of shrubs only with the arrival of stable frosts.
Hydrangea shelter methods
Most of all, young seedlings and some capricious perennial varieties need protection from frost. In addition to mulching the soil, a reliable shelter is made of burlap or spunbond, folded in 2-3 layers.
In regions with harsh climates, ornamental shrubs are protected with special frames, which can be purchased at a gardening store. In an extreme case, a structure for sheltering a plant can be made from scrap materials (timber, metal rods).
When constructing a shelter between the frame and the bush, there should be a space that can be filled with dry leaves or straw. On top of the structure, agrofibre folded in 2 layers can also be used.
In the spring, you need to remove the shelter on time. I am never in a hurry with this event. But it is also not worth postponing this procedure for a long time. As soon as the threat of return frosts has passed, you need to disassemble the shelters, otherwise, with the onset of heat, the root system of the plant may rot.
Timely and high-quality protection of hydrangeas for the winter will protect the plants from freezing. Simple autumn procedures will allow you to enjoy the abundant flowering of the decorative culture every summer.
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