How Can I Add Support To My Hydrangeas
How To Help Support Hydrangeas Blooms
Start early in the growing season by placing a tomato cage or peony ring around the plant to give it stable support as it grows. Gently guide the stems through the cage or within the ring to help distribute the weight of the blooms evenly.
Tomato Cages
Choose the Right Cage: Select a tomato cage that is tall enough to support your hydrangeas as they grow. Ensure the cage is sturdy and made from a material that can withstand the elements.
Position the Cage: Place the tomato cage around the hydrangea plant. Do this early in the growing season to avoid disturbing the plant’s roots. Center the cage around the plant to provide even support.
Secure the Cage: Push the legs of the cage into the soil to increase it’s stability and uprightness. The cage should be buried deep enough so it doesn’t topple over but not affecting the roots.
Guide the Hydrangea: As the hydrangea grows, gently guide its stems through the openings in the cage. This helps to distribute the weight evenly and keeps the plant from falling over or the cage from damaging the plant.
Adjust as Needed: Periodically check the cage and plant to ensure the hydrangea isn’t getting tangled or overly restricted. Adjust the plant’s position within the cage as necessary. If the hydrangea grows too large for the cage, removing the cage at the end of the season is recommended to reduce any additional harm that could be caused.
Peony rings
Choose the Right Size Ring: Check if the peony ring is large enough to accommodate your hydrangea. Hydrangeas can grow quite tall, so choose a ring with a diameter that fits around the plant comfortably.
Timing: It’s best to place the peony ring in early spring before the hydrangea starts to bloom. This prevents disturbing the plant or its roots. If the hydrangea is already blooming, you can still add the ring but be gentle to avoid damaging the plant.
Secure the Ring: Position the peony ring around the base of the hydrangea, making sure it encloses the plant. The ring should be tall enough to support the height of the plant and its blooms.Gently push the stakes of the peony ring into the ground around the hydrangea. Ensure the ring is stable and doesn’t lean to one side.
Adjust as Necessary: As the hydrangea grows, occasionally check to make sure the ring is providing adequate support. You may need to adjust the height or position of the ring if the plant grows taller or spreads out.
