As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had experience with hydrangeas and their light requirements. While hydrangeas can tolerate some sun, blue hydrangeas, in particular, may struggle if exposed to full sun throughout the day. Let me explain why.
Blue hydrangeas, also known as mophead hydrangeas, belong to the Hydrangea macrophylla species. These beautiful flowers are known for their stunning blue blooms. However, the color of these hydrangeas is influenced by the pH level of the soil they are planted in. In acidic soil (pH below 7), they tend to produce blue flowers, whereas in neutral to alkaline soil (pH above 7), they tend to produce pink flowers.
Now, coming back to their light requirements. Hydrangeas, including blue ones, prefer morning sun and partial shade in the afternoon. This is because the intense heat and direct sunlight in the afternoon can cause their delicate blooms and foliage to wilt and scorch. In my own garden, I have noticed that when my blue hydrangeas receive too much direct sun, their flowers fade and lose their vibrant blue color, turning more towards a pale pink shade.
To ensure the best growth and coloration of blue hydrangeas, it is advisable to provide them with some shade during the hottest parts of the day. This can be achieved by planting them in an area that receives morning sun but is protected from the intense afternoon sun. This could be under the shade of a tree, near a north-facing wall, or in a location where they receive filtered sunlight through a pergola or trellis.
If you have a garden with limited shade options, you can also create shade for your blue hydrangeas by using various techniques. For example, you can place a shade cloth or a temporary canopy over them during the hottest hours of the day. This will help protect the plants from the scorching sun and maintain their vibrant blue color.
Another option to consider is selecting a different hydrangea variety that is more tolerant of full sun. Some hydrangea varieties, such as the panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata) and the smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens), can tolerate more sunlight than the blue hydrangeas. These varieties tend to have white or creamy-colored blooms and can be a great alternative if you have a sunnier garden.
While blue hydrangeas can tolerate some sun, they generally prefer morning sun and partial shade in the afternoon. If you want to grow blue hydrangeas, it is important to provide them with a location that offers protection from the intense afternoon sun to prevent wilting, scorching, and color fading. Consider creating shade through natural means or by using temporary structures to ensure the best growth and coloration of your blue hydrangeas.
