Unusual Brown Spots on Hydrangeas This Year: Reasons Explained and Tips for Reviving Your Shrubs
With the summer of 2022 bringing scorching temperatures, many garden enthusiasts have been left puzzled as their hydrangeas turn brown. This article delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon and offers some solutions to help keep your garden blooming.
The recent heatwaves have made underwatering more likely, leading hydrangeas to turn brown and crispy. Conversely, overwatering can also cause these beloved plants to suffer, resulting in a brownish colouration.
If you've noticed your hydrangea turning brown, it's essential to identify the cause. Underwatering can cause the entire flowerhead to turn brown, while overwatering may lead to the heads falling off the plant, or even worse, waterlogging, which can cause the plant to turn brown and yellow.
To prevent underwatering, ensure your hydrangeas receive adequate water during warmer weather. On the other hand, if you suspect overwatering, reduce the watering schedule to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Sophie King, the newly appointed Gardens Editor at the platform team, shares her expertise in finding the latest garden trends and growing hacks for every space. According to Sophie, a myriad of reasons exist for a hydrangea turning brown. One such reason is a poor planting location, where the hydrangea may suffer from heat stress.
To shield your hydrangeas from the sun, consider using shade netting, such as shade cloth from Amazon, or moving the plant to a spot with dappled shade. If temporary shade is necessary, you can create it using a lightweight fabric or even a large umbrella.
Growing hydrangeas in pots can benefit from bottom watering for efficiency. This method allows the water to reach the roots directly, reducing water waste and ensuring the plant receives enough moisture.
It's important to note that the bronze discoloration of hydrangeas this summer is caused by natural factors such as iron content and moisture. This effect, known as a rust effect, can lead to a brownish coloration similar to how iron powder mixed with casting mass produces a natural brown coloration due to moisture-induced rust.
However, too much sun and high temperatures can sunburn hydrangeas. To prevent this, keep an eye on your hydrangeas and provide temporary shade when necessary. If a hydrangea has turned brown due to high temperatures, water it deeply to ensure the soil is thoroughly moist.
While it's difficult to save an overwatered plant if it's too far gone, with the right care and attention, your hydrangeas can continue to thrive even in the heat of the summer.
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