Question
Hi Tom:

I have a question for you?  My son gave me a hydranga plant for Mother's Day.  It is pink and very big and busy.  I want to plant it outside once I enjoy it inside for a few days.  I believe it came from a florist, as he always goes to a special florist to send flowers.  It does not have any instructions on how to plant outside and I done't want to lose the plant.  I know you asked a similiar question.  I live in California.  Should I plant this the same way I planted my azalea's.  I have lots of azalea's and they bloom beautiful each year.  Also, on my azalea's I put Miracid on them.  If I Miracid the Hydraga will it turn blue?  I would like it to stay pink.  Thanks for your help.

Sinceely,  

Margaret

Answer
Hi Margaret,
Thanx for your question.  In general, the hydrangeas received on Mother's Day are florist-grade hydrangeas and are usually only hardy to Zone 9.  So, if you're not along the coast this plant might have some trouble with hardiness in the Central Valley or other inland areas of California and it is definitely not going to like the desert areas around Lancaster, Palmdale, Victorville, Twentynine Palms, Needles, Palm Springs, etc.  Too hot.  Too dry.  If it freezes in your area, you'll have to treat your hydrangea as a potted plant.  Otherwise, by all means, plant the hydrangea outdoors.  If you're in a place that gets hot in the summer, plant the hydrangea in an area that gets afternoon shade.  Don't use Miracid on the hydrangea or it will probably turn blue.  I would mulch the hydrangea with cypress or cedar mulch to help maintain water.  California has been trying to get homeowners to grow more native plants and practice xeriscaping (growing plants with low water requirements)to help conserve water.  Hydrangeas require a lot of water so the mulch will help the soil around them conserve water.  If you must grow the plant in a container.  Bring the container into the garage when you are anticipating frost.  Keep the plant mulched, watered but well drained and side dress it with some well-composted manure.  I hope this helps.
Tom