Question
I bought a hydrangea about 31/2 feet tall 3 years ago and it looks healthy and is starting to bloom now,but it has not gotten any taller since I bought it. I feed it in spring and fall, water regularly. 1-2 times a week in the heat.  What do I need to do to get it to grow ?

Answer
Judy,

The growth of Hydrangeas, and whether they reach their full potential. Some cultivars of Big leaf Hydrangea only reach 3 1/2 feet, while others can grow to 6 feet. Smooth Hydrangeas grow to a maximum of 5 feet.

Their growth also depends on the growing conditions and section of the country that you are in. In the southern states, Hydrangeas will reach their full potential because of the longer growing season. In the northern states, many Hydrangeas will be negatively effected by the winters, low winter temperatures can kill back the growth each year, causing it to never reach thier full potential.

To try to encourage top growth, I would recommend thinning out the plant after it has finished flowering. This should encourage the remaining stems to grow larger. Keep up with your normal practices and watch for any scale problems.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen