Introduction
Hydrangeas are popular flowers that bloom in various shades of blue, pink, white, and purple. They are easy to grow, require minimal maintenance, and add beauty and elegance to any garden. However, choosing the right companion plants to grow alongside hydrangeas is essential to create a stunning and cohesive garden design.
Factors to Consider
Before selecting companion plants for hydrangeas, it is crucial to consider the following factors:
1. Soil Type
Hydrangeas prefer moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. Therefore, it is essential to choose plants that have similar growing requirements. Some of the best companion plants for hydrangeas include ferns, astilbes, and hostas.
2. Sunlight Exposure
Hydrangeas thrive in partial shade or filtered sunlight. Therefore, it is best to choose plants that can tolerate the same growing conditions. Some of the best companion plants for hydrangeas include heucheras, bleeding hearts, and impatiens.
3. Bloom Time
Hydrangeas typically bloom in the summer, while some varieties also bloom in the spring or fall. Therefore, it is crucial to choose plants that have a similar bloom time to create a harmonious garden design. Some of the best companion plants for hydrangeas include daylilies, coneflowers, and black-eyed susans.
Companion Plants for Hydrangeas
Here are ten of the best companion plants for hydrangeas that will create a beautiful and cohesive garden design:
1. Ferns
Ferns are excellent companion plants for hydrangeas as they share similar growing requirements. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Some of the best ferns to grow alongside hydrangeas include ostrich ferns, maidenhair ferns, and Japanese painted ferns.
2. Astilbes
Astilbes are perennials that bloom in shades of pink, red, and white. They prefer moist soil and partial shade, making them an excellent companion plant for hydrangeas. Astilbes also add texture and height to the garden design.
3. Hostas
Hostas are shade-loving perennials that come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and textures. They make excellent companion plants for hydrangeas as they share similar growing requirements. Hostas also add a lush and full-bodied look to the garden design.
4. Heucheras
Heucheras, also known as coral bells, are perennials that come in various shades of green, purple, and bronze. They prefer partial shade and moist soil, making them an excellent companion plant for hydrangeas. Heucheras also add color and texture to the garden design.
5. Bleeding Hearts
Bleeding hearts are perennials that bloom in shades of pink, red, and white. They prefer partial shade and moist soil, making them an excellent companion plant for hydrangeas. Bleeding hearts also add a romantic and delicate touch to the garden design.
6. Impatiens
Impatiens are annuals that come in various shades of pink, red, white, and purple. They prefer partial shade and moist soil, making them an excellent companion plant for hydrangeas. Impatiens also add a pop of color and vibrancy to the garden design.
7. Daylilies
Daylilies are perennials that come in a wide range of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and pink. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making them an excellent companion plant for hydrangeas. Daylilies also add height and texture to the garden design.
8. Coneflowers
Coneflowers, also known as echinaceas, are perennials that bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making them an excellent companion plant for hydrangeas. Coneflowers also add texture and interest to the garden design.
9. Black-Eyed Susans
Black-eyed susans are perennials that bloom in shades of orange and yellow. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making them an excellent companion plant for hydrangeas. Black-eyed susans also add a cheerful and sunny touch to the garden design.
10. Japanese Maples
Japanese maples are small trees or shrubs that come in various shades of red, green, and purple. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, making them an excellent companion plant for hydrangeas. Japanese maples also add height, texture, and color to the garden design.
Conclusion
Choosing the right companion plants for hydrangeas is essential to create a beautiful and cohesive garden design. By considering factors such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and bloom time, you can select plants that share similar growing requirements. Some of the best companion plants for hydrangeas include ferns, astilbes, hostas, heucheras, bleeding hearts, impatiens, daylilies, coneflowers, black-eyed susans, and Japanese maples. With the right companion plants, you can create a stunning and vibrant garden that will be the envy of your neighborhood.