Hydrangeas do it all.
Big color.
Big texture.
Big personality.
They’re the kind of plant that takes over a yard (in the best way) and makes your table look like a magazine cover.
And the best part? Once you get them in the ground, they’ll show up for you every single year.
Let’s dig into how to grow them and how to turn those backyard blooms into the prettiest floral moment inside.
How to Grow Happy Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas may look high-maintenance, but they’re surprisingly easy-going once you get to know them.
First: hydrangeas love a little morning sun and afternoon shade.
That sweet spot helps them thrive without wilting in the heat (too much direct sun can cause droopy leaves or faded petals, especially in warmer zones!)
Soil tip: loose and well-drained soil works best. If your yard has heavy clay, consider mixing in some compost or organic matter to keep things light and breathable.
Water needs: they like moisture but hate soggy roots. Water deeply a few times a week rather than quick sprinkles every day.
A layer of mulch around the base helps lock in water and keep roots cool.
Fertilizer: A slow-release fertilizer in early spring can give your hydrangeas a solid start. Some varieties also benefit from a second round in midsummer to boost blooms!
✨Takeaway: Give them space, decent soil (nothing too soggy), and a deep drink every day. You can add some fertilizer in spring and again in summer.
Once they’re in, you’re good. They’ll come back each year with bigger blooms and better color.
Oh, and don’t stress over pruning. Most types only need a light cut to shape them after they flower. When in doubt, skip it. Hydrangeas are forgiving.
How to Cut Hydrangeas for Vases
Want that garden-fresh look indoors? Grab your shears!
The best time to cut is early morning or just before sunset when they’re cool and hydrated.
Use clean blades and snip stems at an angle. Drop them straight into cold water. Otherwise, they will wilt fast!
Tear off any leaves that might fall below the water line (they’ll just get mushy), and if you want extra staying power, try dipping the ends in hot water or alum.
Old-school trick: To make cut stems last longer, let them soak for a few hours in a deep bucket of water before arranging. It adds extra hydration to perk them up.
How to Style Them Indoors
Here’s where the fun begins.
Hydrangeas are an instant upgrade in any room: dining, bedroom, bathroom, you name it.
You won’t even need a fancy vase or a background in design to master this. Just a surface that needs a glow-up and a few fresh stems!
Go bold or go chic and simple.They work beautifully solo in a simple vase, or mixed with herbs, wildflowers… whatever else you grabbed from the yard.
Add hydrangeas to a centerpiece for your dining table in a tall bunch, or drop a handful in a low bowl on a coffee table.
A fresh pop of color on a kitchen island is fun, too, as well as a welcoming look on the nightstand or entryway.
A lived-in luxury look isn’t complete without a bathroom counter dressed up with a hydrangea or two.
Also, they also look amazing dried. Think: soft vintage tones and blooms that hold their shape. Just leave them in the vase without water, and you’ve got color that lasts for months. No extra steps required.
Style tip: Mix dried and fresh hydrangeas together for a more layered and textured feel.
Ready to Plant?
Hydrangeas are one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner?” plants.
Put the time in to garden and plant them now, and you’ll have blooms all season (and every summer after this).
Hydrangeas planted in spring or early summer have a better chance of settling in and showing off. If they don’t bloom the first year, they will absolutely reward you the next.
Whether you’re after a garden moment or just want something fresh for your living room table, hydrangeas always show up!
Now that you’re an expert, here are your next moves:
1 . Check out our variety of hydrangeas to find your favorite here.
2. Then, get them in the ground before the season hits full speed.
3. Once you have fresh blooms on the table, tag us in your setup! We love seeing how you bring the garden inside.
4. Smile, water, style, repeat.
Happy spring!
Your friends at The Sun Grove
Follow us on Instagram for daily tips or shoot us an email at hello@sungrove.com with specific questions!