Hydrangeas, with their vibrant blooms and lush green leaves, can make for beautiful indoor plants. Though they are often grown outdoors, they can also thrive indoors with the right care and attention. In the United States, hydrangeas are popular for their stunning blossoms that come in a variety of colors including pink, blue, white, and purple.
When growing hydrangeas indoors, it’s crucial to recreate their natural outdoor conditions as closely as possible. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and harm the blooms, but too little light can hinder growth and blooming. If possible, place your hydrangea near an east or south-facing window for optimal light.
Hydrangeas love water and the soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and underwatering can cause leaves to wilt. It’s often recommended to water hydrangeas deeply once a week but adjust according to the plant’s response and the humidity in your home. Hydrangeas also enjoy high humidity, which can be challenging to provide indoors. Regular misting or a pebble tray filled with water can help increase humidity around the plant.
The soil for hydrangeas should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Hydrangeas are acid-loving plants, so the soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5. A regular feeding schedule with a balanced fertilizer (like a 10-10-10) during the growing season can support their vigorous growth and bountiful blooms.
One interesting aspect of hydrangeas is that the pH of the soil can change the color of the blooms in some varieties, especially those in the Hydrangea macrophylla species. More acidic soil can lead to blue flowers, while more alkaline soil can result in pink flowers.
Finally, hydrangeas are a bit particular about temperature. They prefer cooler temperatures, ideally between 60-75°F. They also require a dormant period in winter, where the plant can rest. To allow for this, reduce watering and stop fertilizing in the late fall and winter.
Caring for indoor hydrangeas may seem a bit daunting, but with careful attention to their light, water, soil, and temperature needs, these plants can provide stunning indoor greenery and blossoms in homes across the United States.