About Angie Girdham Expertise I can help you ID a variety of plant types although most of my experience is in Zones 4-8. I have a large plant reference library and I'm proficient with using the ID keys and narrowing down the choices. I also have knowledge of most cutflowers and houseplants.
Experience I have been employed in the "green" industry for over 14 years. I have worked as a greenhouse grower, research assistant, plant science teacher and horticulturist. I attend various training and trade conferences during the year to stay updated on changes in the industry. I subscribe to over 5 different publications to help my stay informed.
Organizations Ohio Florist Association
Michigan Nurserymen Association
Michigan Horticutural Therapy Association
Publications Views from the Arb
Education/Credentials A degree in Ornamental Horticulture. Completion of Grower's Certificate from College of Knowledge supported by MSU. Horticulture certificate completed at vocational high school. A Michigan certified nurseryman and pesticide applicator.
Question Greetings,
I purchased two hydrangeas this last Spring at a local nursery without any ID or tags. They were on clearance and looked very pitiful. After planting and nursing they both did well, one turned out to be a variegated which did not bloom this summer, the other what I believe it to be a common type with white blooms that turned pink later in the year. Can you tell me anything about these two plants? Their proper name and how to care for them? Thank you so much. I will submit the picture to your address. Liz
Answer Hello Liz,
Thank you for the pictures...they make my job much easier!
Your larger Hydrangea is H. paniculata 'Grandiflora'. Also known as P.G. or PeeGee. The variegated one is Hydrangea macrophylla 'Variegata'.
Hydrangeas prefer slightly acidic soil conditions...so admend with peat, or I use Oak leaves. If you feed...use a product like Miracid to keep the pH from creeping up. They do best in full to part sun. Variegated plants typically need full to do their best.
Pruning on the small one needs to be done right after flower because they set next years buds soon after flowering and you don't want to prune them off. Or don't prune at all...the variegated one tends to be much less vigorous then the non-variegated in the "big leaf group". This ones flower color will also depend on the soil pH. Blue in high acid and pink in more alkaline.
With the PG...pruning will need to be done in winter...it blooms on new wood. It is the most adaptable of the family.
Hope this helps...Thank you for your question,
Angie
