Is it necessary to cover the hydrangea for the winter?

Hortensia is the most common garden shrub in the world, which gives lush and surprisingly large inflorescences of different forms and colors, pleasing the owners of countryside plots from late spring to early autumn. In the care of shrubs quite unpretentious, but experienced gardeners the main condition for its abundant and lush blooming for the next year consider proper preparation for the winter. Is it necessary to cover the hydrangea for the winter - in this article.

Species and peculiarities of cultivation

The most widespread were the following varieties, differing in their different resistance to frost, and hence also different requirements for shelter for the winter:

1. The "blizzard" hydrangea is considered to be the most winter-hardy and this is not surprising, because its homeland is Sakhalin Island, where frosts down to -35 ᵒС and below are the norm. Such a variety does not need shelter, but the root system around its trunks is usually protected, but only in regions with severe winter. Flower buds in this shrub are formed on shoots that were formed this year.
2. "Tree-like" Hydrangea . For those who are interested in whether it is necessary to cover the "Tree-like" hydrangea for the winter, it should be answered that it is recommended to live in climatic zones with severe winters, and the rest can be left as it is. With the advent of spring, this variety, even with frozen shoots, is very quickly restored, especially if the crop is timely cut and fed. Her flower buds, as well as the "Snowstorm" hydrangeas are formed from shoots that grew this year.
3. "Large leaf" hydrangea refers to the variety with the lowest winter hardiness. And those who doubt whether it is necessary to hide such a hydrangea, it is worth recommending it. In addition, the kidneys are formed on the shoots of this year, and if the shrubbery is not protected, it will not bloom for the next year.
4. "Himalayan" or "Ground-cover" hydrangea. The same winter-hardy appearance as the "Snowstorm". Requires minimal shelter with the arrival of cold weather.
5. "Dubostnaya" hydrangea. He is afraid of frosts and winds, and therefore requires reliable shelter.
6. The "cherry" hydrangea is winter hardy and it is not necessary to cover it.

Thus, when considering whether to protect the hydrangea from the cold, it is necessary to take into account the shrub variety and climatic peculiarities of the region. It is very important to carry out all the necessary autumn works - fertilization, watering, mulching, etc.