In general, hydrangeas prefer partial sun. Ideally, they will get full sun in the morning, followed by some afternoon shade to protect from the hot midday sun. This is especially true of large-leaved hydrangeas (H. macrophylla), whose large leaves are prone to wilting. Some varieties are more tolerant of full sun. Space hydrangeas anywhere from 3 to 10 feet apart, depending on the type. Always place plants based on their expected size at maturity!

When to plant hydrangeas? Fall is the best time to plant hydrangeas, followed by spring planting. The idea is to give this shrub plenty of time to establish a healthy root system before the heat of summer or the extreme cold of winter, making the colder shoulder seasons the best times to plant. Plant the bushes in the early morning or late afternoon. It is generally cooler and the plant is less likely to suffer heat stress from direct sunlight.

How to plant hydrangeas? Carefully remove the hydrangea from its container and inspect the root ball, cutting off any dead or rotten parts and teasing the roots if the plant is pot-bound. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and two to three times as wide. The base of the plant (where the stem meets the soil) should be level with the top of the planting hole. Set the plant in the hole and fill it halfway with soil. Water thoroughly. After the water has been absorbed, fill the rest of the hole with soil. Water again. After the water has been absorbed, mulch the area. Apply a generous layer of mulch around the top of the planting hole. Water thoroughly once more. Pink hydrangeas always.