American Lace™ Pink Smooth Hydrangea Shrub

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a location that receives partial sun to full shade with well-draining, moist soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, then place the shrub in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with a mixture of compost and native soil. Spread a 3-inch settled layer of mulch extending 3 feet around the shrub, keeping mulch a few inches away from the base of the stems. Mulch helps conserve moisture, insulate roots, and suppress weeds. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the roots.

2. Watering: Hydrangeas prefer consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to leaf spots. A layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

3. Pruning: Smooth hydrangeas bloom on new wood and need to be pruned down to 1 foot in late winter or early spring. The shrub will send up new stems, which produce flowers for the current season. Pruning yearly helps the plant maintain its shape and provides the best flowering.

4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring when new growth appears. Follow the package instructions for the correct amount, and avoid over-fertilizing, which can affect bloom quality.