Panicle hydrangea tree viability in Boulder 80301 - Ask Extension
Hello,
As a new resident in Boulder, I purchased a panicle hydrangea tree last spring. It had green leaf buds by the end of winter, but all seems dea...
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Panicle hydrangea tree viability in Boulder 80301 #872656
Asked June 11, 2024, 3:58 PM EDT
Hello,
As a new resident in Boulder, I purchased a panicle hydrangea tree last spring. It had green leaf buds by the end of winter, but all seems dead now. Could be late frost in Spring? overwatering? Gets eastern exposure with full sun, afternoon shade.
If I get a replacement what would be best care? Recommendations?
Thank you
Boulder County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Judy,
Hydrangeas usually work great in this area. I also live in Boulder, and I have a "ruby slippers oak leaf hydrangea and a "limelight hydrangea" both seem to be doing OK. Additionally, are you sure it is a "tree" rather than a "bush".
My first question is, did you water this during the winter? Rule of thumb for here is that if we do not get at least 12 inches of snow per winter month, equal to about 1 inch of water, you need to water. You really need to water everything outside if we don't get this amount of water.
My second question is, was it planted at the correct depth? The root flare should be at the surface or just a slight bit higher. if planted too deep the plant dies from lack of oxygen. It is also good to put some wood chips around the root ball to help maintain moisture during the winter months. I would note that the weather has been a contributing factor to many plant problems the last couple of years, cold temperatures, wind, snow and snow on the ground for some extended periods of time. Also, any new plants need special care the first year they are in to get them established. Correct amount of water and soil maintenance for their growing success.
It sounds like the location is right for this plant.
Hydrangeas usually work great in this area. I also live in Boulder, and I have a "ruby slippers oak leaf hydrangea and a "limelight hydrangea" both seem to be doing OK. Additionally, are you sure it is a "tree" rather than a "bush".
My first question is, did you water this during the winter? Rule of thumb for here is that if we do not get at least 12 inches of snow per winter month, equal to about 1 inch of water, you need to water. You really need to water everything outside if we don't get this amount of water.
My second question is, was it planted at the correct depth? The root flare should be at the surface or just a slight bit higher. if planted too deep the plant dies from lack of oxygen. It is also good to put some wood chips around the root ball to help maintain moisture during the winter months. I would note that the weather has been a contributing factor to many plant problems the last couple of years, cold temperatures, wind, snow and snow on the ground for some extended periods of time. Also, any new plants need special care the first year they are in to get them established. Correct amount of water and soil maintenance for their growing success.
It sounds like the location is right for this plant.
Best,
CSU Extension Boulder County Master Gardeners
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