Debbie,

Thanks for your email. You have made the right choice in planting an Oakleaf hydrangea which does well in our soil. Many residents plant so-called mop-head hydrangeas which have a round flower, are very beautiful, but need acidic soil which we do not have in this area.

I have had one Oakleaf hydrangea in my yard for 3 years and it has done very well. The Dallas Arboretum, where I have volunteered for 17+ years, has many and they all seem to be doing well. It is not uncommon for some of the leaves to show fungal spots and that problem is one with which I live. Your plant seems to have that as well, but I don’t believe that is a problem which needs to be addressed.

It’s difficult to know the cause of your flower buds not opening. Sometimes with a new plant, there is “transplant shock” the first year when it gets acclimated to its environment, establishes a root system, etc. Basically, the plant is more concerned with survival than putting out pretty flowers. For this year you will not get flowers from your plant as they typically bloom in May. I would prune off the old flower heads, and I’m willing to bet that next year you will have success.

Hope this helps,
Rick Williams

Thank you, Rick!  I’ll do some pruning & keep her watered. Hopefully, she’ll do better after she’s well established!