Hydrangea leaf problems - Ask Extension
I’m having problems with my new hydrangea. Just planted 2 weeks ago, and a section is looking poor, see attached photos for what they look like.
Knowledgebase
Hydrangea leaf problems #877832
Asked July 18, 2024, 6:09 PM EDT
I’m having problems with my new hydrangea. Just planted 2 weeks ago, and a section is looking poor, see attached photos for what they look like.
Howard County Maryland
Expert Response
Shrub planting is best done in spring and fall when temperatures are cooler and rain is more likely.
New plants always go through some stress during establishment, but planting in July, especially with the lengthy periods of high heat and lack of rain we have had makes it more difficult for them.
We suggest clearing all of the weeds around the base of the plant out to at least the drip line of the leaves, and lay mulch. Mulch can help keep the roots more cool and moist. It should be no more than 3 inches deep and kept pulled back from contact with the stems of the plants.
Hopefully your mophead hydrangea is planted in a part-sun, part shade area? If not, you might consider moving it to keep it thriving long term.
Here is our page on Hydrangea that should help:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/hydrangea-identify-and-manage-problems/
The spotting on the leaves is a fungal leaf spot which is not uncommon and actually more likely on a new plant that may have been grown in crowded conditions and water was more likely to sit on the leaves for long periods. Even under better conditions, you may see some leaf spotting, usually later in the season but it is mostly cosmetic and does not need treating. If you would like to pinch off the most affected leaves and put them in the trash, you can.
Monitoring you plant and watering when needed is hugely important for newly planted trees and shrubs for the first 18-24 month of establishment.
Here is our watering information:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/watering-trees-and-shrubs/
Your plant should recover with good care.
Christine
New plants always go through some stress during establishment, but planting in July, especially with the lengthy periods of high heat and lack of rain we have had makes it more difficult for them.
We suggest clearing all of the weeds around the base of the plant out to at least the drip line of the leaves, and lay mulch. Mulch can help keep the roots more cool and moist. It should be no more than 3 inches deep and kept pulled back from contact with the stems of the plants.
Hopefully your mophead hydrangea is planted in a part-sun, part shade area? If not, you might consider moving it to keep it thriving long term.
Here is our page on Hydrangea that should help:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/hydrangea-identify-and-manage-problems/
The spotting on the leaves is a fungal leaf spot which is not uncommon and actually more likely on a new plant that may have been grown in crowded conditions and water was more likely to sit on the leaves for long periods. Even under better conditions, you may see some leaf spotting, usually later in the season but it is mostly cosmetic and does not need treating. If you would like to pinch off the most affected leaves and put them in the trash, you can.
Monitoring you plant and watering when needed is hugely important for newly planted trees and shrubs for the first 18-24 month of establishment.
Here is our watering information:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/watering-trees-and-shrubs/
Your plant should recover with good care.
Christine
