Knowledgebase
Hydrangea recommendation #879141
Asked July 28, 2024, 5:09 PM EDT
I’m looking for a recommendation of hydrangeas to plant in my yard. I live in central Lakewood and the space gets morning shade and afternoon sun. I’d like the plants and flowers to be as big as possible since they will be far from the house with blue spruce right in the back of where they will be planted.
Jefferson County Colorado
Expert Response
Good morning!
About how much afternoon sun will the area get? Hydrangeas do not do well in Colorado unless they have a microclimate and are very protected from the elements. They need to be in majority shade- and ideally afternoon shade. If you have too much afternoon sun they could have stunted growth, leaf burn and minimal blooms. If the Blue Spruce will provide shade from the afternoon sun then that space could work!
I would suggest the Annabelle or Endless Summer varieties of hydrangea. Annabelle is a larger white bloom variety of hydrangea and the endless summer series are a little smaller with a variety of floral color.
An alternative to hydrangeas that will still grow tall and have similar blooms is the snowball viburnum. These will do better in the hot dry Colorado climate and with the afternoon sun you have.
Thanks for reaching out!
Rachel
