1. Water Deeply and Stay Consistent

Hydrangeas are naturally moisture-loving, and during July and August, consistent watering is key. Shallow or irregular watering can lead to drooping leaves, heat stress, and fewer blooms.

Tips for watering:

• Water deeply two to three times per week, depending on rainfall.
   
• Soak the root zone thoroughly so water reaches six to eight inches deep.
   
• Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and lower disease risk.
   
• Potted hydrangeas may need daily attention during extended heat.

2. Deadhead for a Clean Look and Fresh Blooms

Deadheading spent flowers helps maintain a tidy appearance and, for panicle hydrangeas, can even encourage a second flush of blooms.

How to deadhead:

• Use clean pruners to remove faded blooms just above the first set of full, healthy leaves.
• Avoid cutting back stems too far. Just save reshaping or structural pruning for late winter or early spring.
   

3. Manage Summer Sun Stress

While panicle hydrangeas thrive in full sun, even they can struggle during extreme heat. Bigleaf and smooth hydrangeas tend to prefer some protection from intense afternoon rays.

What to watch for:

• Leaves that wilt or curl in the afternoon
   
• Scorched edges or faded flower color
   
• Slower bloom development
   

Solutions:

• Ensure deep and regular watering, especially for plants in full sun.
   
• For container-grown hydrangeas, move pots to spots with afternoon shade as well as morning if needed (variety dependent).
   
• If your plant is well-watered but still drooping in the heat, check again in the morning. If it has perked up, it’s just reacting normally to high temperatures.
  

4. Feed Only If Needed

If your hydrangeas were fed earlier in the season, they may not need another boost right now. Over-fertilizing in midsummer can promote leafy growth rather than blooms.

Fertilizer guidance:

• Use a balanced or bloom-boosting formula only if your plant is underperforming or showing signs of nutrient deficiency.
   
• Avoid high-nitrogen lawn fertilizers near your hydrangea beds, as they can encourage too much foliage at the expense of flowers.
   

5. Stay Ahead of Stress and Pests

Summer brings more than just heat. Humidity, storms, and insect activity can lead to leaf spotting, mildew, or pest pressure.

Care tips:

• Remove damaged or diseased leaves to improve air circulation.
   
• Avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry.
   
• Use neem oil or insecticidal soap at the first sign of pests like aphids or spider mites.
   

A healthy, well-watered plant is more resilient to both pests and disease, so preventive care goes a long way.

Keep Your Hydrangeas Looking Their Best

With the right care, your hydrangeas can power through the hottest part of the season and keep delivering beautiful blooms into late summer. Visit your closest McDonald Garden Center location to explore our hydrangea selection and get expert advice for keeping your garden thriving all summer long. To stay inspired and grow with us, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to dig into the joys of gardening!