Mophead Hydrangea 'Early Sensation' Hydrangea macrophylla 'Early Sensation' (Forever and Ever Series) (H)

Water

Bigleaf hydrangeas should be watered deeply and thoroughly, saturating the soil around the root zone. Watering frequency depends on weather conditions, but generally, aim for about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or through manual watering. During particularly hot or dry periods, you may need to water two to three times weekly to maintain moist soil. Overhead watering should be avoided to decrease the chance of leaf diseases; instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation at the base of the plant. It's essential not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage is in place.

Light

Bigleaf hydrangeas thrive best in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter regions. An eastern-facing location that offers sunlight in the morning and protection from the harsh afternoon sun will optimize their growth and bloom production. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, while too much shade can reduce flowering.

Temperature

Bigleaf hydrangeas prefer a moderate temperature range, usually between 60°F and 75°F. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 5°F with proper winter protection and can handle maximum temperatures up to about 85°F, though prolonged heat can stress them. Ideal growing conditions involve warm days and cool nights.

Pruning

Prune bigleaf hydrangeas immediately after flowering to remove spent blooms and encourage bushiness. They bloom on old wood, so late winter or early spring pruning can remove flower buds. Annually remove one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate and promote healthy growth. Pruning is necessary to prevent overgrowth and to remove any dead or damaged branches that can harbor disease.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Bigleaf Hydrangea prefers soil that is moist but well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. A mix of garden soil, peat moss, and compost is beneficial. Adjust pH with sulfur or peat for bluer flowers, or lime for pinker hues.

Repotting

Bigleaf Hydrangea should be repotted when it outgrows its container, typically every 2-3 years. Spring is the best time to repot to allow the plant to settle in before the growing season.

Humidity & Misting

Bigleaf Hydrangea thrives in moderate to high humidity levels. Aim for 50-60% relative humidity for optimal growth and flowering.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place near bright window; water when topsoil feels dry.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part shade, shelter from strong winds, keep soil moist.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Hydrangea macrophylla 'Early Sensation', commonly known as Forever and Ever Hydrangea, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in the spring, growing into a seedling with characteristic broad leaves. It quickly progresses into the vegetative stage, developing a robust root system and lush foliage. In the flowering stage, which occurs in early to mid-summer, the plant produces large mophead flowers that are pink, blue, or purple, depending on soil pH. After pollination, seeds are formed, and as the growing season ends, the plant enters a period of dormancy during the colder months. The hydrangea relies on energy reserves to survive winter and resumes growth in the following spring, with established plants often showing more vigorous and abundant blooming. The plant can live for many years, repeating this cycle annually, with proper care and favorable conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Hydrangea macrophylla 'Early Sensation', commonly referred to as Bigleaf Hydrangea, can be propagated most effectively through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is still tender and pliable. A popular method includes selecting a healthy stem that has not flowered, cutting a section 5 to 6 inches long with several leaves, and dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone. The cutting should then be planted in a mixture of peat and perlite, ensuring that the bottom leaves are just above the surface. It is critical to maintain a humid environment for the cutting by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator, keeping the soil lightly moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically develop within 2 to 4 weeks, after which the new plants can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before being planted out.