Every hydrangea-loving gardener should know how to revive wilted hydrangeas. Because in spite of our best efforts, the heat can sometimes get to them. Here’s how to get them looking good again!
How to Revive Wilted Hydrangeas
Have you ever gone out to look at your hydrangeas, only to wonder what happened to them? It’s not uncommon to find them suddenly tired and wilting, as if they’re on death’s doorstep. Your hydrangeas may even seem to shrink from one year to the next. Here’s how to revive wilted hydrangeas and get them looking great again!
Everyday Care of Hydrangeas
Make sure you know the best everyday care of hydrangeas. Location matters a great deal, and so does a well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Fertilize them, but not too often, and never over-water. Read my post all about how to care for hydrangeas. After you have a good grasp of everyday care of your hydrangea plants, get ready for the next {surprising} step!
The Secret to Revive Hydrangeas
There is a top secret ingredient to reviving your hydrangea bushes–but I’m about to share it with you! You’ve probably never heard of doing this before, but you probably have the secret ingredient in your kitchen right now. Are you ready? It’s none other than baking soda!
A Little Goes a Long Way
Baking soda is the secret, but keep in mind that a little bit does go a long way. To apply it to your wilted hydrangeas, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda into 2 quarts of water. Stir to be sure the baking soda thoroughly dissolves. Note: This amount treats 3-4 hydrangea bushes.
Apply this baking soda treatment every two weeks. If you have one hydrangea plant, feel free to spread the treatment around to other struggling plants — you’ll see similar results.
Enjoy Thriving Hydrangeas!
Within a week or two, you should see more robust hydrangeas. The plants begin to produce fuller and healthier blooms.
If your hydrangeas just aren’t wowing you like they should, give baking soda a try. And while you’re at it, try baking soda in the rest of your garden!
Editor’s Note: this post was originally published in July 2017. The content has been updated.
Joyce says
Do you spray it on the plants or pour it on the ground?
Linda says
Big hydrangea bushing no bloomss! Only had two blooms last year???