wilting in heat on Hydrangea
Quick answer
If your Hydrangea has wilting in heat, the most likely cause is: Hydrangeas have large, thin leaves that transpire moisture rapidly. In extreme summer heat or direct afternoon sun, they lose water through their leaves faster than their roots can pull it from the soil, causing temporary drooping even if the soil is adequately moist.
Start here:
- 1. Check the soil moisture before watering. If the soil is still wet, DO NOT water. Overwatering in response to heat wilt leads to root rot.
- 2. Wait until evening to see if the plant perks back up on its own once temperatures drop.
Why Hydrangea gets wilting in heat
Hydrangeas have large, thin leaves that transpire moisture rapidly. In extreme summer heat or direct afternoon sun, they lose water through their leaves faster than their roots can pull it from the soil, causing temporary drooping even if the soil is adequately moist.
How to reverse wilting in heat on Hydrangea
- 1
Check the soil moisture before watering. If the soil is still wet, DO NOT water. Overwatering in response to heat wilt leads to root rot.
- 2
Wait until evening to see if the plant perks back up on its own once temperatures drop.
- 3
If the soil is actually dry, provide a deep, slow soaking at the base of the plant (avoiding the leaves).
Keep wilting in heat off this Hydrangea
Plant hydrangeas in locations with morning sun and afternoon shade. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base to keep roots cool and retain soil moisture.