Hydrangea Early《绣球花》

🌸 Why You’ll Love Hydrangea ‘Early’:

• Among the earliest blooming hydrangeas

• Long-lasting blooms with vibrant, pH-sensitive color

• Compact growth makes it ideal for small gardens and patios

🌸 Hydrangea ‘Early’ – Care Guide

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Early’ is a compact mophead hydrangea specially bred to bloom earlier than standard varieties, often starting in late spring to early summer. It features large, rounded flower heads in soft blue, pink, or lilac hues, depending on soil pH. Its early bloom time, tidy shape, and lush foliage make it a favorite for small gardens, containers, and mass plantings.

☀️ Light

• Thrives in partial shade: morning sun + afternoon shade preferred

• In cooler climates, tolerates more direct sun

• Too much harsh sun may fade blooms or scorch leaves

💧 Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially during blooming

• Water deeply 2–3 times per week; increase frequency in hot or dry weather

• Use mulch to retain moisture and protect roots

🌱 Soil

• Needs rich, well-draining soil

• Flower color is influenced by soil pH:

  • Acidic (pH < 6) = Blue to lavender

  • Alkaline (pH > 6.5) = Pink

• Use aluminum sulfate for blue, garden lime for pink

🌡️ Temperature & Hardiness

• Hardy in USDA zones 5–9

• Protect from late spring frosts, which can damage new buds

• Mulch in winter for extra root insulation in colder zones

🍃 Fertilizer

• Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring

• Optional: feed again after the first flush for a longer blooming season

• Avoid overfeeding—excess nitrogen may reduce flowering

✂️ Pruning

• Likely blooms on old wood, so avoid hard pruning in spring

• Lightly shape after flowering and remove spent blooms

• Only remove dead or damaged wood in early spring

✅ Styling Ideas

• Perfect for small garden beds, pots, and courtyards

• Pairs beautifully with ferns, grasses, and hostas

• Adds early-season color before other hydrangeas bloom

⚠️ Toxicity

• Mildly toxic if ingested (flowers, leaves)

• Keep out of reach of pets and children

Start your hydrangea season early with Hydrangea ‘Early’—a cheerful and dependable bloomer that brings color to your garden ahead of the rest.