As the days shorten, it’s time to look at what late summer has to offer our gardens. We are counting on a fabulous display from that summertime staple, the hydrangea. There is a variety for every garden, whether your boat is floated by the big, blowsy mopheads or the delicate lacecaps.

The Hydrangea family consists of many marvelous flowering shrubs. They are versatile plants, with a species for any location. Prized for their billowy flower heads and mid to late summer bloom, hydrangea lend a sparkling note to the landscape. As a bonus, in early fall the flowers often age to softer hues, persisting into the winter and adding interest to the sleeping garden.

Smooth Hydrangea, H arborescens, is the easiest of the group. Since this species will bloom on new growth, it can be pruned to the ground in late fall or very early spring. The huge, creamy white flowers often flop, but the newer ‘introductions have sturdier stems that resist flopping. Plant Smooth Hydrangea in shady, moist spots.

Bigleaf Hydrangea, H macrophylla, used to be trickier. Plants flowered on old growth and the flower buds needed the protection of mulch from winter wind and cold temperatures. Newer varieties set their flower buds on both new and old growth, ensuring blossoms every year. Bigleaf Hydrangea does best with 3-4 hours of morning sun and even moisture.

Panicled Hydrangea, H paniculata, is the only species that can grow successfully in full sun. The flower heads are an elongated cone shape, and creamy white in color. As the flowers mature, they often change in hue to a deep pink. Plant Panicled Hydrangea in sunny, open areas with good drainage and be sure to give them enough room as some varieties can get quite large.

The requirements of Oakleaf Hydrangea, H quercifolia, are similar to the older Bigleaf varieties. Winter protection is a must if you want flowers, but the plant’s large size can make this difficult. But the huge, lobed leaves and stunning burgundy fall color make the flowers an added bonus. Hydrangea prefers several hours of morning sun and is less prone to wilting in the heat.

And let’s answer the most asked question about Hydrangea. “How do you make the flowers blue?” Some, but not all, Bigleaf varieties will have flowers that vary in color from pink to blue. This color change is effected by the amount of iron in the soil and to get blue flowers requires a change in the soil’s pH level. Acidic fertilizers applied to the plant foliage may have an immediate benefit, but the change will be fleeting. To achieve long term results, apply granulated garden sulfur to the soil around your Hydrangea every spring and every fall.