To get your hydrangea to blossom depressed , you need to create an acid environment in your ground . One of the easiest and most effective room to do this is by using aluminum sulphate . This product is readily uncommitted at most garden centers and is specifically contrive to acidify soil .
First , it ’s authoritative to test the pH of your soil to determine its current acidity level . This can be done using a soil examination outfit , which you could also regain at a garden center . Ideally , hydrangeas that flower blue prefer a pH of 5.5 or low-down .
Once you have determined that your dirt need to be more acidic , perform these actions to employ aluminum sulphate :
1 . select a clip to use the atomic number 13 sulfate when the ground is not frozen and the hydrangea is not in bloom . previous winter or former spring is often a good clip .
2 . irrigate the land around the hydrangea good before apply the atomic number 13 sulphate . This will aid the soil absorb the acid more efficaciously .
3 . fag out gloves and protective eyewear when care the aluminum sulphate . It is a chemic chemical compound and can get to the hide and eye .
4 . Measure the recommend amount of atomic number 13 sulfate based on the software system instructions . The amount needed will reckon on the size of your hydrangea and the current pH level of your soil .
5 . patter the Al sulfate evenly around the base of the hydrangea , being careful not to let it disturb the flora ’s foliage or stems . expend a rake or your hands to lightly work the aluminum sulphate into the top layer of soil .
6 . urine the orbit again after applying the aluminum sulfate to help it dissolve and imbue into the territory .
7 . supervise the pH of your soil regularly to ensure it remains at the desire acidity layer . You may need to reapply the aluminum sulphate every class or two to maintain the blue coloring material of your hydrangea .
It ’s important to note that while atomic number 13 sulphate is effective in release hydrangeas blue , it should be used sparingly and only when necessary . Excessive use can harm the plant and surround soil . Additionally , other factors such as the motley of hydrangea and availableness of Al in the territory can also impact the semblance of the blush .
In plus to using aluminum sulfate , there are other natural method you may endeavor to sour your soil . integrate organic matter such as compost or true pine needles into the soil can gradually lower its pH over prison term . Coffee primer coat and tea leaves are also love to have an acid effect on soil .
Remember , hydrangea are resilient industrial plant , but they do require proper care and attention . Ensure they have passable water and are embed in a well - enfeeble soil . Pruning at the right fourth dimension can also help promote sound outgrowth and abundant blooms .
I have personally used aluminum sulphate to turn my hydrangeas blue and have found it to be a simple and effective solution . The shift from pink or white blooms to vibrant blue is truly arresting . It ’s a rewarding outgrowth to see the color modification and enjoy the beautiful blue hydrangea in your garden .
Caroline Bates
