The 9 Best Fertilizers For Hydrangeas - A 2022 Buyer's Guide (2023)

hydrangeasare flowering shrubs that display brightly colored flower heads in summer.

Many growers admire her for her low maintenance and heavy, bouquet-like buds. They are a staple in landscape gardening.

This diverse plant variety has more than70 species, and the beautiful flowers vary in shades of pink, white, lavender, pink and blue.

If you're lucky, you can find all of these colors on a single hydrangea plant.

But this beautiful plant needs fertile soil to produce bright blooms.

You can enlist the help of fertilizers if your soil isn't rich in minerals and nutrients, but understand whatfertilizerWorking best for this plant is crucial.

Overfeeding or the wrong type of fertilizer can encourage leaf growth and your plant will struggle to bloom.

In my opinion, the best way to choose fertilizer for hydrangeas is to test the soil.

Because you can determine exactly which nutrients are present or absent in the soil. Fertilizers help you create the perfect environment for growinghydrangeas.

Fertilization needs and timing vary for hydrangeas depending on the variety you are growing. The general rule is to choose a fertilizer that will enhance root development and encourage bud size and color.

Let's dig deeper and learn more about the best fertilizer for hydrangeas.

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The best fertilizer for hydrangeas

The best fertilizers for hydrangeas are general purpose fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 8-8-8 or 10-10-10. Use 1 pound per 100 square feet. Fertilize in March, May and June.

PreferablyFertilizer for hydrangeas:

1. Best Hydrangea Fertilizer Overall –Water-soluble plant food for azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons from Miracle-Gro

2. Best Fertilizer For Blue Hydrangeas –Jack’s Classic Hydrangea Blue Fertilizer

3. Best liquid fertilizer for hydrangeas–Hydrangea liquid fertilizer from EZ-gro
   
   

Best fertilizer for hydrangeas

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Plant Food for Azaleas, Camellias and Rhododendrons - Best all round fertilizer for Hydrangeas

Miracle Grois the first choice of many garden lovers, as they have a huge collection of fertilizers for different types of plants.

Specially formulated for acid-loving plants like hydrangeas, this water-soluble fertilizer instantly nourishes your plant for healthy foliage and buds. It gives quick results because it nourishes the plant roots.

This special fertilizer fulfills three functions; it nourishes, acidifies and irons your favorite hydrangeas. It contains several essential nutrients, especially iron, and the NPK value is around 30-30-10.

For best results, you should repeat the application every 1 to 2 weeks. I prefer fertilizing with a watering can, but you can also use the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder.

I would recommend following the package directions closely if you don't want to have fertilizer burns on your hydrangeas.

Did you know Miracle-Gro offers a six-month money-back guarantee? So if you are not satisfied with the results, the manufacturer will refund the full price.

The 1.5-pound package can cover 600 square feet of space, so it's a long-lasting purchase. Use only ½ teaspoon for indoor plants, but use 1 tablespoon in 1 gallon of water for outdoor plants.

Advantages

• Can be used for other acid loving plants such as rhododendrons, orchids, etc
• Instant feeding for quick results
• Plant-safe with no burn-off guarantee
• 6 month refund policy
• rich in iron
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor hydrangeas

Disadvantages

• Not for organic gardening
• Customers have complained about the packaging

Learn more about the product here.

Jack's Classic Hydrangea Blue Fertilizer - Best fertilizer for blue hydrangeas

JR Peters is well known in the horticultural industry for its water soluble fertilizers.

I discovered this fertilizer through a friend who enjoys growing blue flowering plants, particularly the blue hydrangea varieties.

All of the blue strains thrived in her garden, creating a beautiful display of blue and green.

This water-soluble plant food has multiple micronutrients and the three macronutrients in a 7-3-3 ratio.

You can use it on any blue flowering strain including All Summer Beauty, Nikko Blue, Merritts Supreme, Blue Bird, Pheasant, Dove and Mariessi.

The reason this fertilizer is recommended for blue flowers is that it contains aluminum sulphate which enhances blue flowers. It also lowers soil pH to create a perfect soil for acid loving plants.

The fertilizer works best if you plant the hydrangeas in alkaline soil.

Avoid use in hot weather - the best time for insemination is early morning or late evening.

Make sure you never apply it directly to the foliage as this can burn the leaves or flowers. This fertilizer is intended for soil application or root drench only.

You can use it at the time of planting or when the hydrangeas are showing signs of new growth.

Mix 1 tablespoon of plant food in 1 gallon of water. Fertilize every 14 days for the first month, then just once a month during your hydrangea's growing season.

Advantages

• Can be used for multiple blue or pink hydrangea varieties
• Proven to enhance and maintain the blue color of flowers
• Comes with a measuring spoon and instruction booklet
• Easy application for floor application

Disadvantages

• Not suitable for foliar feeding
• Some customers have reported lavender flowers instead of blue

Click here to learn more about the product.

Hydrangea Liquid Fertilizer by EZ-gro - Best Hydrangea Liquid Fertilizer

EZ-gro has been serving gardeners for more than 40 years. They have carefully formulated this liquid fertilizer for acid loving flowering plants like hydrangeas.

With an NPK of 21-7-7, aluminum sulphate and micronutrients, this fertilizer promises excellent growth for hydrangeas. I prefer this fertilizer for all my acid loving plants as it doesn't contain any harmful chlorides.

This concentrated fertilizer improves bud color and size with optimal nutrition.

It provides instant results but make sure to repeat the application every 7 or 14 days for the first month. Then reduce the application to just once a month. Avoid it in winter.

The only precaution is that it should be applied late evening or early morning in mild weather.

This fertilizer is very effective in reducing soil pH, but ensures that iron and other trace elements are always available to plants.

Advantages

• Easy to mix and easy to use
• Enhances the bright blue color of flowers
• Suitable forAzaleas, Rhododendrons, Orchids, Camellias and Gardenias etc.
• Includes measuring cup for accurate measurements
• Shows instant results within hours

Disadvantages

• Customers have complained about a broken cup

Learn more about this product here.

Shake N' Feed plant food for trees and shrubs from Miracle-Gro - Best slow-release fertilizer for hydrangeas

This slow-release plant fertilizer is designed for flowering trees and shrubs that need continuous feeding throughout the flowering and growing season.

It is made from natural ingredients such as seaweed, bone meal, feather meal and worm droppings.

The combination of natural ingredients with an NPK value of 18-6-12 ensures nourishment for your hydrangea plants and the microbes in the soil.

You can easily maintain the green foliage and flowers all year round with this fertilizer as it provides continuous nutrition for up to three months.

I find this to be the perfect slow release fertilizer as it not only nourishes the root zone but also feeds everything above the soil surface.

The microbes will break down nutrients and organic matter for root development and improve water uptake in the soil.

Fertilize your plant in early spring once new growth begins, but repeat the application in late spring.

Apply the dry product to the soil near the base of the plant and water the area to activate the fertilizer.

Do not apply to the leaves or stem. For potted plants, mix into the soil during planting. For established potted plants, distribute evenly in the soil.

Advantages

• Constant food supply for three months
• Can be used for other acid loving plants
• Made from natural ingredients
• Does not require pre-mixing with water
• Has a resealable pouch
• Doesn't burn
• Suitable for both soil and pot hydrangeas

Disadvantages

• Mold formation after application
• Too strong for young plants

You can buy this fertilizer by clickingHere.

Holly-tone von Espoma – Best for Budget Hortensiendünger

This plant fertilizer is the most budget-friendly option for evergreen and acid-loving plants, especially hydrangeas.

Formulated with natural products, it offers long-lasting results. In addition, it is approved for organic gardening.

This fertilizer is used by professionals for flowering plants such as azaleas and rhododendrons. It has a shelf life of 3-5 years but make sure you store it in a cool, dry place and seal the bag properly.

You should sprinkle the fertilizer onto the soil, but I would highly recommend incorporating it into the soil for better results.

The organic clay microbes enrich your soil with important nutrients. It has the perfect levels of magnesium, calcium and sulfur for healthy plant growth.

Within a few weeks your plants will have deep green leaves and the color of the buds will improve as well.

The NPK ratio is 4-3-4, making it suitable for all types of acid loving trees, shrubs, beds and potted plants. However, keep in mind that the application rate is different for each of them. Detailed instructions are printed on the packaging.

Advantages

• Contains the special Bio Clay Microbes
• 100% organic
• Contains no harmful chemicals, therefore safe for long-term soil and plant health
• Available in different sizes so you can choose according to the number of plants in your garden

Disadvantages

• Has a terrible smell
• Package damage easily in transit

Click here to buy this product.

Acid Lovers Organic Fertilizer by Dr. Earth - Best Organic Hydrangea Fertilizer

This handcrafted fertilizer is highly recommended for organic growing of hydrangeas and other acid lovers.

This fertilizer is safe for pets and humans. A single pack can feed your beloved plants for several months. It comes in a 4 pound pack and contains the famous probiotic, essential microbes and mycorrhizae.

Probiotics break down the nutrients for faster results and improve your hydrangea's performance.

It also contains valley-grown alfalfa meal, feather meal, Alaskan fishbone meal, and Norwegian seaweed meal. The three macronutrients are distributed in a 4-5-4 ratio.

You can use it to make your garden or potting soil more acidic.

I've used it on several hydrangea varieties in my garden and all have produced large flowers and plentiful buds.

It also improved drought tolerance and nutrients were available longer throughout the season.

You can use it in the middle of the growing season for extra nutrients, but it's important to feed your hydrangeas during the initial planting.

Advantages

• 100% natural and organic
• Also works for shade plants, evergreens, ferns
• No need for supplements, though used correctly
• Nutrients break down quickly
• Promotes flowering and strengthens weak plants

Disadvantages

• Has a strong odor that most people don't like
• Pets are attracted to the ground after fertilization

Click here for more information or to purchase this product.

Super Bloom by Scotts - Best fertilizer for flowering hydrangeas

This high phosphorus fertilizer is a must if you want to experience heavy flowering on your hydrangeas.

It is said to feed your plants instantly and the NPK ratio is 12-55-6. It is the perfect plant food for outdoor flowering plants like hydrangeas. You can also use it for potted plants or garden beds.

For best results, make sure to fertilize the plant every 1 or 2 weeks, but never overdo it. Make sure you soak it well with water before applying.

It can be applied with a watering can or jug, but you can also opt for a garden fertilizer.

Advantages

• Water soluble and easy to use
• Encourages strong buds throughout the season

Disadvantages

• Customers have complained that they received a broken box with leaked product

Learn more about this productHere.

Soil Acidifier from Jobe's Organics - Best Soil Acidifier for Hydrangeas

This organic acidifier is said to reduce the alkalinity of potting or garden soil. I prefer it for acid loving plants because it provides natural sulfur.

In addition, it is certified for organic gardening because it contains no chemicals.

You can turn pink hydrangeas blue with this soil acidifier or additive. But I would strongly recommend testing the pH of the soil prior to application.

Not only does it change the color of the flowers, but it also improves the color of the foliage. You will have deep green leaves and beautiful flowers.

You should apply it at the time of planting, but repeat the application 2 or 3 times a year to maintain the necessary soil pH.

Advantages

• The secret behind transforming pink hydrangeas into blue
• Contains no harmful chemicals that will burn the hydrangea bushes
• Can be used for organic gardening
• A healthy soil improvement
• OMRI listed

Disadvantages

• Attracts animals like raccoons and squirrels

Learn more about this product and buy it here.

Garden Lime by Espoma - Best soil conditioner for pink hydrangeas

This soil conditioner increases soil pH and comes in fine pellets. The pelletized form is safer to use than hydrated lime.

It is made from natural products to be suitable for organic gardening. The 6.75 pound package can be used to treat an area of ​​100 square feet.

I prefer this because the pellets are easy to use, especially if you have a large area to cover. It helped my hydrangeas turn a pretty shade of pink.

It's easy to use; You simply have to spread it around the base of the plant.

Advantages

• Fast results and easy to use
• Gives beautiful pink hydrangea flowers
• Organic
• Perfect product for adjusting the pH of the soil

Disadvantages

• Unsealed packaging
• High oxides unsuitable for soils with earthworms

For more information and to purchase this product,Click here.

Organic Fertilizer

Organic products are becoming more and more common in the horticulture and gardening world. They are made from natural products, which makes them environmentally friendly.

They don't offer the same potency as chemical fertilizers, and nutrients tend to disperse slowly.

The most important benefit of organic fertilizers is the improvement of microbial activity in the soil. This improves soil structure and is good for long-term soil health.

Winner:Acid Lovers Organic Fertilizer by Dr. Earth

Type of fertilizers for hydrangeas

Hydrangea fertilizers are either chemical or organic.

Chemical fertilizers are mostly formulated in laboratories to replicate specific growing conditions. They are designed to perform a specific function, e.g. B. increase blooms or leaf growth.

A wide range of chemical fertilizers for hydrangeas are available on the market.

You'll also find organic fertilizers that can benefit both the crop you're growing and the soil. These fertilizers are classified below:

fertilizer spikes

These are delayed release granules designed for continuous feeding. If you want something that will last longer and requires minimal effort, go for fertilizer spikes.

They are easy to use; They simply bury the hardened spikes in the soil near the base of the plant. They can provide nutrients for 2 or 3 months. Keep in mind that the nutrients are released slowly, so they don't get the plant started right away.

liquid fertilizer

Liquid fertilizers for hydrangeas should either be diluted with water or ready to use. These fertilizers provide plants with an immediate nutrient boost because the roots can absorb the nutrients in liquid form more quickly.

Liquid fertilizer can be applied over the ground or foliage. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.

The main disadvantage of liquid fertilizers is that they can be easily washed out with rain or overwatering.

Therefore, avoid using liquid fertilizer when rain is expected. Wait a few hours before watering your hydrangeas after applying liquid fertilizer to allow the plant to absorb nutrients.

fertilizer granules

I'm a big fan of granular fertilizers because the chances of burning your precious plants are very small.

As the name suggests, it is a granular fertilizer. These can be mixed directly into the soil or diluted with water before use. Sustained-release granulated fertilizer provides hydrangeas with long-lasting nutrients.

Fertilize different types of hydrangeas

Smooth Hydrangeas: They are very easy to care for in terms of fertilization. You should only fertilize them once in late winter.

Bigleaf Hydrangeas: You will need multiple applications in March, May and June. Just make sure you use a light dose.

Oakleaf and panicle hydrangeas: fertilize them twice (April and June).

Tips for fertilizing hydrangeas

With the right fertilizer, a lush, colorful bloom in hydrangeas is no big deal. When choosing a fertilizer for your hydrangeas, focus on the following key points.

• Choose the type of fertilizer based on your convenience and budget. Fertilizers that need to be diluted before application take longer than granular types, which should be applied directly to the soil. Prices also vary depending on the brand and type you choose.
• The best time to fertilize any hydrangea is after it has started leafing but has not yet flowered. Most growers start fertilizing hydrangeas in March.
• Most varieties should be fertilized in early spring or late fall. Stop fertilizing hydrangeas 2 months before the onset of frost.
• Fast-release fertilizers require 2 or 3 applications during the growing season. Slow-release fertilizers should only be applied once at the beginning of the growing season.
• Hydrangeas prefer light soil for healthy growth. So if the soil in your garden is heavy or clayey, amend it with organic fertilizer or plant fertilizer.
• Avoid applying fertilizers too late in the growing season; Otherwise, the hydrangeas will suddenly grow in cold months. Do not apply fertilizer to frozen ground.
• Slow-release fertilizer should be covered with soil to activate it.
• If your hydrangea's leaves are burned, you may have applied too much fertilizer. Fertilizer should be applied at the drip line of the stems and not at the base.

Changing the color of hydrangea flowers

The most interesting thing about hydrangeas is that you can change the color of the flowers. So, one season you can enjoy the pink flowers, but the next, with simple changes, you can have blue flowers.

The color of hydrangeas is highly dependent on soil pH, so you can adjust soil pH to suit your needs.

Neutral – Hydrangeas grown in soil with a neutral pH will produce pink or even deep pink buds.

Acidic – When the soil pH is close to 6, your hydrangea flowers will appear shades of deep pink, red, or purple. However, if the soil pH is highly acidic, i.e. below 6, the flowers will appear in shades of blue.

Alkaline – if the soil pH is higher than 7, the flowers will be light pink.

You can add soil amendments to adjust the pH of the soil. Lime and sulfur are usually used for this. But the first step is to test the soil and know the actual pH of the soil.

Lime increases the pH of the soil while sulfur lowers the pH. Soil amendments cannot add color to white hydrangeas, so they will always remain white.

Diploma

Anyone can fall in love with the beautiful, oversized blooms of hydrangeas. But following a fertilization schedule is important for the plant to flower for a long time.

Read the package carefully as it is important to choose a fertilizer that suits the soil type. If you want to enhance blooms, be sure to choose a fertilizer rich in phosphorus.

Choose the best fertilizer for hydrangeas from this guide and you'll soon be rewarded with gorgeous blooms and lush green foliage.

Last update on 02/17/2023 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API