Fertilizing Newly Planted Hydrangeas: Wait Until Spring

A newly planted hydrangea with pH 6.0 and medium nutrient levels doesn't need fertilizer now. Most nursery stock includes time-release fertilizer in the root ball.

What to Do Instead

• Apply a root stimulator weekly for 5–6 weeks to encourage establishment.
• Next spring, after new growth emerges, use an azalea/rhododendron fertilizer.
• Don't prune until after flowering next year—hydrangeas bloom on old wood.

Patience and proper timing beat early feeding.