Question
I live in Chicago, Ill and have some hydregeas growing in my garden.  They are not flowering very much this summer and two of the have not flowered in 2 years.  Any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Pat, Until recently all hydrangeas bloomed on old wood, so a warm spell followed by a frost in the early spring destroyed the flowers.  You get foliage, just no flowers. Now we have varieties that bloom on new and old wood, so even if you lose your first flowers, they are in bloom by summer. Try Endless Summer, Penny Mac, Mini Penny, Dooley or Blushing Bride.  These should do well for you.  Move your older varieties to the north side of the house.  The ground stays colder, longer there and should delay your bud swell.  Jim