Rip Up Hydrangeas? Making Smart Plant Choices for Your Garden

Should You Rip Up Your Hydrangeas? A Guide to Choosing the Right Plants

Choosing the right plants for your garden can be a tricky balancing act. You want something that looks beautiful, is relatively easy to care for, and doesn’t cause any ecological harm. This is especially true if you’re not a gardening expert, and you are concerned about the impact of introduced species in your landscape. Today, we will address the concerns about hydrangeas, along with some other popular landscaping choices, helping you make informed decisions about your garden.

The Hydrangea Question

Hydrangeas are a common sight in many gardens, prized for their large, showy blooms that come in a variety of colors. However, their non-native status sometimes raises concerns. Are they problematic? Should you rip them up?

Assessing the Impact

• Non-Native Status: Hydrangeas, in general, are not considered highly invasive in most regions. They don’t typically spread aggressively and outcompete native plants, but you should still check your local extension service for more specific information. Certain species like Hydrangea paniculata are considered invasive in some areas. This is especially important if you live near natural areas or forests. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and choose a native alternative.
• Water Usage: Hydrangeas can be thirsty plants, especially during hot summer months. Consider your local water resources. If you live in an area prone to drought, be mindful of their water needs and water deeply but infrequently.
• Aesthetic Preference: The most important thing, in the end, is whether you enjoy having hydrangeas in your garden. If they bring you and your girlfriend joy, and they aren’t causing any significant environmental problems, then there is no need to remove them.

Hydrangea Care Tips

• Sunlight: Most hydrangeas prefer morning sun and afternoon shade, although the specific requirements vary by species. Avoid planting them in full, blazing sun.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is essential. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
• Watering: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
• Pruning: Pruning needs vary greatly depending on the species. Some hydrangeas bloom on old wood (last year’s growth), while others bloom on new wood (this year’s growth). Research the specific hydrangea variety you have to determine the best pruning practices.
• Fertilizing: Feed your hydrangeas in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.

Considering Alternatives

If you’re still on the fence about hydrangeas or looking for a change, there are many beautiful native alternatives to choose from. When selecting plants, consider not only their aesthetic appeal but also their ecological benefits and ease of care. Here are a couple of suggestions:

• Native Alternatives: Consider plants native to your region. They are well-adapted to your local climate and soil conditions and will provide benefits for native wildlife. Here are some native shrubs to consider as alternatives:
  • Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): This North American native hydrangea offers beautiful white flower panicles, stunning fall color, and interesting bark. It’s a great choice for gardens in USDA zones 5-9.
  • Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens): Another native hydrangea, this species features large, rounded flower clusters that bloom on new wood. It’s a reliable bloomer, even after harsh winters, and is well-suited for zones 3-9.
  • Other Native Shrubs: If you are looking for something different, consider native shrubs like:
    • Viburnums: Many viburnum species offer beautiful flowers, berries that attract birds, and attractive foliage.
    • Dogwoods: Dogwoods provide stunning spring blooms, colorful fall foliage, and interesting bark.

Mountain Laurel ‘Minuet’: A Worthy Contender?

The Mountain Laurel ‘Minuet’ (Kalmia latifolia) is a beautiful, evergreen shrub that’s also a native North American plant. This plant offers a unique set of advantages to a garden.

Benefits of ‘Minuet’

• Native: Being native, it is adapted to local climate conditions and can support local wildlife.
• Aesthetic Appeal: It offers gorgeous blooms. The ‘Minuet’ cultivar is known for its compact size and beautiful, deep pink flowers with burgundy markings. It offers an elegant, refined look to any garden space.
• Evergreen: The evergreen foliage provides year-round interest and structure in the garden.
• Relatively Low Maintenance: Once established, Mountain Laurel ‘Minuet’ is relatively low-maintenance and requires minimal pruning.
• Deer Resistance: It’s a deer-resistant plant, which is a big plus in areas where deer are a problem.

Considerations

• Sunlight Requirements: Mountain Laurel prefers partial shade and acidic, well-drained soil.
• Cost: Investing $100 for two ‘Minuet’ plants is a reasonable price. The exact cost will vary depending on the size of the plant and your local nursery prices.

Other Landscape Choices: Junipers and Spruce

Besides hydrangeas, you mentioned Andorra juniper and a small Alberta spruce. Let’s examine these:

Andorra Juniper

Andorra juniper (Juniperus horizontalis ‘Plumosa’ or similar cultivars) is a popular ground cover. Here’s what to consider:

• Non-Invasive (Generally): Andorra juniper is not generally considered invasive. It’s a low-growing, spreading shrub that doesn’t tend to outcompete native plants aggressively. However, like any plant, it can spread, so be mindful of its placement.
• Benefits: It provides erosion control, offers interesting foliage color, and is relatively low-maintenance.
• Drawbacks: It can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases, and it may not thrive in all soil conditions.

Alberta Spruce

The Alberta spruce (Picea glauca ‘Conica’) is a dwarf conifer, which, being cultivated, rarely poses an invasive threat. They are generally low-maintenance and offer a nice, compact shape to a landscape.

• Non-Invasive: Alberta spruce is a cultivated variety and not considered invasive. Its small size also helps to keep it in check.
• Benefits: It offers a classic, evergreen look and can provide vertical interest in the garden.
• Considerations: Alberta spruce can be susceptible to spider mites, so monitor it for signs of infestation. It also prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Making Your Garden Decisions

Ultimately, the decisions about what to plant in your garden are personal. However, here is a quick checklist to follow when choosing plants:

1. Research Local Conditions: What is your local climate and soil type? Choose plants that are well-suited to these conditions.
2. Consider Native Alternatives: Native plants often require less maintenance and provide benefits to local wildlife.
3. Assess the Risk of Invasiveness: Be aware of any potential for a plant to spread aggressively.
4. Evaluate Aesthetic Preferences: Choose plants that you enjoy and that complement your overall landscape design.
5. Consider Costs: Budget for plants, amendments (like compost), and any ongoing maintenance.

By carefully considering these factors, you can create a beautiful and ecologically responsible garden that you and your girlfriend will enjoy for years to come.