I put 3 oakleafs in last Fall. All are flowering and growing well except for one which is bent over (almost to ground; they're about 3' tall). It seems the top growth is just too heavy for the root system. It may get less sun- but still open shade- than the others. Any ideas other that staking it upright? I'd much prefer it approximate the height of the others. Thanks! |
Although you could stake it, you can also prune it back to encourage dense branching on the lower part of the plant which will help it hold its head upright. Oakleaf hydrangeas are fast growing once their roots are established, so you just need to wait for it to mature a bit. In another year I think all the plants will be equal in size. In the meantime, cut the tops of the stems back so there's not so much weight on the branches and, while it might be shorter than the others, it will at least stand upright. Enjoy your hydrangeas! |