Companion Plants for Nikko Blue Hydrangeas

If you're looking for a stunning and low-maintenance plant for your garden, look no further than the Nikko Blue hydrangea. With their beautiful blue flowers and lush foliage, these hydrangeas are a favorite for many gardeners. But did you know that planting them alongside certain other plants can enhance their beauty even more? In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for Nikko Blue hydrangeas.

The Best Companion Plants for Nikko Blue Hydrangeas

1. Hostas

Hostas make an excellent companion for Nikko Blue hydrangeas because they have similar soil and moisture requirements. Plus, their lush leaves provide a beautiful contrast to the hydrangea's delicate flowers. Plant hostas in front of your hydrangeas to create a stunning display.

If you're not sure which variety of hosta to choose, try 'Blue Angel', 'Sum and Substance', or 'Patriot'. These varieties have large, blue-green leaves that will complement your Nikko Blue hydrangeas perfectly.

2. Bleeding Hearts

If you want to add some color to your garden, consider planting bleeding hearts alongside your Nikko Blue hydrangeas. Their heart-shaped pink or white flowers make a striking contrast to the hydrangea's blue blooms. Bleeding hearts prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, so make sure to plant them in a suitable location.

You can also try planting other spring-blooming perennials like astilbes, primroses, and lungworts with your hydrangeas to create a colorful and interesting display.

3. Ferns

Ferns are another great companion for Nikko Blue hydrangeas because they thrive in the same moist, shady conditions. Plant them behind your hydrangeas to create a lush and layered look. Some popular fern varieties include lady fern, ostrich fern, and cinnamon fern.

Other shade-loving plants you can try planting alongside your hydrangeas include foamflowers, columbines, and hellebores.

Tips for Creating a Beautiful Garden with Nikko Blue Hydrangeas

1. Choose the Right Location

Nikko Blue hydrangeas prefer partial shade and well-drained soil. Make sure to choose a location in your garden that provides these conditions. Avoid planting them in full sun or in areas with poor drainage.

2. Prune Your Hydrangeas Regularly

To keep your Nikko Blue hydrangeas looking their best, make sure to prune them regularly. Prune in early spring before new growth appears to remove any dead or damaged wood. You can also prune after flowering to shape the plant and encourage more blooms.

3. Fertilize Your Hydrangeas

Nikko Blue hydrangeas benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to keep your plants healthy and thriving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I plant Nikko Blue hydrangeas in full sun?

A: While Nikko Blue hydrangeas can tolerate some direct sunlight, they do best in partial shade. Too much sun can cause the flowers to wilt and the leaves to burn.

Q: How often should I water my Nikko Blue hydrangeas?

A: Hydrangeas prefer moist soil, so make sure to water them regularly. During hot, dry weather, you may need to water more frequently to keep the soil from drying out.

Q: When is the best time to prune my Nikko Blue hydrangeas?

A: The best time to prune Nikko Blue hydrangeas is in early spring before new growth appears. You can also prune after flowering to shape the plant and encourage more blooms.

Q: What should I do if my hydrangea's leaves turn yellow?

A: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Make sure your hydrangeas are planted in well-draining soil and water them only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: Can I propagate my Nikko Blue hydrangeas?

A: Yes, Nikko Blue hydrangeas can be propagated through cuttings taken in late summer or early fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade until the cuttings have rooted.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions or if there's anything else I can do for you.