Jip Blue Hydrangea: A Guide to Growing and Caring for Them

Hydrangeas are some of the most popular flowering plants in the world, and for good reason. They are beautiful, easy to care for, and come in a wide range of colors and varieties. One of the most stunning hydrangeas is the jip blue hydrangea. With its vibrant blue blooms, it is sure to make a statement in any garden or landscape. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for jip blue hydrangeas.

What are Jip Blue Hydrangeas?

Jip blue hydrangeas are a variety of mophead hydrangea that produce large, round clusters of vivid blue flowers. They are named after the Jip nursery in the Netherlands, where they were first developed in the 1990s. These hydrangeas are known for their intense, long-lasting color, which can range from deep blue to light lavender depending on soil pH.

Choosing the Right Location

When planting jip blue hydrangeas, it is important to choose a location that receives partial shade. These plants prefer morning sun and afternoon shade, and too much direct sunlight can cause their blooms to fade prematurely. Additionally, jip blue hydrangeas prefer moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Soil pH

One of the unique features of jip blue hydrangeas is their ability to change color based on soil pH. In acidic soil (pH 5.5 or lower), the blooms will be a deep blue color. In neutral soil (pH 6.5-7), the flowers will be more of a lavender-blue hue. And in alkaline soil (pH 7.5 or higher), the blooms will be pink or even red.

Planting and Care

Jip blue hydrangeas are relatively easy to care for once they are established. Here are some tips to help you get ed:

Planting

When planting jip blue hydrangeas, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than the soil line on the stem. Be sure to mix plenty of organic matter into the soil before planting, such as compost or peat moss. Water deeply after planting to help the roots settle in.

Watering

Hydrangeas like consistent moisture, so it is important to water them regularly during dry spells. Avoid getting water on the leaves or blooms, as this can encourage disease. Instead, water at the base of the plant and use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system if possible.

Fertilizing

Jip blue hydrangeas benefit from fertilization in the spring and summer months. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote healthy blooms. Avoid fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as these can cause the plant to produce more foliage than flowers.

Pruning

Hydrangeas should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth s. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, as well as any crossing branches or shoots that are growing inward. You can also remove up to one-third of the old wood to encourage new growth and better blooms.

Pests and Diseases

Jip blue hydrangeas are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few things to watch out for. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Leaf Spot

Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of hydrangeas. To prevent leaf spot, avoid getting water on the leaves and make sure the plant has good air circulation. If you do notice leaf spot, remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from hydrangeas and cause stunted growth or distorted leaves. To get rid of aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use an insecticidal soap.

Propagation

Jip blue hydrangeas can be propagated through stem cuttings or layering. Here's how to do it:

Stem Cuttings

Take a cutting from a healthy, non-flowering shoot in the spring or summer. Remove all but the top two or three leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant the cutting in moist potting soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid location until roots form, then transplant it into a larger container or into the ground.

Layering

Layering is another method of propagating hydrangeas. Choose a low-growing branch and bend it down to the ground. Make a shallow cut in the bark where the branch touches the soil, and weigh it down with a rock or brick. Keep the soil moist and wait for roots to form, then sever the new plant from the parent and transplant it.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my jip blue hydrangea?

Jip blue hydrangeas like consistent moisture, so it is important to water them regularly during dry spells. Aim to give them about an inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.

2. Can I grow jip blue hydrangeas in a container?

Yes, jip blue hydrangeas can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage. Make sure to use a high-quality potting mix and fertilize regularly.

3. How do I change the color of my jip blue hydrangea?

To change the color of your jip blue hydrangea, you will need to adjust the soil pH. For a more acidic soil (pH 5.5 or lower), add sulfur or aluminum sulfate. For a more alkaline soil (pH 7.5 or higher), add lime.

4. When should I prune my jip blue hydrangea?

Jip blue hydrangeas should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth s. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, as well as any crossing branches or shoots that are growing inward. You can also remove up to one-third of the old wood to encourage new growth and better blooms.

5. How long do jip blue hydrangea blooms last?

Jip blue hydrangea blooms can last for several weeks to several months, depending on weather conditions and how well the plant is cared for.


Jip blue hydrangeas are a stunning addition to any garden or landscape. With their vibrant blue blooms and easy-to-care-for nature, they are sure to attract attention and admiration. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can grow and care for your jip blue hydrangea with confidence. Happy gardening!