The Best Hydrangea for Pots: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking for a way to add some color and life to your patio or balcony? Growing hydrangeas in pots is a great way to do just that. Not only are these plants beautiful and easy to care for, but they can also be grown in containers, making them perfect for small spaces.

But with so many different types of hydrangeas out there, how do you know which one is right for your pot? In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the best hydrangeas for pots, as well as tips for growing them successfully.

Choosing the Right Hydrangea

When it comes to choosing a hydrangea for your pot, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some factors to consider:

Type of Hydrangea

There are several different types of hydrangeas, including mophead, lacecap, oakleaf, and panicle. Each type has its own unique characteristics and requirements, so it's important to choose the right type for your pot.

Mophead hydrangeas are some of the most popular varieties, known for their large, round flower clusters. They require a lot of water and prefer partially shaded areas.

Lacecap hydrangeas have a more delicate appearance, with smaller flowers arranged in a flat-topped cluster. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Oakleaf hydrangeas are named for their distinctive leaves, which resemble those of an oak tree. They produce cone-shaped flower clusters and prefer well-drained soil and partial shade.

Panicle hydrangeas are known for their cone-shaped flower clusters, which can range in color from white to pink to red. They're relatively easy to care for and can tolerate full sun.

Size of Pot

When it comes to growing hydrangeas in pots, size matters. Make sure you choose a pot that's large enough to accommodate the root system of your chosen hydrangea. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that's at least 2-3 times larger than the root ball of your plant.

Soil and Fertilizer

Hydrangeas prefer moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. Make sure you use a high-quality potting mix and add some organic matter to help retain moisture.

Fertilizer is also important for healthy growth and blooms. Choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for hydrangeas and follow the instructions carefully.

Best Hydrangeas for Pots

Now that you know what to look for when choosing a hydrangea for your pot, let's take a look at some of the best varieties for container gardening.

1. Cityline Paris Hydrangea

Cityline Paris is a compact mophead hydrangea that produces large, vibrant pink flowers. It's perfect for small spaces, as it only grows to about 2-3 feet tall and wide.

How to Grow:

Plant Cityline Paris in a pot that's at least 12 inches in diameter. Keep the soil moist and fertilize regularly with a hydrangea-specific fertilizer. This variety prefers partial shade.

2. Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea

Endless Summer Bloomstruck is a mophead hydrangea that produces large, blue or pink flowers. It blooms continuously throughout the summer and fall, making it a great choice for long-lasting color.

How to Grow:

Plant Endless Summer Bloomstruck in a pot that's at least 18 inches in diameter. Keep the soil moist and fertilize regularly with a hydrangea-specific fertilizer. This variety prefers partial shade.

3. Little Quick Fire Hydrangea

Little Quick Fire is a panicle hydrangea that produces cone-shaped flower clusters in shades of white and pink. It's a compact variety that only grows to about 3-5 feet tall and wide.

How to Grow:

Plant Little Quick Fire in a pot that's at least 12 inches in diameter. This variety can tolerate full sun, but it prefers partial shade. Keep the soil moist and fertilize regularly with a hydrangea-specific fertilizer.

4. Tuff Stuff Red Hydrangea

Tuff Stuff Red is a lacecap hydrangea that produces red flowers. It's a dwarf variety that only grows to about 2-3 feet tall and wide, making it perfect for small pots.

How to Grow:

Plant Tuff Stuff Red in a pot that's at least 10 inches in diameter. This variety prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and fertilize regularly with a hydrangea-specific fertilizer.

Tips for Growing Hydrangeas in Pots

Now that you know which hydrangeas are best suited for pots, here are some tips for growing them successfully:

1. Choose the Right Pot

As we mentioned earlier, choosing the right pot size is important for healthy growth. Make sure your pot has adequate drainage holes and is large enough to allow for root expansion.

2. Monitor Watering Carefully

Hydrangeas need regular watering to thrive, but too much or too little can be detrimental. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

3. Provide Adequate Sunlight

While some hydrangeas can tolerate full sun, most prefer partial shade. Make sure your pot is located in an area that receives the right amount of sunlight for your chosen variety.

4. Fertilize Regularly

As we mentioned earlier, fertilizing is important for healthy growth and blooming. Follow the instructions carefully and apply fertilizer as directed.

5. Prune as Needed

Regular pruning can help keep your hydrangea plant looking healthy and tidy. Prune dead or damaged branches and remove any spent blooms to encourage new growth.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about growing hydrangeas in pots:

1. Can I grow hydrangeas in a small pot?

Yes, you can grow certain varieties of hydrangeas in small pots. Just make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the root system of your chosen plant.

2. How often should I water my potted hydrangea?

Watering frequency depends on several factors, including the type of hydrangea, pot size, and weather conditions. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

3. Can I grow hydrangeas in full sun?

Some varieties of hydrangeas can tolerate full sun, but most prefer partial shade. Check the specific requirements for your chosen variety.

4. What kind of fertilizer should I use for my potted hydrangea?

Choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for hydrangeas and follow the instructions carefully.

5. When should I prune my potted hydrangea?

Prune dead or damaged branches and remove any spent blooms as needed to encourage new growth. Avoid pruning during the fall or winter, as this can damage the plant.



Growing hydrangeas in pots is a great way to add some color and life to your outdoor space. By choosing the right hydrangea variety, pot size, soil, and fertilizer, you can create a beautiful container garden that will thrive throughout the season. Remember to monitor water and sunlight carefully, and prune as needed to keep your plant looking its best.