What's Growing in and around Westwood Right Now?

Hydrangeas are starting to bloom in town right now. Did you know that the color of hydrangeas can change, depending on the chemical make-up of the soil they are in? 

Lowering the pH of soil below 6.0 can change some hydrangea blooms to blue. Spray the ground with a weak vinegar and water solution or a high acid fertilizer. Pine needles or coffee grounds in the soil can help. 

Conversely, raising the pH of soil above 6.0 can change some hydrangeas to pink. Add lime, wood ash, or a high phosphorous fertilizer to the earth. 

Not all types of hydrangeas can be coaxed into the color you want.  White hydrangeas will tend to stay white.  Big leaf, mophead or lacecap hydrangeas are the ones that can change to pink, purple, or blue hues by adjusting soil pH over several weeks or months.

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