Hydrangeas can absolutely thrive in Wichita Falls — they just need a thoughtful spot and consistent water.

Location, location, location

Hydrangeas in Texas heat want morning sun and afternoon shade. A spot on the east side of the house, or under high tree canopy, is ideal. Full sun will scorch them; deep shade will give you leaves but no blooms.

Soil

Rich, well-draining soil amended with plenty of compost. Hydrangeas hate wet feet but also wilt at the first hint of drought — the magic is moist-but-not-soggy.

Watering

• Newly planted: deep watering every 2–3 days for the first month
• Established: 1–2 deep waterings per week in summer
• Watch for afternoon wilt — they’ll bounce back overnight if soil is moist; if not, water immediately

The flower color trick

For varieties with pH-sensitive blooms:

• Blue blooms — acidic soil (pH below 6). Add aluminum sulfate
• Pink blooms — alkaline soil (pH above 6.5). Add lime
• Purple — somewhere in between

Wichita Falls soil is naturally alkaline, so blue requires more work than pink.

Pruning

Different hydrangea types need different pruning. Bigleaf and oakleaf types bloom on old wood — prune lightly right after flowering. Panicle and smooth types bloom on new wood — prune hard in late winter.

When in doubt, ask us which variety you have and we’ll point you in the right direction.