Can Hydrangeas Go in a Potted Plant in the Shade?

Prune hydrangeas back after flowering to improve their form.

Prune hydrangeas back after flowering to improve their form.

Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.) make spectacular container plants so long as you provide them with enough shade and water. Containers tend to collect and retain heat, especially in hot Mediterranean climates, so make sure your hydrangeas get enough shade and moisture to thrive. Intense light, heat and drought can cause wilted leaves and scorched blooms.


When choosing a hydrangea variety for a pot, select one with compact growth. Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia), for example, grows slowly over several years to reach a mature height of 4 to 6 feet. It thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. Smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) is another good choice. This plant grows 3 to 5 feet in one season, but can be cut back in the fall to keep it compact. "Annabelle" (Hydrangea arborescens "Annabelle") is a common smooth hydrangea found in USDA zones 4 through 9. Both oakleaf and smooth hydrangeas commonly have cream or white flowers. For color, try bigleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla), which produce pink or blue blooms and grow from 3 to 6 feet in height. Bigleaf hydrangeas grow best in the mild climates found in USDA zones 6 through 9. Many nurseries carry dwarf varieties, which are suitable, as well.


Once you've selected a hydrangea variety for container growth, the next job is choosing a pot. Almost any container will work, so long as it is large enough to accommodate the root system and has holes for drainage. A pot that holds at least 14 to16 gallons of soil is ideal. Every type of pot has potential benefits and drawbacks. Half-whiskey barrels give a charming, rustic feel and hold plenty of soil. They dry out quickly, though, and eventually rot. Glazed pottery holds moisture well and provides an elegant, decorative look. Glazed pottery is usually heavy, however, and costs more than other materials. Plastic pots cost very little and hold moisture, but they crack over time. Unglazed pottery is inexpensive and long-lasting, but it wicks moisture form the soil. Consider your budget, decorating scheme and gardening goals when selecting a pot for hydrangeas. Unlike annuals, the hydrangea will likely live in the container for years to come.


Hydrangeas can be planted in pots almost year-round in coastal climates, but spring and fall are ideal times because the weather is cool and moist. Plant hydrangeas with a slightly acidic potting mix that contains compost, perlite, peat moss and vermiculite. These ingredients hold moisture while providing adequate drainage. Garden soil isn't appropriate because it often contains pathogens and it doesn't drain well.


Hydrangeas grow best in an area that gets dappled morning sun and afternoon shade. However, in hot conditions they may need a bit more shade. Containers are convenient because they can be moved as growing conditions change. Containers dry out more quickly than the ground, so water frequently to keep the soil surface slightly moist. Fertilize hydrangeas at planting time with 1/4 cup 10-10-10 granular, slow-release fertilizer. Then feed hydrangeas every week during the growing season with 1 tablespoon water-soluble 10-10-10 fertilizer diluted in 1 gallon water.

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