Limelight Hydrangea Problems

Overhead watering should be done in early morning, so the foliage has time to dry.


Limelight hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata "Limelight") is named for its cone-shaped flower panicles that start out creamy white, then turn the color of lime sherbet in mid-summer. The flowers hold their summery color until fall, when they age to deep pink. A relatively carefree plant, Limelight is one of the hardiest hydrangea varieties. Limelight grows best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 to 9. Generally trouble-free, this hydrangea occasionally experiences insect, disease and other problems.


The lush green foliage of Limelight hydrangea occasionally attracts sapsucking insects, like aphids, soft scale insects, whiteflies and spider mites. All of these tiny insect species can be washed off the plant with a strong spray of water from the garden hose. Repeat every two or three days until most or all of the insects are gone. Feeding by these insects can cause spots, and curling or wilting of leaves and tender new growth. Spider mites like dry weather, and may proliferate during drought and when dust levels around the plant are high. In most cases, healthy Limelight hydrangeas recover easily from insect attacks. If the infestation is heavy, consider pruning infested or damaged areas. Destroy the cuttings to kill the insects. Horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps smother and kill any insects on the hydrangea at the time you spray it, but also kill beneficial insects.


Sooty mold is a byproduct of infestation by sapsucking insects. Aphids and other sapsucking insects excrete a sticky, substance called honeydew. Sooty mold grows on the honeydew, not the plant, but can spread and reduce photosynthesis, further damaging the hydrangea. Limelight hydrangea may contract fungal infections that cause leaf spot, rust spots and mildew. Fungal spores spread through splashing water from heavy rainfall or overhead watering. Prune as needed to improve air circulation in the foliage, which helps keep water droplets from standing on the leaves. In some cases, fungicides may control or prevent fungal infections. Consult the nearest cooperative extension service office or university horticulture department for specific information on fungicides appropriate for your area.


Wildlif,e such as deer, squirrels and birds, may find Limelight hydrangeas as attractive as you do, and keeping them out of the garden can be difficult. Sturdy fences can help keep deer out, but squirrels and birds, moles, gophers and other animals can damage roots, branches and limbs as they feed and nest. Some animals are protected by law and may not be trapped or poisoned. Check with the local cooperative extension service or fish and game office for advice on controlling specific animals.

Cultural Problems

Over watering can lead to a condition called oedema, where the roots of the Limelight hydrangea take in more water than they can disperse to the upper parts of the plant. Over watering also can lead to root rot and provides transport for fungal spores to spread. Too much fertilizer can be a problem, as well. Excess fertilizer can cause dieback of leaf tips and branches, chlorosis and burn. Some insect populations increase if too much nitrogen is used. Too little iron in the fertilizer can cause chlorosis, or fading of the foliage. Weeds not only compete with the hydrangea for water and nutrients in the soil, but can also harbor fungi and insects that may move into the hydrangea to attack it. Keep weeds controlled to eliminate hiding places.

About the Author


Photo Credits

  • Hemera Technologies/ Images
Suggest a Correction