did you know?

Although this unusual and dramatic cultivar is of Japanese origin, its present name commemorates Grayswood Hill, the garden of the man who first imported it into England.

general maintenance:

In early spring, deadhead, taking care not to damage the emerging, swollen, green buds; and remove any dead branches or, if necessary, old growth, making all cuts at the base of the plant.

pests/diseases:

Aphids, scale insects, whiteflies, and honey fungus may occur.

controls:

Regularly hose off aphids with a directed stream of water, or apply insecticidal soap, following label directions. To control scale, remove with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, and remove infested leaves. Spray whiteflies with insecticidal soap, following label directions. To discourage honey fungus, remove and destroy diseased plants.

how to sow/plant:

Start with new plants, rooted softwood cuttings, or fall divisions. Plant in spring or fall; choose a partly shady site with moist, well-drained soil, and amend with well-rotted manure or compost. Set plants at same depth they were in pot, spacing at distance equal to plants' mature spread. Water upon planting, and mulch to conserve moisture.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil moisture all season. In dry periods, hydrangea leaves become distinctly wilted; water immediately when this happens. In spring and after flowering, feed with a balanced fertilizer, following label directions.

garden hint:

To enjoy the full range of this cultivar's flower color, plant the shrub in a sunny location.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Deciduous
• Disease Resistant
• Fall Foliage
• Shade Tolerant
• Winter Interest

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders
• Shade Woodland Garden

other uses:

• Cut Flower
• Everlasting (>)

combine with:

viburnum, red-twig dogwood and sweetshrub