How to Grow Hydrangeas in Pots: Tips & Tricks

Their lush, globe-shaped blooms in dreamy blues, pinks, and whites make hydrangeas a show-stopping addition to any garden. While traditionally found in sprawling landscapes, you can grow hydrangeas in pots. These ornamental plants can thrive in pots, making them perfect for urban homes with limited space on balconies, terraces, or verandas.

Pot cultivation also offers flexibility, better control over soil conditions (a key factor affecting hydrangea bloom colours), and easy mobility for seasonal care. In this blog, you will find tips to help you grow healthy, blooming hydrangeas in containers—whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting.

1. Which hydrangea variety to grow

Multiple potted blue hydrangeas in planters placed outdoors for effective container gardening

Before planting, it’s essential to choose the right type of hydrangea that suits your region’s climate. Hydrangea macrophylla (also called Bigleaf or Mophead hydrangeas), the most popular type known for its colour-changing blooms, does best in cooler regions. Hydrangea paniculata is more tolerant to heat and does well in places with milder climates. If you’re in a hot or dry area, be prepared to provide some extra care with shade and moisture retention.

2. Selecting the perfect pot

Hydrangeas require ample room for their roots to grow, so select a large container, ideally 16–18 inches deep and wide. Ensure the pot has multiple drainage holes to prevent root rot caused by water stagnation.

Potted hydrangea in a decorative planter surrounded by green foliage on a patio

Clay or ceramic pots are better than plastic, as they offer better breathability. To promote airflow and reduce fungal growth, place the pot on bricks or a stand to keep it slightly elevated off the ground.

For more container ideas, check out our post on how to choose the perfect planters for your balcony or terrace

3. Ideal potting mix for hydrangeas

Hydrangeas thrive in rich, well-draining soil. Avoid heavy clayey soil as it tends to hold too much water. To slightly acidify your mix, you can add pine needles, used tea leaves, or coffee grounds—especially if you aim for blue blooms (more on this below).

4. How to control the colour of hydrangea blooms

Its colour-changing ability, based on soil pH, makes hydrangea macrophylla popular. Here’s how you can experiment with colours when you grow hydrangeas in pots:

Adjusting soil pH in pots allow control of hydrangea colours, blue or pink

Blue Blooms: For blue flowers, keep your soil acidic (pH below 6.0). Mix in aluminium sulphate, coffee grounds, or pine bark to lower pH.
Pink Blooms: For pink flowers, make the soil alkaline (pH above 7.0). Add lime or wood ash to increase pH.
White Blooms: White hydrangeas generally don’t change colour with soil pH and remain white regardless of the mix.

Achieving true blue blooms may require more frequent soil conditioning. Use a soil pH tester for accurate monitoring if you plan to experiment with changing colours.

5. Sunlight & watering needs

Hydrangeas love sunlight but can’t tolerate scorching heat. Ideally, place the pot in a location that receives 4–6 hours of morning sun, followed by shade or filtered light.

Urban terrace garden with colourful hydrangeas in large pots enjoying morning sunlight

Keep the soil evenly moist—not soggy when you grow hydrangeas in pots. Water deeply when the soil feels dry at the top inch. In the summer, daily watering may be necessary, while in cooler months, watering at a reduced frequency will suffice. Avoid wetting the leaves excessively to prevent fungal issues.

6. Feeding & fertilizing

Feed your hydrangeas every 3–4 weeks during the growing season (spring through early autumn). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as NPK 10:10:10, or one specifically formulated for blooming plants.

If you prefer organic fertilizers, try compost tea, banana peel fertilizer, or diluted fish emulsion. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen—it encourages leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Check out our blog on How to make organic compost at home.

7. Pruning & deadheading

Pruning helps maintain shape and encourages fresh blooms. Light pruning immediately after the flowering season is most effective. Deadheading—or removing faded blooms—not only improves the appearance but also signals the plant to push out new flowers.

Close-up of pink hydrangea flowers showing delicate petals

Note: Some hydrangeas bloom on old wood (last season’s growth), while others bloom on new wood (current season’s growth), so avoid aggressive pruning unless you’re sure of your variety.

8. Common problems & solutions when growing hydrangeas

Even healthy hydrangeas may face a few issues:

Leaf Scorch: Caused by intense afternoon sun. Move the pot to partial shade.
Yellow Leaves: Often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Improve airflow and reduce watering.
Pests: Watch out for aphids, spider mites, or mealybugs. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Fungal Diseases: Prevent by watering at the base and ensuring good air circulation.

9. Hydrangea care tips

Tropical climate: Mulch the soil surface with dry leaves or coconut husk to retain moisture. Provide shade during peak heat.
Wet climate: Reduce watering frequency and ensure pots drain well.
Cold climate: Protect from frost in winter by wrapping pots in jute sacks or moving them indoors.

Hydrangeas may seem like exotic, high-maintenance plants, but with the proper care, they can thrive beautifully even in pots. Their vibrant, sometimes colour-changing blooms make them an exciting addition to any terrace or balcony garden.

Ready to give it a try? How about getting a hydrangea plant today? You’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking burst of blossoms that lasts weeks, sometimes months!