How to Grow Hydrangeas Plant Indoors

Hydrangeas are beautiful flowering plants that are known for their large, showy blooms. While they are typically grown outdoors in gardens, it is also possible to successfully grow hydrangeas indoors. Growing hydrangeas indoors allows you to enjoy their stunning blooms year-round and adds a touch of elegance to any indoor space. In this article, we will discuss the steps to successfully grow hydrangeas plants indoors.

Choosing the Right Hydrangea Variety

The first step in growing hydrangeas indoors is selecting the right variety for indoor cultivation. Some hydrangea varieties are better suited for indoor growing than others. The best varieties for indoor cultivation include the florist hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) and the miniature hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata ‘Grandiflora’). These varieties have been specifically bred to thrive in indoor conditions and are more compact in size, making them ideal for indoor spaces.

Providing Adequate Light

One of the most critical factors in successfully growing hydrangeas indoors is providing them with adequate light. Hydrangeas prefer bright, indirect light, so placing them near a window that receives filtered sunlight is ideal. However, direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of indoor hydrangeas, so it is essential to protect them from intense sunlight.

If you do not have a suitable window location, you can supplement natural light with artificial grow lights. LED grow lights are a popular choice as they provide the right spectrum of light needed for plant growth without generating excessive heat. Place the grow lights about 12 inches above the plants and keep them on for 12-14 hours a day.

Maintaining Proper Temperature and Humidity

Hydrangeas thrive in moderate temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Avoid exposing them to extreme temperature fluctuations or drafts, as they can cause stress and damage the plants. Keep them away from heating vents or air conditioning units that can create hot or cold spots.

To maintain proper humidity levels, especially during dry winter months, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant on a tray filled with water and pebbles. This helps to increase the humidity around the plant, mimicking its natural environment.

Watering Hydrangeas

Proper watering is essential for the health and growth of hydrangeas. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not overly saturated. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and die.

Check the moisture level of the soil regularly by sticking your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it is time to water. Use room temperature water and ensure that excess water drains out of the pot to prevent waterlogging. Hydrangeas prefer slightly acidic soil, so using rainwater or distilled water is recommended.

Fertilizing Hydrangeas

Indoor hydrangeas benefit from regular fertilization to support healthy growth and abundant blooms. During the growing season, which typically spans from spring to fall, fertilize your hydrangea once every two weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for flowering plants. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.

During the dormant winter period, reduce fertilization to once a month or suspend it altogether until new growth emerges in spring.

Pruning and Deadheading

Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of indoor hydrangeas. Prune your hydrangea during late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired by cutting back about one-third of the stems.

Deadheading spent blooms throughout the growing season encourages more blooms to form. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to cut the faded flowers just above a set of healthy leaves or buds.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

While indoor hydrangeas are generally less susceptible to pests and diseases than their outdoor counterparts, it is still possible for them to be affected. Common pests that can infest indoor hydrangeas include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pest infestation, such as curled leaves, sticky residue, or tiny insects. If detected, treat the affected plant with an appropriate insecticide or try natural remedies such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Preventive measures like ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overwatering, and keeping the plant clean can help reduce the risk of fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot.

Conclusion

Growing hydrangeas indoors is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to enjoy these beautiful flowering plants throughout the year. By selecting the right variety, providing adequate light, maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels, watering and fertilizing appropriately, pruning and deadheading regularly, and preventing pests and diseases, you can successfully grow hydrangeas indoors. With some care and attention, your indoor hydrangeas will thrive and bring beauty to your home or office space.