How to Propagate Bigleaf Hydrangea Plant the Right Way

Bigleaf hydrangeas, also known as Hydrangea macrophylla, are beloved for their large, showy blooms in shades of pink, blue, and purple. If you’re a fan of these gorgeous plants and want to expand your garden or share them with friends and family, propagating bigleaf hydrangeas is a great way to do so. In this article, we will discuss the right way to propagate bigleaf hydrangea plants, including when and how to propagate them for the best results.

Understanding Bigleaf Hydrangeas

Before diving into the propagation process, it’s important to have a good understanding of bigleaf hydrangeas. These plants are native to Japan and Korea and are prized for their stunning flowers that bloom from early summer to late fall. Bigleaf hydrangeas typically prefer partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.

There are two main types of bigleaf hydrangeas: mophead hydrangeas, which have large, round flower heads, and lacecap hydrangeas, which have flat flower heads with tiny flowers in the center surrounded by larger ones on the outer ring. Both types can be propagated using similar methods.

When to Propagate Bigleaf Hydrangeas

The best time to propagate bigleaf hydrangeas is in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. This is typically from late spring to early summer when the plant has put out new growth but before it has set its flower buds for the following year. Propagating during this time gives the new plants the entire growing season to establish themselves before winter sets in.

Propagation Methods

1. Softwood Cuttings

Softwood cuttings are one of the most common methods of propagating bigleaf hydrangeas. Here’s how to do it:

1. Select a healthy stem from the current season’s growth that is not flowering.
2. Cut a 4-6 inch piece of the stem just below a leaf node.
3. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a couple at the top.
4. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone.
5. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix.
6. Keep the cutting consistently moist and in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight.
7. After a few weeks, roots should start to form, and you can transplant the cutting into a larger pot or outdoors.

2. Division

Division is another method of propagating bigleaf hydrangeas that works well for established plants with multiple stems or shoots. Here’s how to do it:

1. Dig up a mature plant in early spring before new growth appears.
2. Use a sharp knife or shovel to divide the plant into sections, making sure each section has roots attached.
3. Replant each section in a prepared hole with well-amended soil.
4. Water thoroughly and keep the new plants well-watered until they become established.

3. Layering

Layering is a propagation method that involves encouraging a stem to form roots while still attached to the parent plant. Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose a low-growing branch on the bigleaf hydrangea plant.
2. Bend the branch down to ground level and make a small incision on the underside of the branch where it touches the soil.
3. Dust the incision with rooting hormone and cover it with soil.
4. Secure the branch in place with a small stake or rock.
5. Keep the soil consistently moist until roots form, then carefully cut the new plant away from the parent.

Tips for Successful Propagation

• Choose Healthy Plant Material: Always select healthy stems or divisions for propagation to ensure successful results.
• Use Rooting Hormone: Using rooting hormone can help encourage quicker root formation when propagating from cuttings.
• Keep Soil Moist: Consistently moist soil is crucial for successful root development when propagating bigleaf hydrangeas.
• Provide Adequate Light: While newly propagated plants should be kept out of direct sunlight, they still need bright light for optimal growth.

By following these tips and methods for propagating bigleaf hydrangea plants, you can successfully expand your garden or share these beautiful plants with others. With proper care and attention, your new plants will thrive and reward you with stunning blooms for years to come.

Happy propagating!