Hydrangeas, with their elegant looks, make for easy and fantastic companion plants most of the time. Companion planting involves growing different plants together for mutual benefit. Although sometimes one plant may generously offer more advantages to its partner, this can vary depending on the plant species.
The key factor in picking companion plants is ensuring they’ll flourish in conditions similar to those of hydrangeas. It’s important to avoid growing them near certain plants that will harm them. For those looking to enhance their hydrangeas, gardening experts John Toepfer and Susan Brandt from Blooming Secrets suggest a few plants that hydrangeas “will love” and which will help them “grow stronger, bigger and better”, and “thrive”.
1. Azaleas
Azaleas and hydrangeas form a fantastic garden duo, as they prefer acidic, well-draining soil and ample shade. Notably, they align with blue hydrangeas’ affinity for slightly acidic soil.
However, it’s best to avoid pairing them with pink hydrangeas, which prefer more alkaline soil. When combined with hydrangeas, which typically bloom throughout the summer, these plants provide “season-long flowers”.
Additionally, azaleas are resistant to insects and diseases, making them suitable companions for any acid-loving plants, including hydrangeas.
2. Hostas
Hostas make an ideal match with hydrangeas. Both thrive equally well in part-shady spots and favour slightly acidic soil.
According to John and Susan, hostas are “one of the best plants for low-light areas” and act as a “natural foil”, shielding the delicate blooms of hydrangeas.
3. Perennial geraniums
Perennial geraniums, or cranesbill, available in shades of purple, pink, or white, are reminiscent of the familiar annual geranium.
As a bona fide garden staple, these geraniums demand minimal upkeep and become self-sustaining when well-established.
One suggestion is to pair hydrangeas with coralbells as they “thrive in the same conditions” and make “great companion plants for hydrangeas”.
Both hydrangea and perennial geranium plants require moist, well-drained soil that isn’t excessively wet.
