Is Hydrangea Poisonous? Detailed Guide to Growing Methods and Color Adjustment Techniques

Hydrangea is also known as eight immortal flower, powder ball flower, foreign hydrangea, etc. According to relevant historical records, China was already cultivating hydrangeas during the Ming and Qing dynasties, and many scenic areas today also feature hydrangeas. The flowers of the hydrangea are almost entirely sterile flowers, artificial cultivation is very advanced, and flower colors include blue, white, purple-red, pink, etc. So is hydrangea poisonous? How to grow hydrangea? How to adjust hydrangea color?

I. Is hydrangea poisonous?

Hydrangea is poisonous.

Hydrangea contains toxic elements in its body, so it is not recommended to grow it indoors, especially for those with children at home, because curiosity can easily lead to dangerous situations. Friends who like hydrangeas can choose to cultivate them in the courtyard, which also allows them to better absorb sweet dew.

The toxicity of hydrangea is mainly concentrated throughout the entire plant. Its scent is different from ordinary flower fragrances; the smell of hydrangea is rather unpleasant. If there is physical contact or accidental touching, be sure to rinse promptly with clean water to prevent nausea, dry heaving, abdominal pain, headache, body convulsions, and other conditions.

Note: Friends with pregnant women at home should not grow hydrangeas. The pollen scent will inevitably cause discomfort and can easily trigger symptoms such as allergies.

II. How to grow hydrangea?

1. Soil selection

Hydrangea needs soil with strong permeability and relatively high nutrient content; you can choose loose, fertile sandy loam. The soil in the pot should remain moist, and be careful not to water too much, especially during the rainy season. Pay attention to drainage, and never let excessive water cause root rot. It is recommended that you find a professional florist at the flower market to prepare the soil ratio, which is more conducive to the growth of hydrangeas.

2. Watering amount

Hydrangea likes a moist environment, so everyone should water frequently, but not too much. In spring and summer, you can water a bit more, because spring and summer are prone to drought and flooding, and the air is relatively dry. In autumn, you can control the watering amount according to weather changes, and when winter comes, watering needs to be reduced again.

Note: Hydrangea generally grows most suitably in an environment of 17—30 degrees Celsius. Winter temperatures are too low, so pay more attention to keeping warm.

3. Pruning techniques

Hydrangea pruning is generally done in late spring and early summer. The flowering period is mostly over by May. After picking out the withered flowers and dead leaves, a slight pruning will allow new leaf buds to grow. Cutting off the top shoot buds can also provide cuttings. You can also choose to do cuttings in September-October. By October, hydrangeas have already grown many new branches, and because of the weather, it is suitable for cutting propagation.

III. How to adjust hydrangea color?

1. Hydrangea blooming red flowers
Hydrangea blooming red flowers is the most common. As long as the soil is alkaline, hydrangea can bloom red flowers. In the Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai region, because of the regional environment, hydrangeas do not need separate acidic fertilizer and can still bloom red flowers.

2. Hydrangea blooming blue-purple flowers

Hydrangea blooming blue-purple flowers is mainly about adjusting the pH of the soil. Prepare aluminum sulfate, white vinegar, and potassium fertilizer, mix and stir the soil, and before the hydrangea flower buds form, apply aluminum sulfate fertilizer once every 10 days. When watering, use white vinegar water to maintain the acidic state of the hydrangea pot soil. This can increase the aluminum ions in the soil. The anthocyanins in hydrangea combine with aluminum ions, and the flower color can then turn blue.

The above is the hydrangea-related knowledge compiled for you by the editor. I hope everyone will pay more attention when cultivating them.