Companion planting, growing different plants together for mutual benefit, can sometimes be a bit tricky, especially when one plant provides most of the partnership benefits.
However, when it comes to hydrangeas, four specific garden plants stand out as ideal companions.
With its graceful appearance, Hortensia is easy to combine with other plants. The most important thing is whether the selected plants thrive in the same environment as the hydrangeas.
While there are countless combinations of hydrangeas, gardening enthusiasts John Toepfer and Susan Brandt of Blooming Secrets have shared a few plants that hydrangeas “love” and that help them “grow stronger” and “shape.”
1. Hostas
Hostas and hydrangeas form a classic combination. These plants thrive incredibly well around the base of hydrangeas, both prefer semi-shaded conditions and slightly acidic soil.
According to experts, hostas are “one of the best plants for weak areas” and act as a “natural film” to protect hydrangeas flowers.
2. Perennial geraniums
Perennial geraniums, also known as cranesbill or Hardy geraniums, are purple, pink or white in color and resemble the annual geranium familiar to many gardeners.
Geranium is a reliable classic garden plant that requires little maintenance and is largely self-sustaining once planted.
These are “good companion plants for hydrangeas” because they “do well in the same conditions”. Both need moist and well-drained soil, but not too wet.
3. Ferns
Ferns complement the hydrangea bed really well and are “one of the easiest plants to care for”.
There are many different types of ferns available. Some ferns tolerate more sun, but most ferns love deep shade.
Ferns are a “great companion” to hydrangeas because they have similar needs but also “add a different texture and pattern” to the garden.
4. Azaleas
Azaleas and hydrangeas are perfect for the garden. They both love the same growing conditions in acidic, well-draining soil with plenty of shade.
These plants also match the blue hydrangea’s preference for slightly acidic soil. Avoid pink ones or let them turn blue, as they don’t do well with acid-loving azaleas and prefer more alkaline soil.
These plants provide gardens with “season-long blooms” when paired with hydrangea, which typically blooms all summer long.
Azaleas are not bothered by insects or diseases, making them good companions for any acid-loving plants such as hydrangeas.
