Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea m. 'Bailmacseven')

Planting and Care

Planting Instructions

The Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea thrives in a balance of light and shade, making it a versatile addition to any garden. In cooler climates, it enjoys the warmth of partial sun, basking in the gentle morning rays or the soft, dappled light of the afternoon. In warmer climates, it prefers the cooler embrace of part shade, ensuring that its delicate blooms and lush foliage are protected from the harshness of the midday sun. The plant's adaptability in various light conditions underscores its resilience and makes it a suitable choice for diverse geographical locations.

When planting in containers, the Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea continues to showcase its versatility. It's not just about bringing the dramatic allure of the plant closer to your living spaces but also about the ease with which it can be incorporated into your patio, porch, or front entry. The key to successful container planting is choosing the right pot – one that is larger than the one it came in, ensuring ample space for growth, and with proper drainage to avoid waterlogging. The use of quality potting mix, careful placement of the plant, and adequate watering at the base contribute to the thriving life of your potted Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea.

Watering

The Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea's preference for moist soil is a testament to its love for balance. While it thrives in moisture, it demands that this moisture be just right – not too little, not too much. This balance ensures that the plant's roots are sufficiently hydrated, fostering robust growth and vibrant blooms. Regular checks of the soil moisture and deep watering when the soil begins to dry out are crucial to maintaining the perfect soil environment for your hydrangea. The key is to water thoroughly at the base, ensuring that the water reaches deep into the roots, providing the nourishment the plant needs to flourish.

Pruning

Pruning is an art, a careful balance between encouraging growth and maintaining shape. For the Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea, pruning is a spring affair. The plant rests during the fall and winter, gathering strength for the burst of growth that spring brings. Pruning in the spring, therefore, is about giving the plant a fresh start – removing any dead branches or blooms that didn't survive the winter and making way for new growth. It's about setting the stage for the plant to showcase its beauty once more, with fresh blooms and lush foliage.

Fertilizing

Fertilization is about providing the right nutrients at the right time to support the plant's growth. The Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea benefits from a slow-release bloom-boosting fertilizer applied in spring and then again in early July. This timed nourishment ensures that the plant has the nutrients it needs during its key growth phases. However, caution is advised to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of blooms.

Overwintering

The overwintering process is crucial for ensuring the survival and vitality of the Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea through the colder months. Depending on your geographical location, overwintering practices may vary. In colder regions, overwintering involves protecting the plant from the harsh winter elements. Methods may include using dual-side black and white poly structures or covering with frost cloth in polyhouses. These methods are about creating a microenvironment that shields the plant from extreme temperatures, ensuring that it emerges in spring, ready to grace your garden with its beauty once more.

Incorporate the First Editions® Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea into your landscape today and witness the transformation of your garden into a space of unparalleled elegance and vitality. With its exquisite blooms, lush foliage, and resilient nature, the Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea is more than just a plant; it's a living testament to the beauty and diversity of nature.