Hydrangea macrophylla Great Star Blanc Bleu

Plant Hydrangea macrophylla in spring or early autumn, preferably in a slightly shaded position, for example against an east-facing wall, or even north-facing. Protect it from cold and drying winds. It does not require ericaceous soil, but it dislikes very chalky soils and appreciates a deep, moist but well-drained soil, fairly fertile, possibly enriched with a good base fertilizer before planting. If the soil is dry at the base of the wall, place the root ball at least 30-40cm (11.8 - 15.7in) away from the base of the wall and incorporate a quantity of well-decomposed compost to better retain moisture in the soil. Very hardy, it can be planted in cold regions without fear. As for pruning, remove faded flowers on the first bud or on the pair of buds directly below. Cut back a quarter or a third of the older stems at the base, when the plant is mature, to encourage the formation of new shoots. Carry out this pruning every year during the months of March and April. Guide the young shoots onto the support to distribute them well. They will then attach themselves.