Pollination Information for Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'PIIHM-II')

Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea is a popular garden shrub valued for its stunning blue or pink mophead flowers that bloom throughout the summer. The plant is also known for its ability to rebloom on both old and new wood, making it more reliable and versatile than other Hydrangea cultivars.

Pollination Mechanism

Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea is a self-fertile plant, which means it can produce viable seeds without the need for cross-pollination from another plant. However, like all hydrangeas, the flowers of Endless Summer Bloomstruck hydrangea have both male and female reproductive organs, and they can also be pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other insects attracted to the flowers' nectar and pollen.

Pollination Requirements

Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea can grow in partial shade or full sun, and it prefers well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and pH levels, but it may not bloom as well if the soil is too alkaline or compacted. While Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea can self-fertilize, it may benefit from cross-pollination with other hydrangea cultivars to ensure genetic diversity and increase seed production.

Pollination Process

The pollination process for Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea begins when an insect, like a bee or butterfly, visits the flower to feed on nectar. As the insect moves from flower to flower, it brushes against the stamen, the male reproductive organ, which contains pollen. Some of this pollen may stick to the insect's body and be transferred to other flowers as it continues to forage. When the insect visits a flower's pistil, the female reproductive organ in the center of the flower, the deposited pollen may fertilize the ovules, the plant's egg cells, and initiate seed production.

Summary

Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea is a self-fertile plant that can produce viable seeds without pollination from other plants. However, the plant can also be pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other insects attracted to the flowers' nectar and pollen. Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea prefers well-drained, acidic soil and can benefit from cross-pollination with other hydrangea cultivars to ensure genetic diversity and increase seed production.

Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'PIIHM-II') FAQ

General Information

• What is the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea?

The Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea is a type of bigleaf hydrangea with large flowers that bloom for three months throughout the summer and early fall. It is known for its ability to rebloom throughout the season and for its ability to change colors based on soil pH.

• What are the growth requirements for the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea?

The Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun, but will need more water in this environment to prevent root stress. The plant should be fertilized annually with a slow-release, granular fertilizer.

• How tall and wide does the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea grow?

The Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea can grow to be 3 to 5 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide when fully matured.

Flower Information

• What colors do the flowers of the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea come in?

The flowers of the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea can come in shades of pink, purple, or blue. The color of the flowers is determined by the pH of the soil, with acidic soil producing blue flowers and alkaline soil producing pink flowers.

• How do I change the color of the flowers?

If you want to change the color of the flowers, you can add amendments to the soil to adjust the pH. For blue flowers, add aluminum sulfate to the soil. For pink flowers, add lime to the soil.

• Do I need to deadhead the flowers?

Deadheading is not necessary for the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea, but it can promote new growth and encourage the plant to rebloom.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Do I need to prune the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea?

The Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea does not require pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged branches in the spring. If you want to control the size of the plant, you can prune back the branches after the first flush of flowers in the summer.

• How do I overwinter the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea?

The Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea can be overwintered by mulching around the base of the plant to protect the roots from extreme temperatures. You can also cover the plant with burlap or a protective cover to shield it from harsh winter winds.

• How often does the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea need to be watered?

The Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea prefers moist soil and should be watered deeply once a week, or more frequently in periods of drought.

Pests and Diseases

• What pests and diseases are common for the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea?

Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects are common pests for the Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea. Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot can also be potential diseases for the plant.

• How can I prevent pests and diseases?

Preventing pests and diseases can be done through good plant hygiene and cultural practices. This includes removing any dead or diseased leaves or branches, avoiding overhead watering, and properly spacing plants to improve air circulation.

• How do I treat pests and diseases if they occur?

If pests or diseases occur, you can treat them with a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Fungicides may also be necessary for treating fungal diseases.

Planting Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea

Be sure to choose a planting location that offers well-draining soil and partial shade. Full sun can cause the plant to wilt and dry out. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Add compost or aged manure to the bottom of the hole to improve soil quality. Place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil, watering it well.

Caring for Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea

Watering: The Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea needs consistent moisture but can't tolerate standing water. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot. During hot, dry spells, water the plant deeply once or twice a week.

Fertilizing: The Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea blooms on both new and old wood, so it benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in midsummer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or early fall to prevent new growth that won't have time to harden off before winter.

Pruning: Prune Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. If desired, you can also prune the plant to shape it or to encourage fuller growth.

Winter Care: Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea is hardy to USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate winter temperatures down to -30°F. Mulch the base of the plant with 2-3 inches of organic material, such as leaves or pine needles, to help insulate the roots and protect them from cold temperatures.