Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'QUFU') is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Hydrangeaceae. It is a popular garden plant due to its beautiful pink and white bi-color blooms, which appear in summer.

The Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea is a remarkably hardy species that can grow well in a wide range of conditions. It is a slow-growing plant, achieving a height of about 3 feet and a spread of about 3 feet in the first 5 to 7 years.

Pollination Info:

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangeas are self-sterile plants, which means they cannot pollinate themselves. Therefore, they need a pollinator to produce seeds and fruit. [1] Insects, such as bees, butterflies, and moths, are the primary pollinators of Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangeas. They are attracted to the flowers' sweet nectar and carry the pollen from one flower to another.

Cross-pollination with other nearby hydrangea species or cultivars can also occur, leading to the formation of new hybrids. [2] However, the resulting offspring may not have the same desirable traits as the original plant.

To ensure good pollination, it is recommended to plant Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangeas in a sunny or partially shaded area with well-drained soil. They should be planted in a group with at least two or more plants of other hydrangea species or cultivars to ensure cross-pollination.

In conclusion, Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea requires cross-pollination to produce seeds and fruit. Insects, such as bees, butterflies, and moths, are the primary pollinators of this plant.

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'QUFU') FAQs:

Planting and Care:

• What is the best time to plant Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea?

The best time to plant Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea is in the spring or fall, when the soil is moist and temperatures are cooler.

• What is the recommended soil type for planting Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea?

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5.

• How much sunlight does Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea require?

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea requires partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it benefits from partial shade during the afternoon.

• How often should Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea be watered?

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea requires regular watering, especially during the first growing season. It prefers moist soil, but does not tolerate standing water.

• How often should Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea be fertilized?

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea benefits from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring and again in mid-summer.

Bloom:

• What color are Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea blooms?

The blooms of Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea are pink and white, with some green accents.

• When do Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea blooms appear?

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea blooms in mid to late summer.

• Can Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea blooms change color?

Yes, the color of Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea blooms can change depending on the acidity of the soil. In more acidic soil, the blooms will have a blue tint, while in alkaline soil, they will be pinker.

• How long do Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea blooms last?

The blooms of Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea can last for several weeks.

Pruning:

• When should Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea be pruned?

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea should be pruned in late winter or early spring.

• How should Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea be pruned?

Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea can be pruned lightly to shape it, or more heavily to reduce its size. The blooms of Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea grow on old wood, so be careful not to prune it too heavily if you want to preserve the blooms.

Planting Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea

Plant Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea in a location with well-draining soil and partial sun to partial shade. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and the pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the plant's root ball. Mix a generous amount of compost or aged manure with the soil dug from the hole.

Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Fill in the hole with the amended soil, tamp down gently, and water thoroughly. Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.

Caring for Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea

Watering:

Hydrangeas need regular watering, especially in hot weather. Water deeply at least once per week, providing enough water to moisten the entire root zone. Avoid overwatering, as this may lead to root rot.

Fertilizing:

Fertilize Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea once in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of flower production.

Pruning:

Prune Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. Remove any dead or damaged wood, as well as any crossing branches, to improve air circulation and promote healthy growth. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.

Protection:

Protect Tilt-A-Swirl Hydrangea from frost damage by covering it with a protective cloth or blanket if temperatures are expected to drop below freezing. Alternatively, you can also plant it in a sheltered location or near a protective wall or fence.