Pollination Information for Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum')

Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum') is a flowering shrub that produces beautiful, large, mophead flowers in shades of blue, purple, or pink. Like most hydrangeas, it is pollinated by insects.

Pollinators:

The most common pollinators of Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum') are bees, butterflies, and other nectar-seeking insects. These insects are attracted to the sweet nectar found in the flowers and inadvertently transfer pollen as they move from flower to flower.

Self-Pollination:

Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum') is capable of self-pollination, but it is not very reliable. Self-pollination occurs when the pollen from the stamen of a flower is transferred to the stigma of the same flower or to another flower on the same plant. However, this may not result in a good seed set, and the resulting seedlings may not be true to the parent plant.

Cross-Pollination:

Cross-pollination occurs when the pollen from the stamen of one flower is transferred to the stigma of another flower on a different plant. This results in a diverse gene pool and can lead to stronger, healthier plants. Cross-pollination is generally achieved by insects such as bees, butterflies, and moths. It is important to note that two different cultivars of the same species may not always cross-pollinate successfully.

Pollination Requirements:

Hydrangeas, including Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum'), require adequate sun exposure and well-draining soil to thrive and produce healthy flowers. The flowers should also be kept moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can lead to root rot and other problems. In terms of pollination, having a variety of pollinators in the garden, including bees, butterflies, and moths, can increase the chances of successful pollination.

Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum') FAQ

What is Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea?

Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum') is a deciduous shrub that is known for its compact size and unique flower color. The flowers are a deep, rich purple with white centers, and the plant typically grows to be around 2-3 feet tall and wide.

When does Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea bloom?

Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea blooms in mid to late summer, typically from July to September.

What is the best growing location for Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea?

Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea prefers a location with partial shade and well-drained soil. It can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Ensure that the plant is not exposed to harsh winds.

How do I care for Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea?

• Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
• Fertilize in spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
• Prune in late winter or early spring, cutting back the previous year's growth to 2-3 buds.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Protect from harsh winds that can damage the delicate blooms.

Can Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea be grown in containers?

Yes, Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough for the root ball to grow and has drainage holes. Ensure that the plant is watered regularly and fertilized appropriately.

Is Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea deer resistant?

Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea is not considered to be deer resistant, and may require protection from browsing deer.

Planting & Care for Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea

The Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea, also known as Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum', is a compact plant that produces large, colorful blooms. Here are some tips for planting and caring for this beautiful shrub:

Planting

• Choose a spot in your garden that receives partial shade for best results.
• Plant the Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Make sure the hole you dig is just as deep as the root ball but twice as wide.
• Water the plant well after planting and keep the soil consistently moist for the first few weeks.

Care

• Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
• Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. They thrive in consistently moist soil but avoid overwatering.
• Fertilize the plant in early spring and again in mid-summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
• Prune the Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant if necessary.
• Protect the plant from strong winds and frost, especially during its first year.
• Enjoy the beautiful blooms and watch as they change colors depending on the acidity of the soil. For blue flowers, add aluminum sulfate to lower the pH of the soil. For pink flowers, add lime to raise the pH of the soil.

Following these planting and care tips will help ensure a healthy and stunning Wee Bit Grumpy Hydrangea in your garden!