Hydrangeas steal the spotlight in summer gardens with their vibrant, multicolored blooms that captivate onlookers. For those intrigued by the secret behind these stunning flowers, Lindsey Chastain, the founder of The Waddle and Cluck blog focusing on home and garden tips, shares valuable insights.
According to Lindsey, the key to vibrant hydrangea blooms lies in feeding them a nutrient-rich fertilizer consistently. Fertilization plays a crucial role in providing hydrangea plants with essential nutrients for producing the beautiful flowers we all admire.
However, Lindsey cautions against relying solely on chemical fertilizers from stores. Instead, she recommends using kitchen leftovers to enhance hydrangea growth and bloom vibrancy. Common food scraps can serve as a natural fertilizer source packed with the necessary nutrients for hydrangeas, with eggshells being a top choice.
Eggshells are highlighted by Lindsey as a kitchen staple that effectively boosts hydrangea health. By acting as a natural fertilizer, eggshells help the plant absorb more nutrients and moisture from the soil, resulting in healthier and more luxurious blooms. To utilize them, simply crush the eggshells into a fine powder and sprinkle around your hydrangea bushes to enrich the soil with calcium goodness.
Another household item that can be repurposed for garden use is coffee grounds, preferably without excess oils. Lindsey notes that coffee grounds provide hydrangeas with a dose of nitrogen for lush growth and vivid color. In addition, the organic matter in coffee grounds improves soil structure, aids in water retention, and supports soil microbes’ health.
Moreover, the caffeine content in coffee grounds acts as a natural stimulant, promoting microbial activity in the soil and enhancing nutrient uptake by plants, leading to robust growth and vitality. Lastly, acidic food scraps like citrus peels or pineapple tops can also benefit hydrangeas due to their nutrient-rich composition.
These scraps, abundant in essential nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, can significantly enhance the overall health of hydrangeas. To use citrus peels effectively, ensure they are completely dried before adding them to the soil to prevent any mold issues.