La Dreamin Hydrangea: Color, Soil & Care

LA Dreamin Hydrangea, known for its captivating color transformation, introduces an enchanting touch to any garden with its blooms. The acidic soils enhance the blue and purple hues of the LA Dreamin Hydrangea. The neutral to alkaline soils encourage vibrant pink blooms. Reblooming nature of this hydrangea provide continuous display of colors throughout the seasons. Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as bigleaf hydrangea, share genetics with LA Dreamin Hydrangea.

Discover the Allure of ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea

Ever stumble upon a plant so captivating it stops you in your tracks? Well, prepare to be mesmerized by the ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘LA Dreamin’)! This isn’t your grandma’s ordinary hydrangea; it’s a showstopper, a chameleon of color, and a true reblooming champion.

Imagine blooms that burst forth in a kaleidoscope of hues – pinks, blues, purples, all dancing together on the same plant. It’s like a garden party where everyone’s invited, and no one’s wearing the same outfit! The secret? This amazing color show depends on the soil’s PH levels.

But the real kicker? ‘LA Dreamin’ doesn’t just put on one performance; it reblooms throughout the season. That’s right, you get a second (or even third!) act of floral fabulousness.

Whether you’re dreaming of a cottage garden, a modern landscape, or simply a splash of color on your patio, this versatile beauty fits right in. It can be planted in a flower bed or container. ‘LA Dreamin’ is more than just a pretty face; it’s a reliable, low-maintenance, garden star that will bring joy and wonder to your outdoor space. It is the perfect garden addition. Let’s find out why this hydrangea is different than the others.

What’s in a Name? Decoding the ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea

Ever wonder why plants have those tongue-twisting scientific names? Well, let’s unravel the mystery behind the ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea and figure out what makes it tick – botanically speaking, of course!

Hydrangea macrophylla: It’s All in the Family

Our star, the ‘LA Dreamin’, is a proud member of the Hydrangea macrophylla family. “Macrophylla” literally translates to “large leaf,” which is a pretty spot-on description. But Hydrangea macrophylla is a broad category, encompassing many different types of bigleaf hydrangeas. So, how does our ‘LA Dreamin’ stand out from the crowd? That’s where the term “cultivar” comes into play.

Cultivar: ‘LA Dreamin’s’ Special Sauce

Think of Hydrangea macrophylla as the genus and species, like the human race. Now, within that, you have different cultivars, which are like different breeds of dogs or varieties of apples. A cultivar is a plant variety that has been intentionally selected and bred for specific, desirable characteristics. In the case of ‘LA Dreamin’, it was chosen for its unique multi-colored blooms and reblooming prowess. So, while it shares the same basic DNA as other Hydrangea macrophylla, its specific blend of genes gives it that signature ‘LA Dreamin’ flair, with those amazing hues and the ability to flower more than once per season. It’s like the rock star of the hydrangea world!

Size Matters: How Big Does ‘LA Dreamin’ Get?

Now, let’s talk dimensions. You’ll want to know how much space this beauty needs in your garden. Typically, the ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea will reach a mature size of around 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. Of course, this can vary slightly depending on your climate, soil conditions, and pruning habits, but that’s a good ballpark figure to keep in mind when planning your garden layout. So, it’s not a giant, but it’s not a tiny tot either – a perfectly medium-sized shrub that can make a big impact!

Planting for Success: Setting Your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea Up for a Blooming Good Time!

Okay, so you’re ready to get your hands dirty and give that ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea a new home! Fantastic! But before you just plop it in the ground, let’s make sure you’re setting it up for a long and happy life filled with those fabulous multi-colored blooms. Think of it as real estate – location, location, location is EVERYTHING!

Sunlight: Finding the Sweet Spot

Imagine you’re at the beach, soaking up the sun. That’s great for a little while, right? But too much, and you’re sporting a lobster-red look. ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangeas are the same way. They love the morning sun – it’s like their coffee. But they need afternoon shade to prevent those delicate leaves from getting scorched. Think of it as providing them with their own personal cabana. So, aim for a spot where they get that gentle morning sunshine, followed by a cool, shady afternoon retreat.

Soil: Giving Your Hydrangea the Right Foundation

Now, let’s talk dirt! ‘LA Dreamin’ isn’t too fussy, but it does have preferences. It wants soil that’s well-draining – no standing water, please! Imagine your plant’s roots trying to swim in a swamp… not ideal. And it likes things a little acidic – think a pH of around 6.0-6.5.

• Checking Your Soil’s pH: Now, how do you know if your soil is acidic enough? That’s where a soil pH testing kit comes in. You can snag one at most garden centers or online. It’s super easy to use and tells you exactly what you’re working with. Think of it as giving your soil a little spa treatment and making sure the pH is just right for ultimate bloom happiness.

Hardiness Zones: Will Your Hydrangea Thrive?

Okay, this is where things get a little science-y, but don’t worry, it’s not rocket science! Hardiness zones are geographical areas defined by average minimum winter temperatures. ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangeas are happiest in zones 6-9.

• USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map: To figure out your zone, just Google “USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.” Pop in your zip code, and BAM! You’ll know if ‘LA Dreamin’ is a good fit for your region. It’s like a dating app, but for plants and climates. If you’re outside those zones, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t grow it, but you’ll need to take extra precautions, especially during the winter.

Placement: Flower Beds, Borders, or Containers – Where Should Your Hydrangea Live?

So, you’ve got your sunlight and soil sorted. Now, where should you actually put your ‘LA Dreamin’? You’ve got a few options:

• Flower Beds/Borders: Planting directly in the ground gives your hydrangea room to spread its roots and really settle in. Just make sure the soil is well-draining and amended with some compost or other organic matter.
• Containers: Containers are great if you have limited space or want to move your hydrangea around. Just make sure the pot is large enough (at least 18-24 inches in diameter) and has drainage holes. The downside is that container plants dry out faster and may need more frequent watering.

Ultimately, the best placement depends on your garden’s design, your personal preferences, and how much space you have. No matter where you choose to plant it, give your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea a little love and attention, and it will reward you with a spectacular display of blooms!

Quenching the Thirst: Watering Your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea

Imagine your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea as a thirsty dancer after a long performance – it craves consistent hydration! Especially during those summer months or unexpected dry spells. This lovely lady doesn’t like to be parched, so keeping the soil consistently moist is key. But how do you know when she needs a drink?

Forget complicated gadgets; your finger is the best tool! Stick it about an inch or two into the soil near the base of the plant. If it feels dry to the touch, it’s watering time! Give her a good, slow soak until the water starts to trickle out of the drainage holes (if she’s in a container). Think of it as giving her a refreshing shower from the roots up.

Pro-Tip: Water deeply but less frequently rather than shallowly every day. Deep watering encourages the roots to grow deeper, making the plant more resilient to drought. Mulching around the base of the plant will also help to retain soil moisture and keep the soil temperature even.

Feeding Time: Fertilizing for Fabulous Blooms

Just like us, ‘LA Dreamin’ needs a balanced diet to thrive, especially when it comes to producing those stunning, multi-colored blooms. Fertilizer is her power-up! But don’t just grab any old fertilizer; she’s a bit particular. Look for a fertilizer specifically formulated for hydrangeas or acid-loving plants. These usually have a slightly acidic pH, which ‘LA Dreamin’ adores.

When you’re scanning fertilizer labels, keep an eye out for the N-P-K ratio (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium). A balanced ratio, like 10-10-10 or 12-4-8, is generally a good choice. The phosphorus (the middle number) is especially important for bloom development.

Here’s the schedule: Fertilize in early spring as new growth emerges, and then again after the first flush of blooms fades. Avoid fertilizing too late in the season, as this can encourage new growth that won’t have time to harden off before winter. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, and remember, it’s better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots and harm your precious ‘LA Dreamin’.

Maintaining Blooms: Pruning and Deadheading Techniques

Alright, let’s talk about keeping your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea looking its absolute best! It’s kind of like giving your plant a haircut and a little tidy-up to encourage even more of those stunning blooms. Pruning and deadheading might sound intimidating, but trust me, it’s easier than parallel parking (and way more rewarding!).

Pruning: The Gentle Art of Shaping and Reblooming

Now, pruning can be a bit of a tightrope walk with ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea, but don’t worry, I will guide you through it. The golden rule? Timing is everything. You want to prune after that first gorgeous flush of blooms has faded a little. Think of it as giving your plant a post-party cleanup.

• What to Snip: First things first, grab your trusty pruning shears and get rid of any dead or damaged wood. This is like decluttering your plant’s life – out with the old, in with the new! Make clean cuts to avoid any diseases. Also, remember to only prune to shape the plants, so please don’t prune too much of the plant or prune it too late in the season.

• How to Shape Without Sacrificing Blooms: ‘LA Dreamin’ is a rebloomer, which means it blooms on both old and new wood. This is what makes it so exciting! So, when you’re shaping, be gentle. You’re not trying to give it a buzz cut, just a little trim to keep things tidy. Avoid cutting off too much of the old wood because that’s where many of next year’s blooms are hiding! Just remove the dead wood and lightly shape the plant.

Deadheading: Encouraging New Growth One Bloom at a Time

Deadheading is basically like encouraging your ‘LA Dreamin’ to say, “Oh, you liked that bloom? Here, have another one!”.

• The Process: Once the blooms start to fade and look a bit sad, simply snip them off just below the flower head, at the first set of healthy leaves.

• The Benefits: Not only does deadheading keep your plant looking fresh and fabulous, but it also encourages new growth. By removing the spent blooms, you’re telling the plant to put its energy into producing more blooms rather than wasting it on seed production. It’s a win-win!

So, there you have it! Pruning and deadheading ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea isn’t rocket science, but it will make a huge difference in the health and beauty of your plant. Get out there, grab your shears, and give your hydrangea some love!

Winter is Coming: Don’t Let Your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea Freeze!

Okay, so you’ve got this gorgeous ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea, strutting its stuff with those amazing multi-colored blooms. You’re probably thinking, “What could possibly go wrong?” Well, my friend, winter is coming, and it’s bringing icy winds and frosty temperatures that can wreak havoc on your precious plant, especially in the chillier zones (we’re looking at you, zones 6 and sometimes 7!). The biggest concern? Those flower buds – they’re the key to next year’s show-stopping display, and they’re super vulnerable to the cold. Let’s arm ourselves with some winter protection strategies to keep ’em safe and sound!

Operation: Protect the Buds!

Think of it as a mission impossible…but for plants. Here’s how to keep those delicate buds snug as a bug in a rug.

• Mulch It Up! Pile a generous layer of mulch (think shredded bark, straw, or even pine needles) around the base of your ‘LA Dreamin’. This acts like a cozy blanket for the roots, helping to insulate them and regulate soil temperature. Aim for a layer that’s about 3-4 inches thick, extending out a bit beyond the plant’s base.

• Burlap to the Rescue! Remember those old burlap sacks? Time to put them to good use! Wrap your hydrangea with burlap, creating a protective shield against wind and cold. You can even use an old sheet or blanket if you’re feeling resourceful. Just make sure whatever you use is breathable to prevent moisture buildup. Secure the burlap with twine or garden staples to keep it from blowing away in a winter storm.

Think of it as a spa day for your hydrangea, burlap facial included.

• Location, Location, Location! If your ‘LA Dreamin’ is in a container, consider moving it to a more sheltered location during the winter months. An unheated garage, shed, or even a spot closer to the house can provide extra protection from the elements.

A Word of Caution

Don’t be too overprotective! We’re aiming for a cozy hibernation, not a suffocating slumber. Make sure there’s still some air circulation around the plant to prevent mold and mildew from developing.

By following these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing that your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea is well-prepared to face the winter chill and emerge in the spring, ready to wow you with another spectacular bloom display. Happy gardening, and may your hydrangeas dream sweet dreams of sunshine!

Uh Oh! Is Your ‘LA Dreamin’ Having a Nightmare? (Pest & Disease Patrol)

Okay, so you’ve got your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea planted, watered, and generally living the good life. But sometimes, even the most pampered plants run into a bit of trouble. Think of it like your kid bringing home a surprise from school – only instead of glitter, it’s aphids. Let’s talk about the uninvited guests and illnesses that might try to crash your hydrangea party and how to politely (or not so politely) show them the door.

The Usual Suspects: Identifying Common Hydrangea Problems

First things first, you need to know who you’re dealing with. Here are some of the common culprits that love to bother hydrangeas:

• Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects are like the vampires of the plant world. You’ll usually find them clustered on new growth, and they can cause leaves to curl or become distorted. Keep an eye out, they’re tiny and come in different colors!

• Spider Mites: If your hydrangea’s leaves look like they’ve been dusted with a fine webbing, you might have a spider mite problem. These minuscule pests are sneaky and thrive in hot, dry conditions.

• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease looks exactly like it sounds – a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It loves humid conditions and can weaken your plant if left unchecked.

• Leaf Spot: Spotting leaf spot is easy, it appears as circular spots on the leaves that can range in color from brown to black. Severe cases can lead to defoliation. Don’t ignore them!

Prevention is Better Than Cure: Keeping Trouble at Bay

The best way to deal with pests and diseases is to prevent them in the first place. Here are a few tips to keep your ‘LA Dreamin’ healthy and resistant to problems:

• Good Air Circulation: Make sure your hydrangea has plenty of space around it to allow for good airflow. This helps prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Avoid overcrowding.
• Proper Watering: Water your hydrangea at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the leaves. This helps prevent the spread of fungal spores. Water early in the day, so the leaves have time to dry before nightfall.
• Regular Inspections: Keep a close eye on your hydrangea and check for any signs of pests or diseases regularly. The sooner you catch a problem, the easier it will be to deal with. A quick peek every few days can save you a lot of headaches!

Calling in the Cavalry: Treatment Options

Okay, so you’ve identified a problem. Now what? Here are a few treatment options to consider:

• Insecticidal Soap: For aphids and spider mites, insecticidal soap is a great organic option. It works by suffocating the pests, and it’s relatively safe for beneficial insects. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
• Neem Oil: Neem oil is another organic option that can be effective against a variety of pests and diseases. It works as both a repellent and an insecticide/fungicide. It can have a strong odor, though, so be prepared!
• Fungicides: If your hydrangea is suffering from powdery mildew or leaf spot, you may need to use a fungicide. Look for one that is specifically labeled for use on hydrangeas. Always follow the instructions on the label carefully, and wear protective gear.
• Horticultural Oils: Horticultural oils are effective against a range of pests and diseases by smothering them or disrupting their life cycles. They’re particularly useful for scale insects, mites, and certain fungal diseases. Ensure to apply these oils when the plant is not under stress and avoid application during extreme temperatures.
• Chemical Solutions: In severe cases, you may need to resort to chemical insecticides or fungicides. However, these should be used as a last resort, as they can harm beneficial insects and the environment. Always follow the instructions on the label carefully, and wear protective gear.

Ultimately, the best way to deal with pests and diseases is to be proactive and keep your ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea healthy and strong. A happy plant is a resistant plant! And remember, even if your hydrangea does get a little bit sick, it’s not the end of the world. With a little bit of TLC, you can get it back on track in no time.

The Magic Behind the Colors: How to Play Bloom Color Alchemist!

Ever wished you could wave a magic wand and change the color of your hydrangeas? Well, grab your gardening gloves because you’re about to become a bloom color alchemist! With ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea, you’re not just growing a plant; you’re curating a living piece of art, and the soil is your palette.

Understanding Soil Amendments: The Key to Color Shifting

The secret lies in soil amendments, and it’s simpler than you might think! ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea is incredibly responsive to the pH level of your soil. Think of it like this:

• Acidic soil (lower pH): Leans towards blue hues.

• Alkaline soil (higher pH): Favors pink shades.

So, how do you shift the colors? That’s where lime and aluminum sulfate come into play.

The Ingredients for Your Color Potion

• For Pink Blooms: If you’re dreaming of a pink paradise, you’ll want to raise the pH of your soil. This is where lime comes to the rescue. Adding lime to your soil makes it more alkaline, encouraging those rosy tones to flourish.

• For Blue Blooms: If you’re all about the blues, it’s time to lower the pH. Enter aluminum sulfate. This amendment increases the acidity of the soil, helping your ‘LA Dreamin’ put on its best blue dress.

A Dash of Science: How It All Works

But why does this happen? It all boils down to how the hydrangea takes up aluminum. In acidic soils, aluminum is more available to the plant, and it forms a complex within the flower petals that results in blue coloration. In alkaline soils, the aluminum is locked up and less available, leading to pinker blooms.

Testing Your Soil is Key: Before you start sprinkling magic dust (or lime and aluminum sulfate), it’s best to test your soil’s pH. You can pick up a simple soil testing kit from most garden centers. This will give you a baseline to work from and help you adjust accordingly.

‘LA Dreamin’ vs. The Competition: A Comparative Analysis

So, you’re smitten with the ‘LA Dreamin” Hydrangea, and honestly, who isn’t? But before you fully commit, it’s smart to see how it stacks up against other contenders. Let’s pit it against a popular rival: the Endless Summer Hydrangea. Think of it as Hydrangea Idol, but with less singing and more blooming.

Battle of the Blooms: Color and Reblooming

First, let’s talk about the visuals. The ‘LA Dreamin” is like a chameleon in the garden, showing off a kaleidoscope of pinks, blues, and even purples all on the same plant! On the other hand, Endless Summer is more of a classic with its reliable pink or blue hues, depending on your soil’s pH. Now, regarding reblooming, both are champs, meaning they’ll give you flowers on both old and new wood. But! ‘LA Dreamin” has been known to really put on a show throughout the season, constantly surprising you with bursts of color.

Cold Hardiness and Care: The Nitty-Gritty

When it comes to surviving the winter months, Endless Summer can be slightly more resilient, often surviving in slightly colder zones. ‘LA Dreamin”, while fairly hardy, appreciates a bit of extra TLC in colder climates (think mulching and cozy burlap blankets). As for care, both hydrangeas thrive with similar conditions: morning sun, afternoon shade, well-draining soil, and regular watering. Neither is particularly high-maintenance, making them both excellent choices for gardeners of all skill levels.

Garden Design: Incorporating ‘LA Dreamin’ for Visual Impact

Okay, so you’ve fallen head-over-heels for the ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea. Join the club! But now what? How do you actually work this beauty into your garden design? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! This hydrangea is super versatile. It can be used in so many places and ways, so let’s explore a few fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

‘LA Dreamin’ as Cut Flowers: Bringing the Garden Inside

First up, let’s talk about bringing the garden indoors. Those multi-colored blooms of the ‘LA Dreamin’ are practically begging to be snipped and arranged in a vase. Imagine a stunning centerpiece filled with these beauties, adding a touch of garden charm to your dining table. To make them last longer in the vase, cut the stems at an angle and remove any leaves that will be submerged in water. And remember to change the water every couple of days!

The Star of the Show: ‘LA Dreamin’ as a Specimen Plant

Sometimes, a plant is just so gorgeous it deserves to be the star of the show. The ‘LA Dreamin’ definitely qualifies! Plant it as a standalone specimen in a spot where it can really shine. Maybe near your entryway, so everyone can admire its blooms as they come and go, or perhaps as a focal point in your backyard. Give it enough space to spread out and show off its full glory!

Mixed Borders: A Colorful Symphony

If you love a bit of organized chaos in your garden, then a mixed border is the perfect place for your ‘LA Dreamin’. Plant it alongside other flowering shrubs, perennials, and annuals to create a riot of color and texture. Think about plants with contrasting colors and foliage to really make the hydrangea pop. For example, the deep purple of Salvia, or the delicate white of Gaura. A mixed border is like a carefully curated painting, and the ‘LA Dreamin’ is one of your star paints!

Foundation Plantings: Adding Curb Appeal

Want to boost your curb appeal? ‘LA Dreamin’ can help! Plant it as part of your foundation planting, adding a touch of elegance and color to the base of your home. Just make sure it has enough room to grow and that it gets the right amount of sunlight. It pairs particularly well with evergreen shrubs, creating a lovely contrast in texture and form.

Containers: Portable Paradise

Don’t have a lot of garden space? No problem! ‘LA Dreamin’ also thrives in containers. This is a great option for patios, balconies, or even small gardens. Choose a large container with good drainage and use a potting mix that’s slightly acidic. Container gardening also gives you the flexibility to move the hydrangea around to follow the sun or protect it from harsh weather. Plus, you can create stunning container combinations with other flowering plants and foliage.

Design Considerations and Companion Plants: Making it all Work Together

When designing your garden, think about the overall color scheme and style. Do you want a cottage garden feel, or something more formal? Choose companion plants that complement the ‘LA Dreamin’s’ blooms and foliage.

Here are a few ideas for companion plants:

• Azaleas and Rhododendrons: These acid-loving shrubs share similar growing conditions and offer beautiful spring blooms.
• Hostas: Their lush foliage provides a cool contrast to the hydrangea’s colorful blooms.
• ** ferns:** ferns are great as a backdrop behind Hydrangeas and in shade where they thrive.
• Impatiens or Begonias: These shade-loving annuals add a pop of color at the base of the hydrangea.
• Boxwood: A classic evergreen shrub that provides a formal backdrop.

And there you have it! Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, incorporating ‘LA Dreamin’ into your garden design is a piece of cake. So go ahead, get creative, and let this beautiful hydrangea bring your garden dreams to life!

Ready to Add ‘LA Dreamin’ to Your Garden? Let’s Find One!

Okay, so you’re officially smitten with the ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea (and who can blame you?). Now comes the exciting part: actually getting your hands on one! Don’t worry, it’s not like searching for the Lost City of Gold. But, like any treasure hunt, it pays to know where to look.

Nursery and Garden Centers: Your Local Hotspots

Your first stop should be your local nurseries and garden centers. These are usually the best places to find ‘LA Dreamin’ Hydrangeas, especially during the spring and summer months when they’re in bloom and looking their absolute best.

• Pro Tip: Call ahead to make sure they have ‘LA Dreamin’ in stock. Nothing’s worse than getting your hopes up, driving across town, and finding out they’re sold out!

The Digital Age: Online Retailers

If your local spots come up empty or you just prefer shopping in your PJs, don’t despair! The internet is your friend. Many reputable online retailers ship plants right to your doorstep.

• A Word of Caution: When buying plants online, be sure to read reviews and check the seller’s reputation. You want to make sure you’re getting a healthy plant and not a sad, wilted stick.

Hidden Gems: Local Plant Sales

Don’t forget about local plant sales! These can be great places to find unique varieties and support local growers. Keep an eye out for announcements in your community or online.

• Bonus: Plant sales often have knowledgeable volunteers who can answer your questions and give you personalized advice.

So, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, give the LA Dreamin’ Hydrangea a try. With its ever-changing colors and easy-going nature, it might just become your new favorite plant! Happy gardening!