Reese Witherspoon's container method for hydrangeas has captivated me, ensuring these blooms will never be planted conventionally in my garden again.
Hydrangeas, often associated with larger gardens, are now finding a place in container gardening, even for those living in small homes. The trend, showcased in various articles, is applicable to hydrangeas, despite their larger size compared to typical houseplants.
Reese Witherspoon, for instance, has embraced this method, growing hydrangeas on her porch using a blue ceramic planter. The combination of pink and blue hydrangeas in a blue ceramic planter creates a striking visual contrast, especially with the shiny surface of the planter serving as a perfect contrast to the textured surface of hydrangea leaves.
A 12-inch deep cobalt planter is recommended for growing hydrangea plants, offering a beautiful contrast to a neutral porch. This planter is suitable for hardy big leaf hydrangea plants, which are hardy in zones 4-9. The big leaf hydrangea variety produces hot pink blooms, similar to those in Reese Witherspoon's yard.
For those seeking advice on container gardening, the article recommends signing up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter for design expertise, decorating ideas, celebrity homes, practical gardening advice, and shopping round-ups.
When it comes to selecting the best hydrangea varieties for container gardening, compact or dwarf cultivars of Smooth Hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens) and Panicle Hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata) are ideal.
The Annabelle and Incrediball, both Smooth Hydrangeas, grow 3–5 feet tall and wide, bloom on new wood, are hardy (USDA zones 3–9), and thrive in partial shade with moist soil. Their manageable size and big blooms make them suitable for containers.
Little Lime, a dwarf version of the popular Limelight Panicle Hydrangea, is ideal for containers and small gardens. It grows about 3–5 feet tall and wide, prefers dappled sun and moist, well-draining soil, and works well in USDA zones 3–8.
Other dwarf Panicle Hydrangea varieties (such as Bobo and Little Quick Fire) are also recommended because they remain compact, bloom on new wood, and tolerate sun to part shade.
To ensure successful container gardening, use large containers (at least 12–18 inches in diameter) with drainage holes to accommodate root growth. Use well-draining, rich potting mix designed for shrubs or acid-loving plants. Position containers where plants receive the appropriate light — many hydrangeas prefer partial shade, but panicle types tolerate more sun. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; container plants dry out faster. Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Because these hydrangeas flower on new wood, prune back in late winter or early spring to control size and encourage blooms. In colder climates, insulate containers or move them to sheltered spots as hydrangeas can be sensitive to cold root conditions.
This combination of compact, reblooming varieties and suitable container care makes hydrangeas quite adaptable for small urban gardens, balconies, and patios, providing vibrant flowers without overwhelming space. This trend not only brings hydrangeas closer to the home, making them more accessible for those living in small homes, but also adds a touch of beauty to small spaces.
