HI Mountain Blue

Hydrangea HI
Culture Guide
Botanical name: Hydrangea macrophylla grown out as a “jumbo” or “premium” rooted liner.
Product form: Vegetative Propagation timing: 4–5 weeks for a 50-cell plug; add
Containers: Quarts, Gallons more rooting time for larger plug sizes and jumbo liners.
Habit: Upright Temperature
Vernalization: Required Day: 72–74 °F (22–23 °C)
Night: 72–74 °F (22–23 °C)
Garden Specifications
Lighting
Garden Height: 36–60” (90–150 cm) tall
Day extension lighting: Necessary to 14 hours
Garden Width: 24–48” (60–120 cm) wide
Light intensity: 1,200–1,500 foot candles (250–300
Exposure: Part shade
micro mols) for the first two weeks after sticking or until root
USDA zone: 6–9
development occurs. Light levels can be increased up to
AHS zone: 4–9 3,000 foot candles (600 micro mols) as rooting increases
Product use: Containers, Patio Pots and the cutting matures.
Propagation of Unrooted Cuttings (URCs) Day length response: Facultative short day
Root emergence: 10–12 days Daily light integral: 4–6 mols/day for the first two
Rooting hormone: Recommended. A dip of water-soluble weeks after sticking or until root development occurs. DLI
K-IBA (ex. Hortus™) or powdered talc IBA (ex. Hormodin®) can be increased to greater than 12 mols/day after root
at 1,000 ppm to the basal end of the cutting has traditionally formation.
been used to hasten and improve uniformity of rooting. Media pH: 5.6–6.0
Growers can also trial heavy sprays to the foliage and stems Media EC: SME EC: 0.9–1.3 mS/cm, PourThru EC: 1.4–2.0
using water-soluble K-IBA at 200–250 ppm to improve rooting. mS/cm
Bottom heat temp.: 72–74 °F (22–23 °C) for the first Fertilizer: Begin fertilization at 100 ppm nitrogen when
three weeks. After roots are well developed, temperatures can roots become visible. Rates can be increased up to 150 ppm
be lowered to hold and tone the cuttings. nitrogen after roots become well developed. Use primarily Cal-
Misting: Mist schedules vary depending on light and Mag® Plus (calcium nitrate + magnesium nitrate) fertilizers in
temperature conditions. Cuttings should be hydrated and in a propagation to prevent unwanted stretch.
non-wilted stage within 24 hours after sticking. Cuttings that Pinching: Not recommended
continue to wilt heavily after 24 hours will callus unevenly and Plant growth regulators (PGRs): HI Hydrangeas
will be delayed in rooting. CapSil® (spray adjuvant) can be have compact to moderate vigor and might need a PGR
sprayed on the cuttings at a rate of 2–4 oz/100 gal within application during propagation. Hydrangeas are typically
1 day after sticking to help in rehydration of the cuttings. White propagated from terminal tip cuttings, although two-leaf,
plastic is commonly used to cover cuttings shortly after sticking single node stem cuttings can also be used. To control growth
and initial misting. Cuttings are typically covered with plastic after rooting, sprays of B-Nine® WSG (1,250–1,500 ppm)
for up to two weeks until early root development. This provides are usually sufficient. Cuttings are typically not pinched in
a high humidity environment and reduces misting and possible propagation unless they are being held for lengthy periods of
foliar diseases. Some propagators provide an additional time. Large mother leaves on the URC can be trimmed back
ReeMay® covering over the cuttings for 3–4 days after the before sticking to reduce leaf area and prevent over-lapping
white plastic is removed to help acclimate the cuttings to the with other cuttings in the tray. Fully rooted liners can be stored
greenhouse environment. in a cooler at 35 °F (2 °C) for up to up to 3 weeks to hold
Rec. tray size: 50-cell (50 mm) or larger. Cuttings can before planting.
also be direct stuck into 4-inch to 4.5-inch containers and
Bulking and Vernalization Lighting
Vernalization: Required Day extension lighting: Not necessary
Bulking Light intensity: 4,000–6,000 foot candles
Bulking Time: See Scheduling Section Day length response: Facultative short day
Temperature: 68–70 °F (20–21 °C) Daily light integral: 14–16 mols/day
Pinch: Yes Transplanting: Transplant directly into the finished container. Place the
PGR: HI Hydrangeas are typically grown from rooted terminal cuttings rooted cutting or liner at the same level as the crown of the cutting/liner.
in late spring and bulked throughout the summer months. Pinching is Hydrangeas need sturdy planting to provide good support and balance in
recommended after transplanting the rooted liner into the final container the pot for the maturing plants. Use a well-drained potting media and avoid
during the vegetative growth phase. As mentioned earlier, most rooted heavy, poorly-drained mixes. While Hydrangeas require ample irrigation and
liners are derived from terminal tip cuttings that have not been pinched moisture, they do not grow well in overly saturated media. Well-drained pine
in propagation. The final container size determines both the height of bark mixes are commonly used in the production of hydrangeas, especially in
the pinch (# of nodes to leave below the pinch) and the # of pinches of the southeast U.S.
the rooted liner. For single-stem (1 bloom) plants grown in small pots, Media pH: Pink, Red, and White varieties–pH 6.0–6.2. For Blue
no pinching is done and plants are allowed to flower on a single terminal varieties–pH 5.0–5.5. If a good, strong blue color that is desired is not
stem. For 6-inch pots with 3-4 blooms, plants are pinched one time at 2 being reached (i.e., too light of blue), then adjust pH down to 4.5 and apply
leaf nodes resulting in 3-4 lateral stems. For premium 6-inch and larger aluminum sulfate more frequently.
pots, plants may be pinched twice or single-pinched at 3 leaf nodes Media EC: SME EC: 1.5–2.1 mS/cm, PourThru EC: 2.3–3.2 mS/cm
resulting in 6 or more total blooms per plant. The last pinch date is critical
to ensure adequate time for shoot growth before flower initiation. The last
pinch date for mid and northern U.S. growers should be no later than July
1, while growers in more southern areas can provide their last pinch as
late as July 10. Sprays of B-Nine® WSG at 2,500-5,000 ppm are typically
used to control height after pinching and during the bulking phase. Bonzi®
sprays at 50 ppm can also be used. Plants should be evaluated every 14 HI Sugar Pink
days to determine if PGR sprays are warranted.
Vernalization
Vernalization Time: 6 weeks
Temperature: 40–45 °F (4–7 °C)
Tech tip: Hydrangeas are bulked in the summer months at average daily
temperatures (ADTs) ideally between 68–70 °F (20°–21 °C) and relatively
long photoperiods. Plants begin the flower initiation process when night
temperatures drop below 65 °F (18 °C), with full completion of flower
development requiring a minimum of 6 weeks below 65 °F (18 °C). This
results in the development of a dormant terminal flower bud on previously
vegetative shoots. Relatively short photoperiods (< 10 hours) during this
flower development process ensures rapid flower initiation and flower bud
development. Once plants have developed a viable dormant flower bud,
they are placed in a dark cooler at 40-45 °F (4-7 °C) for a minimum of 6
weeks. After 2–3 weeks in cold storage, plants will naturally begin the leaf
abscission process. These plants can then be removed briefly to defoliate
the plants, sprayed for Botrytis prevention, and checked for media moisture
before returning to the dark storage cooler to complete the vernalization
process and to break flower dormancy. Plants are then removed at various
times throughout the early spring from the dark cooler to force into flower in
warm greenhouses. For long-term storage of defoliated, dormant plants for
late forcing production, dark storage temperatures can be reduced to 35 °F
(2 °C).
Finishing
Temperature
Day: 72–74 °F (22–23 °C)
Night: 60–62 °F (16–17 °C)
Average daily temperature: 66–68 °F (19–20 °C)

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Fertilizer: Hydrangeas are moderate feeders and should be given use only sulfuric or nitric acid. Typical fertilizers used for production of blue
adequate fertility during both the summer vegetative and later finishing varieties are 14–0–14, 13–2–13, and 15–0–30. To maintain the media
(forcing) production periods. Start at constant rates of 175–200 ppm acidity, drenches of aluminum sulfate solution (8–10 lbs/100 gal) are applied
nitrogen, then adjust as needed to provide the required EC levels in the to the media at regular intervals. The first application is typically done
media. Fertilizer can be reduced down gradually as flower sepals begin to 7–10 days after beginning the finishing (forcing) stage of production. The
show good color. For growers blending their own media (especially those aluminum sulfate drenches should continue as needed every 10–14 days.
growing blue-flowering varieties), adequate gypsum should be provided The aluminum sulfate drenches will decrease the media pH over time and
in the media to supply calcium without raising the media pH. Controlled- also provide aluminum to the plant, which is needed for the blue flower color.
release fertilizer (CRF) is also used in hydrangea production, especially in the These drenches should be applied to moist media. Up to 4 drenches may
south and southeast, to supplement liquid fertigation. Fertility type and the be required to maintain appropriate media pH below 5.5 (and ideally around
overall regime is determined by the variety and desired flower color during 5.0). Aluminum sulfate drenches can also begin at the bulking stage, and
finishing. For pink, red, and white varieties: Try to maintain media pH many specialty propagators/suppliers apply these drenches early on in the
in the 6.0–6.2 range, especially during the finishing stage of production. liner stage of blue-flowering varieties.
Higher pH can be maintained by amending the potting media with sufficient Pinching: All pinching should have been completed during the vegetative
levels of calcitic or dolomitic limestone. Fertilizer types for producing pink growth stage (bulking phase) and before plants go into dark storage areas
and red varieties should contain relatively high levels of phosphorus and for their cold treatment. See the bulking phase earlier. Once dormant plants
low levels of potassium. A good example would be a 15–30–15. Some are removed from coolers and begin the finishing (forcing) period, no further
growers also alternate between calcium nitrate and ammonium phosphate pinching should be done.
fertilizers. High P levels help antagonize aluminum uptake into the plant Plant growth regulators (PGRs): HI Hydrangeas have compact
and helps assure pink and red flowers. (Aluminum increases the blue color to moderate vigor and generally require PGR applications during finishing,
in hydrangea flowers.) Growers blending their own media should consider especially for late spring crops. To control growth, sprays of B-Nine® WSG
adding in adequate amounts of treble superphosphate (0–45–0) into the (2,500–5,000 ppm) are usually sufficient. The first sprays usually begin
media before planting. High levels of potassium in the fertilizer program after 3–5 leaf pairs have unfolded. Plants should be evaluated every 14 days
tend to increase the bluing of hydrangeas and should be minimized in the to determine if PGRs should be applied, especially under warmer finishing
fertility program for pink, red, and white flowering production. If media pH temperatures. Instead of B-Nine® WSG, sprays of Bonzi® at 50 ppm have
gets higher than 6.5, then plants might experience iron deficiency (i.e., iron also been found to be effective. All B-Nine® WSG and Bonzi® sprays should
chlorosis). To correct this nutrient disorder, drench plants with an iron- be terminated before flower buds reach 3/4 inches in diameter to prevent
chelate (ex. Sprint® 138 or 330) at 2 oz/100 gal and repeat two weeks later small flowers and possible flower delay. If further growth control is needed
if necessary. For blue varieties: Try to maintain pH in the 5.0–5.5 range. after bud formation, Bonzi® drenches at 1–2 ppm can be applied. Run trials
The fertility program should provide relatively low levels of phosphorus first to determine the best rate and timing for adequate results. Use graphical
(which can tie up aluminum in the media) and high levels of potassium tracking to monitor height and to estimate the number of inches that are
(which enhances blue pigmentation). If growers are needing to acidify their needed every week to satisfy the height requirement for the crop. If crops
irrigation water, they should not use phosphoric acid. Instead, they should are running too short, then sprays of Fascination® can be used at 3–5 ppm
to increase stem internode length. Do not use Fascination® after early bud
formation.
Tech tip: An early fungicide spray a few days after sticking URCs to
prevent Botrytis is recommended during propagation. To improve flower color,
night temperatures can be lowered to 54–55 °F (12 °C) for the last 1–2
weeks of finishing (forcing) and after sepals begin to show color. Very high
forcing temperatures will result in faded flowers and overall poor quality
plants. Select varieties appropriately and provide the proper fertilizer and
media pH during finishing production to produce the flower color and final
product that is desired. To gauge flower development, under normal forcing
temperatures a) flower buds should be about the size of a quarter about 4
weeks from sale and b) color should be beginning to show on flower sepals
about 2 weeks from sale. Hydrangeas need frequent irrigation and they
should not be allowed to wilt down severely at any stage of production. To
help prevent severe wilt down during shipping and at retail, some growers
drench the media with a wetting agent (ex. Aqua-Gro® L) right before plants
are shipped.

Try Chrysal Alesco®, a postharvest foliar

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Moisture level: Media should be allowed to dry between irrigations. Example crop schedule for a 2.5 quart
Alternate between moisture level 2 and 4. Do not run hydrangeas too dry.
Hydrangeas require ample moisture during the finishing stages to prevent Weeks From Transplant Description
severe wilting. Repeated wilting will result in loss of quality and potentially 1 week Examine dormant canes for
dead plants. Botrytis and other diseases and
2 - MEDIUM: Soil is light brown in color, no water can be extracted from treat with appropriate fungicides
soil, and soil will crumble apart. if necessary. Provide day/night
4 - WET: Soil is dark brown but not shiny, no free water is seen at the temperatures at 70 °F/62 °F
(21 °C/17 °C), respectively, to
surface of the soil, when pressed or squeezed water drips easily, and trays
begin the forcing process. Begin
are heavy with a visible bend in the middle.
fertilizing plants at 150 ppm
Common pests: Aphids, Spider mites, Thrips nitrogen. Start graphically tracking
Common diseases: Botrytis, Powdery mildew, Hydrangea Ringspot the height of the plants.
virus, TSWV (Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus) 2 weeks Apply an aluminum sulfate drench
Scheduling at 8 lbs/100 gal to the moist media
for production of blue flowers.
Crop Time Plants Monitor and maintain media pH
Size levels between 5.0–5.5 range.
Bulk Vern. Finish Per Pot
Continue monitoring height and
1.0 quart 8–10 weeks 6 weeks 8–11 weeks 1 ppp spray B-Nine® WSG at 1,500–
(4.5 to 5 inch) (after pinch and
before initiation) 2,500 ppm if needed. Scout for
insects and diseases.
1.25 to 2.5 quart 10–12 weeks 6 weeks 8–11 weeks 1–2 ppp
(5.5 to 6.5 inch, trade gallon) (after pinch and 4 weeks Apply a second drench of
before initiation) aluminum sulfate at 8 lbs/100 gal
3.0 quart to 2.0 gallon 10–12 weeks 6 weeks 8–11 weeks 2–3 ppp to the moist media. Continue to
(7.5 to 10 inch) (after pinch and monitor media pH. Maintain day
before initiation) temperatures between 70–75 °F
Estimated finish crop time is from transplant of a bulked, dormant liner at the (21–24 °C) and night temperatures
recommended average daily temperature (ADT). Estimated finish crop time vary between 60–62 °F (16–17 °C).
by variety: Sugar = 8 weeks, Snow = 9 weeks, River and Fire = 9.5 weeks, and Continue monitoring height and
Mountain = 11 weeks. spray B-Nine® WSG at 1,500–
2,500 ppm if needed. Scout for
insects.
6 weeks Buds should be about 1-inch long.
Adjust ADT slightly as needed
if plants are ahead or behind
schedule. Continue monitoring
pH and apply aluminum sulfate
if needed. Continue scouting for
insects and diseases.
8 weeks Color should be developing on
the sepals. Drop temperatures to
65 °F (18 °C) and 54 °F (12 °C) to
enhance blue flower color. Reduce
fertilizer levels slightly and monitor
EC and pH levels. Leach plants
with tap water if necessary.
9 weeks Sale.

HI Mountain Pink

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extension service to ensure registration status. Some or all of the varieties may be protected under one or more of the following: Plant Variety Protection, United States Plant Patents
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