Mophead and lacecap hydrangeas can change colour depending on soil pH. Acidic soil produces blue flowers, while alkaline soil results in pink blooms.

This is often caused by pruning at the wrong time or late spring frost damaging developing buds. Mophead varieties flower on older wood, so timing is important.

Yes, as long as they have consistent moisture. Hydrangeas need regular watering, especially during dry periods, as their large leaves lose water quickly.

Choose mophead hydrangeas for classic rounded flower heads and reliable summer colour in borders or large pots. Lacecap hydrangeas have flatter, more delicate flower heads and work well in softer planting schemes, especially in partial shade.

For sunnier parts of the garden, paniculata hydrangeas are a dependable choice, forming upright cone-shaped blooms that add height, texture and late-season colour. Annabelle and arborescens hydrangeas are known for large rounded flower heads, including popular white-flowering varieties.

Oakleaf hydrangeas are useful where foliage matters as much as flowers, with bold leaves and attractive autumn colour. Climbing hydrangeas are ideal for walls, fences and shaded vertical spaces where a self-clinging climber is needed.

For patios and smaller gardens, use the filters to choose compact varieties and suitable pot-grown plants. For shade, focus on mophead, lacecap, serrata and climbing hydrangeas, depending on the space and soil conditions.

Yes, many hydrangeas grow well in partial shade, especially mophead, lacecap, serrata and climbing hydrangeas. They usually perform best in bright shade, dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade, rather than deep, dry shade.

Panicle hydrangeas can tolerate partial shade, but they usually flower best in more sun. For shadier gardens, mophead, lacecap, serrata, aspera and climbing hydrangeas are often better choices.