Hydrangea Tips: Soil, Watering, and Pruning Tips
Did you know we have over 6,000 hydrangea plants across our 25-acre property? Hydrangeas are one of Cape Cod’s most beloved blooms, and at Chatham Bars Inn they’re a signature part of our gardens. With their vibrant colors, lush shapes, and long-lasting beauty, they’re a favorite for both guests and local visitors. Here are a few simple tips to help you enjoy healthy, colorful hydrangeas at home.
A Cape Cod Icon: Hydrangeas at Chatham Bars Inn
At Chatham Bars Inn in Chatham, Massachusetts, our gardens are renowned for their vibrant hydrangeas. With over 75% of our property surrounded by these stunning blooms, guests are treated to a breathtaking display throughout the season. We cultivate 12 different varieties, including the ever-popular Endless Summer, in a wide range of colors and shapes. The secret lies in our natural soil diversity across 25 acres—from sandy stretches to clay-rich ground—which allows each hydrangea to thrive in its own unique way.
How to Achieve Vibrant Hydrangea Colors
One of the most common questions we receive is how to achieve different hydrangea colors. While we let our varied soil types work their magic naturally, home gardeners can influence color themselves. Adding aluminum sulfate encourages blue hues, while garden lime will shift blooms toward pink. Both products are readily available at garden centers, making it easy to experiment in your own backyard. Just remember to fertilize twice a year and prune thoughtfully in the fall—never removing more than 30% of the plant—to keep your hydrangeas healthy year after year.
Watering and Care for Lasting Blooms
Watering is another key to success. At the Inn, our irrigation system ensures consistent moisture, but at home it’s important to water at the base of the plant rather than overhead. Wet leaves can scorch in the sun, leaving unsightly brown patches. A deep soak at the roots will help your hydrangeas flourish. With proper care, varieties like Endless Summer, Limelight, Blushing Bride, and more will reward you with continuous blooms all season long. Whether you’re a guest strolling our pathways or a Cape Cod neighbor enjoying a summer drive, our hydrangeas are here to inspire and delight.
The "Hydrangea Whisperer"
Our Fine Gardener, Pamela Vasques, known as the ‘Hydrangea Whisperer,’ has a true passion for these iconic blooms. She shared these helpful tips so you can bring a touch of Cape Cod’s beauty into your own garden.
