Vīteņhortenzija ( climbing hydrangea)-

Hydrangea anomala ssp.petiolaris

Height: in Latvia it can reach up to 10 m in height, annual growth 0.5 m

Growing conditions in Latvia’s climatic zones: western, central, eastern zone

Crown: a deciduous climber that climbs using aerial roots. Shoots copper-brown with peeling bark. Crown 2.5–3.5 cm wide.

Flowers: flowers white, arranged in flat corymbs, blooming in the second half of June and in July. The inflorescences are fragrant, 15–20 cm in diameter, with especially sweet-bitter scent nuances noticeable in the evenings. The flowers are sterile. In winter it retains dry brown inflorescences, but they fall off by spring.

Fruits: inconspicuous dry capsules with seeds, without ornamental value, persisting through winter.

Foliage: leaves dark green, glossy, medium-sized, 5–10 cm in diameter, oval, toothed, borne on long stalks. In autumn they turn golden yellow.

Winter hardiness: severe winter cold is not a problem, but Latvia’s fluctuating winter air temperatures can cause damage, because the young buds are already ready to open when the leaves fall in autumn. The whole plant can be damaged by frosts in May.

Growing conditions: climbing hydrangeas feel best in partially shaded places, as the lush green leaves can scorch in direct sun. As for soil, choose humus-rich, loose, moderately moist soil, pH 5.0; well-rotted leaves may be used, and mulching with pine bark mulch is recommended to maintain moisture. It is advisable to plant the plant 0.5–1 cm deeper than it grew in the container. Watering is recommended in dry weather.

Important to know!No matter how large a climbing hydrangea plant you buy, it needs 2–3 years to establish well. During this time it will stay green, but will not put on growth. Climbing hydrangea develops its roots slowly; while it is establishing, it should be left undisturbed. People think something is wrong with the plant and start watering, fertilising or transplanting it additionally, but all that is needed is patience.

Supports near which it is recommended to plant climbing hydrangea should be made of natural materials. Around an old living tree, a pine trunk, a post, against stone, concrete or a brick wall. Planting by a house wall should be considered very carefully, because the plant will cling to it with astonishing strength using its holdfasts.

Care:Fertilising. Fertiliser intended for hydrangeas may be used for supplementary feeding.

Shaping. Climbing hydrangeas do not need their shoots pruned or the crown shaped; this is done only if a shoot is in the way. The most favourable time for pruning is spring. No winter protection is needed; it is recommended not to throw snow on top, as the fragile shoots can be damaged by heavy snow cover. Of course, the climber has dormant buds that recover quickly.