Why do hydrangeas only grow leaves and no flowers?

Hydrangeas are widely loved for their gorgeous colors and elegant shapes. Although the flowering period of hydrangeas is about to end and many plants are close to withering, some flower lovers find that the hydrangeas they have carefully cultivated for a year have no flower buds and only lush leaves. So why don't hydrangeas bloom and only grow leaves?

1. Temperature problem

Hydrangeas prefer warm to slightly shady environments. When caring for it, it is recommended to maintain the temperature between 18 and 28 degrees Celsius, which will help promote the opening of the flowers. In winter, hydrangeas will enter a dormant period, and the temperature should be kept no lower than 5 degrees Celsius to ensure that they can safely survive the cold season.

2. Moisture problem

Hydrangeas do not require much water, just keep the soil slightly moist. During the rainy season, good drainage is essential to avoid waterlogging that can cause root rot, affect nutrient absorption by the plant, and thus affect flowering. In winter, the soil should be kept moderately dry.

3. Lighting issues

Hydrangeas are short-day plants and do not require long periods of direct sunlight. Excessive exposure to sunlight may cause the plant to not bloom, or even cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Make sure your hydrangeas get at least 10 hours of darkness each day, and after about two months, flower buds will begin to form.

4. Soil and fertilizer management issues

Soil is key to plant nutrition. If the soil is not properly prepared, the hydrangea may not bloom. Suitable soil should be sandy with good looseness, fertility and drainage. Adding aluminum sulfate and lime powder to the soil can not only promote the normal flowering of hydrangeas, but also improve the color brightness of the flowers.

In short, if hydrangeas only grow leaves but do not bloom, it is likely that the above points are not met. As long as you do these points, the hydrangeas will soon bloom normally.