Hydrangeas, known for their lush, voluminous blooms, are a garden favourite that captivates with vibrant colours ranging from soft pastels to deep blues and purples. The shrubs are versatile, allowing them to thrive in various climates, including in South Australia’s Adelaide Hills which is home to local flower grower and florist, Hills Hydrangeas who featured in our January 2024 newsletter.

Hydrangeas are gaining back some popularity, and ahead of the curve is mother of four and part-time flight attendant, Carla from South Australia. After purchasing her Adelaide Hills home six years ago, she has added ‘entrepreneur’ to her list after establishing ‘Hills Hydrangeas’ in 2020.

The property was already decorated with many well-established hydrangea plants, giving Carla an opportunity to learn how to propagate them.

“I dabbled with propagation and growing conditions in 2020 and had huge success with farm gate sales, so I decided to plant more hydrangeas and start offering them for sale at the Stirling Market during the hydrangea season,” says Carla.

“I grow Hydrangea macrophylla and currently have 75 white plants and 80 blue/pink plants in the ground from which I collect bi-annual cuttings. I am going to plant another 100 white plants this season to keep up with the high demand for white flowers for special occasions such as weddings.”

To achieve healthy blooms ensuring plenty of flowers to offer customers, Carla pays special attention to the positioning of her plants.

“Choose your spot well. Even leave your hydrangea in its pot for a while to see if the spot you have chosen is a happy one. Planting in the right spot is crucial for the plants to thrive. We have a heavy clay soil on our property and the advantage of mature trees to provide afternoon shade. Hydrangeas love a position with morning sun and dappled afternoon shade. Watering frequently (but not waterlogging) also ensure they are happy.

I also use an application of GOGO Juice at planting into the base soil, and then use Seamungus every two months throughout the year and mulch with Whoflungdung to keep the plants in optimal condition.

Hydrangeas are very hardy. You might become disheartened thinking they have been neglected on a hot day when they droop, but after a water they will return to their former glory.”

You can find out more about Hills Hydrangeas on Instagram and Facebook, and you can access more stories like this one by downloading our newsletter.