The Beautiful Variety Of Hydrangea You Can Grow As A Garden Ground Cover

The climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala ssp.) is a lovely vining plant that provides excellent ground cover. Its fragrant white lace-cap flowers bloom in late spring and early summer with beautiful dark green leaves that turn a muted yellow in the fall. Although often prized for its ability to climb, climbing hydrangea shines equally as a ground cover. The foliage grows close to the ground while spreading horizontally, forming a dense, lush green mat covering large sections of soil and reducing erosion and weeds. This vigorous climber will close in spaces over time, giving gardens a more luscious and full look, making it excellent for covering bare spots in a garden. Compared to other common ground covers, it adds cottage-garden charm to your shady garden. A climbing hydrangea needs a little care, but you'll be rewarded with abundant blooms and stunning foliage.

Climbing hydrangeas flourish best in well-draining soil but can also handle varied soils such as loamy, sandy, or even slightly clay-like conditions. It thrives best under partial to full shade, which makes it ideal for gardens where sunlight may be limited. Climbing hydrangea has moderate watering needs, so you'll need to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first few years after planting. Occasional light pruning can help keep your climbing hydrangea within bounds while encouraging a bushy shape. Pruning should be done after flowering to avoid cutting off future flower buds.

When it comes to choosing a ground cover, the noninvasive climbing hydrangea stands out for a few reasons. First, its ability to thrive in shaded environments makes it a perfect choice for gardens that don't get much sunlight. While other easy-to-grow ground covers can tolerate partial shade, fully shady spots are tricky areas where climbing hydrangea thrives best. Another benefit of climbing hydrangea as a ground cover is its beauty. Most other ground covers, like ivy or pachysandra, are green but not flowered with stunning flowers like climbing hydrangea.

The hydrangea's lace-cap blooms offer visual interest and curb appeal, making it a more eye-catching option for those who like their ground cover to be as decorative as it is functional. In addition, climbing hydrangea is relatively low-maintenance compared to some other ground cover plants. Because it is a perennial ground cover, it can suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion, making it a practical choice for gardeners who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance. Unlike ground covers that are more aggressive, like English ivy, climbing hydrangea is an option that grows under more controlled conditions. It's also a versatile plant that offers a unique look for your garden when used to climb the trunks of trees.