Growing Wedding Gown Hydrangeas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wedding Gown Hydrangea, also known as Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Wedding Gown’ or ‘Dancing Snow,’ is a stunning reblooming shrub that is highly sought after for its beauty and versatility. This particular hydrangea variety is a popular choice for bridal bouquets due to its elegant double white blooms, which resemble a lacecap with large outer petals and smaller inner rings. The dark green foliage of the plant provides a striking contrast to its delicate flowers, making it a standout in any garden or landscape.

This beautiful shrub is hardy in Zones 5-10 and thrives in light shade with well-drained, humus-rich soil. It can tolerate morning sunlight as long as it is shaded in the afternoon. Wedding Gown Hydrangea stays relatively compact, reaching a height of 2 to 3 feet, making it perfect for mixed borders or as a row of flowering shrubs in a foundation planting. Flowering begins in late spring or early summer and continues until fall, providing months of beauty in the garden.

To plant Wedding Gown Hydrangea, it is best to do so in the fall or early spring to allow the plant to establish its roots before blooming. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball, add organic matter to the soil, and backfill the hole while tamping down. Keep the shrub well-watered until it becomes established. Transplanting the shrub is also easy, requiring the entire root ball to be dug out and watered before and after the move to reduce transplant shock.

Proper care for Wedding Gown Hydrangea includes providing it with the right amount of light, water, and nutrients. The plant needs some shade, especially in hot climates, but too much shade can reduce flower production. Water deeply twice a week to ensure moisture reaches the roots, and avoid overwatering, as this variety does not do well in soggy soil. Fertilize with an all-purpose slow-release fertilizer once a year, being careful not to overuse nitrogen, which can lead to excessive foliage growth.

In terms of pests and problems, Wedding Gown Hydrangea can be susceptible to diseases like botrytis blight, powdery mildew, and leaf spotting. Insect pests such as Japanese beetles and aphids can also be troublesome, but can be managed with insecticidal soap or hand-picking. Propagating Wedding Gown Hydrangea is possible through stem cuttings taken in early summer and treated with rooting hormone.

In terms of companion plants, Hosta and Astilbe are excellent choices to pair with Wedding Gown Hydrangea, as they thrive in similar conditions and complement the hydrangea’s beauty. Hosta is known for its variegated leaves and comes in various sizes, while Astilbe offers fine-textured foliage and colorful flowers, making them both great additions to a garden with Wedding Gown Hydrangea.

In conclusion, Wedding Gown Hydrangea is a stunning and versatile shrub that adds beauty and elegance to any garden or landscape. With proper care and attention, this plant will reward gardeners with months of beautiful blooms and a touch of sophistication to their outdoor spaces.