Organic fertiliser: the secret to simpler, stunning hydrangeas

Hydrangeas can be planted twice a year - near the end of September and October, and also at the close of April. These are flowers that don't take to heat well and thrive best in lightly shaded areas. Cultivating hydrangeas is remarkably straightforward and enjoyable, providing you ensure their appropriate growing conditions. The right soil is essential here.

Hydrangeas, like conifers, prosper best in slightly acidic soil. The optimal pH for hydrangea growth is between 4.5 and 6.5. If the soil where the hydrangeas are planted is neutral or alkaline, acidification is required. There's no need to instantly turn to chemical fertilisers. The most suitable solution is to create natural, organic fertiliser.

If you're a regular drinker of whole-bean coffee, don't toss the leftovers. Coffee grounds incrementally acidify the soil. Just blend a small amount of them (it shouldn't form over 20% of the soil volume) with the soil. Repeat this process at least monthly.

A further effective method to acidify the soil around hydrangeas is to use fertiliser . An optimal choice would be a homemade version, crafted from ingredients you'll undoubtedly have on hand. To make it, you'll need citric acid and if you don't have citric acid, ordinary vinegar will work equally well.

Creating the fertiliser is quite simple. You require 11.8 litres of water and two tablespoons of citric acid. Dissolve the citric acid in the water until it's completely melded. When using vinegar, the ratio is 1:8 - one part vinegar to eight parts water.

The vinegar or citric acid solution can be applied immediately after preparation. Simply pour it directly onto the soil where the hydrangeas are growing. However, keep in mind that fertilising and watering are two separate activities. Fertilising should not be undertaken more than once every two weeks. Otherwise, the hydrangeas may begin to suffer, and all your efforts will be wasted.