If you love the beauty of hydrangea bushes in bloom, a climbing hydrangea vine might sound like your dream come true! Find you how to care for this vining plant and see if it’s a good choice for your landscape.
Hydrangea not blooming? Here’s what to do.
Climbing Hydrangea Care
- Common name: Climbing hydrangea
- Scientific name: Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris
- Zones: 4 to 8
- Light needs: Full sun to partial shade, dislikes heat and humidity
- Water needs: Water deeply and regularly until established
- Soil: Rich, well-draining soils
- Size: 30 to 60 feet long, 5 to 6 feet wide
Climbing hydrangeas start out slow and shrubby. Be patient. Once established, they grow vigorously—one plant can rapidly cover a multi-story house or structure. Depending on your viewpoint, this can be a positive or a negative trait. In the right conditions, the vines can exceed 30 feet in length. Though fast-growing, they are not considered to be invasive. Avoid applying high nitrogen fertilizers that encourage stem growth but discourage flowering.
Look for vigorous green foliage and white lacecap flower clusters in May, June or July, similar to other types of hydrangeas. Like bigleaf and mountain hydrangeas, they bloom on old wood. Yellow foliage and reddish peeling bark offer fall and winter interest.
In order to keep vining plants like climbing hydrangeas looking great, use pole pruners for hard-to-reach spaces. Learn when to prune hydrangeas for big, showy blooms.
These plants offer a striking solution for unappealing fences and bare exterior walls. With their clinging habit, climbing hydrangea vines don’t need a trellis for support. The roots will not damage brick, wood or other building materials. Lush leafy vines provide cooling shade in summer; after the leaves fall off, the sun’s warmth shines through.
According to North Carolina State Extension, these plants are native to Japan, Korea and China. They dislike intense heat and humidity and will benefit from afternoon shade in southern growing zones.
Chinese snowball bush vs hydrangea: what’s the difference?
Other Varieties to Grow
Hydrangea barbara, another vining plant commonly known as climbing hydrangea, is native to the southeastern United States, but it is only cold hardy to planting zone 6. Schizophragma hydrangeoides, known as false hydrangea vine or Japanese hydrangea vine, is faster to get established and produce flowers.
Next, discover hydrangea facts that even expert gardeners don’t know.
It’s no secret that owls are a hot topic in the bird world. These birds of prey are fascinating, unique and rarely seen due to their nocturnal tendencies. Owls aren’t clamoring for a spot at feeders like other birds, and that’s why everyone jumps at the chance to see one. So if owls aren’t visiting your backyard, where are they? Many of the most interesting types of owls can only be found in certain areas of the continent. Think Rocky Mountains, deserts of the southwest, conifer woods in the northwest and spruce forests of the eastern U.S. into Canada. Nearly 20 owl species live in North America. Let’s find out more about these amazing birds and where they can be spotted.
Don’t miss these outstanding pictures of owls.
Great Gray Owl
Owls come in all sizes. The largest owl out there is the great gray owl, which can reach up to 2-1/2 feet in length! This big, charismatic species of the northern boreal forests has the most compelling hunting strategy. The owl has dish-shaped feathers that surround its face, funneling sound to its ears. Its sense of hearing is so acute that the great gray owl can hunt by sound alone, hearing the motion of voles and lemmings beneath the surface of the snow.
Snowy Owl
The heaviest owl is the snowy owl, which weighs somewhere between 3 and 5 pounds. North of the great swath of boreal forest lies the treeless expanse of Arctic tundra where this stunning owl species lives year-round. Large and powerful, the snowy owl subsists mostly on small mammals. Every few years the population of their prey (voles and lemmings) collapses, forcing large numbers of snowies out of the Arctic. They move south by the hundreds or thousands and appear in many states of the Lower 48. The winter of 2013-’14 was one such occasion, and snowy owl sightings were reported across the United States.
Elf Owl and Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl
Compare both of those owl species to the smallest owl around: the elf owl. These owls are sparrow-sized at just about 5-1/2 inches long, and they weight about as much as a golf ball. Now that’s tiny! The elf owl and the ferruginous pygmy-owl, which is no larger than an American robin, make their homes in the desert. As cavity nesters, they often use holes in giant cactus. The petite, brown-eyed flammulated owl spends the summer in the mountain pine forests of the southwest.
Learn how to attract owls to nest in your yard.
Burrowing Owl
An oddity in the owl world, burrowing owls are among the few species to nest underground in grasslands and deserts. The southern Florida populations dig their own chambers, while burrowing owls in the Southwest rely on holes dug by other animals, including prairie dogs, badgers and ground squirrels. Look for burrowing owls perched on fence posts or other low perches, swiveling their heads from side to side. They group together in colonies, and spend most of their lives close to the ground, hunting and managing the nest.
Birding Hotspot: The No. 1 place to see burrowing owls is in Cape Coral, Florida. You are bound to see at least a few of the over 1,000 nesting pairs during a visit.
Learn about 8 different kinds of bird nests and how to spot them.
Northern Saw-Whet Owl
Their small size—around 8 inches tall—and large round eyes make this owl quite captivating. Northern saw-whets are named after their unusual call, which sounds like the process of sharpening a saw on a whetstone. Look for them in forests (especially dense stands of conifers) across the north and west.
Discover 13 fun facts about owls you should know.
Barn Owl
Although barn owls are found worldwide, there’s no one place where they’re particularly abundant. There are over 40 different races of barn owls, but the North American variety is the largest and makes up approximately 9 percent of the world’s barn owl population.
True to their name, barn owls nest and roost in barns, silos and other human-made structures. These types of owls can also be found living in large nest boxes, tree cavities and caves.
The skilled rodent-slayers have heart-shaped faces and are ghostly white with warm brown coloration on their backs and wings.
Check out owl shirts every bird fan should own.
Barred Owl
Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you allll? This is the eerie-sounding call of the barred owl, heard throughout forests in the eastern United States, southern Canada and increasingly the Pacific Northwest. As the ancient forests were cut down for lumber, the clearings and young trees that replaced them provided excellent habitat for the big barred owls.
The expansion of barred owls into Washington and Oregon is a threat to spotted owls, which depend on the disappearing old growth forest. This situation is a major conservation challenge. Meanwhile, barred owls have a threat of their own to fear. The top predator of the barred owl is the great horned owl.
Although barred owls have moved into other states, these birds are homebodies. They don’t migrate, and of 158 banded barred owls who were found later, none had moved farther than 6 miles away.
Don’t miss unique owl gifts we can’t resist.
Spotted Owl
One species in particular represents the Pacific Northwest: the spotted owl. While a subspecies of spotted owl also lives in the mountains of the southwest, the heart of the species’ range is within the ancient conifer forests of the coast.
The spotted owl of the north is lovely, large and rarely seen. It relies exclusively on ancient forests for its survival. This dependency has put it at the center of the debate over logging and has made it both the poster child for conservation and a scapegoat for the loss of logging jobs. Like most such tales, the truth is murkier. Controversy aside, the spotted owl is beautiful, and birders sincerely hope it persists.
Long-Eared Owl
Long-eared owls are slim doppelgängers of great horned owls. But take a closer look at their markings. Intersecting vertical and horizontal barring creates a checkerboard-like pattern on their chests, while great horneds only have horizontal barring.
Long-eareds roost in thick foliage near open areas where they hunt for prey, which include voles, mice and young rabbits. Long-eared owls don’t typically construct their own nests, instead moving into abandoned ones built by other birds such as ravens, crows and hawks.
The long feathers at the top of their heads have nothing to do with their hearing; scientists believe they help the bird blend into its surroundings.
Don’t miss these adorable baby owl pictures.
Short-Eared Owl
These owls live in open areas, preferring to hunt and roost in grasslands, marshes and tundra. As you might have guessed from their name, their “ears” are so short, they are difficult to see at all.
One of the most common owl species in the United States, the short-eared is also one of the few types of owls that build their nests themselves. The female of a short-eared pair scrapes a bowl-shaped nest into the ground and lines it with materials like grass and soft feathers.
Check out 6 these facts about owls in pop culture.
Screech-Owls
There are three species of screech-owls in the United States: eastern in the East, western in the West and whiskered along the southern borders of Arizona and New Mexico in canyons and foothills. Screech-owls are cavity-nesters and are enticed into wooded backyards with nest boxes. Eastern screech-owls can have either gray or red feathers, or a brown coloring within that wide spectrum.
Location aside, one of the best ways to distinguish between these types of owls is by their calls. Eastern screech-owls can be heard giving their best whinnying horse impersonations. Western and whiskered screech-owls call out with hoots, toots and doots. Screech-owls eat a variety of things, from insects to small mammals.
Great Horned Owls
Equally comfortable nesting in the cactuses of the desert southwest as in the forests of the far north, the great horned is one of the most widespread types of owls in North America. Great horned owls are tough, taking down other large predators like ospreys and falcons with their strong talons.
These birds of prey have one of the most diverse diets among owl species and are capable of eating porcupines, scorpions, bats, skunks and even other owls. They are early-season nesters and have been known to take over prefab nests built by other birds.
Despite their name, these owls don’t actually have horns—the two telltale points at the tops of their heads are feather tufts.
Northern Hawk Owl and Boreal Owl
The northern boreal forest rivals the dry desert southwest for its types of owls. In addition to the great gray owl, you can spot the odd, long-tailed northern hawk owl, and also the diminutive boreal owl.
These owl species are cryptic and much sought after by birders. Despite their massive size differences, they each rely on small mammals for food.
Next, check out essential hawk identification tips for birders.
Tuff Stuff Mountain Hydrangea Care
- Common name: Tuff Stuff hydrangea
- Scientific name: Hydrangea serrata, Zones 5 to 9
- Light needs: Part sun to full sun
- Soil: Moist, well-draining
- Watering needs: average
- Attracts: Butterflies
If bigleaf types of hydrangeas are not reliably blooming in your yard, you need to meet the Tuff Stuff family. Tuff Stuff hydrangeas are also a reblooming type, bred from durable mountain hydrangeas. They flower in spring on old wood and again later in the growing season on new wood. With higher cold tolerance, mountain hydrangeas have a better chance of reblooming than bigleaf hydrangeas, so they are a better choice for gardeners in Northern zones.
Hydrangea not blooming? Here’s what to do.
These compact plants are relatively easy to grow, even if you’ve struggled with hydrangeas in the past. Plant them in a location where they get at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. Regular pruning is not needed, but you will need to deadhead to remove spent flowers and remove any dead wood. The foliage is not prone to wilting, but you may need to water your shrub on very hot days.
Here’s how to choose the best hydrangea bush for every yard and growing condition.
Tuff Stuff Ah-Ha works well in smaller gardens or containers, reaching only 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. Double florets resemble tiny waterlilies and are either pink or blue, depending on your soil acidity. Tuff Stuff Red produces a vibrant display of reddish-pink blooms. Tiny Tuff Stuff is even smaller, topping out at only 18 to 24 inches tall.
Learn how to change the color of your hydrangeas.
Where to Buy Tuff Stuff Hydrangea Plants
Look for these mountain hydrangea plants at your local garden center. You can also order them online from retailers including The Home Depot.
Next, learn 7 things you need to know about how to care for hydrangeas.
Endless Summer Hydrangea Benefits
Introduced in 2004, Endless Summer hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) have a little boost over their hydrangea relatives. As the name implies, these bigleaf hydrangeas stretch out the summer season by reblooming—a marked difference from other garden-variety hydrangeas, which only flower once a year. They’ll bloom from spring through fall and have the capability to bloom on current as well as previous seasons’ growth. Compared to some other types of hydrangeas, they’re better at enduring colder winters, too. They will grow in Zones 4 or 5 through Zone 9, depending on the plant.
Discover fascinating hydrangea facts that even expert gardeners don’t know.
Endless Summer Hydrangea Care
If you’re looking to get the most out of your Endless Summer hydrangea, there are a few care tips you should follow (especially if you live in a colder growing zone). The grower’s website notes that the amount of sunlight the plant receives is of vital importance when it comes to reblooming. They recommend positioning the plant in an area that receives full morning sun and “dappled shade” in the afternoon.
Gardeners in warmer climates, the grower says, should keep the plant out of intense sun and limit exposure to 2 to 3 hours of morning sunlight. Allow part or dappled shade in the afternoon. Endless Summer hydrangeas grow best in loamy soil, and it’s possible to change the color of these hydrangeas, too, depending on the pH level of your soil.
Find the best hydrangea bush for every yard and growing condition.
Endless Summer reblooming hydrangeas take well to fertilizer. The grower recommends using a granular, slow-release fertilizer in spring or early summer, but be mindful: over-fertilizing can delay or thwart bloom growth. It’s also best not to overwater an Endless Summer hydrangea, as that can also complicate bloom production.
One of the major perks of Endless Summer hydrangeas is that they require very little pruning. Since these plants bloom on both new and old growth, it’s best not to over-prune, and not to prune at all when August arrives. To overwinter your in-ground hydrangea, the grower recommends using fallen leaves, wood mulch or straw to insulate the shrub. If you plant your hydrangea in a container, bring the container inside your garage or other protected space for winter. Water as necessary.
Psst—the ‘Wee Bit Giddy’ hydrangea is GORGEOUS.
Where to Buy Endless Summer Hydrangeas
To pick out an Endless Summer hydrangea for your garden, check out your local garden center. You can also shop online at retailers including The Home Depot and Tractor Supply Co. Several Endless Summer varieties are available to choose from, including the Original, raspberry colored Summer Crush, lacecap flowering Twist-n-Shout and the more compact Pop Star, pinkish-purple BloomStruck, and the stunning white Blushing Bride hydrangea.
Next, find out why you should add Limelight and Little Lime hydrangeas to your garden.
Father’s Day is right around the corner! Whether your father or husband is a do-it-yourself kind of guy, or he just enjoys spending time in the yard, these gardening gifts for dad will brighten his day.
Mushroom Growing Kit
Imagine how fun it would be for Dad to grow his own mushrooms that he can eat! In just a matter of days, he can start to see the growth begin, and he’ll be harvesting (and enjoying mushroom and swiss burgers) in no time.
Shopping for Mom? She’ll love these garden gifts for Mother’s Day.
Vintage Camper Bird House Scale Model
This retro camper wooden model kit will look great displayed indoors as a fun conversation piece. Or Dad can hang it outside and see if a tiny feathered family moves in! He can paint and customize the camper to make it his own!
Psst—these amazing camping gadgets are worth every penny.
Soil Test Kit
Anyone who loves their lawn will dig this soil testing kit. It’s a unique and useful gardening gift for dads. Included, you’ll find a sample jar, nutrient absorbing capsule and a soil scoop. Just mail the sample in the prepaid envelope. In about a week, results will show if the soil is lacking in any vital nutrients. Dad will also get customized fertilizer recommendations.
Give Dad’s garden a jump-start with the best potting soil for every type of plant.
Solo Stoves Portable Fire Pit
Looking for a gardening gift idea for dad that doesn’t blow smoke? Solo Stoves basically reinvented fire pits. These fire pits burn with logs, but the patented technology means a beautiful flame without any smelly odors, ash or smoke. These fire pits are portable, so Dad can enjoy them in the backyard or on a camping trip.
Deck out your deck with the best outdoor patio and porch furniture.
Harley-Davidson Garden Gnome
If your dad or husband is a motorcycle rider, this whimsical garden gnome will add a touch of fun to the backyard with his biker jacket and sunglasses. The Harley-Davidson logo is printed on the gnome’s pointy hat.
Stock up for the growing season with the best gardening apparel on Amazon.
Garden Subscription Box
Give gardening gifts for dad all year long with a garden subscription box. You can find a subscription box for any type of gardening that dad is into, from succulents and houseplants to vegetable seeds.
Power Planter Garden Auger
If Dad is a power tool guy who loves to plant flowers, this is the perfect gift! He can attach the Power Planter auger to his drill and power through the soil to plant bulbs, annuals or perennials. It’s also useful for mixing mortar or paint. And it’s made in the United States.
Petite Knock Out Rose Plant
Roses can be notoriously tricky flowers to grow, but the Knock Out rose is practically a fool-proof gardening gift for your dad. This special mini Knock Out variety is the perfect size for containers and small garden spaces.
Check out these rose gifts for people who love roses.
NectarGUARD Hummingbird Feeder Kit
This feeder kit includes everything you need to turn your own recycled glass bottle into a custom hummingbird feeder (make sure you clean and sanitize the bottle first). You’ll get the NectarGUARD feeding flowers, a suction cup, hanger and instructions. Include a printed copy of the sugar-water recipe or a bottle of premade hummingbird nectar for a complete gift.
Copper Rain Gauge
How much rain fell in that big thunderstorm last night? Dad will never have to wonder again with this scientific measuring gadget. The tube rises as the base fills with water. Choose from a tabletop version or a garden stake.
Looking for a unique gadget for outdoor lovers? Check out our guide to close-focus optics and monoculars.
Salsa Grow Kit
If Dad never misses Taco Tuesday, give him the seeds to grow a spicy salsa garden! Inside the kit he’ll find six seed packets, for tomatoes, jalapeños, tomatillos, cilantro and scallions, plus plant stakes and growing instructions. If you father’s more of a mixologist than a chef, check out the cocktail grow kit.
Don’t miss the 12 prettiest wind chimes for your garden.
Velociraptor Garden Sculpture Set
Dinosaurs might not roam the Earth anymore, but with a little imagination they can still visit Dad’s backyard. Place these handmade steel dinosaur sculptures out in the open or have them stalking stealthily through the bushes.
Juniper Bonsai
Your father can get in touch with his inner calm by pruning this stunning bonsai. The tiny tree will arrive planted in a ceramic pot with drainage holes. These tiny trees will make great gardening gifts for dad!
These mini planters will suit any decorating style.
Gardening Tools
New tools make a great gardening gift for dads! We love these sturdy cast aluminum garden tools from Garrett Wade. You’ll definitely want to borrow them, so should probably buy a set of your own. Psst—these are the tools Dad secretly wants for Father’s Day.
Deck Mounted Bird Bath
Bird-loving dads can enjoy a close-up view of water loving songbirds with a deck mounted bird bath. It’s easy to clean and is simple to install on the railing.
We found more of the best garden lights for your yard.
Fish Garden Stakes
If your father enjoys fishing, catch this set of metal fish garden stakes. They will make him feel like he’s casting a line at the lake—even if he’s just hanging out in the front yard.
Don’t miss these unique owl gifts we can’t resist.
Microgreens Gardening Trio Kit
This is a great gardening gift for Dads that have a small space. Even if Dad is downsizing from a big backyard into a condo, he can still enjoy his favorite hobby with this Microgreens Garden Kit from Urban Leaf. Each kit includes radish, kale, rainbow mix, mustard, spicy mix and broccoli seeds, grow trays, grow mats, and a guide book.
Never heard of microgreens before? Check out our handy guide to growing them.
Bald Eagle Wind Spinner
If your dad is filled with American pride, give him this Bald Eagle Wind Spinner. As the breeze blows through the large metal wings, our national bird will soar in a circle. For bird-watching dads, check out our picks for the best birding binoculars and field guides.
Deluxe Tractor Scoot
Help Dad do all of his outdoor chores in comfort with this rolling garden seat. This heavy duty, steerable cart will reduce stress on his back and knees. And it includes a basket, so he can harvest ripe fruits and veggies, pull weeds or haul supplies.
We found harvest-themed gifts for vegetable gardeners.
Country House Bird Feeder
Dads who grew up on a farm will be charmed by Perky Pet’s Country House Bird Feeder that looks like a little red barn, complete with a matching cardinal weathervane. Plus the feeder is squirrel proof, so only songbirds like cardinals will snack on the bird seed.
Discover the 10 types of bird feeders you need in your backyard.
Bamboo Work Gloves
Pine Tree Tools’ bamboo work gloves are breathable and durable, so Dad won’t break a sweat while pruning or planting. And they’re touchscreen compatible, so he won’t have to take them off to answer the phone when you call to wish him Happy Father’s Day.
Next, check out our favorite places to buy plants and seeds online.
When Should You Prune Hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas are beloved summer-blooming shrubs. However, getting them to flower can be a challenge for gardeners, partially due to pruning mistakes. “Pruning hydrangeas can be confusing because each species should be pruned at a different time of the year,” says Ken Johnson, University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator. “The five common hydrangea types can be divided into two groups for pruning purposes: those that bloom on old wood and those that bloom on new wood.” Once you know what type you want to grow, you can learn when to prune your hydrangeas.
Find the best hydrangea bush for every yard and growing condition.
Hydrangeas That Bloom on Old Wood
The first step is identifying what type of hydrangea you have. Then you can determine when you should prune it. Timing is everything!
Hydrangeas that bloom on old wood start to develop their flower buds for the next year in August and September. Therefore, just like lilacs, if you are going prune them, try to finish as soon as possible after they are done blooming—by August 1 at the latest. Wait any longer, and you risk removing the developing flower buds. That means no blooms next summer. Psst—here’s how to change the color of your hydrangeas.
The three commonly cultivated hydrangea species that flower on old wood are:
- Bigleaf, mophead, and lacecap hydrangea, Hydrangea macrophylla
- Oakleaf hydrangeas, Hydrangea quercifolia
- Climbing hydrangea, Hydrangea anomala
There are some varieties of H. macrophylla that are reblooming, or remontant, meaning these cultivars will produce flower buds on both old and new wood. If the buds are nipped by frost or killed off during a harsh winter, all hope is not lost. The plant can still bloom on new wood. Examples of these types of hydrangeas are the Endless Summer, Let’s Dance series, and Tuff Stuff hydrangeas.
Check out hydrangea facts that even expert gardeners don’t know.
Hydrangeas That Bloom on New Wood
Hydrangeas that bloom on new wood produce their flower buds on the current season’s fresh growth. These plants should be pruned from late winter to early spring. They also can be cut back in the fall. This may weaken the plant, however. So consider limiting major pruning every other year or every three years to ensure your hydrangea’s health and vigor. Here’s more helpful tips for hydrangea care.
The two commonly cultivated hydrangea species that bloom on new wood are:
- Hydrangea paniculata, which are commonly called panicle or PG hydrangeas, such as Pinky Winky.
- Hydrangea arborescens, commonly called smooth hydrangeas, such as Incrediball.
Keep in mind that maintenance pruning, which includes removing diseased and dead wood as well as deadheading old flower blossoms, can be done at any time. Pay attention to timing so your hydrangeas will produce beautiful blooms for years to come!
Next, learn how to grow Limelight and Little Lime hydrangeas.
The soft green shades of a Limelight hydrangea and the smaller Little Lime are top picks for backyard beauty. As an extra benefit, these hardy panicle hydrangeas are adaptable to almost any climate, thriving where others might struggle. Expand your hydrangea collection with these gorgeous green favorites.
Check out the top 10 gorgeous green flowers for your garden.
Limelight Hydrangea Care
- Hydrangea paniculata
- Zones: 3 to 9
- Light needs: Full sun to part sun
- Soil: Well-draining
- Size: 6 to 7 feet tall and wide
“I love my Limelight hydrangea, which starts out a pretty lime color and in the fall turns pink,” says Birds & Blooms reader Shirley Meeks of Asheboro, North Carolina.
It’s easy to see why Shirley feels the love for her Limelight panicle hydrangea. This splendid flowering shrub is hardy and easy to grow. This tried-and-true classic beauty reliably blooms every year, even in cold Northern climates. (Is your hydrangea not blooming? Here’s what to do).
Extra-large lime green flower clusters burst open in summer; they do a unique costume change into pink, red, and burgundy in fall, providing months of interest. Florists often list this hydrangea as a favorite for its excellent cut flowers, both fresh and dried.
For blooms earlier in the season, and bolder fall color, try the newly developed Limelight Prime.
Discover the best hydrangea bush for every yard and growing condition.
Choose a full sun location in colder growing zones, and provide a bit of afternoon shade down south. Limelight does not like soil that stays wet or soggy. In early spring, cut back the plant by one-third of its height, then apply a granular fertilizer that is formulated for woody plants.
In a residential landscape, you can use your Limelight hydrangea as a showy flowering privacy hedge or as a striking specimen plant.
Discover 6 hydrangea facts that even expert gardeners don’t know.
Little Lime Hydrangea Care
- Hydrangea paniculata
- Zones: 3 to 8
- Light needs: Full sun to part sun
- Soil: Well-draining
- Size: 3 to 5 feet tall and wide
Little Lime is a dwarf version, or smaller sibling, of the beloved Limelight hydrangea. Despite its petite size, it still puts on a big, bold color show. Growing between 3 and 5 feet tall and wide, Little Lime makes an attractive border plant for smaller spaces, and it’s small enough to grow in containers. Sturdy stems mean this smaller hydrangea holds its head up high, refusing to be overshadowed by larger shrubs.
Check out the top 10 small shrubs for small spaces.
Although we love the gorgeous pale green hue that lasts for months, the pretty blush pink transformation is a delightful sign that fall is in the air. The bright blooms make excellent cut flowers for bouquets and are also look great in dried flower arrangements.
Note that soil pH does not affect or alter the shrub’s flower color. (Psst—here’s how to change the color of hydrangeas.)
Like Limelight, this hydrangea also blooms on new wood; give it a light pruning in late winter or early spring to stimulate growth.
For more vibrant garden color in a small package, try Little Lime Punch.
Poppy vs Anemone: Similarities and Differences
No one could fault you for confusing poppies and anemones. Both flowers usually bloom in spring, and they look just similar enough to blur together in any seasoned gardener’s mind. White poppy flowers closely resemble white anemone flowers—and there’s even a poppy anemone flower. That said, there are plenty of differences to separate these blooms.
Anemone petals are usually slightly more elongated and ovular, while poppy petals are wider in appearance. The plants belong to different families, too. Anemones are part of the Ranunculaceae group, while poppies are part of the Papaveraceae group.
If you like the crinkly petals of these two plants, you’re in luck! With hundreds of species and cultivars of anemones and poppies on the market, you’ll no doubt find the perfect one for your yard with just a little research.
Learn why fall is the best time to plant poppy seeds.
Anemone Flower Facts
Anemones plants (Anemone coronaria) grow up to 1 ½ feet tall and 6 inches wide. The flowers, which bloom in mid-spring, grow to be about 4 inches wide and are available in blue-purple, red or pink, as well as white. Gardeners usually place anemones in beds, borders, cutting gardens and pots. These flowers are perennials in Zones 10 to 13 and annuals elsewhere.
Backyard tip: A poppy anemone, also known as windflower, is a type of anemone known for bearing a close resemblance to poppy flowers (hence the name), but it is, in fact, still an anemone. They’re often used as cut flowers, although they generally last only a few days in a vase.
Brush up on your garden IDs by discovering how to tell the difference between calendulas and marigolds.
Poppy Flower Facts
Poppies (Papaver nudicaule) grow best in Zones 4 to 9. They’re considered an annual in warmer climates, but gardeners can grow them as a perennial in cooler regions. They reach heights of 12 to 18 inches and about a foot in width. Their flowers can grow up to 4 inches wide. Flowers come in many colors, including yellow, pink, orange, and red. Gardeners often add them to beds, borders, and cottage gardens. To grow poppies, all you need to do is direct-sow a packet of seeds.
Did you know that poppies are the August birth month flower?
If the mom in your life is always in the garden digging in the dirt, growing native plants for backyard butterflies and birds, or watering hanging baskets, the perfect present for Mother’s Day is a garden-themed gift. Here are 22 thoughtful Mother’s Day gardening gifts that will put a smile on her face and help her garden grow. Psst—also check out these bird themed gifts that are perfect for Mother’s Day.
Gardening Mug for Mom
Let mom show off her passion for gardening with this whimsical mug. Pair it with a bag of coffee or her favorite tea and she’ll think of you every time she enjoys a cup.
If Mom loves roses, check out these pretty rose gifts.
Bee Door Knocker
This adorable bumblebee door knocker will have the neighborhood buzzing! It’s a perfect way for her to show her love of the black and yellow pollinators in her garden. The brass door knocker is available in two sizes — a larger “premium” size as well as a “standard” size — and different finishes including matte black, oiled bronze, nickel silver and brass.
See more bee gifts we can’t stop buzzing about.
Birth Month Flower Candles
Pick a candle that both celebrates your mom and fills a room with the lovely aroma of her birth month’s flowers, even when they’re not blooming outside. This would also be a great gift to celebrate a new mom; choose the month her baby was born. Bonus: Go the extra mile and surprise her with the special meaning behind the birth month flower, too.
Star Shower Garden Art
Add some twinkle to a backyard or garden at night with this solar-powered, battery-operated star shower art. It looks like a lovely watering can with sparking, tiny LED lights. We think this would look amazing illuminating a moon garden or a fairy garden.
Mother’s Day Planters
“Mom, thanks for helping me grow.” How adorable and fun are these Mother’s Day planters? The small pots come in six statement options ranging from cheeky to tear-jerking. Fill them with her favorite succulent or flower and you’ve got a memorable Mother’s Day garden gift she’s sure to love.
Cratejoy Garden Subscription Box
Cratejoy is a hub for subscription boxes for every hobby or interest. You’ll find several options for Mother’s Day garden gift subscription boxes here, including fresh blossoms, succulents, cacti, air plants, seeds, and more. Every month, she’ll get a delivery that includes everything she needs to get gardening (or pretty flowers to admire if she doesn’t have a green thumb).
Bogs Slip-On Garden Shoes
Every gardener needs a pair of slip-on garden shoes that will hold up (and look cute) rain or shine. Bogs slip-on garden shoes are waterproof and have good traction for muddy days. And the colorful rose print? It has Mom’s name all over it.
Personalized Garden Stone
Personalize a small or large decorative garden stone for a thoughtful Mother’s Day garden gift that’s sure to be treasured for years. The garden stones are painted with bees and flowers, then personalized with individual names. This version has space for 21 names if you have a big family. So cute!
Mother’s Day Wind Chime
Whether it’s her first Mother’s Day or her 50th, she’ll adore this beautiful wind chime. The bottom tube paddle can be personalized with a custom message signed with your kids’ or grandkids’ names. Mom will think of you whenever the wind blows!
Hummingbird Stake
If mom really loves hummingbirds, check out the best hummingbird gifts.
Cast Iron Bird Bath
This super-sweet bird bath isn’t just a perfect gift for her — it’s a gift for her backyard birds, too! It stands a little less than 20 inches tall, and it’s made of cast iron, so it’ll continue to provide fresh water for her favorite feathered friends for a good, long while.
Golden Oyster Mushroom Grow Kit
Give Mom some Mother’s Day gardening gifts she can grow AND eat. The golden oyster mushroom grow kit is easy to take care of, and mushroom gardeners have seen growth in as little as a few days. Yum! Check out more of the best mushroom growing kits and logs.
Garden Visor
A good garden visor makes for a fantastic Mother’s Day garden gift. This option by Sunday Afternoons definitely fits the bill. It features a 4 1/4 curved brim to keep the sun out of her eyes, 50+ UPF protection, and an interior grosgrain sweatband. Plus, it’s chic and the adjustable band allows for multiple hairstyles.
Psst—don’t miss more sun hats and visors for gardening from Zappos.
Copper Triple Tube Bird Feeder
This beautiful copper bird feeder has three feeding tubes, so mom can customize bird seed to different birds. This heavy duty feeder can hold up to 10 pounds of seeds, which means mom won’t have to refill it often. Psst—these are the 10 types of bird feeders you need in your backyard.
Set of Two Hanging Planters
Fill these beautiful hanging planters with mom’s favorite flowers and voila: the perfect Mother’s Day gifts for gardening. The chic faux concrete black finish lets the flowers steal the show, and drainage holes and water storage are just smart. Learn how to plant a hanging flower basket in 5 easy steps.
Garden Marker Stakes
Is mom proud of her bountiful herb and veggie garden? She should be! Gift her with these beautiful garden marker stakes that add a touch of organization and class to rows of corn, basil, tomato…or anything she’s growing under the sun. Pair them with a seed storage container for a complete gift.
Personalized Garden Tools
Hand’s off mom’s trowel! One of our favorite Mother’s Day gardening gifts is a nice heavy duty steel garden tool set that includes a trowel and culivating/weeding tool, customized with mom’s name on the handle.
Get ready for Father’s Day, too! Don’t miss perfect gardening gifts for dads.
Waxed Garden Apron
Change mom’s life with a garden apron! It’s made from cool, soft waxed cotton canvas and leather accents. Apron pocket space gives her a second set of “hands” for garden tools, gloves, or stashing her phone while she’s pruning and potting.
Clementine Oriole Feeder
This genius bird feeder draws orioles to mom’s backyard with oranges and jar of grape jelly! Orioles will be attracted to the orange color of the feeder, too.
Birds & Blooms Gardening for Birds, Butterflies and Bees
Our beloved book, Gardening for Birds, Butterflies and Bees, teaches you how to attract birds and other pollinators to your backyard. It’s filled with expert tips and fantastic photos. (Okay, we’re a little biased, but we really do think this book is a great Mother’s Day garden gift!)
Check out more of the top birding and gardening books we love.
Coffee Pot Mesh Bird Feeder
For the mom who loves a cup of morning joe just as much as bird-watching, this coffee pot mesh bird feeder holds 2 lbs. of seed and offers an entertaining new focal point. We love that pretty blue color!
Learn how to choose the best hummingbird feeder.
Backyard Bird Note Cards
Send a fellow bird lover some happy mail with one of these illustrated folding notecards from a pack of eight. Any occasion is the right occasion to share these adorable birds. Mom will enjoy looking for these pretty feathered friends in her yard and garden!