How to Care for Twist N' Shout Hydrangea
The large lacy flower heads of the Twist N’ Shout hydrangea are delicate shades of pink mixed with blue perched on top of dark red stems. In the fall, the dark green leaves turn deep red to match the stalks. The Twist N’ Shout hydrangea hybrid is a combination of two Hydrangea macrophylla varieties. Plant Twist N’ Shout hydrangea as a specimen shrub or add it to a tall border area or shrub bed. With the right care, this large, elegant hybrid will bloom year after year.
Step 1
Find a planting site where they will get partial shade during the day. Filtered shade from other landscape trees or an area that gets morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. Choose a protected area where the Twist N’ Shout hydrangeas will be protected from wind.
Step 2
Amend the soil with compost before planting the Twist N’ Shout hydrangea. Spread a 2-inch layer of compost over an area 24 inches in diameter and work it into the top 18 inches of the soil. Plant in the spring, when the ground is thawed and easy to work.
Step 3
Dig a planting hole for the Twist N’ Shout hydrangeas that is slightly larger than the roots and the same depth. Remove the root ball from the nursery pot or burlap sack and place it into the hole. Fill in around the hydrangea root ball and press the soil down into all cracks and crevices.
- Find a planting site where they will get partial shade during the day.
- Choose a protected area where the Twist N’ Shout hydrangeas will be protected from wind.
Step 4
Water the new transplant within six hours of putting it in the ground. Keep the soil moist throughout the growing season with frequent applications of water. Check the top inch of the soil; when it feels dry, soak the area around the roots at least 8 inches deep.
Step 5
Fertilize once in the spring three to four weeks after planting. Use a slow-release, balanced 10-10-10 formula as directed on the package label. Avoid fertilizing after mid-August to allow the hydrangea to go into winter dormancy.
Step 6
Prune your Twist N’ Shout hydrangea in late summer or early fall. Remove the dried flower heads. Take out weak looking branches about 1 inch above the soil line. Leave at least three to five healthy woody stalks. Prune Twist N' Shout hydrangea in late August.
- Water the new transplant within six hours of putting it in the ground.
- Check the top inch of the soil; when it feels dry, soak the area around the roots at least 8 inches deep.
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Tips
- Twist N’ Shout hydrangeas are hardy in USDA zones 4 though 9.
- Twist N’ Shout hydrangeas thrive in humus-rich soil that stays moist during the hottest parts of the season. Plant hydrangeas in an area where they will have easy access to water. Avoid areas that are prone to standing water. While the roots do like moisture, they will rot if they remain constantly saturated.
- Like other Hydrangea macrophylla varieties, the color of the blooms is dependent on the pH of the soil. In alkaline soil the flowers are pink, while in acidic soil, the flowers are blue.
Writer Bio
Eulalia Palomo has been a professional writer since 2009. Prior to taking up writing full time she has worked as a landscape artist and organic gardener. Palomo holds a Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies from Boston University. She travels widely and has spent over six years living abroad.
