Hydrangea
There have been many hybrids of Hibiscus rosasinensis produced in recent years, many of them really excellent plants that ought to become popular as they become more generally available. There are single and double forms in shades of red, pink, lemon and yellow. Individual flowers last for little more than one day and this, to some, is a disappointment when plants are first purchased. But the disappointment is soon forgotten when it is realised that what flowers may lack in staying power they more than make up for in numbers, as on healthy plants flowers are produced continuously throughout the summer.
Plants are available in shades of pink, white and blue, and often in less definable shades of mauve. The latter colour is usually the result of the nurseryman having misfired in his treatment of the plant with the chemical alum, which is used to change the colour of pink varieties from their natural pink colouring to blue. If the blueing treatment is not continued each year the plant will slowly revert to its normal pink colour.
After they have finished flowering indoors it is usually best to plant hydrangeas out in the garden where they will quickly establish themselves as colourful shrubs. Before planting it is important that the ground he well watered, as well as the compost in the pot; thereafter the soil surrounding the plant must be kept watered until the plant is established. So many plants fail as a result of the soil drying out after planting.
The variegated form of hova is less inclined to flower, but is a much more attractive plant and better suited to culture as a conventional house plant. Plants are more attractive if the foliage can be entwined around a framework of some kind.
Light conditions are important, and one should never be too heavy-handed with the watering-can, particularly in winter. Propagate from firm cuttings with two leaves and an inch or two of stem pressed firmly into peaty compost.
Bring indoors, or place in a frost-proof cold frame until the end of the year, when plants can be given extra heat and watered to start them into growth for the new season. While the plants are dormant compost should be kept dry.
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