We're offering you a 1 oe 2 Hydrangea Early Blue Plants for £8.99, saving you up to 47% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £16.99 (correct as of 16.03.2026).

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Early Blue': A Summer Delight

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Early Blue' is a standout deciduous shrub prized for its exceptionally early flowering and large, rounded mophead blooms. Belonging to the Hydrangeaceae family, this variety delivers rich blue flowers that appear weeks ahead of typical hydrangeas, making it a favourite for gardeners seeking an extended season of colour.

Why Choose 'Early Blue'?

• Reliable Early Blooms: 'Early Blue' bursts into flower in late spring to early summer, filling your garden with vibrant colour before most other varieties.
• Season-Long Interest: The bold blooms last throughout summer, providing lasting visual impact in borders or patio containers.
• Tough & Hardy: This hydrangea is well-suited to UK gardens, tolerating winter frosts and reliably returning each year.

Growing Guide

• Planting Time: Best planted from autumn to early spring while dormant.
• Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade but can tolerate morning sun with afternoon shade.
• Soil Preference: Thrives in moist, well-drained acidic soil. Acidic conditions enhance the intense blue flower colour.
• Mature Size: Reaches up to 1.2m in height and spread when fully established.
• Hardiness: Suitable for USDA zones 5–9; fully hardy in most parts of the UK.

Caring for Your Hydrangea

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells in summer.
• Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring; use ericaceous feed if you want to intensify blue hues.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering by removing spent blooms and any dead wood. Avoid heavy pruning as flowers form on old wood.
• Pest & Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free and low maintenance once established.

Design Ideas & Companions

• Borders & Beds: Combine with hostas, ferns, or astilbes for a lush woodland look.
• Pots & Containers: Plant singly or in pairs for patios and entrances.
• Cottage Gardens: Mix with other shade-loving perennials for classic charm.

FAQs

• When is the best time to plant Hydrangea 'Early Blue'?
  The ideal planting time is from autumn to early spring while the plant is dormant. Avoid planting during periods of frost or extreme heat.
• How do I keep my hydrangea flowers blue?
  'Early Blue' produces its richest blue colour in acidic soils (pH below 6). Use ericaceous compost and fertilisers to maintain acidity.
• Does it need pruning?
  This variety needs only light pruning after flowering—remove spent blooms and dead stems. Avoid cutting back hard as flowers form on old wood.