I live in the northern part of PA and I was wondering if Hydrangeas were hardy enough to live here?

Are there any care instructions available such as fertlizer to use and winterizing steps etc.

I live in the northern part of PA and I was wondering if Hydrangeas were hardy enough to live here?
They grow well in Michigan. Reliable bloomers here are Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' (white, 4-5') and all the Hydrangea paniculata varieties which are woody shrubs with white or white to pink flowers.



The blue or pink types are less flower-bud hardy though the plant lives well even if winter-killed down to the soil line. The best performers I know of in my area seem to be Hydrangea 'All Summer Beauty' and Hydrangea 'Endless Summer'. 'Endless Summer' has only been out a couple of years and will bloom on both new wood and old wood (remarkably blue) and came out of a breeding program in Minnesota. They are introducing another one called 'Blushing Bride' this year that is white flushed with pink and reportedly blooms as well. You may have more choices in PA than what is offered here in Michigan. Visit a local garden center.
Reply:I live in Ontario, Canada near Toronto. I have always had hydrangeas in my garden and they do amazingly well. They love the heavy shade where they grow and provide me with mosterous blooms every year. The only care I give them is to cut them down to one or two buds in the early spring. I sometimes fertilize them in early summer but not always. They grown with or without fertilizer. Enjoy!!
Reply:In Northern NY, hydrangeas grow well and don't need any special care for winter. I have 2 that are planted near the foundation of the house that my grandparents planted 50 years ago. I just prune them once a year.
Reply:A garden center would be a better place to ask. Not Home Depot or Lowes those people are idiots. Look in the phone book under gardens, they would have the correct information for your area.

ben