Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Endless Summer’, commonly known as Endless Summer Hydrangea, this beloved deciduous shrub is celebrated for its impressive display of large, vibrant blooms that persist throughout the summer and into fall. Gardeners prize this variety for its stunning blue and pink flowers, which change based on soil pH, adding a lively touch to any landscape.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Hydrangea macrophylla Bailmer also called as Bailmer Hydrangea, is a cultivar in the genus Hydrangea. This cultivar was discovered by Vernon Glen Black in a cultivated garden in St. Paul, Minn. in the summer of 1983. Hydrangea macrophylla Bailmer’s parents are unknown. Asexual reproduction of the plant was first accomplished by softwood cuttings in St. Paul, Minn. in July of 1986 by the inventor. The characteristics of this cultivar have been determined to be stable and are reproduced true to type in successive generations.
It is a bushy perennial shrub which reaching 1-1.5 meter tall by 1-1.5 meter spread with compact, rounded, deciduous plant habit with rounded, solid, green to brown colored stem. The leaves are broadly elliptic, oblique to cuneate base, acute or acuminate apex, serrated margin, opposite, deep green to yellow in color.
Bailmer Hydrangea blooms in summer through fall on the compound corymb, terminal inflorescence that arising from new growth with about 100 flowers per inflorescence. The flowers will be pink in alkaline soil and blue in acidic soil. Pink hydrangea flowers can be changed to blue by acidifying soil and maintaining the pH in the 5.0 to 5.5 range. Adjusting a soil’s pH will need to be done annually in order to achieve and maintain proper results. The results from a soil pH test kit will determine existing pH levels and the need to add lime or sulfur in order to adjust the soil accordingly.
Tap water may alter test results; therefore, it is important to use deionized water with a soil testing kit. Sulfur should be added in order to lower a soil’s pH. Lime should be added in order to raise a soil’s pH. Elemental sulfur, also called flowers of sulfur, or iron sulfate are better alternatives to using aluminum sulfate because aluminum can reach toxic levels in the soil. While aluminum is a key element to lower a soil’s acidity and change the color of hydrangea flowers, it can also become toxic at high levels.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Hydrangea macrophylla Bailmer love the warm morning sun, but they dislike the heat of the afternoon. The best place for the plant is in a sheltered location with sunny mornings and shady afternoons. Avoid planting directly underneath trees, which can lead to competition for water and nutrients. High winds can rip and damage leaves and destroy the flowers. Although they can be successfully grown in full shade, they will not bloom well.
Temperature
Bailmer Hydrangea prefers a cool location, from 18° to 24°C. The plant may suffer from considerable branch dieback during the cold months and will benefit from winter protection. Winter protection can be provided by constructing a wire framework around the plant and filling the space with shredded leaves to a depth of approximately 10-12” for insulation. Cold winters and late spring frosts can often kill flower buds, preventing plants from blooming in the spring. When unexpected cold weather is predicted in late spring or early summer after winter protection has been removed, it may be necessary to cover tender plant with cloth, burlap, or heavy paper to protect flower buds. Plastic should never be used as winter protection because it may damage tender plant tissue.
Humidity and Watering
Bailmer Hydrangea prefers consistent moisture but dislike wet feet. The plant should be watered thoroughly at least 3 times a week. Always water the plant all the way around the container, not just in one place. Water should come out the bottom of the pot. Never let it sit in water which will cause the roots to rot away. Mulch to help conserve moisture and cool the root system. A two- to three-inch layer of mulch will help to conserve moisture.
Soil
Thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. Adding organic matter can improve soil structure and fertility. Soil pH significantly affects flower color, with more acidic soils producing vibrant blue flowers.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is generally not recommended unless a nutrient deficiency is observed. The plants may need little fertilizer in rich soil with organic matter applied yearly. Avoid using too much nitrogen, too much nitrogen can produce excessive green growth at the expense of flowers. If you do fertilize, do a little research to find out exactly what your plant might need, and always apply as directed and read and follow all label directions.
Pruning
The plant blooms on new and old wood and provide a longer bloom season. They tolerate more severe pruning while still blooming each year. Prune out one half to all of the older stems (they have side branches) at ground level in June and July when you are cutting flowers for arrangements or drying. This pruning method will allow more light and air circulation within your plant for disease control, while at the same time reducing size and increasing flower cluster size. Remove dead branches or frost-damaged leaves and stems as soon as you notice them.
Propagation
Hydrangea macrophylla Bailmer is mainly propagated by softwood cuttings. The cutting should be taken from non-flowering green woody stems and cut at the base. Each cutting should have at least one leaf node or terminal bud. It is important not to damage the buds while obtaining the cuttings. Dip your cutting into your rooting hormone, then place into the sterile media that should consist of one part peat and one part medium to fine grade perlite, vermiculite, or sand. Spray the plant until wet but dont over water it. Watering is important for the first week, three times a day is recommended for the first week when top soil feels dry. Dont place the plant in direct sunlight or wind. After a few weeks you should see growth from your cuttings.
Pests and Diseases
Bailmer Hydrangea are almost trouble-free. However, certain pests and diseases can attack. The most common time for them to do so is in the summer months. They most commonly suffer from powdery mildew, aphids, spider mites, yellow leaves and leaf spots. All of these are common to spot and treat, providing you catch the disease or pest early.
III. Uses and Benefits
This versatile shrub fits beautifully into many landscaping applications. It works well as a focal point in borders with companion plants, as a specimen plant, flowering hedge, or in mass plantings for stunning visual impact. The blooms also make excellent cut flowers, adding elegance to floral arrangements. They can also be dried and preserved for use in wreaths and home decor, allowing you to enjoy their beauty year-round.
