A Basic Guide to Growing Hydrangeas Indoors

by Marsha Charles 12/18/2023

There are many varieties of the popular hydrangea plant, all with unique climate needs. Even though it's possible to grow hydrangeas outdoors in different climates, growing them indoors allows you to enjoy this colorful shrub anywhere you live. Here are some basic care tips for growing hydrangeas inside your home:

Container Choice

One key advantage to growing hydrangeas in pots is the freedom to move them around as needed. To increase flexibility, consider using a pot with wheels or a sturdy plant stand on casters. As your hydrangea grows bigger, the pot will become heavier and more difficult to move around.

When choosing a container, opt for a larger pot than you think you will need. Many plant experts recommend larger containers at least 18 inches in diameter to give your hydrangea room to spread out its roots. A larger pot will also prevent the soil from drying out too quickly.

Water & Light Requirements

Hydrangeas need large amounts of water and sunlight to thrive. When growing them indoors, water regularly and thoroughly so excess water comes out of the drainage hole. You want to prevent the soil from drying out completely, as it will cause your plant to wilt.

As for light, most varieties of hydrangeas do best with at least six hours of sun per day. Place them in south or east-facing windows where there is plenty of light and they will thrive.

Pruning

Hydrangeas are known for their round, colorful flower clusters. To make the most of this flowering plant indoors, you'll need to give it some regular maintenance. Prune old or damaged branches regularly and deadhead wilted flowers to encourage new growth. Research your particular variety of hydrangea to determine its growth pattern. Some produce new buds from old stems, while others grow completely new stems. Knowing where buds appear will help you prune efficiently and support healthy growth.

Hydrangeas are a staple of many home gardens but can also be a beautiful addition to your indoor plant collection. Consider these tips if you're thinking of growing your own hydrangeas at home.

About the Author
Author

Marsha Charles

Consistent top listing and selling agent receiving Chairman's Club award for superior sales achievement almost every year while associated with Preferred Properties, Inc. Consistently receive the International Presidents Premier award for sales volume since joining Coldwell Banker Realty and ranked in the top 1% of agents in Connecticut and Westchester County. In 2021 I received the International Society of Excellence award for sales volume in excess of $100,000,000. I have been named a Top Five Sales Agent for customer satisfaction since 2010 (longer than any other agent in Connecticut) and listed in Connecticut Magazine. Named one of the Top Agents in Connecticut by Real Trends since 2018. 

I work with sellers and buyers and also have a strong understanding to needs of those who are relocating . Background and experience in advertising, public relations and photography offer creative and innovative marketing plans for sellers.  

Realtor designations include: Graduate Real Estate Institute, Certified Residential Specialist, Certified Residential Marketing Specialist, and Pricing Strategy Advisor. Served as President of New Canaan Board of Realtors (two terms), Director (three terms) and currently serve on Professional Standards Committee. Named Realtor of the year by the New Canaan Board of Realtors in 1994and again in 2022. 

Married and mother of other of four children who attended and graduated from the New Canaan School System, Member of New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich and Statewide MLS systems. Areas covered include New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich, Rowayton, Norwalk, Wilton and all of lower Fairfield County.