In the fall, hydrangeas undergo some noticeable changes in appearance. The flower heads, which were once vibrant and colorful, begin to dry out and turn brown. These dried flower heads can remain on the plant throughout the winter if they are not removed. So, during the fall season, you will see hydrangea flower heads that are dry, shriveled, and brown in color.
Additionally, hydrangeas also lose their leaves during the fall. The leaves, which were once green and lush, start to change color and eventually fall off the plant. However, unlike the flower heads, the brown stalks of hydrangeas remain upright unless they are pruned back.
When you look at a hydrangea plant in the fall, you will notice a combination of brown flower heads and brown stalks with no leaves. This can give the plant a somewhat barren and dormant appearance. However, despite the lack of vibrant flowers and foliage, hydrangeas can still add interest to the garden with their unique dried flower heads and architectural structure.
To summarize the appearance of hydrangeas in the fall:
– Flower heads: Dry, shriveled, and brown.
– Stalks: Upright and brown.
– Leaves: Fallen off, leaving behind the brown stalks.
It’s important to note that the exact appearance of hydrangeas in the fall can vary depending on the specific variety of hydrangea and the growing conditions. Some hydrangeas may retain their dried flower heads longer than others, and the color of the stalks can also vary slightly. However, the general description provided above applies to most hydrangea plants during the fall season.
It’s always a good idea to remove the dried flower heads and prune back the stalks of hydrangeas in the fall or early spring to promote new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. This can also help prevent disease and encourage the plant to produce more vibrant flowers in the upcoming growing season.
Personal experience: I have a hydrangea plant in my garden, and I always look forward to seeing the changes it goes through in the fall. The dried flower heads add a unique texture to the garden, and the brown stalks create an interesting contrast against other evergreen plants. I usually leave the dried flower heads on the plant throughout the winter, as they provide some visual interest in an otherwise dormant season. However, in early spring, I make sure to prune back the stalks to encourage new growth and promote a healthier plant overall.