A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The Plants and Flowers Forum Nantucket hydrangeas

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to this site so I hope that I am doing this correctly. I have a huge problem that I hope someone can help me with.
I live in a condo community that is apparently run by the "gestapo". I had planted a Nantucket hydrangea two summers ago and am now being told that it is an "unauthorized" planting and I may have to remove it. They have asked me to find out if it can be uprooted and grown in a pot on my deck. These people REALLY need to "get a life"!!

Any info would be appreciated. Thanks Sue

I am so happy that I don't live in a community that restricts my plantings. I feel sorry for you. Yes, your hydrangeas can be grown in pots. I don't know what zone you live in or the best transplanting times for you. Good luck with this project.
And Welcome!

Sorry to hear the gestapo are still alive and well. Those unauthorised hydrangeas can be so dangerous! Luckily everyone has survived them for the last 2 years, but I guess they'll have to go to your deck now.

Anyway, I hope the transfer goes well. I've moved a few plants from beds to pots, mostly with success. Is it well established? If so, it should be okay to move. spring or Autumn are apparently the best times to move hydrangeas. You need to dig a large root ball, and place in the pot immediately. It's a good idea to have someone to help you lift it in if possible, as it may hurt your back otherwise. Also, water well straight away. I think it's a good idea to prune the plant before moving it.

Thanks for your prompt response. Just a quick question - I live in Massachusetts- do you think if I put my beautiful hydrangea in the pot it can withstand the seasons just like it does planted in the ground? Thanks again. Sue

Potted plants are more vulnerable than in-ground. Can you protect the pots at all? Under an overhang does wonders, even bubble wrap or some type of insulation. Especially if they are going into pots right now and spending their initial transplant season as a cold winter.

That's a good idea. I have used plastic sleeves to get new plants through their first winter, and it worked quite well. Probably the bubble wrap is a good idea, as your winter is colder than ours. Wonder if the gestapo would let you do it in spring?