Gardener explains ‘soil secret’ to hydrangeas changing colour

It’s directly linked to one thing, she said

Hydrangeas are one of the few garden plants that can naturally change flower colour depending on soil conditions. While many gardeners assume the colour is fixed when they buy the plant, certain varieties can shift from pink to blue or purple over time.

According to Jo McGarry, gardening expert at Caragh Nurseries, the secret lies in the soil.

Jo said: “Many people are surprised to learn that hydrangea colour is directly linked to soil pH. In acidic soil, the blooms turn blue, while alkaline soil encourages pink petals. Purple shades appear when the soil is close to neutral.”

Why do hydrangeas change colour?

The colour change happens because acidic soil makes aluminium more available to the plant. This affects the petals’ pigments, changing the shade of the blooms.

Jo said: “Only certain hydrangeas respond this way, particularly macrophylla and serrata varieties. White hydrangeas generally stay white regardless of soil conditions.”

Can gardeners safely change the colour of hydrangeasthemselves?

Gardeners can gradually change soil conditions to encourage different blooms in several ways, but Jo warns against more old-fashioned methods involving rusty nails.

She said: “Burying rusty nails in the soil to turn hydrangeas blue is something gardeners have talked about for years, but it isn’t the safest or most effective option. Sharp metal hidden in borders can become a hazard for people and wildlife. They also provide too little soluble iron to impact petal colour.”

Instead, she recommends safer soil treatments that work more reliably over time: “Using ericaceous compost, coffee grounds, or aluminium sulphate is a much better approach for gardeners wanting blue hydrangeas. These methods gently increase soil acidity without creating unnecessary risks in the garden.

“For pink hydrangeas, the soil needs to be more alkaline. Adding garden lime can help raise the pH and reduce aluminium uptake. This encourages pink blooms to develop. A fertiliser with higher phosphorus levels can also help limit aluminium absorption and support stronger pink colouring.”

How long does it take for hydrangeas to change colour?

Gardeners shouldn’t expect instant results, as Jo said: “Hydrangeas usually take at least one growing season to show noticeable colour changes. The process requires patience because the soil conditions need time to affect developing buds.”

She also advised gardeners to test their soil before making major adjustments: “Testing your soil pH first is always worthwhile because overcorrecting can stress the plant and affect nutrient uptake. Small gradual changes tend to give the healthiest and most consistent results.”