Growing hydrangeas is easy.  We've all noticed them during summer. Big, puffball-looking blooms in bright blue or delicate pink nestled among large, green leaves. Those are known as Mophead hydrangeas and are one of the loveliest, most colorful shrubs used in gardens and home landscapes. In fact, hydrangeas will grow in almost any location since there are so many varieties available.

Hydrangeas generally grow best in soil located in morning sun with afternoon shade. The plants do not thrive under trees or close to pavement. Some folks swear by manure to keep hydrangeas popping with color.

Proper soil preparation is key
If you wish to change a blue hydrangea to pink, or a pink hydrangea to blue, then you must alter the soil. It is much easier to change the plant's color if grown in a container. Altering the pH of soil in the ground can be tricky, but with some patience and preparation, beautiful colors can result.

To keep hydrangeas pink, you sweeten the soil by adding lime. For maintaining blue flowers, you acidify the soil with a sulfur product. The flower's color is a reaction to soil acidity.

How to test your soil
Your local garden center can show you how to use a pH soil tester. Soil acidity is measured in pH, which stands for potential hydrogen.. Any number above 7 is considered alkaline, and any number below 7 is labeled acid. Most flowers do well in slightly acid soil with a pH between 6 and 7.

How to correct your soil's pH
Let's say your soil has been tested and it's a bit too acidic. You would add lime by following the instructions included in the testing kit. But it's a dusty project, so wear gloves and add it ona day that isn't windy. Gently rake the lime onto the top of the soil. Rain will gradually distribute the lime through the soil.

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