The Ruby Slippers Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata ‘Ruby Slippers’) is a compact, deciduous shrub that is prized for its beautiful, showy blooms and manageable size. It’s a hybrid variety of Panicle Hydrangea, and it has a unique ability to display vibrant red-pink flowers as it matures, making it a striking addition to gardens. Here’s how to care for it:
1. Light
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ruby Slippers Hydrangeas thrive in full sun for at least 6 hours a day, but they can also tolerate partial shade. In hotter climates, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from heat stress and preserve its vibrant colors.
- Optimal Position: In regions with intense sun, a location that offers some late afternoon shade can help maintain healthy foliage and flower color.
2. Soil
- Well-Draining, Moist Soil: These hydrangeas prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They perform best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH between 5.8 and 6.2).
- Soil Enrichment: If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic materials to improve drainage and nutrient content.
3. Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Hydrangeas, including Ruby Slippers, prefer consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but ensure the soil doesn’t stay waterlogged. Good drainage is key to prevent root rot.
- Deep Watering: Water deeply to encourage deep root growth, but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering sessions.
4. Temperature
- Cold Hardy: Ruby Slippers Hydrangeas are hardy in USDA zones 4-8, making them a good option for cooler climates. They can tolerate cold winters and mild summers, but they may need some protection from harsh frost.
- Optimal Range: They thrive in temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), but can handle cooler temperatures in the winter.
5. Fertilizing
- Early Spring Feeding: Fertilize your Ruby Slippers Hydrangea in early spring, just before new growth begins. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or one formulated for flowering shrubs.
- Avoid Excessive Nitrogen: Too much nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers, so choose a fertilizer with balanced nutrients.
6. Pruning
- Late Winter to Early Spring: The Ruby Slippers Hydrangea blooms on new wood, meaning it produces flowers on the current season’s growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back by about one-third to encourage vigorous blooming.
- Deadheading: Remove any spent flowers in late fall or early spring to keep the plant looking tidy and to help encourage new blooms.
- Shape and Size: Ruby Slippers is a compact variety, growing to around 3-5 feet tall and wide, but regular pruning can help shape it and maintain a neat form.
7. Pests and Diseases
- Pests: Ruby Slippers Hydrangea is relatively pest-resistant, but it may attract aphids, scale, or spider mites. Inspect the plant regularly for signs of pests and treat them with insecticidal soap if necessary.
- Diseases: Hydrangeas can be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis blight, especially in humid or wet conditions. Ensure the plant has good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any affected leaves or flowers.
- Root Rot: Root rot can be a concern if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
8. Propagation
- Stem Cuttings: You can propagate Ruby Slippers Hydrangea by taking softwood cuttings in early summer. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, non-flowering stems. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone before planting them in a moist, well-draining potting mix.
- Layering: Another method of propagation is layering. Gently bend a stem to the ground and bury part of it in the soil. Once roots develop, you can cut it from the parent plant and transplant it.
9. Mulching
- Winter Protection: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in the fall to protect the roots from extreme winter temperatures. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the stem to avoid rot.
- Moisture Retention: Mulch helps retain moisture during the growing season, preventing the soil from drying out too quickly.
10. Special Features
- Flower Color: The Ruby Slippers Hydrangea blooms start as white flowers and gradually turn to deep pink to ruby red as they age, creating a beautiful multi-toned effect.
- Fall Foliage: In addition to its striking blooms, the plant often has attractive fall foliage, with leaves turning shades of red, purple, or yellow.
11. General Care Tips
- Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on the plant for any signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves or wilting. This can indicate issues with watering, sunlight, or pests.
- Patience: Ruby Slippers Hydrangea is a slow-grower, so be patient. It may take a few years to reach its full potential, but it will reward you with stunning flowers and foliage.
The Ruby Slippers Hydrangea is a beautiful, compact shrub that provides vibrant, colorful blooms from midsummer to fall. With a little attention to watering, light, and soil conditions, it will thrive and be a standout in your garden!
