Will snow accumulation benefit my hydrangeas?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Snow impacts hydrangeas differently depending on snow conditions. Light snow, which is less than 6 inches, acts as thermal insulation, whereas heavy amounts of snow can create damaging conditions. Making a habit of recording snow depth allows me to track how well the snow benefits my hydrangeas over the winter, depending on the temperature and the duration of snow cover on the plants. Your response to snow determines if it benefits or destroys plants.
Beneficial Conditions
- Temperature: Below 20°F (-7°C) for effective insulation
- Depth: Under 6 inches (15 cm) creates protective layer
- Snow Type: Light fluffy snow allows air circulation
Harmful Scenarios
- Weight Danger: Wet snow exceeding 12 inches breaks branches
- Rodent Cover: Deep snow hides gnawing animal activity
- Ice Formation: Thaw-freeze cycles suffocate plants
Removal Techniques
- Tool Choice: Soft broom for upward sweeping motions
- Timing: Clear snow before temperatures rise above freezing
- Caution: Avoid shaking branches to protect buds
Temperature will dictate snow's ability to insulate hydrangeas. Snow only insulates hydrangeas when temperatures are consistently below 20°F. I check the thermometer first before removing the snow. If temperatures are warmer, snow can become heavy and is even more dangerous, even if it is thin.
Prevent branch breakage by removing heavy snow promptly. Use upward stroking with a broom to lift snow off branches gently. Do not use a punching action to knock snow off, as this breaks buds. I applied this method to my Endless Summer hydrangeas, and they came back completely in full force!
Assess for rodent activity under deep snow on occasion. Check for tooth marks on the ground and consider placing wire mesh barriers. I observed vole damage under deep, undisturbed snowdrifts from last winter. Early discovery prevents extreme plant damage.
Manage ice layers carefully, not to harm plants. Use warm water cautiously to melt ice without suffocating the plant. Never use a salt-based product that can harm soil. I still prefer a turkey baster to get curl and drip into cracks and look after delicate buds.
Balance snow benefits with possible hazards each winter. Leave light snow as insulation, but remove significant accumulations promptly. As you supervise your plants over the winter months, your bush will receive the winter protection it needs, without being damaged. That bush will reward you with fabulous flowers during the summer months!
Read the full article: Essential Hydrangea Winter Care Guide
