The best time to plant hydrangeas is generally either early spring (April to May) or early fall (September to October), depending on your region. These times provide cooler temperatures and more consistent moisture, which help reduce transplant stress and allow the roots to establish before harsher weather conditions.
- In early spring, plant after the last frost to give the shrub a full growing season to develop roots.
- In early fall, plant about six weeks before the first frost to allow roots to grow before winter dormancy.
Avoid planting hydrangeas in the heat of summer or late fall because it can stress the plants or not give roots enough time to establish before winter frost. Locations with morning sun and afternoon shade are ideal for planting hydrangeas. Specific planting times may vary by climate zone, but the seasons of early spring and early fall remain broadly the best choices for hydrangea planting.
