Cherry Explosion Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Cherry Explosion'

Growzone: 4-9

Cherry Explosion Hydrangea is the reddest hydrangea out there! One of the smallest hydrangeas on the market, it rarely needs pruning!

Size	Price	Quantity
3 GAL	$54.95

Purchase Recommended Add-ons

Espoma Bio-Tone Plus Starter Plus $14.95

Full Description

Ooh la la! The tight, compact habit of Cherry Explosion Hydrangea makes it a well-behaved garden or landscape plant, while its vivid cherry red flowers make a bold and stylish statement. One of the smallest hydrangeas on the market, it does not need pruning (in fact, don’t prune it at all!) and its deep green mildew-resistant foliage looks handsome all season. Cherry Explosion keeps its red color in most any soil, developing only purplish centers in acidic soils.

Does Not Ship To: AK, CA, HI, or PR

Specifications

Growing Zone:	4-9
Mature Height:	3 to 4 feet
Mature Width:	3 to 4 Feet
Classification:	Broad leaved deciduous shrub, summer flowering
Sunlight:	Part Sun to Sun
Habit:	Upright, densely branched, mounding
Foliage:	Dark-green
Flower Color:	Cherry red
Pruning Season:	Light pruning in the spring
Soil Condition:	Any well drained soil
Water Requirements:	Water well until established
Uses:	Extremely attractive when used as a focal point in the mixed border, mass planting, or a specimen planting

Planting Info

Planting Cherry Explosion Hydrangea

We suggest when planting your newly purchased Cherry Explosion Hydrangea plants that you dig a hole twice as wide as the root system but not deeper. Depending on the quality of your existing soil you may need to add a locally sourced compost or topsoil to the back-fill soil. We do not recommend using straight topsoil or compost as a back-fill soil because more times than not these products will retain entirely to much moisture and will cause the root system to rot. Adding compost or topsoil will help the young feeder roots of Cherry Explosion Hydrangea to spread through the loose, nutrient rich soil, much easier than if you used solely the existing soil which more times than not will be hard and compacted. The most common cause of plant death after transplanting is planting the new plant to deep. That is why we do not recommend planting in a hole any deeper than the soil line of the plant in the pot. A good rule is that you should still be able to see the soil the plant was grown in after back-filling the hole. Bio-tone starter fertilizer is a great starter fertilizer that provides plants with mycorrhizae fungus. It is a naturally occurring beneficial fungus that colonizes on the new growing roots of plants. It creates a barrier between the roots of the plant and fungus and pathogens that can cause root rot. We love this product and use it on all plants we install in our own gardens. Bio-tone is a gardeners best friend and can help guarantee your success.

Watering Cherry Explosion Hydrangea

After back filling and lightly compacting the 50/50 mix of existing soil and compost give the Cherry Explosion Hydrangea a good deep watering. This is not to be rushed. Most of the water you put on the plant at first will run away from the plant until the soil is soaked. A general rule of thumb is to count to 5 for every one gallon of pot size. For example a one gallon pot would be watered until you count to 5 a three gallon pot would be 15 and so on. Check the plant daily for the first week or so and then every other day there after. Water using the counting method for the first few weeks. Gator bag Jr. can be used to help aid in this process and also provide plants with a good soaking due to the slow release of the water into the root-zone of the plant. Soaker Hoses can also be used to water when planting a long hedge.

Understanding Fertilizer Labels

When looking at most fertilizers, they are described by three numbers on the bag. An example would be 10-10-10 or 12-4-8. The first of these three numbers refers to Nitrogen, which is the primary element necessary for good, balanced growth within the hydrangea. Plants that are deficient in Nitrogen are usually not growing vigorously, and sometimes exhibit pale colored foliage. Not all Nitrogen deficiencies result in stunted growth. Sometimes, the growth is taller and longer with less than desirable branching when Nitrogen is deficient. The second number in the fertilizer equation is representative of Phosphorus. A deficiency of Phosphorus may affect the energy transfer in the plant, and result in stunted growth as well. Also, plants with insufficient amounts of Phosphorus may have poorer root systems. Potassium is the element represented by the third number on the fertilizer bag. Plants that are deficient in Potassium, are usually growing more slowly than normal, have fewer flowers and seed, and are more susceptible to disease than plants with adequate levels of Potassium. Although the three elements just mentioned are the major elements necessary for good plant performance, there some minor elements that are just as important in consideration of hydrangea nutrition. Minor elements that are not included in the three numbers listing on the front of fertilizer bags are very important considerations when choosing your hydrangea fertilizer. Elements such as Magnesium, Sulfur, Calcium, Iron, Manganese, Copper, Zinc, Boron, and Molybdenum play very important roles in providing hydrangeas with adequate nutrition. Many times, less expensive fertilizers are sold that contain only the major elements needed, but not the minor elements. Always be sure to look on the fertilizer label on the back of the bag to see exactly what is included in the fertilizer. In choosing the basic type of fertilizer for your Cherry Explosion Hydrangea, it is important to determine what you need your Hydrangeas to do. If your plants are well established, and you are not concerned about more growth, choose a fertilizer that has a smaller first number, and a larger second and third number. When you have selected your fertilizer and are ready to apply it, be sure to rake your mulch back to the drip line of each plant. Apply the fertilizer according to the label directions immediately on top of the soil, and be sure to water the plant thoroughly after the application. You can then rake the mulch back around the base of the Cherry Explosion Hydrangea. Although it is tempting to spend less time by not raking the mulch back during fertilization, the results will be less than desirable, if the fertilizer is applied on top of the mulch. Proper fertilization of your Cherry Explosion Hydrangea will lead to healthier and more disease resistant plants, as well as provide you with many more enjoyable blooms. Always, read the label on your fertilizer bag, and follow the instructions.

FAQs

How do you fertilize Cherry Explosion Hydrangea?

Hydrangeas such as Cherry Explosion Hydrangea grow best if they are fertilized once or twice in the summer. Although some authorities recommend special fertilizer mixes to get the maximum results, hydrangeas do amazingly well with a more relaxed approach.

Either chemical fertilizers or organic matter can be used successfully. Since an organic method of applying manure and/or compost around the roots, produces excellent results and also improves the condition of the soil, this would be an excellent first line of attack. Organic additions to the soil can also be combined with a shot of chemical fertilizer for maximum effect.

If chemical fertilizers are used on your Cherry Explosion Hydrangea , applying a slow-release, balanced fertilizer once a year is probably the simplest solution. There are many slow-release fertilizers on the market. If you can find a fertilizer formulated for shrubs and trees, this fertilizer would work well on hydrangeas. However, slow-release is certainly not the only way to fertilizer hydrangeas such as Cherry Explosion Hydrangea . A less expensive fast release fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 will work just as well if applied twice during the summer. If you are looking for a fertilizing routine tailored to your specific conditions, a soil sample should be taken and the fertilizer and trace elements matched to the needs of your soil.

Don’t fertilize Cherry Explosion Hydrangea after August. Fall is the time for hydrangeas to begin preparing for dormancy. Fertilizing Cherry Explosion Hydrangea at this time may stimulate new growth that will be too tender to withstand the winter. In the South, a late May application and another in July would be about right. More northern areas may wish to fertilize only once in June or July.

The amount of chemical fertilizer used per plant will vary with the size of the plant and it’s root system. (Use less fertilizer for hydrangeas in a container.) Over-fertilization can be much more detrimental than under-fertilization. “Fertilizer burn” can occur when too much fertilizer is applied, resulting in a drying out of the roots and damage or even death of the hydrangea.It is much, much better to err on the side of too little fertilizer than too much. When roots are burned, the first sign is often scorched looking leaves. If over-fertilization is severe, the plant may just wilt and die.

If you are a beginner at growing plants Cherry Explosion Hydrangea is very easy to grow however it may be helpful to know that a very small plant which is planted in the ground will take about 1/8 – 1/4 cup of fertilizer. When fertilizing Cherry Explosion Hydrangea in pots, be careful to apply a fertilizer that will not burn the roots (such as a slow release or a liquid fertilizer). A very large shrub in the ground will take 2 – 3 cups spread around the drip line of the branches (not next to the trunk). This is a very loose estimate, so please read the directions on the fertilizer before applying it.

If a liquid fertilizer such as Jacks Classic is used for Cherry Explosion Hydrangea , it should be applied every month during the spring and early summer for both plants in pots and in the ground.

Never fertilize a plant with a chemical fertilizer if the plant looks sick or wilted. If a plant is struggling due to a disease or root problems, the fertilizer will only add stress to it’s life. Try to cure the problem before adding fertilizer.

For an organic approach, many gardeners use commercial manure on the soil around hydrangeas such as Cherry Explosion Hydrangea. Excellent results have been reported by visitors to this site after using composted manure. Commercial manure or compost can be applied yearly around the base of the hydrangea. As with chemical fertilizers, do not apply it right next to the trunk or stems emerging from the ground.program.

How do you prune Cherry Explosion Hydrangea?

Cherry Explosion Hydrangea is hydrangea that should just not be pruned. It flowers on the previous years growth and pruning them back in the spring would remove all the flower buds.

In general gardening terms, pruning is probably the most misunderstood gardening chore, and certainly, the chore that is most likely neglected. When we specifically look at pruning with regards to hydrangeas, this misunderstanding and negligence can be magnified.

Pruning has been described as a “combination of art and science.” I find pruning to be one of the most relaxing yet rewarding chores in the garden. Pruning a specific plant to look a specific way, involves art in creating a unique definition for a specific plant, and it involves science in understanding the physical growing habits of the plant to be pruned.

The most important reason for pruning hydrangeas is to improve the overall health of the plant which in turn will reward you with a plethora of blooms. Many times, Hydrangeas that have not been pruned in a few years will develop dead or degenerative twigs. Removing the dead and dying limbs will minimize the possibility of diseases such as “die-back” and will also allow the plant to re-concentrate its energies and produce flowers.

Another reason for pruning hydrangeas such as Cherry Explosion Hydrangea is to re-define the plant’s definition within the landscape. Many times, a plant may outgrow its intended size in the landscape, and must be pruned to re-define its purpose. Pruning should always be associated with re-invigorating a plant by allowing it to focus its energies on producing more vigorous branches, foliage, and flowers.

Specific plant objectives require specific pruning techniques. If a hydrangea is being trained as a hedge, it would need to be pruned differently than if it were being grown as a tree form. Screenings and hedges of hydrangeas would need to be pruned for their specific purpose within the landscape.

It is also important to understand the specific growing characteristic of a certain hydrangeas when pruning that particular plant.

When pruning established hydrangeas where no labeling is present on a variety to identify it, you need to look at the general growth patterns of the plant to be pruned. These observations should give you a good idea of how the plant tends to grow, and also how and when you should prune the plant.

When pruning large hydrangeas, pruning can be a general shaping or shearing of the plants or it can be a severe pruning that significantly reduces the size of the plant.

Many times, gardeners inherit a wealth of hydrangeas in their gardens when they purchase a previously owned residence. Although these hydrangeas may have been lovingly cared for by the previous owner, it may be necessary to severely prune these plants to restore vigor or to create a different definition in the landscape for the new owner of the property.

If severe, pruning is necessary, it must be realized that the plant will shift its focus in the short-run from setting flower buds to growing vigorously, and it is very likely that the hydrangea will have few if any bloom buds during the season following the major pruning. During the second season following the severe pruning, the hydrangea should resume normal bud setting, and the plant should have healthier blooms because of the increased vigor in the plant.

It is important to always use sharp tools when pruning hydrangeas or any plant for that matter. Knives, hand cutters, saws, and shears should be sharpened if necessary before pruning any hydrangeas. A sharp cut will heal quicker than a jagged cut, which will also minimize the likelihood of disease investing a cut during pruning. It is generally recommended to not use power equipment such as gas hedgers to prune hydrangeas. We recommend a good quality pair of hand pruners such as Felco Brand. These are high quality and if properly cared for will last a lifetime. These are the choice of prodfessional nurserymen around the world.

Pruning large hydrangeas may be minor or major. Its general purpose is to maintain or restore vigor to the plant. Large hydrangeas that have been severely pruned have the advantage of a large root system that has excessive capacity, and its roots are capable of supplying all of its energies to a smaller number of branches and foliage. This enables the plant to increase its vigor, and become healthier. Pruning large Hydrangea’s that are well established will enable the plant to have continued vigor, and lead to many more years of supplying beauty to the landscape.

Reviews

Additional Information

History and Introduction to Cherry Explosion Hydrangea

Cherry Explosion Hydrangea is hydrangea that should just not be pruned. It flowers on the previous years growth and pruning them back in the spring would remove all the flower buds.

In general gardening terms, pruning is probably the most misunderstood gardening chore, and certainly, the chore that is most likely neglected. When we specifically look at pruning with regards to hydrangeas, this misunderstanding and negligence can be magnified.

Pruning has been described as a “combination of art and science.” I find pruning to be one of the most relaxing yet rewarding chores in the garden. Pruning a specific plant to look a specific way, involves art in creating a unique definition for a specific plant, and it involves science in understanding the physical growing habits of the plant to be pruned.

The most important reason for pruning hydrangeas is to improve the overall health of the plant which in turn will reward you with a plethora of blooms. Many times, Hydrangeas that have not been pruned in a few years will develop dead or degenerative twigs. Removing the dead and dying limbs will minimize the possibility of diseases such as “die-back” and will also allow the plant to re-concentrate its energies and produce flowers.

Another reason for pruning hydrangeas such as Cherry Explosion Hydrangea is to re-define the plant’s definition within the landscape. Many times, a plant may outgrow its intended size in the landscape, and must be pruned to re-define its purpose. Pruning should always be associated with re-invigorating a plant by allowing it to focus its energies on producing more vigorous branches, foliage, and flowers.

Specific plant objectives require specific pruning techniques. If a hydrangea is being trained as a hedge, it would need to be pruned differently than if it were being grown as a tree form. Screenings and hedges of hydrangeas would need to be pruned for their specific purpose within the landscape.

It is also important to understand the specific growing characteristic of a certain hydrangeas when pruning that particular plant.

When pruning established hydrangeas where no labeling is present on a variety to identify it, you need to look at the general growth patterns of the plant to be pruned. These observations should give you a good idea of how the plant tends to grow, and also how and when you should prune the plant.

When pruning large hydrangeas, pruning can be a general shaping or shearing of the plants or it can be a severe pruning that significantly reduces the size of the plant.

Many times, gardeners inherit a wealth of hydrangeas in their gardens when they purchase a previously owned residence. Although these hydrangeas may have been lovingly cared for by the previous owner, it may be necessary to severely prune these plants to restore vigor or to create a different definition in the landscape for the new owner of the property.

If severe, pruning is necessary, it must be realized that the plant will shift its focus in the short-run from setting flower buds to growing vigorously, and it is very likely that the hydrangea will have few if any bloom buds during the season following the major pruning. During the second season following the severe pruning, the hydrangea should resume normal bud setting, and the plant should have healthier blooms because of the increased vigor in the plant.

It is important to always use sharp tools when pruning hydrangeas or any plant for that matter. Knives, hand cutters, saws, and shears should be sharpened if necessary before pruning any hydrangeas. A sharp cut will heal quicker than a jagged cut, which will also minimize the likelihood of disease investing a cut during pruning. It is generally recommended to not use power equipment such as gas hedgers to prune hydrangeas. We recommend a good quality pair of hand pruners such as Felco Brand. These are high quality and if properly cared for will last a lifetime. These are the choice of professional nurserymen around the world.

Pruning large hydrangeas may be minor or major. Its general purpose is to maintain or restore vigor to the plant. Large hydrangeas that have been severely pruned have the advantage of a large root system that has excessive capacity, and its roots are capable of supplying all of its energies to a smaller number of branches and foliage. This enables the plant to increase its vigor, and become healthier. Pruning large Hydrangea’s that are well established will enable the plant to have continued vigor, and lead to many more years of supplying beauty to the landscape.