I love hydrangeas. There’s something magical in the way the flowers grow and their colors intensify throughout the summer. But let’s be honest, to keep them in good condition, synthetic fertilizers are not the best.

In caring for my hydrangeas, I discovered that, like rhododendrons, they love a slightly acidic, nutrient-dense soil and that composted cow manure was the perfect allybecause it is naturally acidic and has the ability to provide all the essential nutrients without causing the soil’s pH to skyrocket.

What are cow manure pellets and how are they made?

Don’t be scared. You don’t have to put the clip on your nose and go collecting cow dung in the field. You can find it easily in the form of pellets, small dehydrated and compacted granules that are easily handled and stored.

iStockPhoto.

What I like most about this fertilizer is that, unlike other manures, the manure one is very soft and does not run the risk of burning the roots of my plants.

Its greatest virtue, however, is that They release their nutrients little by little, feeding my hydrangeas consistently for several weeks.

A very soft fertilizer ideal for the orchard and garden

The pellet production process involves the controlled decomposition of manure to eliminate pathogens and weed seeds, followed by drying and pressing resulting in a dry product, no unpleasant odors and easy to handle.

This type of organic fertilizer It is ideal for urban gardens and domestic orchards, since its format makes it easy to apply and store. Furthermore, since it is a dry product, it does not attract pests.

Benefits of cow manure for hydrangeas

Hydrangeas, like rhododendrons, prefer slightly acidic soils rich in organic matter.

Composted cow manure provides essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, in balanced proportions that promote the healthy growth of hydrangeas.

Furthermore, this fertilizer improves soil structure, increasing its water retention capacity and promoting the activity of beneficial microorganisms.

This translates into more vigorous hydrangeas, with green leaves and abundant, intensely colored flowers throughout the summer.

How do I apply the pellets to get the best results?

Every spring, When temperatures start to rise, I spread a layer of pellets around the perimeter of the hydrangeas, approximately in the outer third of the crown, where the most active roots are found. Don’t put them too close to the main stem. Then, I incorporate them lightly into the soil with a rake to facilitate decomposition and release of nutrients, and water abundantly.

Then, every time you water your hydrangeas or it rains, the pellets continue to decompose and nourish your plants all season long. It’s like a slow release vitamin for your garden.

I repeat the application in mid-summer, before the end of July, to avoid excessive growth that could affect the winter resistance of the plants.

This routine has transformed my garden, with hydrangeas that bloom profusely well into autumn.

Alternatives and additional tips

• If you do not have cow manure pellets, you can use very mature compost or specific organic fertilizers for hydrangeas.
• Avoid fertilizers that are too rich in nitrogen, since they promote the growth of leaves at the expense of flowers.
• For potted hydrangeasopt for liquid fertilizers formulated for acidophilic plants, applying them every two weeks during the growing season.
• Additionally, maintain a layer of organic mulch above ground helps conserve moisture and maintain soil acidity.
• If you want to influence the color of the flowers, the trick is to modify the acidity of the soil where the hydrangeas grow. It’s magical!

A garden in harmony with nature

Since incorporating cow manure pellets into my gardening routine, my hydrangeas are not only blooming more, but They also appear healthier and more resilient.

Please note that cow manure pellets are not an instant solution. You won’t see results overnight, but in a few weeks you will notice that your hydrangeas are growing. more leafy and exuberant. The leaves will look a healthy green and the larger, showier flowers will continue to sprout throughout the summer.

Plus, you’re giving your floor a long-term boost. Year after year, as you add more organic matter, you create a living ecosystem which supports not only your hydrangeas, but also all the other flowers that feed the bees and butterflies that visit your garden. This natural and sustainable approach contributes to the well-being of the ecosystem.

If you are looking for an effective and ecological way to nourish your hydrangeas, I encourage you to try this method. With patience and care, you will see how your plants respond with an explosion of color and vitality that will brighten your summers.