How to Revive a Dying Snowball Hydrangea Plant

Ensure that the snowball hydrangea is receiving at least 1 inch of water every week, as lack of adequate moisture stresses the plant and may eventually cause it to wilt and die. Water is especially important in hot weather and when the shrub is blooming in spring. If the plant appears droopy on hot days, water it.

Spread 1 to 2 inches of mulch under the shrub to preserve moisture and keep the roots cool. Use an organic mulch such as compost or shredded bark.

Provide snowball hydrangeas with adequate nutrition in the form of several light feedings throughout the growing season. Otherwise the plants, which are fairly heavy feeders, may fail to thrive. Apply a general-purpose garden fertilizer in early spring, late spring and midsummer. Use the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Spray or dust the hydrangea with a fungicide if the plant displays signs of powdery mildew, often due to poor air ventilation or lack of sunlight. Powdery mildew is easily recognized by the appearance of a powdery gray or white substance on the leaves. Apply fungicide strictly according to the directions on the label.

Spray the shrub with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap if you see signs of aphids or spider mites. Aphids are tiny green bugs that congregate on the underside and joints of leaves. Spider mites are tiny and are often recognized by the resulting yellowing, stippled leaves. Heavy infestations may require insecticide.

Prune dead or dying growth if the snowball hydrangea is affected by fungal disease, which can cause the shoots and leaves to wilt and eventually drop from the plant. Fungal disease is recognized by discolored or spotted foliage and grayish-brown, mold-like spores. Keep the area under the plant clean and free of leaves and other debris. Water the plant at the base to keep the leaves dry.