How to Grow Variegated Hydrangeas in North Carolina

Prepare the soil for planting the hydrangea. The mountain areas in the western part of the state typically have more acidic soil favorable for variegated hydrangea growth. Add humus to the soil to increase the acidity level and loam in areas such as the Southern Piedmont, which have heavier clay soil, and the coastal areas, which are mostly sand. Incorporate the humus thoroughly with the shovel to create a loamy and well-drained bed for planting.

Water newly planted hydrangeas so that the soil is moist for at least the first year, to ensure that the plant will receive adequate moisture for root growth. Water the soil until it is damp, but do not saturate. Unless there is adequate rainfall to do the job for you, water the plant once a week. If your area is experiencing extremely hot conditions, water twice a week.

Lightly prune the variegated hydrangea after it has finished blooming to maintain the shape of the plant. Use pruners to remove any dead material and to remove branches that extend beyond the natural shape of the shrub.

Apply an acid-rich fertilizer in the early spring to help promote strong growth and bloom production. A slow-release fertilizer can also be used; however, an acid-rich fertilizer will help maintain the acidity level in the soil that hydrangeas crave.