With spring on the horizon, gardeners are gearing up to refresh their outdoor spaces, and for hydrangea lovers, one simple trick could ensure breathtaking blooms this season. Gardening expert Louise Findlay-Wilson, founder of Blooming Lucky, has shared a game-changing tip, using fallen leaves as mulch to nourish and protect hydrangeas.

Mulching is a gardening technique where organic material is spread over the soil to help retain moisture, improve structure, and suppress weeds. For hydrangeas, which have shallow, water-thirsty roots, this can be especially beneficial. Dry soil can lead to smaller and fewer blooms, but keeping the ground consistently moist ensures fuller, more vibrant flowers.

Findlay-Wilson explained:"I mulch my hydrangeas every year in the spring after pruning them, using homemade leaf mould. This isn’t about feeding the plants but conditioning the soil and helping it retain moisture—something crucial for my thirsty old hydrangeas."

The benefits of leaf mulch go beyond hydration. It provides a rich habitat for earthworms and beneficial bacteria, which enhance soil health.

Research suggests that leaf mould can increase soil water retention by over 50%, making it a valuable resource for flower beds.

Creating leaf mulch is an easy, cost-effective way to boost garden health. To make your own, gather fallen leaves from your garden and place them in a sturdy plastic sack—preferably a compost bag rather than a flimsy bin liner.

Then, punch holes at the bottom for drainage to allow for natural decomposition.

Store the bag in a shaded area, keeping the leaves moist so they break down effectively.

Over six months to a year, the leaves will transform into a fine mulch that can be spread across hydrangea beds. For those eager to speed up the process, chopping the leaves with a lawnmower before bagging them can help them break down faster.

For an immediate alternative, Findlay-Wilson suggests using well-rotted manure or compost instead.

By following this expert tip, gardeners can maximize their hydrangeas’ beauty, ensuring lush, spectacular blooms throughout the season.