Wee Bit Grumpy® Hydrangea Bush

The Wee Bit Grumpy® hydrangea, despite its delightfully quirky name, stands as a beacon of joy and brilliance in any garden. Much like its sibling, the Wee Bit Giddy hydrangea, this cultivar is celebrated for its mesmerizing flower hue paired with unparalleled landscape performance. Unveiling its true spectacle in acidic soils, its blooms erupt in a deep, riveting shade of purple-blue, capturing the essence of garden drama, and bright red in neutral to alkaline soils. Emerging from a dense mound of compact, disease-resistant foliage, this hydrangea showcases a resilience unmatched by traditional varieties, braving colder climates with ease.

A touch of whimsy accompanies its name, a humorous nod to its original moniker from the breeder, which invariably drew chuckles whenever its radiant blooms caught the eye. And what blooms they are! Depending on the soil's pH, they can transition from the deep, dreamy purple-blue to a fiery, radiant red. With a stature of 24 inches, its dark green glossy leaves form a harmonious backdrop, resisting wilt and delighting with autumnal interest.

As an embodiment of landscape versatility, the Wee Bit Grumpy hydrangea promises to elevate any garden scene. Whether gracing containers as a 'thriller,' serving as the garden's pièce de résistance, or forming a cohesive low hedge, its value is undeniable. Furthermore, its low-maintenance nature, salt tolerance, and aversion to pruning make it a top pick for gardeners. With its capacity to rebloom and enchant butterflies, combined with its stature perfect for confined spaces, this hydrangea emerges as a radiant gem, equally captivating in fresh bouquets or as dried floral artistry.

Hydrangea Companion Plants: Aster, Astilbe, Dicentra, Viburnum

Proven Winners® Wee Bit Grumpy® Hydrangea macrophylla 'Stragrum'

Planting Instructions:

• - Best planted in early spring or fall for strong root establishment
• - Space plants 3-5 feet apart, depending on the variety and mature size

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-6.5, preferring slightly acidic conditions
• - Thrives in well-drained, moist, and fertile soil; amend with compost if necessary

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply and consistently during the first growing season to establish roots
• - Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; requires more frequent watering during dry spells

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• - Avoid excessive fertilization, as it can lead to weak stems

Pruning and Training:

• - Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak stems
• - Cut back to 12-18 inches to encourage strong new growth, as Smooth Hydrangeas bloom on new wood

Additional Pest Management:

• - Generally pest-resistant but monitor for aphids, spider mites, and slugs
• - Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew or leaf spot

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-9
• - Tolerates both cold winters and summer heat; mulch around the base to retain moisture and protect roots