Hotter summers may force RHS to move hydrangeas to north of England
Summary
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) says hotter summers and heatwaves in England are harming hydrangeas, a popular flowering shrub. Because of this, the RHS is planning to move its hydrangea collection from southern England to northern gardens where the climate is cooler and wetter.Key Facts
- Hydrangeas change color based on soil and usually grow well in Britain’s mild, damp climate.
- The RHS reported that questions about heat and drought damage to hydrangeas have more than tripled since 2023.
- Hydrangeas became the most reported plant suffering from hot weather problems by 2025 and remain so in 2026.
- The RHS may move hydrangeas from Wisley, Surrey, to its northern gardens in Manchester and North Yorkshire.
- Hydrangea types like Hydrangea macrophylla are more affected by heat, especially in sunny and sandy spots.
- Northern gardens have better soil and cooler climates, helping hydrangeas survive hotter summers.
- Other plants like figs, almonds, bananas, and lotus trees are doing better in RHS gardens despite climate changes.
- The RHS advises gardeners to place hydrangeas in shade during heatwaves, water deeply, apply mulch, and move plants to cooler spots when needed.
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