Troubleshooting
Hydrangea 'Bobo' problems — and how to fix them
Hydrangea 'Bobo' (Hydrangea paniculata 'Bobo') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Drying out in containers
Small root volume in pots dries quickly; check daily in summer and use moisture-retentive compost.
Powdery mildew
Occurs in warm, dry conditions; water at the base and ensure adequate air circulation around container plants.
Spider mites in dry conditions
Fine webbing under leaves in hot, dry summers; mist foliage lightly in evening or treat with insecticidal soap.
Winter damage in exposed containers
Root zone in pots is vulnerable to freezing; insulate containers with bubble wrap or move to a sheltered spot in very cold winters.
Sparse flowering in shade
Insufficient light reduces bloom production; move container plants to a sunnier position.
Prevent hydrangea 'bobo' problems before they start
Most hydrangea 'bobo' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hydrangea 'Bobo' problems — FAQ
Why is my hydrangea 'bobo' drying out in containers?
Small root volume in pots dries quickly; check daily in summer and use moisture-retentive compost.
Why is my hydrangea 'bobo' powdery mildew?
Occurs in warm, dry conditions; water at the base and ensure adequate air circulation around container plants.
Why is my hydrangea 'bobo' spider mites in dry conditions?
Fine webbing under leaves in hot, dry summers; mist foliage lightly in evening or treat with insecticidal soap.
Why is my hydrangea 'bobo' winter damage in exposed containers?
Root zone in pots is vulnerable to freezing; insulate containers with bubble wrap or move to a sheltered spot in very cold winters.
Why is my hydrangea 'bobo' sparse flowering in shade?
Insufficient light reduces bloom production; move container plants to a sunnier position.