Prior to planting make sure the root ball of the Hydrangea 'Doppio Azzuro' and/ or 'Doppio Bianco’ is well-moistened by soaking in a bucket of lukewarm water. Put a layer of potsherds in the base of the pot, then fill 2/3rds with potting soil. Remove the plant from the nursery pot and set the root ball in the middle of the pot at the correct depth, the top of the root ball should be just slightly below ground level. Fill with potting soil to 2 cm below the rim of the pot, press firmly and water immediately.
It goes without saying that these hydrangeas also grow perfectly in the open ground.
 
 

Moist soil

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Doppio Azzuro' and/ or 'Doppio Bianco’ grow best in fairly moist, humus-rich soil. Improve your potting soil or garden soil by adding compost. Bear in mind the plant's flower colour - see further under 'Flower colour’ under ‘Details’.
A place in the sun or partial shade is suitable. These plants grow well in full sun as long as the soil isn’t too dry. The soil should be moist if planting in a pot, but make sure there is good drainage or the plant may die.
 

Water your hydrangea macrophylla 'Doppio Azzuro’ and ‘Doppio Bianco’ on a regular basis during dry periods as they are not tolerant of dry soil. For an extra rich bloom add fertiliser (for flowering plants) to the water once a month between March and July. In early spring the hydrangea will benefit from a mix of granulated cow manure.

Hydrangea pruning

The hydrangeas ‘Doppio Azzuro’ and ‘Doppio Bianco’ flower on last year's branches. If you prune during the spring, no flowers will appear that year. Pruning is not absolutely necessary unless the hydrangeas become too large. If you need to rejuvenate the shrubs, remove about 1/3rd of the older branches. New branches will be stimulated. You will have fewer flowers during that year, but the flowers will bloom normally during the second year. This way in 3 years time the bush will be completely rejuvenated.
Completely cut back all dead branches. Carefully cut off all dead flowers in the winter (late February or early March) taking care not to remove the new topmost buds.

There are two types of flower heads in the hydrangea variety macrophylla:

1. Globed flower heads (mop heads) with mostly male flowers.
2. Flat spreading flower heads  (lacecaps) with male flowers around the edges and female flowers in the centres.