Oakleaf Hydrangea Bark Is Peeling Off And Blooms Are Flopping Down

Question From: Westfield, New Jersey, United States
Q: The bark on my oakleaf hydrangea is peeling off. The plant seems healthy, however the blooms are flopping down. What might be the problem?

A: The peeling of the bark is normal. If the plant is young then branches are not yet able to hold the flower clusters up. Rain also adds weight and causes flopping. Too much fertilizer will also result in flopping. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy