Purple Big Leaf Hydrangea Color Is Gone And Leaves Turned Brown And Withered

Question From: MICHIGAN
Q: I planted a purple big leaf hydrangea on 5/3. Since then, all the purple color is gone, leaving the leaves brown and withered. I have tried to acidify the soil by using coffee grounds and water mixed with white vinegar without success. Any suggestions? Thank you for your time. Donna

A: If that hydrangea is 'Plum Purple' from Monrovia, it is not listed as zone hardy in Michigan and will not survive the winter, My guess is it suffered from lack of water and frost burn. Take the time to read the sections on Hydrangeas on Yardener com. Your home concoction to acidify the soil will not work and the pH did not cause the leaves to die. Good Luck and Best Regards, Nancy