Hydrangeas at Risk: RHS May Move Them North Due to Hotter Summers 2026

Hydrangeas are facing a new threat from hotter summers, and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is considering moving its collection to northern England. As heatwaves become more frequent, these beloved shrubs, known for their pink, purple, and blue blooms, are struggling in southern gardens. This shift highlights how climate change is reshaping gardening practices across the UK.

Why Hydrangeas Are Suffering in Southern England

The RHS has seen a dramatic rise in inquiries about drought and heat damage to hydrangeas. Since 2023, reports have more than tripled, making hydrangeas the most frequently reported plant for hot weather problems. The charity's data shows that hydrangeas jumped from seventh to first place in just two years, and they remain the top concern in 2026.

The main culprit is the Hydrangea macrophylla types, including mophead and lacecaps, which are particularly sensitive to dry, sunny conditions. Sandy soils, like those at RHS Wisley in Surrey, exacerbate the stress. In contrast, Hydrangea paniculata varieties show more resilience, especially in light shade or moister soils.

The RHS's Plan to Move Hydrangeas North

To protect its collection, the RHS is planning to relocate hydrangeas from Wisley to its northern gardens in Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. These locations offer better soil and a cooler, more humid climate that is more favorable for hydrangeas. Guy Barter, chief horticulturist at the RHS, explains: "Our northern gardens have better soils and a superior climate for hydrangeas, hence the shift in emphasis."

This move is not just about preserving a plant; it's a practical response to climate change. As summers become hotter and drier, gardeners across the UK will need to adapt their planting choices. The RHS's decision serves as a model for how to manage gardens in a warming world.

How to Protect Your Hydrangeas in Hot Climates

If you live in a region with hot, dry summers, you can still enjoy hydrangeas with the right care. Here are some tips from horticultural experts:

• Plant hydrangeas in light shade or on north-facing slopes to reduce sun exposure.
• Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and keep roots cool.
• Water deeply and regularly, especially during heatwaves, but avoid waterlogging.
• Choose more resilient varieties like Hydrangea paniculata or Hydrangea arborescens.
• Improve soil with organic matter to increase water retention.

Climate Change and Gardening: A Data-Driven Look

The RHS's data reveals a clear trend. The table below shows the rise in hydrangea-related heat damage inquiries:

This data underscores the urgency for gardeners to rethink their plant selections. As temperatures rise, traditional favorites may no longer thrive in their historical locations. The RHS's proactive approach is a lesson for all gardeners: adapt or lose your plants.

What This Means for British Gardens

The potential relocation of hydrangeas is a symbolic moment for British gardening. It signals that climate change is not a distant threat but a present reality. Gardeners will need to embrace more drought-tolerant plants and innovative planting techniques. The RHS's move also highlights the importance of regional microclimates in horticulture.

For now, hydrangea lovers in the south can take heart: with careful placement and watering, these plants can still flourish. But the long-term trend is clear. As Guy Barter notes, "As the climate changes, bringing hotter drier summers, gardeners, like the RHS, will have to be more selective about where they plant hydrangeas."

Key Takeaways

• Hydrangeas are the top plant affected by heat and drought, according to RHS data.
• The RHS is moving its collection to cooler northern gardens.
• Choose resilient varieties and provide shade and moisture to protect hydrangeas.
• Climate change is forcing gardeners to adapt their planting strategies.

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