What grows well with Hydrangeas?

[Susan Clare Elizabeth]

Hello those of you who wish to respond and/or read this post ...

I created a three-tiered triangular raised bed and on the bottom level, I have three hydrangeas planted. I'm in Texas so here I've learned they have to be grown in early AM sun with shaded afternoons.

They are doing spectacular! I'd like to know what else grows well in that type of soil as my master gardener told me 90% peat moss, 5% soil and 5% sand. The hydrangeas are thriving and took right off and I already have constant blue blooms from adding acidic time-released food granuals (sp?).

What else, I'll take any suggestions, keep in mind I'm in north TX though with scorching hot dry summers, but that bed will be watered 2-3 times per week for sure.

[applestar]

Mine are planted with Astilbe, Spicebush, and Summersweet, with Rhododendrons to the side and dwarf holly bushes on the other side. I also have daffodils in the front. I'm thinking of adding blueberries.

Completely different climate though, so I don't know what works for you.

[luis_pr]

Early and late blooming camellias will do fine too. It is too late in the growing season now but you can see some varieties growing at the Dallas Arboretum. Early blooming sasanquas and late blooming japonicas get around our pesky wild temperatures in mid winter where the ups and downs can make the buds drop in some years. Low growing Encore azaleas would be a good choice too if you maintain the soil acidic. Some roses can do well too provided they are not picky about the amount of sun they get so this suggestion would require checking that the rose variety can grow in part shade and is resistant to BS and PM. There are low growing ever green shrubs too like hostas. Heuchera and astilbe are other good choices.

[msalcido]

I have hostas, japanease ferns, asparagus ferns, and azaleas in my bed with the Hydrangeas. Oh yeah, also have never ending begonias.

Your bed sounds beautiful - post pics if you can.