Hydrangeas typically flower from mid-spring through the late summer or even the autumn. Some gardeners may have begun already noticing hydrangea flowers arriving in their gardens, but if you're unhappy with the size and amount of blooms your plant is producing there is a "bloom boosting" method you can try.

There are a few elements which can lead to "bigger and better" blooms, but according to David Becker of The Farm at Green Village, fertiliser can go a long way. The gardening expert shared his hydrangea-boosting tips with Martha Stewart.

David explained that just a little fertiliser can go a long way if you are hoping to see your hydrangeas reach their full potential. He recommends what he describes as "a bloom booster" fertiliser, using high levels of phosphate.

However, his recommendation also comes with a warning. Too much of the wrong fertiliser could actually have the opposite impact on your plants and cause them more harm than good.

He said: "Keep in mind that adding too much nitrogen to the soil in spring may reduce flowering."

Over-fertilising your hydrangeas can also end up growing the leaves at the expense of the flowers, so it's important not to go overboard. Gardeners World suggests fertilising just once a year in the spring to avoid leafy growth.

Which fertiliser can be used on hydrangeas?

Organic, slow-release fertilisers for roses can also work well for hydrangeas. Experts from Garden Design explained: "If you’re looking for big blooms - and lots of them - this is the right fertiliser for your hydrangeas."

Similarly, an organic, all-purpose, slow-release and balanced fertiliser will also work well. Gardeners World also suggests simply using well-rotted manure, though they advise only doing this once a year during the spring.

How to care for hydrangeas

When it comes to helping your hydrangea plant reach its full potential, far more comes into play than fertiliser alone. Hydrangeas should be planted in moist, free-draining sun and do like a little bit of shade.

You should make sure to water your plant regularly, sometimes as much as once a week - especially during hot, dry periods of the year.

Make sure to keep up with a pruning schedule. Hydrangeas typically need to be pruned In mid-spring. However, hydrangeas produce flowers on old wood so make sure not to prune them back too much as you will risk losing your summer flowers.

Cut back the flowerhead to just above the top set of plump buds.