People with hydrangeas in their garden have been given a top tip to help the flowers bloom their brightest. Gardening guru Chris Ware from Climbing Wild Gardeners has revealed the ordinary kitchen leftovers that could be the secret to a beautiful display. Hydrangeas are hungry for nutrients and Ware advises garden lovers to use domestic waste instead of opting for shop-bought solutions. 

He said: "Hydrangeas produce their best blooms with intense colour when they are well-fed. Instead of relying on shop-bought fertilisers, gardeners can use simple kitchen waste to nourish their plants naturally." Eggshells can be used to increase the strength of soil and the growth of hydrangeas.

Ware explained: "Eggshells are an excellent natural fertiliser. They add calcium to the soil, which helps plants absorb nutrients more efficiently, leading to stronger stems and larger flowers."

Gardeners should dehydrate the eggshells, grind them into a delicate dust, and then scatter it around each plant.

Old coffee grounds can also be used to get the same effect. Ware said: "Used coffee grounds provide a valuable source of nitrogen, which promotes lush foliage and enhances flower colour."

The coffee remains must be stripped of excessive oils before being evenly distributed on top of the soil. This enhances both the soil’s structure and its ability to hold water.

Adding acidic kitchen waste like citrus peels can also help create the perfect environment for hydrangeas as they are influenced by the soil's pH levels.

Ware commented: "Citrus peels, such as orange and lemon peel, are rich in potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, making them a great addition to hydrangea soil."

To prevent mould, he suggested thoroughly drying the peels before incorporating them into the garden, ensuring they decompose slowly and benefit the plants over time.

This method allows gardeners to feed their blooms sustainably without using artificial fertilisers.

Ware concluded: "These simple, natural ingredients work wonders for hydrangeas. They encourage healthier growth, more robust blooms and richer colours, all without costing a penny."