The three kitchen scraps that will make your hydrangeas bloom beautifully with ‘intense colour’ this spring
GARDENING fans have been urged to save their kitchen scraps to help a fan-favourite flower bloom with “intense” colour this spring.
Hydrangeas can grow the best, vibrant blooms thanks to three everyday food staples, according to a local gardening expert.
Chris Ware, gardening expert at Climbing Wild Gardeners, explains that the plant thrives when given a steady supply of nutrients.
“Hydrangeas produce their best blooms with intense colour when they are well-fed,” he says.
“Instead of relying on shop-bought fertilisers, gardeners can use simple kitchen waste to nourish their plants naturally.”
And one of the easiest ways to improve soil health and strengthen hydrangea growth is by using eggshells.
“Eggshells are an excellent natural fertiliser,” Chris explains.
“They add calcium to the soil, which helps plants absorb nutrients more efficiently, leading to stronger stems and larger flowers.”
To use eggshells, he advises drying them out and crushing them into a fine powder before sprinkling them around the base of hydrangea plants.
Another simple kitchen waste item that benefits hydrangeas is coffee grounds.
“Used coffee grounds provide a valuable source of nitrogen, which promotes lush foliage and enhances flower colour,” Chris notes.
He suggests using coffee grounds that are free from excess oils and spreading them evenly over the soil to improve its structure and help with water retention.
Hydrangeas are known for their ability to change colour depending on soil pH, and adding acidic food scraps can help maintain the right conditions.
“Citrus peels, such as orange and lemon peel, are rich in potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, making them a great addition to hydrangea soil,” Chris explains.
To prevent mould growth, he advises drying the peels fully before adding them to the garden. “This ensures they break down gradually, providing long-term benefits for the plants.”
By making use of common kitchen waste, gardeners can nourish their hydrangeas in an environmentally friendly way while avoiding synthetic fertilisers.
“These simple, natural ingredients work wonders for hydrangeas,” Chris says.
“They encourage healthier growth, more robust blooms, and richer colours—all without costing a penny.”
For those looking to enhance their garden with bigger, brighter hydrangea flowers, these everyday household scraps offer an easy and effective solution.