Hydrangea Festival

The annual Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival returns, celebrating the iconic plant that makes Cape Cod so stunning from July through September. See the expanded North American Hydrangea Test Garden, the Cape Cod Hydrangea Society’s superb Display Garden, participate in workshops, purchase plants, and tour Heritage’s gardens, which now include eight species of hydrangeas and over 170 exceptional cultivars. All programs are free with museum admission. No advance registration required.

Hydrangea Basics Walk and Talk
Friday, July 12–Sunday, July 21, 11-11:45 am
Knowledgeable guides lead a walk through the Cape Cod Hydrangea Society Garden’s historic cultivars and the North American Hydrangea Test Garden’s current reblooming hybrid varieties, providing an introduction to growth and blooming characteristics, and discussing cultural best practices for your hydrangeas.

Pruning Demonstration
Saturday, July 13: 1:30-2:30 pm
Tuesday, July 16: 1:30-2:30 pm
Friday, July 19: 1:30-2:30 pm
Join the Heritage Horticulture staff to learn how to selectively prune your plants to improve vigor, increase bloom density, check plant height, and enhance ornamental value. Discuss the tools, techniques, and timing needed for effective pruning, and watch a demonstration of summer pinch pruning.

All Things h. macrophylla – Getting to Know Our Favorite Species Better
Sunday, July 14: 1:30-2:30 pm
Wednesday, July 17: 1:30-2:30 pm
We all love the h. macs! These are the most common type of hydrangea found in the U.S., also called bigleaf hydrangeas, recognized by their large mophead or lacecap blooms. Their great bloom form and color range can be exceptional. But consistent success with this species can be difficult and frustrating. Our Curator of Hydrangeas Mal Condon will share his personal cultural experiences and offer some best practices for achieving better plant performance.

Heavenly Hydrangeas Talk and Book Signing
Saturday, July 20: 1:30-2:30 pm
Join local author and expert Joan Harrison for this special session as she shares the best methods for achieving vibrant bloom color. Her book, Heavenly Hydrangeas, will be available for purchase and for signing.

Unsung Hydrangea Stars
Sunday, July 8: 1:30-2:30 pm
Thursday, July 12: 1:30-2:30 pm
Members of the Heritage Horticulture staff will reveal their own “best” selections – those hydrangeas that have been the most consistently good performers in our plantings throughout Heritage. Bring your questions for the staff, who will share the particulars that contributed to their choices.