1. Planting: Plant Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea ‘Tree’ in full sun to light partial shade with fertile, well-drained soil. Set the root ball level with the surrounding soil, backfill firmly, and water thoroughly after planting.
2. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during the first growing season to help roots establish. Once established, water during dry spells, especially in hot weather, exposed sites, or fast-draining soils.
3. Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch over the root zone to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature. Keep mulch pulled back from the trunk to protect the bark.
4. Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Maintain the single-trunk tree form by removing suckers from the base and lower stem, then lightly shape the canopy for strong flowering stems.