Hydrangea bud

To assess the flowering capacity of hydrangeas, bud development scales are used, ranging from the vegetative stage to the formation of a mature inflorescence. Researchers dissect terminal and lateral buds to record the degree of flower primordia differentiation and perform morphometric measurements of their length and width.

A high productivity index is considered when flowering induction in lateral buds exceeds 90%, which ensures regular flowering and reduces risks during pruning. Cultivars that initiate primordia only in terminal buds are more demanding regarding the preservation of last year's wood and temperature regimes during the bud formation period.

Cultivation technology depends directly on the site of bud initiation. In species that flower on current-year shoots, bud induction occurs at different times and is less dependent on winter damage than in species that flower on old wood. The quantity and condition of the buds are key criteria for the quality of nursery stock and the ornamental value of the shrub.