Hydrangeas add beauty, height, and even privacy to a yard or garden. But to get the most out of them, you need to know before you plant how much sun is best.

Hydrangeas are known for thriving in partially shaded conditions and being vulnerable to leaf scorch, but you can grow these varieties in full-sun exposure.

* What they are: Lots of compact, new, summer-blooming panicle hydrangeas have hit the market in the past few years. Among the best is Proven Winners’ Fire Light Tidbit variety. Although plants stay a ...