Hello, irish50. Sorry no one has answered your post. The gallery does not appear too active now that people have Internet connections where displaying pictures happens right a way.

Regarding your question, and realizing it was asked a while back ago, I notice browning of the leaf edges when pests are bothering the hydrangea or when the plant needs more water. If it needs more water, the leaves will brown out from the edges inwards and fall.

I think moisture is the problem. The winds that you are referring to are probably drying out the soil quickly. Try to find a location that protectss the plant from too much wind and still gives it morning sun and afternoon shade.

You may also want to add a little mulch on top to see if helps keep the potting soil moist longer. And give it some water until you see water coming out of the drainage holes; then pause so most of the water goes out thru the drainage holes and water it again. Someone told me that way of watering helped more than just watering once but I cannot remember what was the logic behind it.

Luis