Yellowing (and falling) lower leaves on Hydrangea

I have a few Hydrangea plants, this one is in a very different area to the rest. It gets a moderate amount of sun through the day and it's not overly wet (or dry).

The lower leaves are yellowing and falling off while the upper leaves look fine.

The other Hydrangeas in different locations don't have this issue even though they are from the same original plant (all are cuttings which are maturing well).

Is this a nutrient deficiency and, if so, what's the best treatment?

Thanks

 

A photo will help, as well as more info about the site, the soil, and the size of the plant. The type of hydrangea also has an effect on how well it'll do.
Most won't be happy with the searing heat that's been around in the south this year, so they'll shed foliage to try and stay alive, especially if it's a young plant. Even a few hours of that heat/sun if it's happening long term, will adversely affect plants, even tough ones like hydrangeas.
It's never a good idea to feed a plant that's struggling.

 

The lower leaves are the oldest and if the hydrangea didn't lose it's leaves over winter then they will have been last years leaves, leaves wear out over time so the plant removes the reusable parts and drop them.
I wouldn't worry if it's just the lower leaves; if new shoots are discoloured then it could be a nutrient deficiency and a feed might help.
As for watering, if a hydrangea has wilted over the day I leave it overnight and check the next morning if still wilted then it gets a good watering, if it's recovered then that's ok.
You say the younger plants are looking alright in different locations, they are younger and growing in different conditions so you'd expect them to behave a bit differently.

 

Thanks. When I say younger plants I meant the other cuttings that were taken at the same time. This plant isn't huge, it's about two feet in height and width.

 

If it still has some healthy leaves I wouldn't worry too much. Just make sure it has plenty of water.

 

Selective loss of leaves is typical of many plants during dry conditions. My Hydrangea Paniculata has got yellowed leaves lower down, green leaves further up and is currently flowering. I've put some more mulch at the base and am giving it extra water.