It is not uncommon for hydrangeas to look tired, tattered, with some leaf spots at this time of the year.  We do not think your hydrangea looks bad. 

In general hydrangea can be susceptible to several fungal and bacterial leaf spot diseases. Cercospora is a fungal disease becoming more common on hydrangeas and different cultivars vary in their susceptibility. Better circulation is helpful, but in our hot, humid summers, it's pretty much unavoidable. Fungicides are not recommended as you would have to spray all season.

Avoid overhead watering and remove heavily spotted foliage during the growing season. If all leaves are affected this is not practical. Simply remove any fallen leaves from around the base of the shrub at the end of the growing season. These sanitation practices will help to manage the disease from year to year. https://www.uaex.edu/publications/pdf/FSA-7570.pdf

Big leaf hydrangeas grow best in morning sun and afternoon shade in a moist well drained soil. Mulch should be no thicker than several inches and away from the base of the stems. Here is more information http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=265518

Marian



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