How to prune hydrangea

Pruning hydrangeas can help promote healthier growth, encourage blooming, and maintain a desirable size and shape. The method for pruning hydrangeas may vary depending on the species and the desired outcome, but here are some general guidelines:

1. Determine the type of hydrangea: There are several types of hydrangeas, and each has its own pruning requirements. The most common types are:

• Bigleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla): These hydrangeas bloom on old wood, which means the flower buds form on last year's growth. They should be pruned immediately after blooming or in early summer before the new buds develop.

• Panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata): These hydrangeas bloom on new wood, which means they produce new growth and flower buds each year. They can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

• Smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens): These hydrangeas also bloom on new wood and can be pruned in late winter or early spring.

2. Remove dead or damaged wood: Use clean, sharp pruning shears to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood. This will help promote healthier growth and prevent the spread of disease.

3. Remove old wood (for bigleaf hydrangeas): If you have a bigleaf hydrangea, remove any old wood that did not produce new growth or flowers during the previous year. This will help encourage new growth and improve blooming.

4. Remove one-third of the oldest stems (for panicle hydrangeas): For panicle hydrangeas, remove one-third of the oldest stems each year to promote new growth and maintain a healthy size.

5. Cut back to a healthy bud: When pruning, make the cut just above a healthy bud. This will help promote new growth and prevent the stem from becoming too long.

6. Remove any weak or spindly growth: Remove any weak or spindly growth to promote a more compact and vigorous plant.

7. Avoid over-pruning: It's important to avoid over-pruning hydrangeas, as this can reduce blooming and weaken the plant. Only remove what is necessary to maintain the desired size and shape.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a healthy, beautiful hydrangea plant.