Pruning Hydrangeas: A Guide to Healthy Blooms
Hydrangeas, with their vibrant blooms, are a favorite in many gardens. Proper pruning ensures they remain healthy and produce abundant flowers. Here’s how to prune different types of hydrangeas:
1. Smooth Hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens):
Varieties like ‘Annabelle’ bloom on new wood. Prune them in late winter or early spring, cutting back to the ground or about 1 foot tall. This stimulates new growth and larger flowers. (ctpublic.org)
2. Bigleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla):
These include mophead and lacecap types, blooming on old wood. Prune them after they finish flowering in mid-summer. Remove dead or damaged stems and thin out crowded branches to maintain shape. (ctpublic.org)
3. Panicle Hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata):
Varieties like ‘PeeGee’ bloom on new wood. Prune them in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove crowded branches. This encourages vigorous growth and abundant flowers. (ctpublic.org)
4. Mountain Hydrangeas (Hydrangea serrata):
Similar to bigleaf hydrangeas, they bloom on old wood. Wait to prune until new growth appears in spring. Cut back to live buds, ensuring cuts are just above the first set of healthy buds. (extension.unh.edu)
General Pruning Tips:
- Timing: Prune hydrangeas that bloom on new wood in late winter or early spring. Those that bloom on old wood should be pruned after flowering.
- Tools: Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make precise cuts.
- Technique: Always cut just above a bud, angling the cut away from the bud to promote healthy growth.
By understanding the specific needs of each hydrangea type and following these pruning guidelines, gardeners can enjoy lush, colorful blooms throughout the growing season.
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