Hydrangeas are not just a stunning focal point in any garden; they also bring a level of confusion to gardeners everywhere. From pH regulation to flower color, these plants keep us on our toes! Pruning hydrangeas can be straightforward once you know which type you have. There are four main types of hydrangeas, each with its own pruning requirements. Before you grab your shears, it’s important to identify the type of hydrangea growing in your yard and follow the appropriate guidelines for successful blooming.
Bigleaf hydrangeas, such as Dear Dolores™ and ‘Big Daddy,’ belong to the species Hydrangea macrophylla. This group is the most diverse and includes both mophead and lace-cap varieties. They bloom on old wood, meaning that their flowers come from last year’s shoots. Pruning in spring would remove the flower buds, resulting in a year with no blooms. Instead, bigleaf hydrangeas should be pruned in summer after flowering. Aim to remove up to a third of the stems each season, starting with the weakest ones, while allowing some old, productive shoots and strong new ones to remain.
Smooth hydrangeas, also known as wild hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens), are native to the eastern and southern United States. The most well-known variety is ‘Annabelle.’ These plants bloom on new wood that grows in spring. To encourage abundant blooms, they are typically cut back to the ground at the end of winter or early spring. If you prefer a larger shrub shape, you can cut some stems down to the ground while leaving others at a height of one to two feet.
Panicled hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata), often referred to as PeeGee hydrangeas, also bloom on new wood and can be pruned in late winter or early spring. The amount you prune will depend on how tall you want the shrub to grow. You can lightly prune to maintain an ideal shape or cut back more heavily to promote a compact form with larger flower clusters. Another option is to shape them into a tree form.
Oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia), like Tara™, are robust shrubs known for their lush foliage and stunning blooms. They require minimal pruning and bloom on old wood. In spring, simply remove any dead or damaged branches. If you want to improve the shape of the plant, pruning can be done in summer after flowering.
Regardless of the type of hydrangea you have in your garden, understanding their specific needs can help you get the most out of these beautiful plants. Happy gardening! 🌿🌼
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