Best Time And Tips For When To Cut Hydrangeas - Applying fertilizer can help stimulate new growth, but it’s not always necessary. Hydrangeas come in a variety of species, and each type has its own unique growth habits that dictate when and how they should be cut. Knowing the type of hydrangea you have is the first step in determining the right care routine.
Applying fertilizer can help stimulate new growth, but it’s not always necessary.
This is the ideal time to prune hydrangeas that bloom on old wood, such as Bigleaf and Oakleaf varieties. By cutting immediately after flowering, you give the plant enough time to set buds for the next season.
Panicle hydrangeas are a hardy species and bloom on new wood, making them more forgiving when it comes to pruning. Their cone-shaped flowers add a dramatic flair to gardens.
Place the stems in water immediately after cutting and change the water every few days.
Knowing when to cut hydrangeas is essential for their health and beauty. By understanding the type of hydrangea and its growth habits, you can ensure proper pruning and enjoy lush, vibrant blooms year after year. With the tips and guidelines provided in this article, you'll be well-equipped to care for your hydrangeas effectively.
Smooth hydrangeas, like the popular ‘Annabelle’ variety, bloom on new wood and require annual pruning to maintain their shape and size.
Using the right tools ensures clean cuts and reduces the risk of damaging the plant. Here’s what you’ll need:
In some cases, deadheading (removal of spent flowers) can encourage a second round of blooms, especially in varieties that bloom on new wood.
Cutting hydrangeas serves multiple purposes, ranging from aesthetic enhancements to promoting plant health. Here’s why pruning is crucial:
Regular cutting ensures the plant focuses on fewer, but higher-quality blooms. Overcrowded branches can lead to smaller, less vibrant flowers.
Oakleaf hydrangeas are native to the United States and bloom on old wood. Their foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange in autumn.
Yes, most hydrangeas can recover, but it may take a growing season for them to bloom again.
For hydrangeas that bloom on new wood, like Panicle and Smooth varieties, late winter or early spring is the best time for pruning. This encourages vigorous new growth during the growing season.
Distinguishing between old wood and new growth is essential for proper pruning. Here’s how you can tell:
Pruning at the wrong time can reduce the number of blooms or damage the plant.