Pruning Hydrangeas: A Guide for Beginners
Introduction
Hydrangeas are beautiful flowering shrubs that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. But when it comes to pruning hydrangeas, things can get a little confusing. Some types bloom on old wood, while others bloom on new wood. And then there are those that bloom on both old and new wood. So, when should you prune hydrangeas? And how do you know which type you have?
Types of Hydrangeas
The first step to pruning hydrangeas is to identify the type of hydrangea you have. There are four main types of hydrangeas:
- Panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata) bloom on new wood only.
- Smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens) also bloom on new wood only.
- Oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia) bloom on old wood only.
- Mophead hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) can bloom on both old and new wood, depending on the variety.
When to Prune Hydrangeas
The best time to prune hydrangeas depends on the type of hydrangea you have.
- Panicle hydrangeas and smooth hydrangeas can be pruned in the fall or early spring. However, it is best to wait until spring to reduce the risk of injury.
- Oakleaf hydrangeas should be pruned just as the season’s flowers are fading, and no later.
- Mophead hydrangeas should only be pruned after the flowers have faded.
How to Prune Hydrangeas
Once you know when to prune your hydrangeas, you need to know how to do it properly. Here are some general tips:
- Use sharp, clean pruning shears.
- Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle.
- Remove dead, diseased, or damaged stems.
- Thin out crowded stems to improve air circulation.
- Cut back stems to a desired length or shape.
Special Considerations for Mophead Hydrangeas
Mophead hydrangeas are a bit more tricky to prune than other types of hydrangeas. This is because they can bloom on both old and new wood, depending on the variety. If you prune a mophead hydrangea at the wrong time, you could sacrifice next year’s flowers.
To avoid this, it is important to identify the type of mophead hydrangea you have. If you have a variety that blooms on old wood only, you should prune it just after the flowers have faded. If you have a variety that blooms on both old and new wood, you can prune it in the fall or early spring.
Conclusion
Pruning hydrangeas is not difficult, but it is important to do it properly. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your hydrangeas healthy and blooming beautifully for years to come.
