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How to Deadhead Hydrangeas
What is Deadheading?
Deadheading is removing spent blooms from plants to encourage new growth and flowering. For hydrangeas, deadheading is not crucial, but it can help improve the plant’s appearance and encourage larger blooms next year.
When to Deadhead Hydrangeas
The best time to deadhead hydrangeas depends on the type of hydrangea you have:
- Mophead hydrangeas: Leave the dead flowerheads on the plant over winter to protect the growth buds from frost. Remove them in spring.
- Lacecap hydrangeas: Deadhead spent blooms as soon as they fade, but no later than early August.
How to Deadhead Hydrangeas
To deadhead hydrangeas, follow these steps:
- Use clean, sharp secateurs.
- Identify the flowerhead you want to remove.
- Travel down the stem, away from the flower, to the next pair of leaves.
- Make a clean cut directly above the pair of leaves.
- Repeat for all spent blooms.
Benefits of Deadheading Hydrangeas
Deadheading hydrangeas can provide several benefits, including:
- Improved appearance of the plant
- Encouragement of larger blooms next year
- Prevention of seed production, which can divert energy from flower production
Conclusion
Deadheading hydrangeas is a simple task that can help improve the health and appearance of your plants. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily deadhead your hydrangeas and enjoy beautiful blooms year after year.
