Pruning Techniques for Hydrangeas: A Comprehensive Guide for Vibrant Blossoms
Mophead hydrangeas, a popular choice for many gardens, are known for their large, rounded flowers and thick stems adorned with large, ovate-shaped leaves. These hydrangeas, scientifically known as Hydrangea macrophylla, bloom on old wood, meaning their flower buds form on growth from the previous year.
Pruning Mophead Hydrangeas
Pruning mophead hydrangeas is essential to maintain their health and encourage a bountiful bloom. The ideal time to prune these plants is immediately after flowering and before the end of July, to avoid cutting off next year’s flower buds.
Pruning Guidelines
- Deadheading: Remove spent blooms during summer to encourage a tidier appearance and potentially more blooms.
- Pruning Timing: Prune right after flowering, typically in mid to late summer but before mid-August, to prevent stimulating late growth that can weaken the plant over winter.
- Pruning Technique: Cut back the growing tips just above a pair of healthy leaf nodes (about the 2nd pair of leaves from the stem base). This encourages healthy branching without damaging next year’s flower buds.
- Avoid Heavy Pruning: Avoid heavy pruning in late fall or early spring since these shrubs set flower buds on last year’s wood, and pruning too late will reduce flowering the following season.
Pruning Other Hydrangea Varieties
The pruning of hydrangea bushes varies by variety. For instance, smooth hydrangeas (H. arborescens) bloom earlier than mophead types and should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Some newer introductions of hydrangeas bloom on both old and new wood, requiring careful consideration when pruning.
Expert Advice
Nikki Tilley, a gardening expert with nearly three decades of experience and the author of six gardening books, offers valuable insights into hydrangea care. Tilley emphasizes the importance of understanding each hydrangea variety's specific pruning needs to ensure a healthy and blooming garden.
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