Hydrangea Pruning Basics

Hydrangeas present a conundrum for gardeners because no single pruning method suits all types. Here are the basics: when to prune, how to prune, and key mistakes to avoid.

Hydrangea Pruning 101

When asked why a hydrangea isn't blooming, horticulturalist Vincent Simeone often asks about pruning practices. "Improper pruning causes a lot of blooming problems," says Simeone, author of Great Flowering Landscape Shrubs.

Many gardeners don't understand that not all hydrangeas bloom the same way: some bloom on new wood, some on previous year's wood. Pruning at the wrong time eliminates upcoming blooms.

View our guide to hydrangea growing and care.

When to Prune Hydrangea

Pee Gee hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata, including 'Limelight') and smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens, 'Annabelle') bloom on new wood. Timing is less critical. "Prune in winter or early spring and they will grow and flower in the same season," says Simeone.

Big leaf (mophead) hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) and oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) bloom on previous season's growth. "If pruned at the wrong time, they either won't flower or flower sporadically." Prune soon after summer flowering, never severely—less than one-third at a time.

Newer big leaf varieties like 'Endless Summer' bloom on new and old wood. Better for cold climates because new growth blooms even if old stems suffer cold damage. More pruning flexibility: "Prune any time and it should still bloom," but pruning after bloom maximizes flowering.

See how to dry cut hydrangea.

How to Prune Hydrangea

Remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time. Objective determines method: shaping tall plants means taking top growth down; severe rejuvenation means cutting branches near ground.

How to Grow Hydrangea