Deadheading Hydrangeas in Central Florida Heat

Pruning Spent Hydrangea Blooms for Plant Health

In central Florida’s heat, potted hydrangeas struggle. Greenish blooms indicate they’re spent, not a pH shift.

Correct Deadheading

1. Cut on a 45° angle just above the next set of true leaves (the first full leaf pair below the bloom).
2. Use clean, sharp bypass pruners.
3. Remove all spent flower heads.

Post-Pruning Care

• Move pot to a shadier spot (morning sun only) to reduce stress.
• Water consistently—hydrangeas wilt fast in heat.
• Mulch soil surface to retain moisture.
• Fertilize lightly with balanced slow-release after new growth appears.

Color Note

Blue/pink color is pH-dependent (acid = blue, alkaline = pink). Green fading is natural aging. For future color control, test soil pH and amend accordingly.