Hydrangea Not Blooming Due to Spring Pruning

Pruning at the Wrong Time

A hydrangea that bloomed once in three years then stopped is likely being pruned in early spring, removing all flower buds. Hydrangeas bloom on old wood.

Correct Pruning

• Prune only after flowering (summer).
• Remove dead wood and shape lightly.
• Deadhead spent blooms to first strong bud pair.

Even "Dead" Sticks Matter

Brown, leafless stems from last year bear this year's flower buds. Cutting them off eliminates blooms.

Resource

Hydrangea bloom troubleshooting.