Winterizing Peonies, Hydrangeas, and Pruning Jackmanii Clematis

Peony and Hydrangea Winter Care

• Peonies: Cut stems to 3–4 inches above ground after frost. Mulch with 2–3 inches of straw or shredded leaves.
• Hydrangeas: Remove only dead wood. Do not prune live stems on macrophylla types—they bloom on old wood.

Jackmanii Clematis (Group 3) Pruning

Jackmanii blooms on new growth. Prune in late winter/early spring:

1. Cut all stems back to strong leaf buds 12–24 inches from ground.
2. Remove dead or weak growth.
3. Train new shoots onto expanded trellis.

This vigorous pruning encourages abundant flowering on the current season's vines. Add compost and slow-release fertilizer after pruning.

Trellis Tip: Install taller support before new growth starts to avoid damaging tender shoots.