Winter Care for Potted Hydrangeas in Cold Climates

Protecting Container Hydrangeas Through Winter

An Illinois gardener has two first-year hydrangeas in large pots, already experiencing freezing nights and looking poor, asking about indoor storage and pruning.

Outdoor Protection Preferred

Ed Gulliksen advises against moving indoors—temperature shock causes more harm. Instead:

• Wrap in burlap – Protects from wind desiccation
• Move to sheltered outdoor spot – Reduces exposure
• Do not prune – Removes next year's flower buds (set on old wood)

Dormant plants need cold protection, not warmth. Spring will reveal survival.