Hydrangea Pruning Guide: Timing by Species

Hydrangea Pruning Guide: Timing by Species

A gardener asks how often and when to prune their hydrangea bush.

Critical Distinction

Pruning depends entirely on whether it blooms on old wood or new wood:

• Old wood bloomers (H. macrophylla, H. serrata, H. quercifolia, H. anomala): Prune only to remove dead wood in late spring. Any other pruning removes flowers.
• New wood bloomers (H. paniculata, H. arborescens): Can be pruned hard in early spring before growth starts.

Frequency

Once a year is sufficient for either type.

Action

Identify your hydrangea species first. If unsure, prune only dead wood in spring and observe bloom pattern.