Do I Cut The Blooms Off Hydrangea: Tips and Techniques

Table of Contents

Introduction Hydrangea Flowers

Hydrangeas are notorious for their large, beautiful blooms that add a pop of color to any garden. However, many gardeners wonder whether it's necessary to cut off the blooms once they begin to fade. In this article, we'll explore the reasons why you should or shouldn't cut off hydrangea blooms and provide tips and techniques for proper pruning.

Do I Cut The Blooms Off Hydrangea? Yes or No?

The answer to the question of whether you should cut off hydrangea blooms is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors, including the type of hydrangea, the desired look of the plant, and whether or not you want to encourage new growth and improved flower production.

Reasons You Should Cut Off Blooms

One reason to cut off hydrangea blooms is to encourage the plant to put more energy into root and leaf growth rather than flowers. Another reason is aesthetic - some gardeners prefer the clean look of a hydrangea bush without faded blooms. Additionally, removing old blooms before they go to seed can help prevent self-seeding and unwanted spread in the garden.

Reasons Not To Cut Off Blooms

On the other hand, cutting off hydrangea blooms can also remove potential buds for the next year's flowers. Some hydrangea varieties, such as mophead and lacecap hydrangeas, produce flowers on old wood, meaning the buds for the next year's blooms grow on last year's branches. Pruning too aggressively can remove these buds and result in little to no blooms the following year.

Hydrangea Pruning Techniques

Prune Annabelle Varieties in Late Winter to Early Spring

Annabelle hydrangeas are a popular variety known for their round, white blooms, which appear on new growth. These hydrangeas should be pruned back in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut the branches back to 12-18 inches above the ground, leaving a few strong buds at the base of each branch.

Prune Bigleaf Hydrangeas After The Bloom

Bigleaf hydrangeas, also known as mophead and lacecap hydrangeas, produce flowers on old wood. Therefore, it's crucial not to prune them too heavily or too often, as doing so can remove the buds for the next year's flowers. If you need to prune these hydrangeas, wait until after they have bloomed for the year. Then, cut back any dead or damaged branches and remove any crossing branches to encourage better air circulation and light penetration.

Remove Dead, Damaged, and Crossing Branches

It's essential to remove dead, damaged, and crossing branches from your hydrangeas every year. Doing so can improve air circulation and prevent the spread of disease. Use sharp, clean pruning shears and cut back the branches to a healthy part of the plant.

When to Cut Back Hydrangeas

End of Summer or Early Autumn After Bloom Faded for All Varieties

For all varieties of hydrangeas, the end of summer or early autumn is an excellent time to cut back your plants. Wait until the blooms have faded before pruning back the branches. This timing allows the plant to put its energy into new growth without sacrificing potential flower buds for next year.

Note the Type of Hydrangea to Ensure Pruning at the Right Time

Remember that different types of hydrangeas require pruning at different times. For example, as mentioned before, bigleaf hydrangeas should be pruned after they bloom in late summer. Meanwhile, smooth hydrangeas and panicle hydrangeas, which produce flowers on new wood, can be pruned heavily in late winter or early spring.

How to Deadhead Hydrangeas

Wait Until Flowers Begin To Fade

Deadheading hydrangeas can help extend their blooming season and keep them looking neat and tidy. Wait until the flowers begin to fade before deadheading. Trying to remove the blooms earlier can result in fewer flowers next year.

Cut Above The First Pair of Leaves Below The Flower Head

When deadheading hydrangeas, cut back the stem above the first pair of leaves below the flower head. Doing so will encourage new growth and, in some cases, additional blooms later in the season.

Cutting off hydrangea blooms is not always necessary, but it can be beneficial for the plant's health and appearance. Proper pruning techniques and timing can encourage new growth and improved flower production. By learning how to deadhead hydrangeas, you can help extend their blooming season and maintain their beauty throughout the year.

FAQ

• When should I prune my hydrangeas? The end of summer or early autumn is an excellent time to cut back your plants. Wait until the blooms have faded before pruning back the branches.

• Can I cut off hydrangea blooms before they faded? It's best to wait until the flowers begin to fade before cutting them off. Trying to remove the blooms earlier can result in fewer flowers next year.

• How do I know if a hydrangea bloom is dead? A hydrangea bloom is dead when it has wilted and turned brown.

• What happens if I don't prune my hydrangeas? If you don't prune your hydrangeas, they may become overgrown and produce fewer flowers.

• Can I cut back my hydrangea all the way to the ground? In some cases, yes. For example, if your hydrangea has become too large or isn't producing many blooms, you can cut it back to just a few inches above the ground. However, this should only be done with caution and with knowledge about the specific type of hydrangea you're working with.