The Biggest Mistake Gardeners Make When Pruning Hydrangeas

Pruning hydrangeas may seem like a straightforward and rewarding gardening task, but one common timing mistake could mean disappointing blooms come summer.

“The biggest mistake I see gardeners make is cutting too hard at the wrong time, which can remove the very buds that would have produced that year’s blooms,” says Chris Taylor, of Chris Taylor Gardening, who explains there is no harm in waiting.

“For mophead and lacecap varieties (Hydrangea macrophylla), which flower on last year’s growth, I recommend pruning lightly in early to mid-spring. Remove only dead flower heads and cut back to the first strong pair of healthy buds below the bloom, along with any dead or weak stems at the base. Avoid hard pruning, as this can significantly reduce summer flowers.”

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Before you prune, check your plant’s label instead of treating each one the same.

For example, Chris says that Hydrangea paniculata and Hydrangea arborescens bloom on new growth, so they can be pruned more firmly in early spring.

“I typically cut these back to a strong framework 30–60cm from the ground, which encourages vigorous new shoots and larger flower heads.”

In fact, simply leaving your hydrangeas untouched can often bring the best results.

“Hydrangeas don’t need a hard chop to get going in late winter and early spring. Many varieties form their flower buds on stems that grew last year, then go through winter before swelling into visible buds in late winter and early spring, “Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres, previously told us.

“By leaving the shrub alone, you’ve actually protected those pre-formed buds rather than cutting them off, which is why you’re seeing buds now, even though you haven’t been near it with secateurs.”

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Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful

 Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she’s busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.