How and when to prune Hydrangeas explained
HYDRANGEAS are a popular plant featured in many UK gardens but they also need proper maintenance so they can bloom.
There are over 70 different species of this flower found across the world, flowering in mid to late summer.
When should Hydrangeas be pruned?
Most UK gardens will have the mophead or lacecap species of Hydrangea, which need pruning in late winter to early spring.
These are identifiable by either a round, full flower of large petals for the mophead or dainty flowers in the middle surrounded by larger petals for the lacecap.
Some species such as the climbing Hydrangea needs pruning in late summer, after it has finished flowering.
Do not prune in early winter as the frost could damage the plant.
Leaving the flowers on over winter can provide some protection from frosty nights.
How to prune a Hydrangea
The easiest way is to cut the dead bloom off the plant.
Snip as far down as the next new buds on the stem, if these are visible or to wherever looks appropriate.
More From gardening
For a more established plants you can cut old stems back to the base to encourage new growth.
Most read in The Sun
Use clean, sharp garden shears or scissors to ensure a clean cut and no damage to your plant.
New stems will not bloom until the following year.
What happens if you don't cut back Hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas can become congested if they are not pruned.
They do not bloom as well if the stem is woody or dead.
When you prune back your hydrangea you help it grow stronger for future buds.
It also will look much nicer with all the browning flowers removed.