Hydrangea care and pruning timing

Hydrangeas, specifically smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) and panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata), are popular garden plants known for blooming from late June until the first frosts. While many flowers may appear dried or brown by November, they still contribute to the garden landscape.

The optimal time for pruning and shaping these plants is in the spring, typically during a warm day in March. During this period, panicle hydrangea shoots from the previous year should be shortened to leave only a few bud nodes, which will develop into two to three new shoots. Spring is also the time to remove dry or small branches to ensure the plant directs its energy toward developing strong new growth. In some cases, older, thicker shoots may be shortened to rejuvenate the bush.