Hydrangeas

Question

I have a bush that came with my house. Was pink I changed to blue. Last year no flowers, this year loaded with purple flowers. Due to heat s as re now brown. Should I cut these old flowers from the bush or leave till fall trimming. I hope to root cuttings also. Thank you Kathy

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Answer 1

You have the big leaf hydrangea which blooms on old wood (buds from previous season). You can deadhead at any time, but be sure you don't cut off next year's developing buds. (Same thing if you cut off stems to root.) You can see them just behind the flower if they have started. I think your flowers still look good. I would leave them. I leave mine all winter for winter interest.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hydrangea/deadheading-a-hydrangea.htm

https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/extensions-greatest-hits/2017-09-13-rooting-hydrangea-cuttings-five-easy-steps