Q.My Husband Pruned My 5 Ft Tall Hydrangeas Back To The Ground About 5 Or So Years Ago.
They were huge and had to be pruned but he overdid it. They have been slow coming back and have not bloomed since them. They are now maybe 18-24 inches tall. Can I do something to help them grow and bloom again or should I just get new ones? Also I put some new ones in another part of my garden. Should I fertilize them and with what? Thank you.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Hydrangeas don't need a lot of fertilization. Once in the spring, before new growth starts, is ample. Use a general fertilizer like a slow release 10-10-10 product.
I am surprised the hydrangeas cut to the ground have only grown to 2 feet. They are usually quick to grow during a season. Hold off on any pruning till they bloom. If they haven't bloomed, it could be not enough sunlight. They do best with morning sun. Some varieties can withstand full sun with regular water. Next spring, fertilize them, and if they don't bloom, go ahead and replace them by fall.
If he has continued to prune in late winter or spring, and your hydrangea is a macrophylla (mophead) or quercifolia (oakleaf), the flower buds are getting cut off. The buds form on last year's growth. Endless summer blooms on last year's growth as well as new growth.
