Pruning Hydrangeas

Question

I have a mophead hydrangea by my front porch. It is over 5 ft. tall and this year is loaded with flower heads. I feel I should take the height down somewhat to control the shrub. It is over 40 years old and I don’t want to do any damage to it. Can you advise the best time to cut it back and the best way to do it. Thank you.

Answer 1

Thank you for sending us your gardening question.

Wow! Over 40 years old! Impressive! Mopheads should be pruned immediately after flowering. They bloom on the previous season's growth, so the buds will start forming soon after flowering. You should be able to see the buds near the ends of the stems if they have begun developing. These articles tell you more:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hydrangea/mophead-hydrangea-care.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hydrangea/growing-hydrangeas-hydrangea-care-guide.htm

Please let us know if you have any other gardening questions and happy gardening!

Thanks,

Gardening Know How

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