How to get garden hydrangeas to bloom profusely: 4 secrets to proper pruning

Hydrangea is one of the most popular garden plants, appreciated for its lush and bright inflorescences. At the same time, gardeners often face a problem – the bushes grow slowly, and flowering is scarce.

One of the most effective ways to stimulate the growth and abundant flowering of hydrangeas is to prune them in a timely manner.

How to do it correctly and when it is better to prune hydrangeas, OBOZ. UA EXPLAINS.

Why is pruning important for hydrangeas?

Pruning is not the removal of unnecessary branches, but rather the stimulation of the plant, which helps it to direct its energies to the formation of new shoots and buds. If this is not done, the bushes will become too dense and lack light and air, which will ultimately affect their health and the number of inflorescences.

In addition, pruning can be used to shape the desired shape of the bush and control its size.

It is important for hydrangeas to be pruned at the right time and with due regard to their species. For example, large-leaved hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) and panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata) require a different approach.

How to prune hydrangeas for abundant flowering?

• For most types of hydrangeas, the best time to prune is in early spring, when the buds are just beginning to swell. At this time, it is easy to determine which shoots have survived the winter and which should be removed. However, for large-leaved hydrangeas growing on last year's shoots, pruning should be done immediately after flowering to preserve the "right" buds.
• Start by removing dry, damaged, and weak branches. They not only spoil the appearance of the bush but also take away nutrients from the plant.
• To stimulate the growth of new shoots, shorten last year's branches by 1/3 of their length. This is especially important for panicle hydrangea, which blooms on the shoots of the current year. For large-leaved hydrangea, cut off only the faded inflorescences, being careful not to touch the new buds.
• If your hydrangea bush is too old and does not bloom well, perform a rejuvenation pruning. To do this, remove all old branches, leaving only a few young shoots. This will stimulate the growth of new branches and restore the hydrangea to its former beauty.

Care after pruning

After pruning, fertilize the hydrangeas with a complex fertilizer to keep them strong. Also, provide the plants with sufficient watering and mulching to retain moisture and protect the roots.

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