It can be confusing on how and when to prune hydrangeas. Here’s a cheat sheet to help guide you.
H. macrophylla – These flower on old wood so prune minimally only after blooming.
H. arborescens – The flowers grow on new stems, which need to be pruned back to 12 inches in late winter.
H. paniculata – The flowers grow on new stems, which need to be pruned back to 12 inches in late winter.
H. serrata – No pruning needed as the flowers bloom on old wood.
H. quercifolia – These flower on old wood so prune minimally only after blooming.
H. petiolaris – This vine version should be pruned to control height since it flowers on new stems.
Featured image – Seaside Serenade Cape Cod hydrangea / Monrovia