How to Prune Hydrangea Paniculata

Hydrangea paniculata is a deciduous perennial shrub or small tree that throws large panicles of small, multi-petal blooms. It grows up to 20 feet tall and can be nearly as wide when left to its natural state. It prefers shade and moist, rich soil and does not tolerate high heat and drought. Hydrangea paniculata is grown as a hedge, a specimen tree, in borders and for cut flowers. The flowers are a dramatic, crisp white that contrasts with the plant's rich, dark green leaves. As the flowers age, they turn pale pink. The blooming period runs from June to September. Mature paniculatas should be pruned once every year in the fall as the leaves are dropping, before frost weather sets in.

Things You'll Need

• Secateurs and/or loppers
• Ladder

Instructions

1. Cut any damaged branches and diseased leaves and pull them from the plant. Do not place any diseased cuttings in your compost pile. Toss them in the trash in order to control the spread of disease.

2. Determine the height and look of your hydrangea. Use clean, sharp secateurs or loppers to cut the top of the plant either flat or rounded.

3. Thin the interior of your hydrangea plant. Cut out approximately 1/3 of the oldest stems to the base of the plant.

4. Pull all of the cut branches away from the body of the hydrangea and set them aside for compost.

Tips & Warnings

• Always make cuts on the branches at least a 1/4 inch above a leaf node or bud in order to maintain optimal bloom.

References

• University of Connecticut primer on Hydrangea Paniculata
• USDA Plant Profile of Hydrangea Paniculata

Resources

• United State National Arboretum Hydrangea Profiles & FAQ