Is It Good to Prune Hydrangeas in Autumn?

by Janet Coyt – October 18, 2023

Pruning hydrangeas in autumn is a topic that often generates a lot of debate among gardeners.

While some argue that it's beautiful to prune hydrangeas in the fall, others believe it's best to wait until spring or early summer. When you we'll explore the pros and cons of pruning hydrangeas in autumn, discuss the different types of hydrangeas and their pruning requirements, and provide some guidelines to help you make an informed decision about when and how to prune your hydrangeas.

Understanding Hydrangeas Before we dive into the specifics of pruning, it's essential to understand the different types of hydrangeas and their growth habits.

There are several common varieties of hydrangeas, but the most popular ones include:

Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla): These hydrangeas are known for their large, showy blooms and are further divided into two main types: mophead hydrangeas, which have globe-shaped flower clusters, and lacecap hydrangeas, which have a flat-topped, lace-like arrangement of flowers. Bigleaf hydrangeas are known for their ability to change flower color based on soil pH, with blue blooms in acidic soil and pink flushes in alkaline soil.

Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata): Panicle hydrangeas are known for their elongated, cone-shaped flower clusters. They are often white when they first bloom and gradually turn pink or reddish as they age.

Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens): Smooth hydrangeas produce round clusters of white or greenish-white flowers. The most well-known variety in this category is the 'Annabelle' hydrangea.

Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): Oakleaf hydrangeas are named for their oak-like leaves and produce cone-shaped flower clusters. They often have white flowers that turn pink as they mature.

Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala petiolaris): Unlike most hydrangeas, climbing hydrangeas are woody vines that can be trained to climb up walls, fences, or trellises. They produce flattened clusters of white flowers. Now that we've covered the different types of hydrangeas let's explore the advantages and disadvantages of pruning them in the autumn.

Pruning Hydrangeas in Autumn: Pros and Cons Pros: Deadheading: One of the primary reasons for pruning hydrangeas in autumn is to remove spent blooms. Deadheading, or removing faded flowers, can improve the plant's appearance and encourage it to redirect its energy towards new growth rather than seed production. This can lead to more robust blooms the following year.

Size Control: Autumn pruning can help control the size and shape of your hydrangea bushes. If your hydrangeas have grown too large or become unruly during the growing season, pruning in the fall can help maintain a more manageable size.

Aesthetic Appeal: Removing dead or discolored blooms and tidying up the plant in the fall can make your garden look more attractive during the dormant winter months.

Cons: Risk of Frost Damage: Pruning hydrangeas in the fall exposes the fresh cuts to potentially harsh winter weather. Frost can damage the tender new growth, negatively impacting the plant's overall health and blooming potential in the next growing season.

Loss of Winter Interest: Some gardeners appreciate the dried flower heads and structural interest that hydrangeas provide during winter. Pruning in the fall can result in a bare and less visually appealing appearance during this time.

Potential for Cutting Off Next Year's Blooms:

Certain hydrangea varieties, such as the bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla), set their flower buds on old wood, which means that next year's blooms are already present on the branches.

Pruning in the fall can remove these buds, leading to a lack of flowers the following year. Given these pros and cons, the decision to prune hydrangeas in the autumn should be carefully considered, considering the specific variety of hydrangeas you have and your garden's unique conditions.

Pruning Guidelines for Different Hydrangea Types Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla): Bigleaf hydrangeas set their flower buds on old wood. If you prune them in the autumn, you risk cutting off next year's blooms. It's generally recommended to prune these hydrangeas immediately after they finish blooming in the summer. If you must prune in the fall, do so sparingly and avoid cutting into the older branches where the flower buds are located.

Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata): Panicle hydrangeas are more forgiving regarding pruning timing. Pruning in the fall can help remove spent blooms and control the plant's size.

Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens): Smooth hydrangeas, like 'Annabelle,' bloom on new wood. If you choose to prune in the fall, you'll still get flowers the following year, but they may be slightly smaller.

Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): Oakleaf hydrangeas can be pruned in the late winter or early spring. Like smooth hydrangeas, they also bloom on new wood, so pruning in the fall won't remove next year's buds, but it's generally unnecessary.

Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala petiolaris): Climbing hydrangeas can be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning in the fall is not recommended.

General Pruning Tips Regardless of the type of hydrangea you have, here are some general pruning tips to keep in mind:

  • Use Clean Tools: Use sharp, clean pruning shears or loppers to make clean cuts. Dirty or dull tools can damage the plant and introduce diseases.
  • Remove Dead or Diseased Wood: Pruning is an excellent opportunity to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches.
  • Don't Overprune: Avoid excessive pruning, especially in the fall. Hydrangeas are relatively low-maintenance plants, and too much pruning can stress them.
  • Prune for Shape and Size: If you're pruning for aesthetics, focus on shaping the plant and controlling its size rather than removing significant growth.
  • Consider the Age of the Plant: Younger hydrangeas may require less pruning than older, more established ones. Be mindful of the plant's age when deciding how much to prune.
  • Timing Matters: Prune according to the specific timing recommendations for your hydrangea type, as discussed earlier.
  • Clean Up Debris: After pruning, clean up and remove any debris around the plant to reduce the risk of pests and diseases.

In conclusion, whether or not it's good to prune hydrangeas in autumn depends on several factors, including the type of hydrangea you have, your climate, and your gardening goals. Pruning can be beneficial for removing spent blooms, shaping the plant, and controlling its size.

However, it's essential to be cautious when pruning in the fall, especially for varieties like bigleaf hydrangeas that set their flower buds on old wood. As a general guideline, consider pruning your hydrangeas immediately after they finish blooming in the summer or early fall.

This timing allows you to remove spent flowers without damaging next year's buds. If you must prune in the autumn, do so sparingly and avoid cutting into the older branches where the flower buds are located. Successful hydrangea pruning requires knowledge about your specific hydrangea variety and a keen understanding of your garden's unique conditions.

Following these guidelines and being mindful of the pros and cons of autumn pruning can help your hydrangeas thrive and achieve their full blooming potential in the coming year.

 

Products from the article

Blue Hydrangea - TN Nursery

Blue Hydrangea

Blue Hydrangea - Hydrangea Macrophylla Blue hydrangeas are your go-to choice for elegant flowering shrubs. When shopping for a shrub with old-fashioned charm, this is one of the most elegant. They are easy to cultivate, grow in almost any soil, and produce abundant dinnerplate-size blue snowball blooms throughout the warm season and into autumn. How to Grow Blue Hydrangeas These bushes are drought-resistant and can grow out in direct sunlight or in filtered shade. They grow quickly and mature to 15 feet high and 10 feet wide. The blooms are in Spring and Summer, even into Fall, and are dinner plates in size. These shrubs do exceptionally well in zones 5-9, making them versatile and a great choice for even cooler winter zones. Blue Hydrangea Planting Season Since hydrangeas are relatively large shrubs, giving them enough time to develop a healthy root is essential. This is why it is best to plant hydrangeas in spring or fall.  They can also be planted anytime in the Spring or Fall season. Where to Plant These shrubs are versitle and do best when planted along a fence, near home, or as a border. They can be grown in direct and open sunlight or filtered shade, making them a favorite for many homeowners who do not have the "perfect" solution for many flowering shrubs. Growing them along the fence clears them from the harsh afternoon heat. They are perennials that often thrive in hardiness zones 5-9. Soil Recommendations   As revealed above, they can withstand almost any soil type. They thrive in soil rich in organic materials, and the ground should also have good drainage since the hydrangeas grow well in moist soil. However, the shrubs are intolerant to waterlogged soil because the roots tend to rot quickly. To improve soil quality, prepare your soil using a mixture of abundant compost before planting.  Blooming Season  They have varied blooming seasons, depending on the planting zone and the cultivar. Most bud from mid-spring to early summer. In hot regions, these shrubs stop budding in summer due to the heat intensity and bloom again in the fall.  How to Control the Blooming Color  are unique plants in that you can control their colors. However, not all hydrangeas can withstand color adjustments. If you want to increase the strength of the color of your shrubs, you need to lower your soil’s pH levels. By reducing the soil’s pH, the hydrangeas can absorb enough aluminum from the ground, thus giving them a beautiful blue color. Fertilizer and Care Adding peat moss or sulfur to the soil can lower the PH level. You can add aluminum sulfate throughout the growing season to make them shinier. Indoor Cultivation: If you want to grow them inside your house in a pot, choose a non-porous container about 18 inches wide to accommodate the plants’ maturity size.  A non-porous container or pot helps retain the moisture needed for the Blue Hydrangea to mature. It would be best if you also created drainage holes to allow the proper drainage of the excess water.
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Hydrangea arborescens 'Snowhill' Snow Hill Hydrangea is a compact deciduous shrub with large, rounded clusters of white, snowball-like flowers. It is a popular choice for garden borders and as a foundation plant. Hydrangeas bring various benefits to landscaping projects, contributing to outdoor spaces' visual aesthetics, versatility, and overall charm.  This cultivar offers unique features, making it a valuable choice for various landscape designs. One of the primary benefits of landscaping is its stunning floral display. It is perfect for people fantasizing about winter wonderlands. With snowball-like blooms, these gorgeous shrubs bring the beauty and magic of them to your garden without the chill of a natural snowfall. Foliage of Snow Hill Hydrangea  Formally referred to as arborescens, this deciduous shrub is a compact plant, with most specimens topping around five feet in height. In terms of width, they typically span three feet to five feet. Stems are tan with a velvety texture. The simple leaves are serrated with fine hair. Either rounded or oval, they're broad and measure three inches to six inches across. Most will be at most six inches in length. This native shrub has two-tone leaves in the spring. The tops are deep green, but the undersides are paler green. Of course, these leaves change with the seasons. In the fall, they turn yellow.  Snow Hill Hydrangea's Bloom Cycle and Asthetics They produce impressive ball-shaped clusters of flowers that measure between eight inches and 12 inches. Incredibly dense groupings of smaller flowers form these clusters. Each bloom features four or five petals and measures less than one inch across.They have a lengthy bloom period. It starts in May or June. Flowers will generally remain white until September. Color Changes While many can react to soil changes by changing the color of their flowers, it won't disappoint fans of the winter season. They consistently deliver white or cream flowers at the start of the summer season. It is a deciduous plant, so it does reflect the seasons. If the ball-shaped blooms are allowed to dry in place, they will shift briefly to pink before turning brown. It's a different look, but these dried flowerheads can still add visual interest to a fall garden.  Snow Hill Hydrangeas are striking plants that efficiently fulfill various purposes. They can serve as a focal point or provide concealment. They grow beautifully along slopes and in borders, and they would be happy in rain gardens, shade gardens, and pollinator gardens.
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PeeGee Hydrangea - Hydrangea paniculata 'Grandiflora'  Peegee Hydrangea is a shrub featuring large, conical clusters of white, showy flowers that mature rapidly, creating a stunning display in gardens and landscapes. Incorporating them into landscaping offers various benefits that contribute to the beauty and versatility of outdoor spaces. These elegant shrubs bring striking flowers, adaptability, low-maintenance care, potential for multiple uses, and a timeless charm to garden settings. Peegee Hydrangea has Huge Blooms As summer arrives, these flowering shrubs live up to their name. The blooms grow in rounded clusters and can reach an impressive size of 10 inches. Each spherical cluster includes many tiny flowers, each with four delicate petals. Although initially pale green, they turn a beautiful white during summer.  On a sunny day, the blooms look especially radiant as they reflect the sun's rays. The shrub leaves have a rich green hue, complementing the attractive white flowers. When it is in full bloom, its flower clusters may become thick enough that they mimic the appearance of snow. People often plant several shrubs to enjoy being enveloped in their beauty. Hydrangea paniculata 'Grandiflora' Has Timeless Elegance  The shrub is perfect for anyone who wants to add timeless elegance to their property. The enormous flower clusters look ethereal on a breezy day as they sway and bob gently. The rustling sound of the leaves in the wind adds to the peaceful look the shrubs boast. Each silky flower petal contributes to the overall smooth look of these shrubs.  When these shrubs adorn landscapes, they add unique beauty. Homeowners use them to create luxurious tranquility. Event venues use them to design magical-looking spaces for outdoor weddings or other special occasions. The stunning off-white petals complement nearly every hue and shade. With their bright and clean appearance, they can improve the look of any landscape. Today, these shrubs are famous for moon gardens because of their captivating beauty and pleasant aroma.  Highly Fragrant As the blooms appear, pee gee hydrangeas emit a subtle scent comparable to sweet alyssum or jasmine. On a warm summer day, the smell is delightful. The blooms also blend well with the lovely and woody scents of other flowers, shrubs, and trees. Overall, this type of shrub is a versatile choice that appeals to all the senses and adds a distinct touch of sophistication.
From $19.98
From $19.98
Blue Hydrangea - TN Nursery

Blue Hydrangea

Blue Hydrangea - Hydrangea Macrophylla Blue hydrangeas are your go-to choice for elegant flowering shrubs. When shopping for a shrub with old-fashioned charm, this is one of the most elegant. They are easy to cultivate, grow in almost any soil, and produce abundant dinnerplate-size blue snowball blooms throughout the warm season and into autumn. How to Grow Blue Hydrangeas These bushes are drought-resistant and can grow out in direct sunlight or in filtered shade. They grow quickly and mature to 15 feet high and 10 feet wide. The blooms are in Spring and Summer, even into Fall, and are dinner plates in size. These shrubs do exceptionally well in zones 5-9, making them versatile and a great choice for even cooler winter zones. Blue Hydrangea Planting Season Since hydrangeas are relatively large shrubs, giving them enough time to develop a healthy root is essential. This is why it is best to plant hydrangeas in spring or fall.  They can also be planted anytime in the Spring or Fall season. Where to Plant These shrubs are versitle and do best when planted along a fence, near home, or as a border. They can be grown in direct and open sunlight or filtered shade, making them a favorite for many homeowners who do not have the "perfect" solution for many flowering shrubs. Growing them along the fence clears them from the harsh afternoon heat. They are perennials that often thrive in hardiness zones 5-9. Soil Recommendations   As revealed above, they can withstand almost any soil type. They thrive in soil rich in organic materials, and the ground should also have good drainage since the hydrangeas grow well in moist soil. However, the shrubs are intolerant to waterlogged soil because the roots tend to rot quickly. To improve soil quality, prepare your soil using a mixture of abundant compost before planting.  Blooming Season  They have varied blooming seasons, depending on the planting zone and the cultivar. Most bud from mid-spring to early summer. In hot regions, these shrubs stop budding in summer due to the heat intensity and bloom again in the fall.  How to Control the Blooming Color  are unique plants in that you can control their colors. However, not all hydrangeas can withstand color adjustments. If you want to increase the strength of the color of your shrubs, you need to lower your soil’s pH levels. By reducing the soil’s pH, the hydrangeas can absorb enough aluminum from the ground, thus giving them a beautiful blue color. Fertilizer and Care Adding peat moss or sulfur to the soil can lower the PH level. You can add aluminum sulfate throughout the growing season to make them shinier. Indoor Cultivation: If you want to grow them inside your house in a pot, choose a non-porous container about 18 inches wide to accommodate the plants’ maturity size.  A non-porous container or pot helps retain the moisture needed for the Blue Hydrangea to mature. It would be best if you also created drainage holes to allow the proper drainage of the excess water.
From $18.99
$18.99
snow hill hydrangea

Hydrangea Arborescens 'Snowhill'

Hydrangea arborescens 'Snowhill' Snow Hill Hydrangea is a compact deciduous shrub with large, rounded clusters of white, snowball-like flowers. It is a popular choice for garden borders and as a foundation plant. Hydrangeas bring various benefits to landscaping projects, contributing to outdoor spaces' visual aesthetics, versatility, and overall charm.  This cultivar offers unique features, making it a valuable choice for various landscape designs. One of the primary benefits of landscaping is its stunning floral display. It is perfect for people fantasizing about winter wonderlands. With snowball-like blooms, these gorgeous shrubs bring the beauty and magic of them to your garden without the chill of a natural snowfall. Foliage of Snow Hill Hydrangea  Formally referred to as arborescens, this deciduous shrub is a compact plant, with most specimens topping around five feet in height. In terms of width, they typically span three feet to five feet. Stems are tan with a velvety texture. The simple leaves are serrated with fine hair. Either rounded or oval, they're broad and measure three inches to six inches across. Most will be at most six inches in length. This native shrub has two-tone leaves in the spring. The tops are deep green, but the undersides are paler green. Of course, these leaves change with the seasons. In the fall, they turn yellow.  Snow Hill Hydrangea's Bloom Cycle and Asthetics They produce impressive ball-shaped clusters of flowers that measure between eight inches and 12 inches. Incredibly dense groupings of smaller flowers form these clusters. Each bloom features four or five petals and measures less than one inch across.They have a lengthy bloom period. It starts in May or June. Flowers will generally remain white until September. Color Changes While many can react to soil changes by changing the color of their flowers, it won't disappoint fans of the winter season. They consistently deliver white or cream flowers at the start of the summer season. It is a deciduous plant, so it does reflect the seasons. If the ball-shaped blooms are allowed to dry in place, they will shift briefly to pink before turning brown. It's a different look, but these dried flowerheads can still add visual interest to a fall garden.  Snow Hill Hydrangeas are striking plants that efficiently fulfill various purposes. They can serve as a focal point or provide concealment. They grow beautifully along slopes and in borders, and they would be happy in rain gardens, shade gardens, and pollinator gardens.
From $19.98
From $19.98
peegee hydrangea

PeeGee Hydrangea

PeeGee Hydrangea - Hydrangea paniculata 'Grandiflora'  Peegee Hydrangea is a shrub featuring large, conical clusters of white, showy flowers that mature rapidly, creating a stunning display in gardens and landscapes. Incorporating them into landscaping offers various benefits that contribute to the beauty and versatility of outdoor spaces. These elegant shrubs bring striking flowers, adaptability, low-maintenance care, potential for multiple uses, and a timeless charm to garden settings. Peegee Hydrangea has Huge Blooms As summer arrives, these flowering shrubs live up to their name. The blooms grow in rounded clusters and can reach an impressive size of 10 inches. Each spherical cluster includes many tiny flowers, each with four delicate petals. Although initially pale green, they turn a beautiful white during summer.  On a sunny day, the blooms look especially radiant as they reflect the sun's rays. The shrub leaves have a rich green hue, complementing the attractive white flowers. When it is in full bloom, its flower clusters may become thick enough that they mimic the appearance of snow. People often plant several shrubs to enjoy being enveloped in their beauty. Hydrangea paniculata 'Grandiflora' Has Timeless Elegance  The shrub is perfect for anyone who wants to add timeless elegance to their property. The enormous flower clusters look ethereal on a breezy day as they sway and bob gently. The rustling sound of the leaves in the wind adds to the peaceful look the shrubs boast. Each silky flower petal contributes to the overall smooth look of these shrubs.  When these shrubs adorn landscapes, they add unique beauty. Homeowners use them to create luxurious tranquility. Event venues use them to design magical-looking spaces for outdoor weddings or other special occasions. The stunning off-white petals complement nearly every hue and shade. With their bright and clean appearance, they can improve the look of any landscape. Today, these shrubs are famous for moon gardens because of their captivating beauty and pleasant aroma.  Highly Fragrant As the blooms appear, pee gee hydrangeas emit a subtle scent comparable to sweet alyssum or jasmine. On a warm summer day, the smell is delightful. The blooms also blend well with the lovely and woody scents of other flowers, shrubs, and trees. Overall, this type of shrub is a versatile choice that appeals to all the senses and adds a distinct touch of sophistication.
From $19.98
From $19.98
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