When it comes to hydrangeas, I have learned from personal experience that it’s best to leave the old flower heads on the plants during the winter. I used to diligently prune my hydrangeas in the fall, thinking that it was necessary for their health and appearance. However, I soon discovered that this was not the best approach.
Leaving the old flower heads on the plants actually adds some interest to the winter landscape. The dried, papery blooms can add texture and visual appeal to your garden during the colder months. Plus, they can provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
Another reason to avoid cutting off hydrangea blooms before winter is that it can actually hinder their ability to bloom the following year. Hydrangeas set their flower buds on old wood, meaning that the buds for next year’s blooms are already formed on the stems. If you prune the plants in the fall, you risk cutting off these buds and missing out on a beautiful display of flowers in the spring and summer.
So, when should you prune your hydrangeas? It’s best to wait until spring or summer after the plants have bloomed. By this time, the new growth will have emerged and it will be easier to see where to make your cuts. The new growth will also soon hide any dead stems from the previous year, so there’s no need to worry about the appearance of your hydrangeas.
I would advise against cutting off hydrangea blooms before winter. Leave the old flower heads on the plants to add interest to your winter landscape and to ensure that you don’t accidentally remove next year’s flower buds. Save your pruning chores for spring or summer after the plants have bloomed. Trust me, your hydrangeas will thank you for it!