Garden hydrangea

Pruning your Magical Hydrangea: here's how to do it

Spring has sprung and as the days get longer, your Magical Hydrangea is eager to show its flowers. They are still hidden in buds now, but with some extra love and the pruning shears, you can ensure a flowering hydrangea in peak condition. Get ready for 150 days of spectacular flowers!

Why prune a Magical Hydrangea?

First of all, let’s note that pruning is not strictly necessary. But light pruning will help your hydrangea maintain its perfect shape. You will also encourage new growth and even richer flowering. Pruning is also a nice rite of passage in your garden: you cut away old flowers and stems for fresh new ones, marking the transition from winter to spring. 

When to prune a hydrangea?

The best time to prune a hydrangea is in early spring, just after the last night frost has passed and before new growth begins. This ensures that your plant can use its energy optimally for fresh leaves and buds. Avoid pruning in autumn and winter, as the spent flowers actually offer protection from cold and night frosts during this period.

Pruning in five steps

1.    Use sharp, clean pruning shears. This will prevent unnecessary damage to your hydrangea.
2.    Cut off the spent flowers of your Magical Hydrangea just above a few sturdy new buds. 
3.    If you see dead or weak stems, remove them. This will allow the plant to invest its energy in the strongest stems.
4.    Prune in moderation. The Magical Hydrangea thrives best in a natural, full form that gives it a magical look.
5.    A wide or full hydrangea can be thinned out slightly by cutting a few long stems back to just above the soil. Bear in mind that the new shoots will not flower this year, since the hydrangea blooms on older growth (second year growth). 

Aftercare for your pruned hydrangea

After all that snipping, you can give your Magical Hydrangea some extra pampering. Give some hydrangea feed for a big boost. And regular watering of course, since a hydrangea loves damp soil, especially when it’s hot. In return your Magical Hydrangea will reward you with 150 days of beautiful flowering and three or four colour changes. So grab your pruning shears and give your hydrangea a little love and attention for a magical season!

Want more care tips?

Click here to go to our care page with all the Magical Hydrangea care tips. Or watch the video below for a step-by-step explanation.

Watch this video