Hydrangeas are beloved garden shrubs, their vibrant blooms adding a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. However, as the flowers start to fade, you might wonder whether to cut them off or leave them be. Fear not! Deadheading, the process of removing spent blooms, can enhance the appearance of these flowering shrubs and even encourage new blossoms.
Why Deadhead Hydrangeas?
Encouraging New Blooms
Deadheading hydrangeas redirects the plant’s energy from seed production to root and bud development. This results in stronger growth and more vibrant blooms.
Fresh and Beautiful Look
Regular deadheading keeps your hydrangea looking fresh and tidy, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your garden.
How to Deadhead Your Hydrangeas
Choose the Right Tools
Begin with a pair of sharp pruning shears. Before you start, wipe the pruner blades clean with a cloth soaked in denatured alcohol. Keep the cloth handy, as you’ll need to wipe the pruners between snips to make sure you don’t spread disease though the shrub.
Identify Spent Blooms
Look for faded, brown-colored blooms that have wilted. These are the ones ready for deadheading.
Locate the Next Set of Leaves
Follow the stem down to the next set of large leaves – that’s where you make the cut.
When to Deadhead Hydrangeas
Right After Flowering
Deadhead immediately after the flowering period. This keeps the plant neat and preserves energy for new blooms.
Late Winter or Early Spring
Alternatively, deadhead at the end of the season (late winter) or before the next growing season begins (early spring).
Leave Winter Blooms
For visual interest and winter protection, consider leaving dried flowerheads on the shrub in mid-Autumn and early Winter. Waiting till next Spring will give you more blooms next year.