When to Prune Panicle Hydrangeas

A panicle hydrangea does not need much from you, and that is the point. Start with healthy plants, give them a spot that suits them and water them through the first few weeks. After that, a layer of mulch and a quick look once a week is most of the job.

Late winter is the moment

Cut each stem back by about a third, just above a pair of buds. Remove thin and crossing stems at the base.

What if you prune in fall?

Nothing terrible happens: panicle hydrangeas bloom on new wood. You only lose the winter interest of the dried flowers.