Where to start cutting hydrangeas?
Cutting hydrangeas starts with getting a clear view of the shrub as a whole. First, the old flowers and the excess are cut off so that the structure of the plant can be understood and where the cut needs to be made can be seen. This helps to assess the buds and determine to which point the branches need to be shortened – often the second or third bud.
Figure 1. The whole bush before cutting.
When cutting hydrangeas, it is important to remove all the branches growing towards the centre of the bush, as well as small and weak branches. These will not produce quality flowers as they lack strength. Only those shoots that have the potential to flower should be left. Branches that rub against each other or compete should also be removed. The shrub can be pruned as a whole first and then the most troublesome branches can be assessed and cut out. All small and unnecessary shoots are removed so that the plant concentrates its energy on producing vigorous shoots and flowers.
Figure 2. Cut all branches that compete with each other and interfere with the growth of others.
One of the most common mistakes is to cut hydrangeas only upwards. This results in a dense layer of branches and flowers at the top of the bush, while the bottom remains bare. This creates an unbalanced shape and a visually unattractive result. This is usually the case if the shrub is not shaped correctly to begin with – the branches are not shortened to a few buds, but left too long, resulting in a flattened plant.
If the hydrangea has already developed a bare bottom and only flowers at the top, this can be corrected gradually. The plant will eventually put out new shoots which can be used to replace the old branches. This process takes time and sometimes the shrub has to be left in its current state for a while in the hope that new shoots will develop.
Figure 3. Before and after pruning.
Hydrangeas are usually pruned in spring. If pruning is done too early, the risk of frost must be taken into account. If frosts occur after pruning, the buds may freeze and flowering will be delayed. On the other hand, if there is no frost, hydrangeas cut earlier may flower earlier.
It is therefore important to assess the weather conditions and make a decision according to the situation.
Source: information based on the experience of Landscape Construction installation expert Madara.
13.04.2026.