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Pruning guide

How to prune lacecap hydrangea

Best time
Immediately after flowering ends, typically late summer (August to early September)
How often
Annually, deadheading only after flowering; hard pruning rarely warranted unless rejuvenating a neglected plant over 3 years
Technique
Cut spent flowerheads back to the next healthy bud below the faded bloom. Remove any canes that are entirely dead at ground level in late summer. That is all. Do not shorten healthy stems at other times of year.

More lacecap hydrangea care

Pruning lacecap hydrangea — FAQ

When should I prune lacecap hydrangea?

Immediately after flowering ends, typically late summer (August to early September). Cut spent flowerheads back to the next healthy bud below the faded bloom. Remove any canes that are entirely dead at ground level in late summer. That is all. Do not shorten healthy stems at other times of year.

How often does lacecap hydrangea need pruning?

Annually, deadheading only after flowering; hard pruning rarely warranted unless rejuvenating a neglected plant over 3 years. Lacecap hydrangea (H. macrophylla 'Mariesii Perfecta') blooms on old wood — cutting back hard will sacrifice next year's flowers. Only deadhead after flowering and remove completely dead stems. Avoid autumn, winter, or spring pruning, which removes embryonic flower buds already formed on the previous season's wood.

How do you prune lacecap hydrangea?

Cut spent flowerheads back to the next healthy bud below the faded bloom. Remove any canes that are entirely dead at ground level in late summer. That is all. Do not shorten healthy stems at other times of year.