How Do You Prune Hydrangea Paniculata?
Hydrangea paniculata is a deciduous perennial shrub or small tree that throws large panicles of small, multi-petal blooms. It grows up to 20 feet tall and can be nearly as wide when left to its natural state. It prefers shade and moist, rich soil and does not tolerate high heat and drought. Hydrangea paniculata is grown as a hedge, a specimen tree, in borders and for cut flowers. The flowers are a dramatic, crisp white that contrasts with the plant’s rich, dark green leaves. As the flowers age, they turn pale pink. The blooming period runs from June to September. Mature paniculatas should be pruned once every year in the fall as the leaves are dropping, before frost weather sets in. Cut any damaged branches and diseased leaves and pull them from the plant. Do not place any diseased cuttings in your compost pile. Toss them in the trash in order to control the spread of disease. Determine the height and look of your hydrangea. Use clean, sharp secateurs or loppers to cut the top of the p