Prune in late winter to early spring (before new growth starts) for most hydrangeas
Remove dead, damaged, or weak stems any time in late winter/early spring
Cut stems back to healthy buds (make cuts just above a bud)
Hydrangea macrophylla (bigleaf)
Prune lightly after flowering only if needed
Remove only spent flower heads and dead wood
Avoid cutting back to bare wood unless you are removing dead stems
Hydrangea paniculata (panicle)
Prune in late winter/early spring
Cut back last year’s growth to strong buds, usually to about one-third to one-half of the plant
Remove thin, weak, or crossing stems
Hydrangea arborescens (smooth)
Prune in late winter/early spring
Cut stems back to about 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) from the ground
Remove weak stems to improve shape
Hydrangea quercifolia (oakleaf)
Prune lightly after flowering
Remove dead wood and lightly shape without heavy cutting back
Hydrangea serrata (mountain)
Prune like bigleaf: light pruning after flowering; remove dead wood
For all types, use clean, sharp pruners
Make cuts at a slight angle, just above a healthy bud or lateral branch
Remove any suckers or shoots growing from below the graft (if applicable)
Step back occasionally and maintain the plant’s natural shape
Dispose of diseased or heavily damaged stems; do not compost them