Identify the hydrangea type before pruning
Prune bigleaf, oakleaf, and mountain hydrangeas right after flowering
Prune panicle and smooth hydrangeas in late winter or early spring
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased stems first
Cut spent flower heads just above the first pair of healthy buds
Remove weak, crossing, or crowded stems at the base
Thin older stems to improve airflow and shape
Avoid heavy pruning on old wood bloomers
Use clean, sharp pruning shears
Disinfect tools before and after use
Do not cut more than one-third of the plant at a time
Stop pruning once the plant has the desired shape
Remove any suckers or unwanted shoots from the base
Water the plant after pruning if the soil is dry