When Should Oakleaf Hydrangeas Be Deadheaded?

Deadheading hydrangeas is a simple process that involves starting when the flowers begin to fade, which can vary depending on the variety of hydrangea. By removing faded flower clusters, you encourage the growth of new blooms. Use sharp, sterile scissors, preferably those that are long and thin for pruning. Oakleaf hydrangeas bloom on the previous season’s growth, so don’t prune them in fall or later winter like with some other hydrangea types.

Old wood hydrangeas include oakleaf hydrangeas, climbing hydrangeas, and older bigleaf and mountain hydrangeas varieties. There’s no need to deadhead old wood hydrangeas unless you want to tidy up. Deadheading hydrangeas can lessen plant diseases, rejuvenate and reinvigorate old plants, help shape the plant, and get rid of pests.

Oakleaf hydrangeas can be pruned to remove dead, damaged, or overgrown branches, promote new growth, and encourage reblooming. If you notice dead or diseased branches or broken branches, remove them as closely to the main stem as possible. Deadheading is rarely necessary, but it should be done after blooming and before August. The following year’s flower buds are set in late summer and early fall.

It’s better to leave the brown blossoms in place, as they protect next year’s flower buds from cold temperatures. Deadheading a blossom is okay to decorate in the fall, as it looks great alongside pumpkins. If you’re going to prune for shape, size, or to deadhead spent blooms, do so in summer after the flowers fade. Deadheading throughout the blooming season helps keep your hydrangeas looking their best and encourages new flower growth.