2 Tasks to Do Now for Spectacular Hydrangeas Next Summer – Plus, 1 Chore to Leave Until Spring

Fall is the perfect time to prepare your hydrangeas for a spectacular bloom next summer. By focusing on two key tasks—mulching and light pruning—you can ensure your hydrangeas thrive through the colder months and burst into vibrant color when spring arrives. Task 1: Mulch to Protect and Nourish Applying mulch around your hydrangeas offers multiple benefits, especially as temperatures drop. • Mulch insulates the soil, protecting roots from freezing temperatures. • It conserves moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. • Mulch suppresses weed growth, allowing your hydrangeas to absorb nutrients more effectively. • A 2–3 inch layer is typically sufficient, but in colder climates, up to 5–6 inches may be beneficial after the ground freezes. • Use materials like pine straw, bark, or leaf mulch, adjusting based on your soil's drainage needs. Task 2: Light Pruning to Encourage Healthy Growth Pruning your hydrangeas in the fall can promote healthy growth, but it's important to do so correctly. • Remove dead or damaged branches to prevent disease and encourage new growth. • For hydrangeas that bloom on old wood, such as bigleaf and oakleaf varieties, prune just after the flowers fade in late summer or early fall. • Avoid heavy pruning, as it can remove next season's flower buds. • For new wood bloomers, like panicle and smooth hydrangeas, it's best to prune in early spring to avoid winter damage. • Always use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts and reduce the risk of disease. Task to Skip: Fertilizing in Fall While fertilizing is important for hydrangeas, fall is not the ideal time. • Fertilizing in the fall can promote tender growth that is vulnerable to frost. • Instead, wait until spring when the soil has warmed to encourage strong, healthy growth. • In colder regions, additional winterizing tips include wrapping plants in burlap, tying tall branches to prevent snow damage, watering thoroughly before the ground freezes, protecting pots, and deterring deer with repellents. Final Thoughts By focusing on mulching and light pruning this fall, you can set your hydrangeas up for a stunning display next summer. Remember to skip fertilizing in the fall to avoid encouraging vulnerable growth. With these simple steps, your hydrangeas will be well-prepared to thrive through the winter and bloom beautifully when the warmer weather returns.