How & when to prune hydrangea bushes

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hydrangea/prune-hydrangea-bushes-hydrangea-pruning-instructions.htm

Assuming you are in one of our colder states, prune in the Spring, AFTER new growth has started. That way you can see how far back there is die back and prune appropriately.

If they have stopped flowering but still have green leaves, fertilize and water. Then in about a week trim back broken stems. However if you want your bush tone larger next year, leave the stems. They will look dead, but in the Spring leaves will appear up and down the stalks.

Hi Bonnie, When it comes to pruning, I use the old farmer's method: from Spring thru Fall, only prune during months that have the letter "R" in their name. For example, you should prune in April but not in May. May does not contain the letter R. This method makes it easy for me to remember. I have used this way for many years and it has always worked well for me. Wishing you well. Good luck.

No pruning till the fall

prune the dead blooms off after blooming then cut foliage back in late fall.

We only trim ours when the branches rub against the house or it gets too woody. Otherwise, we keep it trimmed off the ground for cutting grass. It has grown beautifully over the years with minimal interference. You can reshape it if it's too bushy.

It totally depends on what type of hydrangea you have. Some bloom on old wood, some on new wood. Look up hydrangeas online and you should be able to match yours to pictures. Use a reputable site, like your state extension service or a botanical garden. Be wary of bloggers, many of whom are newbie gardeners.

Here's a helpful post on how and when to prune hydrangeas: https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/trees-and-shrubs/hydrangea-care-to-prune-or-not-to-prune-your-hydrangeas

Hi, I like to leave the blooms in place over winter to add protection and cut them back when they start to shoot again.