How can I get my hydrangea bushes to produce flowers again?

Question

I have several very healthy looking hydrangea bushes that had always produced many flowers. Last year, and again this year I’ve only gotten 2-3 flowers on each. Any suggestions?

Debra Seely · Answer

Cut down in fall.

Linda Sikut · Answer

Hi Iri,

Be careful cutting back hydrangeas. Most likely it has to do with the species. There are two types of hydrangeas. One blooms on new wood and the other blooms on old wood. When you prune your plant and it uses old wood to flower, you could be cutting off all the buds that are forming. Here's an article that explains it and what you can do.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hydrangea/hydrangea-not-blooming.htm

There is one called Endless Summer that blooms on both old and new wood. It is recommended to prune that one at the end of August if necessary but be careful not to cut of the buds from the old wood. It is also recommended not to prune Endless Summer unless absolutely necessary. Wishing you the best!