Gardeners are being urged to resist the temptation to prune hydrangeas too early, as a leading horticulturist warns the common mistake could damage plants and reduce flowering next year. Peter Dowdall, known as The Irish Gardener, says many people instinctively reach for secateurs when flowers start to fade, but cutting back too soon can weaken plants and remove valuable habitat for wildlife.
Dowdall, who has over 30 years of gardening experience, explains that hydrangeas often look tired or floppy in hot weather due to stress or lack of moisture, not because they need pruning. He advises against hard pruning during warm, dry spells, as plants need foliage to photosynthesise and recover. Removing too much growth can add stress and do more harm than good.
Instead of tidying up hastily, Dowdall recommends focusing on improving growing conditions. He highlights the importance of healthy soil and suggests mulching around plants to suppress weeds, slow evaporation, and improve soil structure. He also warns against watering plants little and often, which can create weak, dependent plants. A deep soak is far more effective than frequent light watering, and watering in the morning or evening is best to avoid evaporation.
