Gardeners with climbing hydrangeas are being encouraged to perform a simple pruning task this July to encourage a second flush of flowers. The technique, shared by gardening expert Michael Griffiths, involves trimming spent blooms shortly after the first flowering period ends, redirecting the plant's energy toward producing new buds.
How to Prune Climbing Hydrangeas in Summer
Climbing hydrangeas typically bloom between June and August, with vines that can stretch up to 12-15 metres. After the first flush of flowers fades, gardeners should inspect the plant for droopy, wilted, or discoloured flowerheads. Using clean secateurs, cut the stems approximately one inch above any newly forming buds. This light prune helps channel energy to new growth rather than maintaining old blooms.
Michael Griffiths outlined this task in a recent TikTok video, stating: "Climbing hydrangeas can also be pruned after flowering." He noted that a full, hard prune is not necessary in July; simply removing the spent flowers is enough to encourage fresh side-shoots and a second wave of blooms later in summer.
Benefits of a Summer Prune
A summer prune not only promotes a second flush but also improves air circulation and light penetration through the vine, keeping the plant healthy and neat. Griffiths emphasised that this technique is best for well-established climbing hydrangeas that have already flowered. The plant can then focus on developing strong wood for next season's buds.
Gardeners' World warns against a severe hard prune at this stage, as it could leave the plant bare for the rest of the season. If the hydrangea has outgrown its space, a harder prune may be necessary in autumn or spring, but this could sacrifice flowers "for a few years." The publication explains: "Climbing hydrangeas produce flowers on last year's shoots, so in order for the plant to have enough time to develop flowering wood for the next year, prune in summer straight after flowering. Don't cut the plant back too much."
Common Mistakes and Tips
Incorrect pruning is a common reason for climbing hydrangeas failing to bloom. Gardeners should resist the temptation to prune heavily in July and instead focus on removing only spent flowerheads. For mature plants that are not flowering, the issue may stem from pruning at the wrong time or cutting back too much.
By following this simple July task, gardeners can enjoy a prolonged display of delicate white, lacy blooms throughout the summer, adding colour and fragrance to walls, fences, and trees.
