Hydrangeas are a favorite among many Hamptons homeowners for their stunning blooms and lush foliage. Pruning is an essential part of hydrangea care and can help promote healthy growth and increase flower production. Here's a guide on how to properly prune your hydrangeas this spring:

Identify the type of hydrangea: Different hydrangea varieties require different pruning techniques. Hydrangeas that bloom on old wood, like the mophead or lacecap hydrangeas, should be pruned after they bloom in the summer. Hydrangeas that bloom on new wood, like the panicle hydrangea, can be pruned in late winter or early spring.
Remove dead and damaged wood: Start by removing any dead or damaged wood from your hydrangea. This will help improve the plant's overall health and encourage new growth.
Thin out crowded branches: If your hydrangea is overgrown or has branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other, it's important to thin out the crowded areas. This will help improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, which can lead to healthier growth and more blooms.
Cut back the branches: When pruning hydrangeas that bloom on new wood, cut back the branches to just above a set of healthy buds. For hydrangeas that bloom on old wood, prune the branches back to just above the first set of healthy buds below the spent flowers.
Consider rejuvenation pruning: If your hydrangea is overgrown or hasn't been pruned in a while, you may want to consider rejuvenation pruning. This involves cutting the plant back to about a foot from the ground, which can help promote new, healthy growth.