The Endless Summer hydrangea is actually a special variety of the classic Bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla). But here’s the cool part: unlike traditional varieties, Endless Summer blooms on both old and new wood. This means even if you prune a fresh stem, you’ll still get those gorgeous flowers! While this plant is super forgiving when it comes to pruning, there are still a few tips to keep in mind to get the best results.
Pruning Basics
When it comes to hydrangeas, your pruning strategy usually depends on the specific variety. With some types, flowers only grow on old wood, so if you give them a “buzz cut,” you won’t see any blooms that season. Luckily, Endless Summer is a “remontant” (reblooming) variety, meaning it flowers on both last year’s growth and this year’s new shoots. You can definitely prune this plant, but timing is everything.
Here’s what to keep in mind for your routine trim:
- Snip off faded blooms (deadheading) throughout the summer so the plant doesn’t waste energy on old flowers.
- In the fall, leave the last round of dried flower heads on the plant—they actually look great in winter and protect the new buds.
- Always cut back any dried-out or diseased stems as soon as you see them.
- Don’t be afraid to prune to manage the overall size and shape of your shrub.
How to Prune Older Plants
The age of your hydrangea also plays a role in how you handle it. If you’ve just planted a young Endless Summer, you usually don’t need to touch it at all for the first few years. Just let it grow until it forms a nice, full shrub. Once the plant is well-established, you can start doing a “rejuvenation prune.” This involves cutting back about a third of the oldest stems right down to the base at its planting site. Always use sharp, clean shears and give them a quick soak in disinfectant before you start to keep the plant healthy.
Don’t skip out on rejuvenating your older plants! This keeps the hydrangea from getting “leggy” or bare at the bottom and ensures you get a massive flush of flowers every year. Pruning is the best way to encourage fresh, vigorous growth on older Endless Summer specimens. While you’re at it, thin out any branches that are crossing or crowding the center. You want plenty of light and airflow reaching the middle of the bush. This keeps the plant growing strong and makes it much less likely to deal with diseases or pest infestations.
