Pinky Winky is a stunning panicle hydrangea, but it’s a bit of a late bloomer compared to others. You won’t see those gorgeous flower heads until August, as they grow on the “new wood” produced during the current season. To get the most impressive floral display possible, you’ll want to give your hydrangea a good prune in the spring. Here’s the lowdown on how to get it right.
How Often Should You Prune This Hydrangea?
Not every hydrangea variety needs a haircut, but since Pinky Winky is a panicle hydrangea, it definitely benefits from regular maintenance. I recommend pruning it once a year. By grabbing your shears in the spring, you’re actually encouraging the plant to produce way more blooms. The hydrangea will push out fresh growth all through the spring and summer, leading to those iconic, massive flower spikes that gardeners go crazy for.
Pruning for Maximum Blooms
Pruning a Pinky Winky isn’t rocket science, but there are a few pro tips to keep in mind. Proper technique prevents diseases like fungal infections from taking hold at the cut sites and helps the plant bounce back faster. Just follow these simple steps when you head out to the garden this spring. And don’t forget—once you’ve finished pruning, it’s the perfect time to start fertilizing your hydrangea for the season!
Step-by-Step Guide for Pruning Pinky Winky:
- Use a sharp pair of bypass pruners and make sure to disinfect the blades before you start.
- Cut the stems back to a length of about 8 inches (20 centimeters).
- Completely remove any dead, dried-out wood that no longer has any life in it.
As Pinky Winky gets older, it can sometimes lose its shape or start looking a bit thin and “leggy” at the bottom. If that happens, don’t be afraid to do some thinning or a more aggressive “rejuvenation cut.” This helps the plant grow back into a lush, full shrub. Also, if those flower heads get so big they start to droop, feel free to use some garden stakes to give the branches a little extra support!
