My hydrangea plants are growing up from the ground this year but there are a lot of tall stems/sticks that don't seem to be producing any new leaves/b...
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Hydrangeas Help #932742
Asked May 24, 2026, 4:59 PM EDT
My hydrangea plants are growing up from the ground this year but there are a lot of tall stems/sticks that don't seem to be producing any new leaves/buds and look very dry. I don't know whether I should cut them back or not. Thank you for your assistance--it is greatly appreciated.
Hennepin CountyMinnesota
Expert Response
Depending on the type of hydrangea, whether it blooms on old wood, new wood or both it may still produce flowers but the longer branches will give it an unruly look if you leave them. From the leaf type this appears to be a smooth leaf hydrangea which blooms on both new and old wood. The following websites gives specific details for pruning different types of hydrangea.
Thank you very much for your prompt response. I'm pretty new to gardening and love the large hydrangeas outside my house (they have the big round blossoms). I certainly don't want to damage them. There is definitely a lot of new growth coming up from the ground (as well as some from the existing stems) so I guess that means I can cut back/trim the sticks/stems where there are no buds or leaves. I really appreciate your help!
You are welcome! They are probably Annabelle that grow on old and new wood. So they should be fine whatever you decide to do. About every third year I cut mine back to the ground to help them rejuvenate. Good luck!
