Pruning Annabelle Hydrangea

Spring pruning Annabelle Hydrangea arborescens. I live in Zone 5 in a mountainous
region of Austrian Alps. I prune my Annabelle in early spring, March- beginning April. Annabelle blooms on new wood. I leave my spent blooms on the plant for a winter interest and also to provide protection from the cold winter temperatures. In early spring I cut the stems all the way down. This produces bigger blooms in summer. Because of the size of the flowers, stems might flop, therefore provide support. In my case it is and old garden globe, but it works great.

[@acasburn1460]

Thank you for sharing.
Do you fertilise at this point.
Greetings from Australia 🇦🇺

[@deasiaamos9934]

Wow tht was a very brutal cut😳

[@naturesensegardening5002]

I know what you mean, it looks like I am pruning away way too much... But it works very well, the new growth is visible as soon as the weather warms up and the blooms are huge. Thanks for watching.

[@33chickie33]

The follow up was helpful!

[@naturesensegardening5002]

Thank you. People have many questions about Anabelles and I find mine so easy to grow.

[@Angela-tv8nx]

what happens if the plant already has buds on it?

[@naturesensegardening5002]

Hi, it is ok if the buds are starting to appear. I would still prune it down, just leave 2 pairs of buds on each cane (4 buds total). These will grow into new canes which will produce flowers. Eva