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My Annabelle hydrangeas are rain hammered #876997

Asked July 12, 2024, 2:06 PM EDT

My Annabelle’s look ruined with all the rain. My gut tells me to prune back the damaged branches to the ground but being July, I’m nervous. Don’t have advice for horrifically droopy Annabelle hydrangeas in Lansing?

Eaton County Michigan

Expert Response

I’m attaching a couple pictures.   The first one is the eastern side and the second picture is the southern side of the garden.  The picture is 36-48 hours after the big rain storm around the 9th or 10th and a short down pour today on July 12th. 

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On Friday, July 12, 2024, 2:06 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


Dear Lee,

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YOUR QUESTION #0146915:

My Annabelle hydrangeas are rain hammered

My Annabelle’s look ruined with all the rain. My gut tells me to prune back the damaged branches to the ground but being July, I’m nervous. Don’t have advice for horrifically droopy Annabelle hydrangeas in Lansing?

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The Question Asker Replied July 12, 2024, 2:27 PM EDT

While a drooping hydrangea may look like a disaster, the shrub will recover. If there are branches that are broken they can be trimmed off, If the branch is only dropping over they can be propped up, Tomato cages can be used to help support the branches of the hydrangeas. Stakes driven into the ground near the hydrangea can be used to try up the branches falling over. Finally, a trellis will help to support the hydrangea branches.


Thank you for your question and have a great gardening experience.


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