Do I cut back these plants - Ask Extension
Hello:
I saw the show about cutting back hydrangeas on Prairie PBS, but have always missed the first half. I have heard there are variants of hydr...
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Do I cut back these plants #928138
Asked April 12, 2026, 11:33 AM EDT
Hello:
I saw the show about cutting back hydrangeas on Prairie PBS, but have always missed the first half. I have heard there are variants of hydrangeas that you do not cut back or they won't have spring growth. But some you can. I am attaching pictures of my plants now, and when they were in bloom. And another plant that is in my front yard I am not sure if I cut back or not.
I just moved into this house a year ago, so I am not sure what these plants are specifically.
Thanks, Beth Perry
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Looking at the round heads on your hydrangea you have a smooth leaf and they can be cut back now. Panicle (large cone shaped heads) can also be cut back.
Big leaf and oak leaf hydrangeas do not get cut back.
You can find out what each looks like by googling them.
I hope this helps!
