Aaackk! I have a climbing hydrangea that was planted 4 years ago (August 2003). It has bloomed every year, but has been slow in attaching itself to the stucco and growing up the side of the house. No worry, I'm patient. I've been cutting back the branches (canes?) that grow away from the house, and leave only the ones close to the house.

BUT...now the dog has holes near the roots (dang lab chasing voles!) and severely stressed the plant. Most, but not all the leaves have dropped. Given our mild fall, it is starting to re-leaf. Is there anything I can do to better prepare it for the winter?