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ID and Pruning Hydrangeas

9 years ago

I don't think this Hydrangea has been pruned back for a decade. Is it safe to cut it WAY back- it's really rather out of control and unsightly, plus I think it may attract rodents. They are predicting a hard frost tonight. I would cover what remains above ground (8-10 inches?) with leaf mulch. I am in Zone 3a (Minnesota). Thanks for any advice you can offer. Also, does anyone know what the name of this kind of hydrangea might be?

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Comments (3)

hyed
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
It looks like a Annabelle, as for pruning you can cut back as far as you want ( maybe 12” to 18”)...needs no winter protection
Michael Smith thanked hyed
Michael Smith
Original Author
9 years ago
Thank you so much
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NHBabs z4b-5a NH
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
IME Annabelle suckers, spreading via roots, so you may need to remove chunks of it from around the edges to get it to a more controlled size. I dig out chunks of mine most years and it still wants to take over the entire bed, sending outroots under surrounding plants.
Michael Smith thanked NHBabs z4b-5a NH

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