Evergreen climbing hydrangea: when and how to prune

Evergreen climbing hydrangea: when to prune it?

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Hardly needed. Trim lightly after flowering, in August, and remove frosted shoots in May.

What else to prune in those months? May · August

Evergreen climbing hydrangea: how to prune it?

1. After flowering, shorten long, hanging shoots to the desired shape.
2. In May, when new growth starts, cut dead or frosted stems back to healthy wood.
3. Remove dead and thin stems from the centre.
4. Keep it away from gutters and windows.

How much to cut, and how often?

• There are 2 pruning periods a year: May and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in May and August can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Evergreen climbing hydrangea flowers in July–August, when it attracts bees.
• If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Climbing hydrangea
• Oakleaf hydrangea
• Hydrangea
• Mountain hydrangea
• Panicled hydrangea
• Smooth hydrangea (Annabelle)

Plant profile: Evergreen climbing hydrangea · Pruning calendar and basic rules