Rejuvenate old hydrangeas

Big, old, neglected hydrangea bushes become very woody and over time lose some of their vigour, producing less growth and smaller blooms. This can all be turned around with some serious pruning. Using loppers or a sharp pruning saw, cut back the oldest, thickest stems at ground level. This stimulates vigorous new growth from the base. Then cut out all the thin, weak branches, along with any damaged or diseased wood. All you should be left with is young, strong, healthy growth. Prune back any stems that have recently flowered by about a quarter, to just above a pair of plump buds. These buds will produce flowers. Leave unflowered branches alone, as they’ll also produce flowers next season. Give the bush a deep soaking, then mulch with compost. Fertilise and water in spring.