Raising a panicle hydrangea to a standard is not particularly difficult, but it does require patience. You can carry out the corresponding topiary when planting a young plant, but also with an older specimen that has not been cut out for several years.

A panicle hydrangea can grow into a large tree with the right training

Training cut when planting

First of all, take a close look at your panicle hydrangea and, if necessary, shorten it to a height of around 100 to 120 centimeters. Select the strongest trunk to the main trunk. Between November and March (early spring is best for this pruning) cut off the branches of the main stem above the second or third eye of the young panicle hydrangea.

Shape cut after a year

This cut should only be carried out when the trunk has reached the desired height or has even grown higher. If, on the other hand, the main trunk still seems weak and hasn't grown much, give it some time and only remove the old inflorescences. Otherwise, towards the end of February / beginning of March, remove the side branches above the first eye. If the trunk is taller than desired, simply cut it off above the third eye above the highest branch.

Education cut after two and three years

Again, at the end of February / beginning of March, cut off the highest and thickest branches (the so-called leading branches) above the second or third eye above the base. Shorten the branches of the trunk to a length of about 10 centimeters. Finally, in the third year, in the same period, cut off the highest branches above the second eye. Remove the weak branches. Remove any branches growing from the sides of the trunk. Repeat this cut at the same time every year.

tips and tricks

In addition, you should carry out a pruning every year around mid-March, during which you cut off all branches that had flowers in the previous year. This pruning can also be done in the fall.

Category:

Vegetable garden