July Hydrangea Care Guide for Victoria, BC – Pruning Tips & Tricks

 July is a crucial month for hydrangeas in Victoria, BC! With our mild coastal climate, these show-stopping blooms thrive, but proper pruning ensures healthy growth and even more spectacular flowers next season. Here’s your step-by-step guide to caring for your hydrangeas this month.  

1. Know Your Hydrangea Type  

Victoria’s gardens commonly feature these varieties:  

- Bigleaf (Hydrangea macrophylla): Blooms on old wood (last year’s growth). Prune lightly after flowering.  

- Panicle (Hydrangea paniculata): Blooms on new wood (this year’s growth). Can prune harder in early spring.  

- Smooth (Hydrangea arborescens): Also blooms on new wood. Tolerates aggressive pruning.  

Pro Tip: Check if your hydrangea’s stems are woody (old wood) or green (new wood) to guide your pruning.  

 2. July Pruning Do’s & Don’ts  

✅ Do:  

- Deadhead spent blooms (cut just below the flower head to encourage new growth).  

- Remove weak/damaged stems to improve airflow and prevent disease.  

- Shape overgrown plants—but avoid heavy pruning for bigleaf types!  

❌ Don’t:  

- Prune bigleaf hydrangeas too late (you’ll cut off next year’s buds!).  

- Leave faded flowers on the plant (they drain energy).  

 3. Victoria-Specific Tips  

- Watering: Hydrangeas love moisture! Water deeply 2–3x/week during dry spells (use mulch to retain water).  

- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early July to support growth.  

- Sun Protection: In hotter areas (like Saanich or Oak Bay), provide afternoon shade to prevent wilting.  

4. What’s Next?  

- August: Monitor for pests (aphids love hydrangeas!). Spray leaves with water or use insecticidal soap.  

- September: Prepare for fall by reducing fertilizer and letting plants harden off. (By GYCSS)