Bigleaf Hydrangea

Care guide

Provide afternoon shade. The combination of high elevation, late freezes extending into April, and intense sun following cold nights increases the risk of bud and tissue damage. Macrophylla buds are specifically vulnerable to this pattern.

Blooms on old wood. In spring, remove only dead wood. Avoid aggressive cuts — flower buds formed the previous season sit on existing stems, and heavy pruning eliminates the current year's bloom.

Early-to-mid March. Preserve a large root ball. Site in a location with afternoon shade. Be prepared to protect buds if late freezes occur after transplanting.

Late freeze bud damage: Hard freezes in March-April can kill the flower buds and tender new tissue. Macrophylla is more vulnerable than paniculata because it blooms on old wood — the buds are already formed and exposed.

Early-mid March: Transplant if needed (large root ball, afternoon shade location). Spring: Deadwood-only pruning. April: Protect buds if late freezes are forecast (cover or burlap).