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Hard pruning climbing hydrangea

DebhaynDebhayn Posts: 1
in Problem solving
we have a 30 year old climbing hydrangea fully covering a  14 ft pergola. We need to rebuild the rotting pergola. How much of the vine can we prune without killing/ harming the plant? Can we take it down close to the 6 inch diameter trunk?

Posts

  • Paul B3Paul B3 Posts: 3,154
    I don't know about growing up a pergola , but only yesterday we reduced one by 75% completely smothering an old manor house . 25' high in places , combined with a large Parthenocissus . Fun and games all the way !!! :o
    On this one the oldest stems were between 6"-8" diameter , and we cut into those !

    Hydrangea petiolaris is as tough as the proverbial old-boots , so don't think it won't grow back , it will ! ;)
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    I'd have to say - it wouldn't be my choice for a pergola - unless the pergola is very, very, very big.
    They're best suited to walls - and preferably on big house walls, and even then - they cover them quite easily, as Paul describes!
    I love them though - stunning in the right location, but would you consider planting something else on your new pergola, Deb? Clematis, roses and honeysuckle are much more suitable. 
    If not, the hydrangea will grow back, no problem, as Paul says.  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
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