Hydrangeas are gorgeous, hardy shrubs that can take the summer heat and chilly winter temperatures relatively well. 

The large flowers can last up to 20 growing seasons with some proper care during the changing seasons. 

With winter just over a month away, gardeners will be getting their hydrangeas ready for the winter.

To ensure she was taking the right steps with her plant, Susan Murray took to the Hydrangeas in the UK Facebook page for advice.

Sharing a photo of her dormant and dried-out hydrangea plant, Susan said: “Are these looking okay going into winter or have I done something wrong?”

Fellow group members in the comments section were in agreement that her hydrangeas which still had the buds attached were “perfectly normal”.

Explaining the reason behind this, many gardeners highlighted one task that should be avoided – and that’s deadheading.

Hellen Marie said: “They all look healthy going through to winter because you haven’t deadheaded them.”

Angela Formby commented: “They die off for the winter, just leave the heads on and trim down to new growth in the spring.”

Sharon Mackley wrote: “Absolutely fine. Keeping the flower heads on the stem will protect new growth from frost cut back end of next April when chance of no frost. They will reward you with 10 times the amount of blooms.”

Louise Walsh said: “Perfectly normal, it’s dying back for winter and is protected.” Sheila Petillo added: “Very healthy.”

You can deadhead throughout the blooming season, but stop deadheading the shrubs around mid to late autumn.

By leaving these dead blooms in place, they will help to protect the new buds beneath from winter frosts. 

Plus, leaving the withered buds provides a bit of form, structure and interest to your winter garden.