Growing & Maintenance Tips for Hydrangea paniculata 'Phantom'
Blooms can be used for fresh or dried arrangements. Flowers persist, and if left on will provide winter interest. Hydrangea prefer full sun in the morning with partial shade in the afternoon. If they get full sun, ensure they are wattered more in hot summer weather. They prefer fertile, well drained soil with consistent water. When watering, soak deeply less often, rather than shallow daily waterings. If in full shade they will have fewer blooms.
The hardy hydrangeas we carry grow their flowers on new wood. Removing about 1/3 of the oldest branches each year will make for a fuller and healthier shrub. Many gardeners prefer to prune in late winter because it is easier to see the branch structure and reach into the interior of the shrub when there are no leaves on the plant. You can also deadhead the blooms as they fade to encourage new growth.