How to Make Hydrangeas Last

Hydrangeas are my all-time favorite flower, but until now I have been sorely disappointed every time I have attempted to bring them into my home. Within 24 hours of placing them in a vase, they have completely wilted and I have thrown them into the trash, thinking that there was no hope! Two weeks ago, however, my husband brought home three stems of light blue hydrangeas for me, and this time I was determined to make them last! Sadly, two of the three stems were already pretty droopy, but I was hopeful that this time things would be different. I put the two droopy stems into one vase and the one hardy stem in the other, and waited to see what would happen. Sure enough, the next morning they were are shriveled up!

Determined to break this discouraging cycle, I googled “How to Keep Cut Hydrangeas Alive,” and found a great tutorial that I immediately put into action. Basically, I was instructed to do the following:

1) Cut hydrangea stem to desired length. Then, with scissors or a knife, vertically cut away some of the bottom of the stem so that the white pith is exposed. This will help with absorption of water. Also remove all extraneous leaves, as they will steal a lot of water from the flowers.

2) Get a big bowl and fill it with ice water. Place the entire hydrangea horizontally in the water bath so that it is completely submerged in the water. Leave it there for 4-6 hours, or even overnight. By the time you take the flowers out, they should look good as new!

3) Fill a vase with room temperature water and place the hydrangeas in. If the flowers begin to wilt, repeat steps one and two.

Two weeks later, my one stem is still alive and kicking, while the other two lasted me for about 10 days. I have posted some photos to prove it!