Hydrangeas: How To Prepare Them For Arrangement?

To ensure the best results from your fresh hydrangeas, follow these steps:

1. Never stand the hydrangea in direct sunlight or near a heat source. Ideal conditions are approximately 7 to 8 degrees during the conditioning process. You’ll need to re-cut the stems when they’re ready for arranging.
2. Keep hydrangea stems hydrated and trimmed. Leave them in water, in a cool space, and out of direct sunlight until it’s time for arranging.
3. Cut the stem at an angle that is as long as you can make it. If using a knife, hold the stem down firmly with a few fingers to make the diagonal.
4. Water the shrubs well before picking the flowers. Choose more mature and open flowers for better results. Cut the stems at a sharp angle.
5. Submerge the entire hydrangea in water for at least 2-6 hours or overnight.
6. Start by using clean, sharp shears and make your cut above a node, including at least two leaf groups on the cut stem. To condition hydrangeas, dip them into alum powder and place them in a clean vase/bucket of fresh tepid water.
7. Change the water after a few days and keep the cut hydrangea flowers out of direct sunlight.
8. Dunk wilted stems in alum powder.
9. Choose a healthy bouquet that feels sturdy and not soft or spongy. A healthy bouquet should last up to two weeks.

In summary, proper cutting and care of hydrangeas are essential for their longevity and beauty. By following these steps, you can create beautiful and lasting arrangements for your hydrangeas.