With their lush, voluminous petals and vibrant colours, hydrangeas are a favourite for floral arrangements. Whether they’re soft pastel pink, deep blue, or pure white, these elegant blooms can brighten any space.
But hydrangeas can be a little tricky when it comes to vase life. Without the right care, they have a tendency to wilt quickly. The good news? With a few simple tricks, you can keep your cut hydrangeas looking fresh and full for days—if not weeks!
Read on to learn how to properly trim, hydrate, and maintain cut hydrangeas so they stay stunning for as long as possible.
1. Trimming: The Key to Hydration
Hydrangeas are known as “thirsty flowers,” meaning they need extra help absorbing water to prevent wilting. Proper trimming is essential to maximise water intake.
How to Trim Cut Hydrangeas
- Use sharp floral shears or scissors to make a diagonal cut at the bottom of the stem. A fresh angle increases the surface area for water absorption.
- For even better hydration, split the stem slightly by making a vertical cut up the middle.
- Remove any leaves that sit below the waterline in your vase. Leaves can introduce bacteria, shortening the lifespan of your flowers.
2. Watering: Keep Them Hydrated and Happy
Hydrangeas thrive on moisture, and keeping them well-hydrated is crucial to maintaining their beauty.
The Best Watering Practices for Cut Hydrangeas
- Place your hydrangeas in a clean vase filled with room-temperature water as soon as possible.
- Change the water daily to prevent bacteria buildup, which can clog stems and reduce water absorption.
- Add a teaspoon of sugar and a few drops of white vinegar or lemon juice to the vase water to nourish the blooms and maintain freshness.
Pro Tip: If your hydrangeas start to wilt, submerge the entire flower head in cool water for a few hours. They absorb water through their petals as well as their stems, which can revive them beautifully.
3. Keeping Hydrangeas Vibrant and Colourful
Hydrangea colours naturally vary depending on soil pH (for garden-grown varieties), but for cut hydrangeas, the key to maintaining vibrancy is proper care and hydration.
Ways to Preserve Their Colour
- Keep them out of direct sunlight and heat – exposure can cause premature fading and wilting.
- Use filtered or dechlorinated water if possible—tap water chemicals can sometimes affect their longevity.
- Mist the petals lightly with water to prevent them from drying out, especially in warm or air-conditioned environments.
4. Reviving Wilted Hydrangeas
Even with the best care, hydrangeas can sometimes droop. But don’t worry—there are ways to bring them back to life.
Revival Techniques
- Trim the stems again at a diagonal angle and place them in boiling water for 30 seconds before transferring them back into fresh, room-temperature water. This helps break any air bubbles that may be blocking water uptake.
- Fully submerge both the stems and flower heads in cool water for at least an hour. This rehydrates them and often restores their shape.
- Keep them in a cool, shaded place while they recover to avoid further stress.
5. How Long Do Cut Hydrangeas Last?
With proper care, cut hydrangeas can last up to two weeks. Regular stem trimming, daily water changes, and avoiding direct sunlight will help them stay lush and fresh for longer.
For those who love hydrangeas but want an even longer-lasting option, dried hydrangeas make for a stunning alternative. Simply let them air dry in a vase with no water, and they’ll transform into a beautifully preserved floral display.
Final Thoughts: Hydrangeas Made Easy
Caring for cut hydrangeas might require a little extra attention, but the results are well worth it. Their stunning blooms bring elegance and charm to any setting, whether in a home, event space, or floral arrangement.
With the right care, your hydrangeas will continue to impress—day after day.
