A simple trick for keeping hydrangeas from wilting overnight

I kept having hydrangeas droop in arrangements for next-day weddings, even when I cut them fresh. My mentor in Seattle showed me to cut the stems, then dip just the bottom inch in boiling water for 30 seconds before putting them in room-temperature water. It shocks the stem and helps them drink up way better. I haven't had a wilted batch since I started doing this six months ago. What other tricks do you use for stubborn flowers?

3 comments

3 Comments

umamartin1mo ago

Tried that once and almost boiled my own fingers. My hydrangeas looked great though.

margaret_kim1327d ago

Actually the sap thing isn't quite right. Hydrangeas actually release a sticky substance from their cut stems that can seal them up. The hot water helps by breaking down that seal so the stems can keep drinking. It's definitely a risky trick but it does save a wilted bouquet.

nora_dixon1mo ago

Yeah, the boiling water trick is wild but it works. I read somewhere that hydrangeas have this weird sap that can block the stem, and the hot water clears it out. Makes sense why it helps them drink.