How to Keep Hydrangeas From Wilting in Bouquets

Boiling Water Method

• 1

  Remove leaves that will be under the water when the flowers are placed in the vase.

• 2

  Fill a vase with room-temperature water.

• 3

  Boil 2 to 3 cups of additional water in a medium saucepan.

• 4

  Pour the boiling water into a tall container, and place the hydrangea's stems into it.

• 5

  Remove the hydrangeas after 30 seconds in the boiling water, and plunge the stems into the room-temperature water.

Quick Method

• 6

  Remove all leaves from the lower portion of each hydrangea flower. Leaves under the water rot and cause the flowers to wilt.

• 7

  Cut 1/2 inch from the bottom of the hydrangea stem while holding it under running water.

• 8

  Poke holes around the hydrangea stem, 1 inch from the bottom, with a small needle. This helps the stem absorb water.

• 9

  Add a packet of flower freshener, available at nurseries, to the water in the vase and place the hydrangea in the vase.

• 10

  Pull the flowers from the arrangement every three days. Cut another 1/2 inch off the bottom of the stems, under running water and at a 45-degree angle. Pour out the water in the vase, add fresh water and replace the flowers in the vase.