How To Cut Hydrangeas

One of my favorite things about summer is seeing my Hydrangea bloom! I love bringing in a fresh bouquet, they really liven up any space. Here are some easy steps to ensure your Hydrangea bouquet will last and stay looking fresh.

When To Cut

To ensure your hydrangeas will last, be sure to cut them in the morning when it’s cooler outside. They will look fresher and the arrangement will last longer. If you cut them later in the day, the Hydrangea will be out in the hot sun and will have lost most of its life.

How To Cut

When cutting be sure to choose the most mature blooms. I usually prefer cutting the ones closest to the ground, as they seem to be less visible and don’t take away from the body of the shrub. Once you’ve singled out the bloom you would like to cut, try to cut where two stems meet just above the joint. Make your cut of the stem at an angle, so they absorb the water better. As soon as you cut make sure to place them in a pitcher of fresh water. Yes, take that pitcher outside with you while cutting to ensure they stay watered and fresh.

Wash and Cut Again

After you have cut your desired blooms (I usually find that three makes a beautiful bouquet) put them in the sink. Make sure you shake them out really good. Next, I gently rinse them under cold water. It’s important to get all the bugs off of them!

Create a cross cut with your scissors into the bottom stem of each bloom. If the bloom stems are thinner, just make a single cut in the stem. By making a cross cut, you are helping the Hydrangea absorb the water more easily. Hydrangeas are hardy and have a woody stem that make water absorption difficult.

How To Get A Lasting Bouquet

Be sure to place your finished bouquet into fresh cool water immediately. Cut away the leaves that are under the water in your vase. You don’t want leaves in the water because it can create a breeding ground for bacteria growth. It’s important that you replace your water every other day. By changing your water, you are preventing bacteria growth and keeping them feeling fresh and new. This will prevent them from wilting and help them to have a long life.

That’s it! Enjoy your beautiful bouquet. If you care for them properly they can last for weeks and make an impact on whatever room you decide to showcase them. I love showing them off in my kitchen.