Three tips to stop hydrangeas drooping and extend their life

Hydrangeas are not only a stunning addition to the garden but can also be cut and displayed indoors, adding a splash of colour to any room.

Speaking to Express.co.uk, David Denyer from Eflorist said: "Hydrangeas, known for their large, colourful heads, are popular ornamental plants that make a captivating addition to any home."

"While their beauty is undeniable, these blooms require a little TLC as they can wilt surprisingly fast. However, the good news is that with a few essential tips, you can extend their lifespan and enjoy their beauty for longer."

The expert shared that the key to keeping these flowers fresh starts with the cutting technique.

1. Cutting them at the right time, reports the Express.

David noted: "Hydrangeas can wilt very quickly and this is because they produce a sticky sap at the base of their stems, which causes clogging and prevents moisture from reaching the blooms."

"The best time of day to cut your hydrangea blooms is in the morning. Using sharp, clean shears or scissors, make a diagonal cut at a 45-degree angle, and immediately stand the stems in a container of hot boiling water for 30 seconds."

"This will help prevent them from drying out and improve water absorption. Then remove the blooms and place them in a vase filled with room-temperature water."

"Additionally, it's important to trim off any leaves that fall below the waterline as submerged leaves can decompose and encourage bacterial growth."

2. Washing the vase.

Before arranging hydrangeas, it's crucial to thoroughly clean your chosen vase with soapy water to eliminate any bacteria.

Select a vase that is suitably sized for the number of hydrangeas you wish to display, ensuring there is ample space for them to stand upright.

Hydrangeas are fond of water, so it's vital to keep them hydrated and ensure the vase is always filled with room-temperature water.

The water should be refreshed every other day to maintain the freshness of the flowers and prevent bacterial growth.

The expert added: "You can also add in any sachets of flower food to nourish your blooms and keep the water clean."

"If your hydrangeas start to look wilted and droopy, you can rejuvenate them by immersing the entire flower head in cool water for 30 to 45 minutes."

"This will rehydrate your beautiful blooms, fluff up the petals, and prolong their overall vase life, resulting in a stunning centrepiece once again."

"Always position your hydrangeas in cool areas with good air circulation. Ensure to keep your arrangement away from direct sunlight and instead choose locations with indirect sunlight, such as a hallway or bedroom table."

"Drafts can also dehydrate the flowers so keep your bouquet away from air conditioners, open windows, or heaters."