Hydrangea Care Guide

Fresh hydrangeas from the Andes of Colombia arrive ready to bloom. Follow these steps to get the most out of every stem.

1. Upon Arrival — First 30 Minutes Matter

• Unbox immediately. Remove flowers from the box as soon as they arrive.
• Trim the stems. Cut at least 1 inch off each stem at a 45-degree angle — ideally under running water or while holding the stem submerged. This prevents air from blocking water uptake.
• Score the stem base. Make a small vertical slit (about half an inch) at the bottom of each stem to increase water absorption.
• Place in fresh cold water immediately. Use a clean vase filled with cold water. The colder, the better.

2. Water & Vase Care

• Change the water every 2 days. Bacteria in stagnant water is the fastest way to shorten the life of your flowers.
• Keep the vase clean. Rinse it each time you change the water.
• Remove submerged leaves. Any foliage below the waterline will rot and promote bacterial growth. Strip it off before placing in the vase.
• Optional: Add a flower food packet or a few drops of bleach (1/4 teaspoon per quart) to keep water clear.

3. Location & Environment

• Cool temperature. Keep flowers in a room between 60–72°F (15–22°C). Warmer rooms cause faster wilting.
• Indirect light only. A well-lit room is perfect. Direct sunlight will dry out the petals quickly.
• Avoid heat sources. Keep away from heaters, radiators, fireplaces, and appliances that emit heat.
• No strong air currents. Do not place near air conditioning vents, fans, or open windows with strong drafts. Moving air dehydrates petals rapidly, even in a cool room.
• Keep away from fruit. Apples, bananas, and other ripening fruits emit ethylene gas, which dramatically speeds up flower aging. Keep your bouquet in a separate area of the home.

4. Reviving Wilted Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas have a unique ability to absorb water through their petals — which means wilting is often reversible.

1. Re-cut the stems at a 45-degree angle under water.
2. Fill a sink or large basin with cold water.
3. Submerge the entire flower head in the water for 20–30 minutes.
4. Remove, shake off excess water gently, and place back in the vase.
5. In most cases, flowers will recover within a few hours.

5. How Long Will They Last?

With proper care, fresh hydrangeas can thrive for up to 7–10 days. Longevity depends on room temperature, water freshness, and placement. The better the conditions, the longer they bloom.