Kay's Flower School

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How to Prolong the Life of Hydrangeas

Hydrangea are becoming more and more popular as a cut flower, but the problem is that they are inclined to wilt very quickly after being cut from your garden. 

So how do you stop Hydrangea from Wilting?

It is suggested that Hydrangea wilt so soon after being cut because their stems contain a sticky substance that clogs the stems preventing moisture reaching the top of the stem to the head.

Top Tip - Cut 10 cm off the stem and place in boiling water and leave for 24 hours.  

Make sure there is room for steam to escape, so dont over pack the bucket

If you do not have flower food available and you are sure you vase or containers are spotless, you could use a table spoon of sugar. 

Caution: If your vase has not been thoroughly cleaned (bleached) the sugar will feed any existing bacteria in the vase and cause it to multiply rapidly.

Hydrangea, do prefer for the bloom to be kept in a cooler environment and away from drafts or direct sunlight.  Hydrangea also drink water from their bloom heads so using a mister gun spray the blooms with prolong the life of the Hydrangea and if you find it is wilting quickly dunk its whole head in room temperature water. (NOT BOILING) 

In a Commercial Environment you will probably have access to Floralife Quick Dip which is an amazing professional product that replaces the Boiling Water Treatment. Make sure to follow the instructions very carefully when using Floralife Quick Dip


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