Preparing Hydrangeas for Stunning Blooms: Step-by-Step Guide

Known for their lush and big heads, hydrangeas are a favourite among florists and flower enthusiasts. These stunning flowers typically bloom from late spring to early autumn and are seriously breathtaking! Hydrangeas were first cultivated in Japan, but they also originated from the Americas. They thrive in many climates and are beloved all over the world. Let’s dive a little deeper into the world of hydrangeas, because these beauties are quite special!

Meaning behind hydrangeas

Hydrangeas come in many colours and shapes. Did you know that there are over 75 species of hydrangea! They can have many colours that range from white, pink, and lilac to blue, dark purple, and red. The soil and pH level play a big role in determining the colour of the flowers. The different colours have different meanings:

• Pink hydrangeas signify romance and carry the meaning of love, true feelings, and sincere emotions. The perfect choice for those you love!
• Blue hydrangeas signify apology. But they often also mean forgiveness, gratitude, and understanding.
• White hydrangeas symbolise purity, grace, abundance, but also vanity.
• Purple hydrangeas are associated with wealth, royalty, and pride. Despite the meaning of each colour, we think all hydrangeas are perfect for any occasion. They have even been a popular choice for anniversary gifts in the last couple of years.

How to condition your hydrangeas

Hydrangeas love water! Their name even comes from the greek word ‘hydor’ which means water. So when you unpack these beauties, make sure to place them in lots of water. After they rested for a bit, they are ready to be conditioned. You first need to cut their stems at a sharp 45 degree angle to ensure they absorb as much water as possible. Then, remove all the leaves from the stems. Once the leaves are removed, all the energy and water can go to the pretty petals so they can shine. Before placing them in the vase, give them some flower food. Put them in the vase and they are ready to thrive!

Did you know that hydrangeas actually don’t have petals? Instead they have sepals. These are leaves that protect the flower bud. They start of as green, but turn into their beautiful colours as they age. A big secret to keeping your hydrangeas looking fresh and new? Spray water on the colourful sepals! Hydrangeas can drink water through their sepals, so by spraying them a couple times a day you keep them happy and healthy. There is also a cool trick for when your hydrangeas are looking a little worse for wear. Want to know how to revive them again? Give them a splash in some water by submerging their heads entirely. After this, cut them again at a sharp 45 angle, and put them in some hot water. And voila, prepare to be amazed at their beauty once again!

You know what makes hydrangeas even more amazing? They are great for people with allergies! The flowers produce less and allergy-safe pollen, which means everyone can enjoy these big floral bulbs. Almost all hydrangeas are also fragrance free. This makes it the perfect flower for people with sensitive noses.

“Want to know how to revive them again?“

How to combine your hydrangeas

Hydrangeas look great on their own, and can steal the show in any setting, but they are also great in combination with other flowers. These are some of our favourite flowers to combine hydranges with:

• Roses
• Peonies
• Ranunculus
• Dahlias
• Carnations
• Astilbe

Hydrangeas are such popular flowers and we totally understand why! They are perfect for any type of arrangement. We can’t help but love them and hope you do too!