hydrangea

Hydrangeas Info

General Info

The Hydrangea is an annual flowering plant that is native to southern and eastern Asia and North and South America. Upon the Hydrangea plant, two types of flowers bloom, both the mophead flower and the pompom flower. Hydrangeas bloom from early spring to late autumn, and grows in a variety of colors, from, white, pink, blue, to red and more. The color of the flowers that bloom often corresponds to the PH balance of the soil. Acidic soil produces blue flowers, whereas neutral soils produce white blooms and alkaline soils produce pink or purple blooms. Hydrangeas require shade or part-shade as both the leaves and flowers burn quite easily. Soil should be constantly moist and well drained. Place in a bright location that benefits from indirect sunlight. Then at night, for best care, move the Hydrangea to a spot with temperatures between 50 and 60 F. Then, water the plant regularly by soaking the plant in a tray of water. As with outdoor planted Hydrangeas, the potted Hydrangea benefits from moist, yet well-drained soil. If potted Hydrangeas are displayed outside, move indoors before first frost. Avoid displaying an indoor potted Hydrangea in front of a window as this can cause flower color to fade.

Care and Handling

  • Prepare a clean vase with cool to cold water mixed with flower preservative from your florist. Hydrangeas develop best in cold water, so feel free to place ice cubes in your water.
  • Cut your hydrangeas stems under water and at an angle. 1 inch from the bottom is what florists typically recommend for the first cut. Cutting the stems will allow the hydrangeas to absorb more water.
  • To ensure your hyrdrangeas are drinking enough water, try poking holes in the bottom of the freshly cut stem with a pin. They have thick stems, so the hydrangeas will have a harder time taking in water, and these extra holes will allow more absorption.
  • Use pruning shears to trim away any excess foliage from stems that will be submerged in the water solution. Excess foliage can muddy up water, or absorb too much water, drying out your flowers.
  • When the water begins to discolor, change the water-flower preservative solution with cold water and a new pack. Re-cut the stems as you have done on the first day. Discolored water is a sign of growing bacteria, which will cause the flowers to wilt faster.
  • Keep your flowers away from direct sunlight, heat and drafts.
  • (Optional) If you are leaving your hydrangeas for days at a time, you can opt to refrigerate your flowers, just like professional florists.

Average Lifespan

  • The average vase life of hydrangeas lasts anywhere from 7 to 10 days.

Seasonal Availability

hydrangeas

Quick Guide

Symbolism: Perseverance
Native Origin: Southern & Eastern Asia, North America, South America
Blooming Season: Early Spring, Summer
Average Life: 7 to 10 Days