Cut hydrangeas need clean containers and attention to their water supply. Check stem ends and keep the arrangement away from drying heat.
Start with a clean vase and useful stems
Use a clean vessel and suitable water. Remove leaves that would sit below the water line, then recut stem bases with clean tools before arranging. Avoid crushing the stems or using an unverified boiling-water treatment as a routine step.
Keep the display away from stress
Choose a cool position away from direct sun, heaters and drying airflow. A large flower head can lose water while the vase still looks full. Check the actual water level and the condition of the stems daily.
Follow flower-food instructions
A commercial cut-flower product should be used at its labeled rate. Do not mix arbitrary amounts of salt, sugar, household cleaner or other additives. Replace unsuitable water and keep the vessel clean rather than trying to mask an odor.
Wilt has limits
A fresh stem may recover after its water uptake is restored, but not every old or damaged head will revive. Remove deteriorating material from the arrangement. Vase life varies with harvest stage, handling and conditions, so a fixed number of days is not a guarantee.
