Hydrating Hydrangeas

"There are no unattractive flowers, just unattractive flower arrangements."

I'm not sure who to attribute this quote to but I couldn't agree more.  All flowers are beautiful.  Yes, even the lowly carnation (but not the dyed versions--that is just wrong!).

I really don't have a favorite flower but if I am forced to pick just one I would have to say the hydrangea.  What's not to love?  They can be the front and center star in an arrangement or play a supporting role; they last for weeks and weeks once cut and can be easily dried; and, they come in a glorious range of colors--pinks, purples, blues, greens, white and, in the fall, a combination of rich colors called "antique".

Early spring hydrangea can be a little finicky--they are not as hardy as their fall cousins!  So it's important to make sure the hydrangeas are properly hydrated.  To help the hydrangeas absorb enough water, add a pinch of Alum powder to your vase water.  Alum is a preservative used in pickling and can be found in your grocer's spice section.  I can't explain exactly how it works but picked up the tip from growers at the San Francisco Flower Mart.  

Sometimes even proper care can result in a wilted flower.  But all is not lost!  You can usually revive the hydrangea by floating the flower in a bucket of water.  Just fill a bucket with cool water full enough that the stem will not touch the bottom of the bucket.  Recut the hydrangea and place in the water so it is floating and then ... wait.  It may take a few hours or even overnight but almost every time your hydrangea will emerge happy and healthy and ready to be put back in your arrangement.   

A sad, sorry looking hydrangea

floating the flower in a bucket of water

the next day...a re-hydrated hydrangea!