Tried a new way to keep hydrangeas from wilting on delivery

I had a big wedding order in Seattle last weekend and the bride wanted blue hydrangeas, which are notorious for drooping. Instead of just cutting the stems, I dipped each one in boiling water for 30 seconds before putting them in the cooler. They stayed perky for the whole 4-hour setup and the client was thrilled. Has anyone else tried this hot water trick with other fussy flowers?

3 comments

3 Comments

irisg571mo agoTop Commenter

My grandma swore by putting a copper penny in the vase water for her dahlias.

the_amy1mo ago

Did she use a new penny or an old one? I've heard the older ones have more copper, but I'm not sure if it makes a difference.

lucask111mo ago

My buddy tried the penny trick with his cut flowers last year. His zinnias lasted almost two full weeks longer than usual. Guess grandma knew a thing or two.