If you have Annabelle hydrangeas (or know someone that does) now is the time to clip them and bring into the house for a flower arrangement that will last for months! Right now in Nashville, the beautiful white snowballs have finished showing off and have turned an electric green and it’s the perfect time to cut and enjoy as they dry and keep this way.

The key is knowing when to cut - too early (too much moisture) and they won’t dry right and too late (already dried out) they will turn brown - you’re looking for the right color and amount of moisture.

I’ve been seen around my parents Hydrangea garden from time to time - I stopped by this week to clip a few for my home. See below for a very simple and easy way to bring in some florals that will truly last!

With Annabelles you can cut them as far down as you like - they bloom on new growth each year. If you are cutting other types of hydrangeas be careful as to where you cut - some varieties require old growth to form blooms for the next year.

S T E P 1

After bringing your hydrangeas inside I like to give each stem a fresh cut - always cut flowers at an angle - they absorb more water this way. I left about 12” as I think these look prettier the longer the stem but really judge it by your container. You want the hydrangea balls just at the top of the vase.

S T E P 2

Fill a vase or container with just about 2” of water.

S T E P 3

Take all of the leaves off each stem - as these will not dry well and just shrivel up. Also pinch off any brown petals that you may have.

S T E P 4

Keep your eyes open and shake for insects - a praying mantis jumped out at me! I screamed, took a picture for my son to see when he got home from school and slid him across the Kitchen floor and out the door (bye!)

S T E P 5

Place in a cool dry area away from direct sunlight (to prevent fading) and simply let the water evaporate and you don’t have to touch them again!

How simple is that - so quick and easy - filling your home with natural beauty and color that you can appreciate for months and months to come! I usually toss them when I’m bringing in Spring flowers but in the meantime you have something beautiful and chic in your home to enjoy.

Go grab your clippers and find some Annabelles . . . and if you don’t have any - plant some now for beautiful blooms next year - I just got some that I’ll be planting this weekend!

xxChelsea