How to Cut and Dry Hydrangea Stems

I'm die-hard hydrangea fan and one of my favorite things about them is how beautifully they dry out for indoor arrangements. Whether you want to use them for floral arrangements, wreaths, or other projects, drying hydrangea stems is very simple and a great way to enjoy your beautiful flowers long after the growing season has ended. Here’s how to do it!

Hydrangea paniculata (one of my absolute favorites) has bountiful blooms that shift to gorgeous shades of pink as they move into fall. Images courtesy iStock.

1. Choose the Right Time to Cut

Timing is key. The best time to cut hydrangea stems is in late summer to early fall, once the flowers have matured and taken on a papery texture. Look for blooms that have started to shift from bright summer hues to softer shades—like muted greens, browns, or antique pinks—indicating they're ready for drying.

2. Cut the Stems Properly

Using sharp pruners, cut the stems in the morning when the flowers are hydrated. Snip them at an angle to help the stems absorb water more easily. Aim for 12 to 18-inch lengths—the longer, the better for arranging.

All hydrangeas respond quite well to drying. Here, they're strung up neatly with clothes pins on a line inside. Image courtesy White Flower Farm.

3. Drying the Stems

There are two simple ways to dry hydrangeas:

• Water-Drying Method: Place the stems in a vase with an inch or two of water. Leave them in a cool, dry spot out of direct sunlight. As the water evaporates, the flowers will gradually dry while maintaining their shape.

• Air-Drying Method: Strip the leaves from the stems and hang them upside down in small bunches for about 2-3 weeks until fully dried.

I love the moody pinks and browns of these dried Hydrangea "Limelight" flowers. I have them in one of my favorite vases made by the garden designer and ceramicist (and good friend!), Tara Douglass.

4. Use and Enjoy!

Once dried, hydrangea stems are perfect for arrangements, wreaths, or craft projects. Their soft, vintage appeal adds beauty to any space—no green thumb required!