The Art of Hydrangea: Blooming Beauty on a Budget

I once read that marriage is not a 50/50 partnership but rather a 100/100 commitment, where both individuals put in their full effort to build a life together. Making small gestures each day to nurture your shared space can bring so much joy.

In a recent post, singer Hoàng Bách teases his wife, former supermodel Đoàn Thanh Thảo, who is pictured in their kitchen amidst a collection of beautiful hydrangea arrangements. Hoàng Bách jokingly asks, “Why are you wearing a bikini at home? Is it your husband’s request?” To which Thanh Thảo playfully replies, “I don’t even have time to play the piano like someone else; I’ve been busy watering and caring for my flowers!”

Hoàng Bách points out the difference in their hobbies, saying that he sells his music, while his wife’s flowers only cost them money. She retorts, “It depends on the type of flower; some can be sold, and some can’t.”

In their family kitchen, Đoàn Thanh Thảo radiates happiness amidst the vibrant flowers she has just arranged. On the kitchen island, a series of vases showcase delicate pink lilies and serene green hydrangeas, artfully arranged to create a romantic and refined ambiance.

Responding to a comment that one needs money to buy flowers, Thanh Thảo skillfully replies, “Choices should always be aligned with one’s financial means. For instance, my mother, a flower enthusiast, rarely buys flowers. Instead, she creatively cuts and arranges flowers and foliage from her garden, resulting in beautiful displays without spending a fortune on her hobby!”

Additionally, Hoàng Bách’s wife shares a clip revealing her secret to making hydrangeas bloom beautifully and last longer.

Before arranging the flowers, she dips the blooms in water. This technique ensures the flowers absorb moisture directly through their petals, providing the necessary hydration to prolong their lifespan.

Next, she thoroughly washes the stems and lets them air dry. This step is crucial for removing dirt or bacteria that may cause the flowers to wilt prematurely or cloud the water in the vase.

These steps not only help maintain the flowers’ freshness but also extend their lifespan when used as home decor.

After arranging the flowers, Đoàn Thanh Thảo skillfully places the hydrangea arrangements in various spots throughout their home, creating a refined and romantic atmosphere. A large vase takes center stage on the living room’s round table, serving as a stunning focal point. The soft green hydrangeas complement the white interior, exuding elegance, harmony, and warmth.

She also places a vase on her husband’s piano, infusing the musical corner with life and artistic inspiration.

Another vase graces her workspace. In this sun-drenched space, the flowers shine brightly, infusing the former supermodel’s work area with a sense of freshness and relaxation.

To achieve lush, long-lasting hydrangea blooms, consider the following tips:

1. Select fresh, healthy flowers: When purchasing hydrangeas, opt for stems with evenly opened blooms, vibrant colors, and undamaged petals. The stems should be sturdy, without any signs of breakage or wilting.

2. Trim the flower stems: Before arranging, cut the stems at a 2-3 cm angle using a sharp knife or shears. Angled cuts improve water absorption. Also, remove any leaves that will be submerged in water to prevent bacterial growth and cloudy water.

3. Soak the blooms in water: Prior to arranging, immerse the entire flower (blooms and stems) in cold water for 15-30 minutes. This step hydrates the flowers, providing the necessary moisture for extended freshness.

4. Clean the stems: Rinse the stems thoroughly and allow them to air dry before placing them in a vase. This step eliminates dirt and bacteria, improving water absorption and preventing stem rot.

5. Choose an appropriate vase: Opt for a tall vase with a wide opening to give the flowers ample room to flourish. Ensure the vase is clean and free from residue before use.

6. Use a flower preservative: Add a small amount of commercial flower preservative or make your own mixture with sugar, lemon, and a tiny amount of bleach. This solution provides nutrients, maintains freshness, and inhibits bacterial growth.

7. Change the water daily: Refresh the water in the vase daily to keep the flowers vibrant. When changing the water, trim a small portion from the stems to enhance water absorption.

8. Place the flowers in a cool location: Display the hydrangeas in a cool area, away from direct sunlight and drafts. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, will accelerate wilting.

9. Mist the flowers: Hydrangeas thrive in high humidity, so lightly mist the blooms daily to maintain their plumpness and prolong their lifespan.

10. Keep ripe fruit away: Hydrangeas are sensitive to ethylene gas emitted by ripening fruit, which can cause them to deteriorate rapidly. Therefore, it’s best to display your hydrangeas away from fruit bowls or baskets.

Wishing you success in your floral endeavors!