Debbie, sure hope you get replies on your questions. I've never been able to use my Hyds as a vase bouquet. They just wilt & die. I have had good luck in drying them!

Cut them early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and place the ends of each stem in boiling water for 30 seconds, making sure that the steam does not burn the flower head.
Plunge the flowers up to their necks in cold water. Drape paper towels (white, no dye) across the tops of the blossoms to cover them completely. Tuck paper towels down into the container (donÂt squash the flowers), and mist. Do not allow the paper towels to dry out. Hydrangeas will be fully conditioned and ready for arranging in 4 hours, will last many days.

how far down are you supposed to cut the flower on the everlasting hydrangea. please help