Fooling Nature: Forcing Forsythia

Plants bloom in the spring as the weather warms up. For the most part, plants aren't as smart as my readers. They can be tricked into blooming months ahead of time. Suckers. A whole bunch of plants, from forsythia to fothergilla, can be forced to bloom. Forsythia is a good candidate. Cuttings can be taken relatively early and they are quick to bloom when brought inside.

"Mimic springtime and your branch will bloom"
Although forcing blooms requires little more than warm temperatures and water, the plants must be out of their dormancy phase. Forsythia's usually ready by mid-January.

On a relatively warm day when the branches aren't frozen solid, take a bunch of cuttings and bring them inside. Mash up the ends with a hammer or your forehead. This will help them suck up lots of water, which, it seems helps them bloom. Next, stick them in a warm place and stare. Within a week or two, you'll have flowers.

top row l to r: 1/25, 2/3; bottom row l to r: 2/8, 2/10

Sources: "Garden Geek," Iowa State Extension Service, About.com