Forcing forsythias

Come the end of January, many of us New Englander's are desperate for spring. We are sick of the long, dark, cold days and deeply ache for signs of spring. I spotted robins in town shortly after Princess Mercy arrived home...surely it was a sign that winter was soon to end.

While visiting me mum on her little patch of heaven, she graciously offered me some of her forsythia branches that grew in the field near the cows pasture. Her grandbabies all ran outside, happy for the visit to the cow pasture, to see some of their favorite cow friends. I grabbed my camera and shot a few moments of outside, as they are rare for me here in winter. (brrrrr)

Me mum clipped a good armful and then I carted them home in Katrinka our tank. I placed them into a vase filled with fresh water and patiently awaited their lovely yellow show that they'd soon offer us. Every few days I refreshed their water and then brilliantly their show began.

I guess I am sharing this because 3 of my girlfriends came over, they were all surprised that they were 'REAL' forsythias in full bloom. None of them knew you could cut them, bring them in, and force them to bloom. Silly me, I thought all mums taught such things. I forget that not everyones mum is a Master Gardener.

So, give it a try...you can force other spring blooming branches too, some require a longer wait, but apple blossoms and crab apple blossoms can really display their beauty magnificently too. I haven't tried my pink weigela, but that might be worth the go, while I wait for them to come into bloom outdoors.

Only 3 more days until spring officially arrives...awwhhh, I am going to SHouT for JOY!