When to Force Flowers
Typically, February and March are the months to force flowers. By February, the plants have endured enough cold weather to satisfy their chilling requirements or the number of hours at cold temperatures required for fruiting. After March, it would be rather pointless to force flowers from forsythia, since by then they are ready to burst forth outdoors, naturally.
How to Force Forsythia Flowers
When you’re ready to go out and cut some branches, be warned: This may become habit-forming. Many gardeners in cold-winter climates derive a special satisfaction from walking through the snow on a February day, clipping a few branches, and bringing back a bit of spring to their homes. Once you do it, it will probably become an annual rite of spring for you. The only equipment you need is a sharp pair of pruning shears, a bucket, and some floral preservative. Here is how to force forsythia flowers:
You Can Also Force Pussy Willows
Forsythia is an early blooming, woody plant that is particularly susceptible to forcing. Another shrub in the same category is the pussy willow. The process is similar to forcing forsythia and can be done in early- to late-February, depending on your location.
