Soaking branches helps forsythia bloom indoors

Q. I have heard that forsythia branches can bloom indoors. How is it done?A. You can bring a bit of spring indoors by gathering forsythia branches and forcing them to bloom indoors. When temperatures rise above freezing in February or March, cut branches that have many plump buds. Cut a few more branches than you expect to use because some may not absorb water satisfactorily. After March, it is pointless to force flowers from forsythia, since, by then, they're ready to burst forth outdoors naturally.Indoors, with pruning shears or a sharp knife, carefully split the cut end, one to four inches up the stem. Submerge the branches overnight in a deep pail of warm water. This soaking loosens the bud scales and helps them to readily fall away as the flowers expand. After soaking, place the cut branches in a container of warm water and place in a cool place (60 to 65 degrees) that gets plenty of light. Temperatures that are too high tend to cause the buds to drop. Change the water every few days. Adding a floral preservative to the water will help to control bacteria. Be patient. It may take one to eight weeks for the blossoms to open. bull; Provided by Mary Boldan and Donna Siemro, University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners. Send questions to Ask a Master Gardener, c/o Friendship Park Conservatory, 395 W. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016, (847) 298-3502 or via e-mail to cookcountymg@sbcglobal.net.