Force Spring Flowers Today Indoors!

How frustrating is all this snow on the so-called first day of spring? But take heart. You can celebrate spring regardless by walking out into your yard today and cutting some branches for beautiful spring flowers in just a matter of days.

About a week ago, I cut branches from my forsythia bush and simply put them a vase (well, actually, a crock) of water. Look at them one week later! This "forcing" of branches into bloom indoors in early spring is easy, and can be done with a variety of other branches. Just about any woody branch that blooms in early spring will work, including crabapple, pussy willow, magnolia, redbud, and fruit trees, such as cherry.

For more details on how to force branches for indoor bloom, click here!

Happy First Day of Spring Gardening!

Veronica Lorson Fowler

hosta 'rainforest-sunrise' Get the 2013 hosta of the year to embellish a shady spot in your garden! Hosta 'Rainforest Sunrise' is available to buy now from In the Country Garden and Gifts.

This hosta holds up all summer and is of little interest to slugs. Deeply cupped and rounded gold leaves are nicely puckered and edged with a striking dark green margin.

In the Country Garden and Gifts has been rated among the top 5 on Garden WatchDog and specializes in rare and beautiful hostas, shade perennials, succulents, and much more.
Located in Independence, Iowa

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