Forcing Blooms

Bring the beauty of early spring blossoms indoors by “forcing” them into bloom now until the middle of April. Pussy willow, Nanking cherry, forsythia, red maple, flowering almond, and crabapple are great choices for this delightful treat.

Cut long, slender shoots (branches) of these species that form flower buds during the previous season. Bring them indoors, and re-cut the ends. Soak the branches in warm water overnight. Treat the branches like cut flowers: keep them cool, change the water when necessary, and use a floral preservative. Move the vase closer to bright light as the blossoms open.