The days are now getting longer at a rapid pace, the sun is growing stronger, and the buds on shrubs and trees are swelling. In sheltered spots, the forsythia is already blooming, and the currants will soon follow. Fruit tree blossoms will follow in a few weeks.
Branches of spring-blooming plants can be brought indoors to bloom. Some shrubs and trees are easier to “force” than others. The branches of the Forsythia, for example, bloom very easily indoors without any special tricks. Cherry, apple, and pear blossoms forced indoors often lack color: in those cases, the blossoms do not develop beyond a pale, mottled shade of pink. Only abundant light—such as in a grower’s greenhouse—gives the blossoms their color.
Easy indoor bloomers
Choose branches with lots of thick, flat buds: these hold the promise of blossoms. The narrow, pointed buds will produce leaves. Branches from quince, cherry, plum, peach, hazel, Ribes, and Forsythia are among the shrub varieties that can be easily brought to bloom in the living room. Cut the branches to vase length and remove any twigs that will be submerged in the water. Do not bring the still-cold wood directly into the warm living room; instead, place the vase first in a bright but cool room. Only when the buds begin to show color after a few days is it time to place the vase with the branches in the living room. Top off the water regularly.
