How to Force Flowering Branches to Bloom Indoors
- Bedhead
- Feb 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 17
A Winter Experiment
Are you craving a little spring in your life while winter lingers longer? you don't have to wait for warm weather - forcing flowering branches inside is an easy way to bring an early burst of spring into your home.
With just a few freshly cut branches, a vase of water and a little patience, you can coax beautiful blooms from spring-flowering trees and shrubs, even while snow covers the ground. it's like giving nature a gentle nudge.
Why do Branches Bloom Indoors?
When you bring branches inside and place them in water, they experience warmer temperatures and more consistent light. This tricks them into believing spring has arrived, encouraging them to bloom weeks ahead of schedule. It's a simple process that results in a vibrant preview of things to come.
Best Flowering Branches to Force Indoors
Forsythia
Lilac
Dogwood
Magnolia
Witch Hazel
Flowering Quince
Eastern Redbud
Flowering Cherry or Plum
Crab Apple
Pussy Willow
When to Cut Branches for Forcing
The best time to start forcing branches is when nighttime temperatures stay between 33°-41° F. After six weeks of cold weather, many spring-blooming trees and shrubs have already formed their buds, making them perfect candidates for forcing.
January through early March is ideal, but you can also bring in branches just before they naturally bloom, especially if their buds are beginning to swell.
How Long Does it Take?
The time it takes for branches to bloom depends on the plant variety and indoor conditions:
Quick bloomers (1-2 weeks): Forsythia, witch hazel, pussy willow
Moderate bloomers (2-3 weeks): Flowering quince, cherry plum
Slower Bloomers (3-4 weeks): Magnolia, lilacs, dogwood
Keep in mind, a warm, well-lit room will speed up blooming, while cooler temperatures slow it down
How to Force Flowering Branches in 6 Simple Steps
Select the right branches - Look for plump flower buds spaced along the branch
Cut branches properly - Use clean, sharp pruners to take 6-24 inch cuttings from non essential parts of the tree
Condition the branches - Soak the cut ends in lukewarm water for several hours before bringing them indoors
Prepare the vase - Fill a tall vase with warm water and optionally add floral preservatives
Create the right environment - Keep the branches in a cool, humid spot with indirect light until the buds begin to open
Move to a brighter location - Once the buds start to show color, pleace the vase in a well-lit area to encourage full blooming
Pruning Tips for Success
Cut branches when outdoor temperatures are above freezing to help them transition smoothly
Choose branches from areas that won't impact the tree's shape
Trim off any small twigs that would sit below the waterline in the vase
Make an angled cut at the stem's base and gently crush the ends with a hammer to improve water absorption (I chose not to crush this time around and my branches bloomed just fine!)
Another trick: Submerge the cut ends in water and make a second cut underwater to prevent air bubbles from blocking water uptake
How Long Do Forced Branches Last?
Forced branches typically last 1-3 weeks after blooming, depending on the variety and care. Forsythia and pussy willow tend to have longer-lasting blooms while delicate cherry and apple blossoms fade more quickly.
To maximize lifespan:
Keep them in a cool spot away from direct heat or sunlight
Refresh water and trim the stems every few days
Increase humidity by misting the branches periodically
Forcing flowering branches is simple and rewarding. Whether you're cutting forsythia in January or experimenting with lilacs in March, it's a fun way to brighten up winter days.
Give it a try!
Love,
Bedhead xoxox
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