American Horticultural Society offers gardeners a way to enjoy flowering bouquets during the winter by forcing the branches of trees and shrubs into bloom. Some of the easiest plants to force include pussy willows (Salix spp.), flowering quince (Chaenomeles speciosa) and forsythias (Forsythia spp.).
To force the branches of these plants, cut them in January or February. Submerge the branches in tepid water overnight. The next day, place the branches upright in a container of water, making sure to cut off any buds from the parts of the stems below the water. Leave the branches in a cool, dimly-lit room and change the water daily until the buds start to swell. Then, move the container into a brightly-lit room and enjoy the flowers as they open.
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| Tree and shrub branches, like forsythia, can be easily forced into bloom during the winter |
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