Forsythia [Marée d'Or] Forsythia Marée d'Or = 'Courtasol'

Water

Golden Bells, or Golden Forsythia, prefer moist but well-drained soil, especially when newly planted. During the first growing season, water deeply once a week, providing about 1-2 gallons of water each time to establish a robust root system. Once established, the plant is moderately drought tolerant, but it's best to maintain moist soil conditions, especially during dry spells. In hot summer climates, water every two weeks with 1-2 gallons if there has been no rainfall. Over-watering can cause root rot, so make sure the soil is not waterlogged.

Light

Golden Bells thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For optimal flowering and growth, place them in a spot where they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They can handle afternoon shade, especially in regions with very intense sun.

Temperature

Golden Bells are hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, typically from about -10 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they grow best in moderate climates with temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants can survive winter cold down to -10 degrees Fahrenheit without significant damage.

Pruning

Golden Bells should be pruned immediately after flowering to maintain shape and encourage vigorous growth. Pruning too late can remove the next season's flower buds. Thin out old branches and cut back about a quarter of the new growth each year. Pruning can be done annually to keep the plant looking tidy and to stimulate the growth of new flowering shoots.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Golden Bells Forsythia prefers well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Loamy soils are best, and it tolerates a range of pH levels but prefers slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Golden Bells Forsythia is typically grown outdoors and does not require frequent repotting. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil and accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Golden Bells Forsythia is adaptable to average outdoor humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements for healthy growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light and room to grow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA.

Life cycle

Forsythia 'Maree d'Or' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in spring or when a stem cutting roots, usually during the warmer months. The plant enters a stage of vegetative growth, developing stems, leaves, and a root system, and can reach full size within several seasons. Each spring, it produces vibrant yellow flowers before leafing out, a phase known as blooming, which is crucial for pollination and subsequent seed production. After flowering, the plant enters a growth phase where energy is dedicated to strengthening and expanding both above and below ground. As temperatures drop in autumn, the plant transitions to a dormant phase to conserve energy, shedding leaves and slowing growth until conditions become favourable again. The plant may live for several decades, repeating this annual cycle, and over time can be propagated by division or cuttings to create new plants.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring

• Forsythia Marée d'Or, commonly known as Golden Bells, is typically propagated through softwood cuttings. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is late spring to early summer when new growth is mature enough to be firm but still green. The process involves cutting a 4 to 6-inch (approximately 10 to 15 cm) length from a healthy branch, stripping the lower leaves, and dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cuttings are then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that at least two nodes are buried where the leaves were removed. A high humidity environment is maintained until roots have formed, which usually takes several weeks. Once the cuttings have established a robust root system, they can be transplanted to their final location.