Border forsythia Forsythia × intermedia 'Spring Glory'

Water

The Forsythia, commonly known as Golden Bell, should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moderately dry between waterings. During the first growing season, establish a deep root system by watering regularly, usually once a week or more often during extreme heat. An approximate guideline is to provide the plant with 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or manual watering, which equates to roughly 0.6 gallons for every square foot of soil. It's important to avoid overwatering, as Forsythia does not like to sit in soggy soil. Adjust the frequency of watering during winter when the plant is dormant, reducing it to account for slower soil moisture depletion.

Light

Golden Bells thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions. For optimal flowering and growth, place the plant in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While Forsythia can tolerate some light shade, too much shade can result in fewer flowers and a leggier growth habit. Choose an area clear of buildings or tree cover to ensure it gets plenty of sunshine.

Temperature

Golden Bells are hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, preferring temperate conditions. They can generally tolerate winter temperatures down to about -10°F and are comfortable in the heat up to around 90°F. Their ideal growing temperature is between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth and flowering. It's crucial to protect the plant from extreme cold during the first few years until it's fully established.

Pruning

Prune Golden Bells immediately after they finish flowering in the spring, as they bloom on the previous year's growth. Pruning is done to maintain the bush's shape, remove any dead or damaged branches, and encourage the growth of new flower-bearing wood. It is often sufficient to prune yearly, though older plants may benefit from rejuvenation pruning every few years, which involves cutting the plant back to about a foot from the ground.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For Forsythia, commonly known as the Border Forsythia, a well-draining loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is best. A mix with organic matter like compost will enhance drainage and provide essential nutrients. It's important for the soil to retain some moisture but not stay soggy.

Repotting

Border Forsythia, which is typically grown as a shrub in gardens, doesn't require frequent repotting. It's generally planted directly in the ground where it can thrive for years without the need to be moved.

Humidity & Misting

Border Forsythia is not particularly humidity-sensitive and can thrive in average outdoor humidity levels. They are adaptable to the humidity found in most temperate regions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and room to grow.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, prune after flowering, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

Forsythia × intermedia 'Spring Glory', more commonly known as Spring Glory Forsythia, starts its life cycle when the seeds germinate in spring to early summer after experiencing stratification. The seedlings then grow into young plants that will establish a root system and foliage, typically in a nursery setting. As the shrub matures, it undergoes a period of vigorous vegetative growth each year in the spring and summer, followed by a dormant phase in the fall and winter when it sheds leaves and conserves resources. Flowering occurs in early spring before the leaves fully emerge, showcasing bright yellow blossoms that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing the seeds, which are then dispersed to start a new life cycle. Over the years, the shrub can be rejuvenated by pruning after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage more prolific blooming in the following season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• Forsythia × intermedia 'Spring Glory', commonly known as border forsythia, is most effectively propagated during the dormant season, generally in late fall or early winter just before the ground freezes, or in early spring just as the ground thaws. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by taking softwood cuttings. This involves selecting healthy, new growth shoots that have not yet become woody. The cuttings, typically 4 to 6 inches long (about 10 to 15 centimeters), are taken from the current year's growth and should include several sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped into rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then planted in a pot containing a mixture of peat and perlite or sand to provide good drainage and kept moist but not waterlogged. Within a few weeks to a couple of months, the cuttings should develop roots and can eventually be transplanted outdoors.