How to Grow and Care for Forsythia Bushes

How to Grow and Care for Forsythia Bushes

If you have a forsythia bush, the question isn't "how to grow" but "to prune or not to prune."

Forsythia is extremely fast-growing—1–2 feet per year. Pruning is often necessary. The choice to prune or leave natural depends on taste and location. Grown singly or in small groups, they look stunning natural. As hedgerows or along foundations, pruning maintains neatness.

Forsythia is among nature's earliest spring bloomers. Great as hedgerows or specimen plants.

You can force blooms indoors in winter—brightens grey, snowy days.

Other Names: Golden Bell

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Propagation of Forsythia Bushes

Forsythia grows from cuttings. Select new growth, cut 3–6 inch branches, place ends in moist soil. Keep moist for rooting—takes a few weeks.

Transplant rooted cuttings anytime. Transplant established plants in winter while dormant.

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How to Grow Forsythia

Fast-growing forsythia is easy. Established plants need little or no care. Grow in full sun to partial shade. Grows well in most soils with good drainage.

Water during extended dry periods. Fertilize once yearly in early spring with high-phosphorus fertilizer for bright blooms.

Uses vary: natural growth, hedgerows, or specimen plantings. All are strikingly beautiful in bloom.

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Pruning Forsythia

Flowers form on prior year's growth, not new growth. Prune immediately after flowering. Cut old growth back to ~4 inches from ground.

Don't hesitate to be aggressive—these fast growers bounce back quickly.

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Forcing Indoor Blooms

Forcing forsythia indoors is simple. Cut a few branches, bring inside, place in water. In a couple weeks, branches burst into bright golden yellow blooms in dead of winter.

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Insects and Diseases

Insect and disease problems are infrequent. Treat with insecticides or fungicides only as needed.

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