Gardening by Judith Adam Spring preview The stretch from late winter to earliest spring is a frustrating wait, with little outside relief from the frozen landscape. But bringing cut branches from flowering shrubs and trees into your warm rooms can result in a forced-flower preview of the spring that is just around the corner. Branches must have been outdoors for a period of at least eight weeks below 40F (4C) temperature before they can initiate their flower buds. Cut branches from spring flowering shrubs such as forsythia, redbud, apricot, magnolia, apple, cherry and quince, being sure to select wood with visible premature buds present. Put the branches into water and keep in a warm room away from direct sunlight. It may take two weeks before buds begin to swell, and they can then be put into brighter light. The vase water should be changed every second day. Commercial floral preservative can be used to prevent bacterial growth. A homemade preservative contains two tablespoons of white vinegar, two tablespoons of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of household bleach mixed into a quart of warm water. Stir to dissolve the sugar and replace the solution twice weekly. CSANews | WINTER 2022 | 59
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