Forsythias are from the olive family, which naturally grow in dry scrub formations. They grow to a maximum height of about 3 meters and are distinguished especially by their unique flowers that develop in early spring – before the leaves develop. They are yellow and decorate the garden wonderfully. No wonder forsythias are so eagerly grown as ornamental plants. What is worth knowing about them?
Forsythia is a shrub of which only one species occurs naturally in south-eastern Europe. It is European, sometimes found in Albania and Kosovo. Other species of forsythia can be found in eastern Asia. Fortunately, the plant can be grown in the garden. It is not particularly demanding, but it enlivens the surroundings wonderfully. Its beautiful yellow flowers are a harbinger of spring.
Forsythia usually blooms in March, signaling the arrival of spring. However, much depends on the weather and the variety grown. Korean forsythia blooms in early March. Intermediate varieties bloom most often in April.
Forsythia comes to life in spring as one of the first plants. However, in order for it to bloom profusely, the plant needs proper care. The right soil for it should be moist, light and fertile. It also requires a sunny position, although it can cope with partial shade. The place where it grows should also be protected from the wind.
Due to its shallow root system, forsythia needs regular watering. This should be remembered especially during the summer heat, when the plant sets buds for the next year. We already then care about what forsythia will look like in the next season. In spring, the plant should also be properly fertilized, using a multi-component fertilizer. If it grows on slightly poorer soils, it is a good idea to feed it with compost.
It is also worth remembering to prune forsythia bushes regularly in spring, after they have bloomed but before they develop leaves. First, we remove dried, diseased and damaged shoots.
Then we execute X-ray cutand in the following forming cutthanks to which the forsythia will bloom profusely next year. For this purpose, we simply shorten the shoots by about 30%, remembering not to remove more than 30% of all the shoots on the plant. Forsythia will not tolerate major losses, which will weaken it greatly.
