"Forcing" Spring into Bloom From your frontyard

An easy way to bring some spring color indoors is to force some branches of a spring blooming shrub. It's really simple, just cut a few branches from your favorite spring blooming shrubs on a day when the temperature is preferably above freezing.

Almost any shrub that blooms in the spring is a candidate to force into a blooming centerpiece for the home. Try experimenting with the types of shrubs planted in your yard. After a couple of weeks, the branches will burst into bloom and this is a sure way to get your spring fever in full swing.

Some Shrub Options:
-Forsythia

-Flowering Quince

-Viburnum

-Lilac

-Azaleas

-Magnolias

-Pussy willow

-Cherry Tree Branches

Make sure you cut each branch all the way to the main stem. You can always shorten the branches later if they are too long for the vase. Bring the freshly cut branches inside and immediately put them in water. Have the decorative vase or container ready for the branches. You will need the pruners, a hammer and cutting board or an appropriate surface to mash the branch ends. You will also need plastic wrap or paper towels and a mister.