Forsythia can grow well in pots. This spring bloomer, although common in the spring landscape, is less common in containers, but performs well in pots. Featuring a Forsythia in a container makes it possible to enjoy the bold yellow blooms up close. Place the pot on a patio or balcony to brighten an area and create a springtime vibe. While Forsythia looks stunning in a pot on a deck or framing an entryway, it is not ideal for hanging baskets due to its large size and upright, woody branches.
Planting Forsythia in Pots
Plant Forsythia bushes in a pot anytime during the spring, summer, or fall. Cuttings can be moved to a container when the roots are at least one inch long. Select a 10- to 14-inch pot with drainage for one Forsythia plant. Any type of container material is suitable. Locate the container in full sun.
Best Soil For Forsythia in Pots
Select fertile, well-drained potting soil for Forsythia. This plant is not picky about soil pH, but neutral to acidic soil is ideal. Amend the soil with manure or organic compost to provide a nutritional boost.
Caring For Forsythia in Planters
Forsythia is an easy-care plant, and while shrubs grown in containers require a bit more care, the extra watering and fertilizing tasks are straightforward. While any type of material is acceptable for the container, the pot must have drainage. Forsythia bushes need full sun, so move the plant to an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight.
Watering Forsythia in Pots
Forsythia grown in the ground are drought tolerant, but plants in containers need a regular watering schedule. Rainfall can sustain the plants, but water Forsythia in pots when the top couple of inches of soil are dry. Drench the soil until water drains through the soil and pot.
Fertilizing Forsythia in Pots
Fertilize Forsythia in pots to ensure the shrub blooms and thrives. Since potted plants need water more often, use a water-soluble fertilizer. You can fertilize the Forsythia every few weeks during routine watering. Use a balanced fertilizer for the best results.
Winter Care For Forsythia in Pots
Forsythia is a deciduous shrub, so winter care is more about protecting the plant until spring. Most varieties are cold hardy in zones 5 through 8, while some cultivars are hardy even in zones 3 and 4. Plants grown in regions with cold winter weather should be moved to a protected area. Getting the plant out of the elements and freezing temperatures will help it overwinter. Leave potted plants outdoors in areas with warm winters, but move the plant inside if the weather forecast calls for a cold snap.
Growing Forsythia Indoors
Forsythia bushes have a dormancy period during the winter. The foliage falls away in the fall, exposing bare, woody stems. New growth will emerge in the spring, so Forsythia does not make a good houseplant during the winter.
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Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 09-17-2022 |