Forsythia is a flowering bush, and like most plants, it has unique water needs. Newly planted Forsythia shrubs have higher water needs, while established plants can dry out more between watering sessions. Ensuring your Forsythia has a good water supply allows the plant to create a strong root system and deliver dependable sunny yellow blooms each spring.
How To Tell If Forsythia Needs Watered
Forsythia is a deciduous bush with woody branches extending from the plant's center. The flowers may wilt and drop, or the leaves may curl and droop when the plant needs water. Dry or cracked soil is also a sign that the plant is dry.
How Often To Water Forsythia
New Forsythia plants appreciate moist conditions. Water young plants about 2 inches of water per week. Consistent water helps the plant develop a robust root system.
Established Forsythia plants rely on their deep root system and rainwater to support the plant. Forsythia is drought-tolerant; after these plants have settled in, they do not need to be watered. While established plants have low water needs, give the plant a drink during a dry spell to support continued growth. It is possible to overwater Forsythia. Well-drained soil will help excess water drain and prevent root damage from standing water.
Potted Forsythia has higher water needs than plants grown in the ground. Water container-grown Forsythia when the top few inches of potting mix feel dry.
Best Time To Water Forsythia
Water newly planted or potted Forsythia in the morning. Water first thing in the morning, so the roots have time to absorb the water before the afternoon heat kicks in. Dry plants can be watered at any time.
How to Water Forsythia
Step 1 - Water newly planted Forsythia weekly.
Give young plants about 2 inches of water each week.
Step 2 - Check the Forsythia for signs of water stress or dehydration.
Wilted or drooping flowers or foliage and dry, cracked soil are signs the plant needs water.
Step 3 - Water the ground around the plant.
Saturate the soil around the base of the Forsythia bush.
Forsythia Watering Tips
- New Forsythia plants need about 2 inches of water weekly
- Drench the ground around the base of the plant when watering
- Established Forsythia shrubs are drought-tolerant, but water the plant during a dry period
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