Generally speaking, late spring or July is also suitable, but if you missed this period, you still have a second chance by propagating the forsythia in autumn or, even better, between December and January. But which shoots are suitable for this and how exactly do you go about it?
Forsythia can be propagated by cuttings and cuttings, but also with the help of seeds or cuttings. The easiest way to propagate the flowering shrub is probably cuttings and, more precisely, cuttings. But in order for it to really work, you have to keep a few things in mind. But don't worry, it's really child's play!
Propagate forsythia in autumn – cut the right shoots
Stay away from fresh, green shoots, as they are simply too young to be used for propagation. Instead, it is better to look for those that are already somewhat woody, i.e. semi-woody, green forsythia shoots.
How should you do that?Cut forsythiato get useful cuttings?
- Only take healthy shoots.
- Each cutting should be about 20cm long.
- At least the lower part of each cutting should be half lignified.
- Place the scissors above a pair of buds. The cut part is unnecessary because it is still too young.
- Make the second cut below the next pair of buds so that you get a cutting with two pairs of buds.
How to propagate the forsythia in the fall
It is actually very easy to propagate forsythiathrough cuttings. You must use the cut branches:
- remove leaves. If you choose spring for propagation, also remove any flowers.
- You can now stick the prepared cuttings directly into the ground in the garden. So think in advance about where you would like your new shrub to be.
- Alternatively, you can put it in a pot with soil.
- In both cases, make sure that the branches are deep enough in the ground. The above-ground part should be no more than two fingers wide.
Care for the cuttings properly
Afterwards, it is only important that the earth never completely dries out. So don't forget to water. Since it usually rains regularly in autumn or at least the sun doesn't shine as much, this task is made quite easier for you. If you have chosen the pot version, place it in a bright and warm place without direct sunlight.
It takes a few weeks for the cuttings to develop roots and begin to grow. You can tell this because they suddenly grow much faster than before. Even then, it is important to water the small plants regularly. But be sure to avoid waterlogging.
Forsythias grown in pots can be transplanted into the garden after a year. If the young plants have grown in the garden, you can safely transplant them after a year if necessary.
Forsythia propagate in water
Alternatively, you can let the cuttings root in water first. The same rules apply here as for the pot variant: The location must be bright but free of direct sun. It is also important that you change the water regularly to prevent germ formation and diseased shoots.
