Flowering Branches

A Hint of Spring

Spring is just around the corner. Here in New England, we can’t wait for the first signs, when trees and shrubs begin to bud. One of our favorite flowering branches, Japanese quince (Chaenomeles Japonica), has the nickname, a “hint of spring,” because its beautiful blooms truly are an early reminder that spring is near!

Forcing Spring Branches to Bloom Indoors

Did you know there’s a way to bring spring indoors, forcing branches to bloom ahead of time?

“Forcing” flowering branches is the method of encouraging flowering trees and shrubs to bloom indoors, ahead of their natural season, by cutting branches and bringing them into a warm environment.

At Les Fleurs, we love to display budded quince branches in water-filled vases and watch the flowers open indoors. The two varieties we carry — blush pink and snow white — can be mixed, arranged with other branches, or simply displayed alone. We also use them in large arrangements to add vertical lines and support other blooms. Even standing alone in a large vase, the height and elegance of these blooming branches would make a statement in an entry way or any room! 

Read on for our at-home care tips for these beautiful hints of spring…

How to Force and Care for Spring Branches

Step 1: Bringing Branches Home

Late winter is the best time to bring home your favorite woody, deciduous shrub or flowering branches for forcing. When choosing your branches, select cuts that are at least 12" long with a large number of flower buds (which have a rounder shape than leaf buds, and are easier to force).

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Step 2: Start with Pruning

Once at home, it's time to prune the stems. Using pruning shears or scissors, remove any small twigs and buds towards the bottom 6" of your branches, keeping in mind that any young shoots placed under water will rot. Reserve the small cuttings for tucking into petite jars or bud vases.

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Step 3: A Fresh Cut

A fresh trim of your stems' ends is essential for best water absorption. To do this, use your shears to create several slits in varying directions at the bottom of the stem. There are two schools of thought on what comes next: the first is to continue prepping your stems by smashing them carefully with a hammer to splay the ends slightly, allowing more water absorption; the other argues that smashing too hard may actually impede water intake and instead, recommends moving onto Step 4 after your slits are made.

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Step 4: Imitate Spring

Place the branches in room temperature water and display them in a cool spot (60-65°) with indirect light, misting often until they begin to show color, and replenishing water as needed. Depending on your chosen branches, flowering time may take anywhere from one to five weeks.

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Step 5: Branches in Bloom

Once your flower buds begin opening, the branches can be moved into bright, indirect light to enjoy. Misting the arrangements, pruning the ends, and changing the water weekly will ensure the longest life for your blooms.

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We hope you’re inspired to bring a few spring branches inside your home. We have a selection of branches in the shop, but you might have luck with what’s growing in your own backyard. Before you know it, you’ll be eyeing your garden for what else you can cut!

Bon printemps! (Happy spring)

XOXO,
Sandra and the Fleurettes

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