greenstem forsythia
Forsythia viridissima 'Border Gem'
Overview
Greenstem Forsythia is an amazing species of shrub. Growing to about 8 feet tall and 9 feet wide, it floods the landscape with waves of bright yellow-green foliage in the springtime. Its showy 3-inch-long, bright yellow flowers bloom before the foliage in early spring, adding a cheerful pop of color to the landscape. It prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade, and is perfect for anchoring the back of a border or as a specimen tree. It remains tidy and attractive year-round, and requires minimal care and attention. A great plant to add a splash of color to the garden, Greenstem Forsythia is an amazing shrub.
Care Guide
Watering
Greenstem Forsythia should be watered when its soil is dry to the touch. Depending on the time of year, it may need to be watered every 7-14 days. Make sure to water slowly and evenly, until the water runs out of the drainage holes of the pot. Avoid overhead watering, as this can lead to disease. In the summer months, you may need to water more often to keep the soil moist.
Light
Greenstem Forsythia (Forsythia viridissima 'Border Gem') needs full sunlight for best growth and bloom production. It should receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight a day. This plant is hardy and performs best when exposed to full sun during the beginning of spring when it starts flowering. In early summer, however, it should receive partial shade to prevent scorching of the foliage and flowers when temperatures are at their peak.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 5-8.
Pruning
Greenstem forsythia (Forsythia viridissima 'Border Gem') should be pruned in the late winter or early spring while it is still dormant. Pruning is done to maintain a desired size and shape as well as to promote an abundant and long blooming period. Begin by removing any dead or diseased branches, then thin out crowded branches. This will help increase air circulation and allow more light to reach the interior of the plant. Prune back young forsythia stems that have occurred in the previous season by about 1 third. This will help bring the plant back into shape. For mature forsythia that have stopped blooming, wait until after flowering has ended and then cut the stems back by up to 1 third. This will encourage new growth and more blooms.
Propagation
Cutting, Layering Propagation, Grafting Propagation, Division, Seed Propagation
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