Spring flowering shrubs and trees are suitable for forcing indoors. Once flower buds have been produced on last year's growth and their dormancy requirements have been met (at least eight weeks of temperatures below 40 degrees F) in mid-January, they can be cut and forced into bloom indoors. Generally, the branches from shrubs are easier to force than trees. Also, the closer branches are cut to their normal flowering time, as with late spring bloomers such as viburnums, lilacs, and weigela, the easier the branches can be forced and the more quickly they will bloom. Shrubs and trees that can be forced in about two weeks include alder (Alnus spp.), bridalwreath spirea (Spiraea prunifolia), cornelian cherry dogwood (Cornus mas), border forsythia (Forsythia x intermedia), honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.), and spicebush (Lindera benzoin). Cherry (Prunus spp.), flowering dogwood (Cornus florida), magnolia (Magnolia spp.), sweet mock orange (Philadelphus coronarius), lilac (Syringa spp.), and redbud (Cercis canadensis) are best cut in March when the buds are swollen. If possible, choose a warm sunny day. Selectively remove branches with plump flower buds, keeping in mind you do not want to disfigure the plant. Prune properly by cutting about 1/4 inch above a side bud or outward growing branch. Cut the branches 6 to 18 inches in length; longer branches are easier to use in floral arrangements and maintain the shape and appearance of the plant. Bring the branches indoors and make a second cut on a slant, just above the previous cut. If the outdoor temperatures were below freezing when you cut the branches, immerse them in cold water for three or four hours. Put the branches in a container and add warm water (100 to 110 degrees F) up to one-third of the length of the stem. To prolong the flowers, add a commercial floral preservative. Move the container to a cool 60 to 65 degrees F in indirect light. When the buds begin to show color, move the branches to a brightly lit area away from direct sunlight. To prolong the beauty of the flowers, move the arrangement to a cooler location at night.

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