Here in Indiana there isn’t much blooming in January, so I’m resorting to an experiment that, if it works, will be nothing short of magic! At least, it feels that way to me.

I find it absolutely fascinating that these forsythia branches which I snipped from a snow-coated bush might be able to bloom indoors, quite separated from their root system and natural environment.

It was fun to photograph the branches the day I brought them in. There’s always such beauty in nature’s colors and textures, even the less show parts, like tree branches in winter.

I didn’t know if I was doing the wake up process correctly, or whether the branches had had quite enough cold time to be ready to shake off their slumber (I probably should have waited at least another few weeks), but a week has now passed and the buds are definitely looking fuller and greener. I suspect that’s a good thing.

Still, only time will tell! If it doesn’t work, I’ll try the whole process again sometime in February or March, but in the meantime, I’m enjoying having a little fresh nature in the house. It’s refreshing to breathe in the possibility of bright little yellow blooms lighting up my kitchen, even if right now the branches are looking out over foot-high snowdrifts in the back yard.

Come on, spring! Any time now :).

On a photographic note, these pictures inspired me to pull out the ol’ tripod. The next set of photos should have less blur. I was happy enough with the diffused lighting from the north-facing window, but I’d like to see sharp, crisp edges.

I hope you’re staying warm, and using this time to dream up and plan out your gardens! I’m looking forward to starting my snapdragons in just a few weeks.

Speaking of snapdragons, has anyone grown Baker Creek’s Orange Wonder? They’re not in my plan for this year, and I don’t think I have room to squeeze them into my 2026 allotted space, but I just discovered them yesterday and they’re absolutely stunning! I adore that wondrous blend of tangerine, pink, and yellow. They’d look gorgeous with some special dahlias I’ve ordered (I look forward to introducing them to you later!). Maybe I can find just a little more space to squeeze in a few complementary snaps…

Sending garden love!

-Angela