Can Forsythia Grow in Wet Soil?

Soil Conditions

• Forsythia tolerates most soil conditions, including slightly alkaline or acidic soil, as well as sand and clay. It grows best in soil that is moist yet drains well. It does not tolerate standing water or soggy soil, and in such an area it might develop root rot diseases. Amend heavy soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage, or plant forsythia in a raised bed if you have heavy, wet soil.

Moisture

• Although forsythia doesn't tolerate soggy soil, it needs moisture to grow well. Water forsythia at least weekly during the first year after planting so that the soil remains moist 2 inches beneath the surface. Established forsythias can tolerate drier conditions but should be watered at least once every two weeks during dry weather. Forsythias growing near an irrigated lawn usually don't need additional water.

Growing Conditions

• Forsythia grows almost anywhere. It tolerates partial shade but blooms best in full sun. This versatile shrub grows from 8 to 10 feet tall and has an upright, arching or weeping form. It's not a tidy plant and looks out of place in manicured yards. Its free-flowing form is part of its charm. Place it at the back of the yard in a spot where it can grow freely.

Pruning

• Use a light hand when pruning forsythia. Heavy pruning and shaping destroy its breezy form and give it a rigid, contrived appearance. Instead, prune back a few older branches to the ground every spring after blooming to encourage young, vigorous growth. If the shrub has been neglected, you can prune the entire bush back to the ground. It quickly regenerates itself. Another option for pruning is to cut old branches in late winter, bring them indoors and place them in a container of water. Cuttings bloom in about 10 days for a lovely, indoor display.