The Late Winter Start Tricked Plants into Blooming
December was uncharacteristically warm in Southeastern Pennsylvania. We noticed daffodils, tulips and crocus poking out of the ground. In addition to bulbs, we saw shrubs like forsythia, rhododendron and early dogwoods come out of dormancy earlier than usual. The average temperature for December was approximately 15 degrees above the normal 37.5 degrees. The current record-holder for such deviations is January 1932, which was ll.5 degrees above normal.
What will this mean for your garden?
Although it’s not normal, plants will probably not be harmed in the long run. However, it may mean a less vivid display in the spring.
Bulbs
The leaves of spring bulbs are much tougher than summertime flowers. The structure of the leaves can handle the warming cycle and the bulb is not really affected. Some bulbs may not flower as well but you probably won’t notice a huge difference.
Forsythia Buds. Credit: Pixabay
Shrubs
Shrubs that flower early in the spring set their buds last summer. Those flower buds usually sit dormant through the winter. Plants like forsythia and rhododendron generally will not be harmed.
However, some flower buds could end up being killed if they opened too much and then they were exposed to a blast of arctic air. But all in all, the plant will survive, but again, it might flower less than previous years.
More Weeds!
Weeds just might have received a head start from the warm weather. You might have to spend a little more time getting weedy areas under control.
Whitehouse Landscaping will be happy to answer any of your landscaping questions. Our horticultural knowledge and design expertise allows us to work with you to create a thriving landscape with seasonal interest, contrasting textures, colors and shapes. Call 484-300-4290 or contact us on our website. We’re happy to hear from you!