Early budding plants
It’s been a heat wave of sorts the last few weeks in Southern Colorado and some beautiful days to get outside.
But it can be dangerous for plants and trees that may have been tricked into blooming.
Dan Robinson with Spencer’s Lawn and Garden Center says some plants handle it better than others.
“The shade trees, shouldn’t bother them a bit. Perennials, bulbs, on the other hand, there could be a problem with those,” he said.
Fruit trees are the most susceptible. Kyle Anderson of the CSU Extension of El Paso County explained:
“We all know that first comes the flower, then comes the fruit, so if the damage is done, you’re not going to get the subsequent fruit.”
And, while the weather is sunny and warm right now, there’s still a very high likelihood that more winter weather is coming. That may make some tree and plant owners nervous.
But, there are ways to protect your prize landscape including using mulch, wrapping your trees or plants with fabric – not plastic – during snows and freezes and pruning during the fall.
If you’re tempted to get started on your garden, Dan Robinson has some advice.
“There’s a few things you can prep, clean up the yard, maybe do a little pruning while the trees are dormant, but as far as planting, way too early,” he said.
The bottom line is don’t panic. No one can control the weather.
The Colorado State University Extension Office in Colorado Springs is a great resource for more information. The experts there will even take a look at samples of your plants or trees.
