Blooming Too Early in Colorado?

Q: I’m freaking out about how early everything is waking up in my yard this spring. My saucer Magnolia bloomed in February. It usually blooms in April. I looks like my fruit trees are ready to bloom. My Hellebores that usually flower in March/April bloomed in February during the 70/80° weather. then a 15° night zapped them. Will they come back? Is there any way to keep my flowering trees from blooming too early?

A: I know! We are all in the same boat. I’ve seen these things happen over the years but this year is undoubtedly the worst. If this trend continues with warmer winter weather we’ll have to reinvent what a garden looks like in our climate. We might be growing Georgia type peaches in Colorado and they’ll start growing mangos in Georgia. There really isn’t much that you can do to slow down the flowering of your trees. Planting them where they catch shade in the winter and early spring will help by keeping them dormant a little longer. As spring and summer advance, the trees will get more sun just when they need it. Try planting them 10 or 15 feet from the north side of the house or at least on the north side of a fence where their roots can stay cool. Be brave and try some more southern varieties. The Hellebores will grow new leaves soon but no flowers until next year.

By Kelly Grummons