Rosie Lerner Addresses Early Bud Break in Indiana Gardens

Q. During the mild December weather, some of our bulbs started to come up. What will happen to these plants when the weather turns colder this winter? Will they still flower this spring?

A. We’ve heard many similar reports from across the state about bulbs, perennials and some woodies coming out of dormancy. December 2015 was the third mildest on record in central Indiana, according to the National Weather Service. Some plants require less chilling units than others, resulting in some plants responding to mild conditions while others not. Many urban dwellers, in particular, may notice microclimate effects where protected locations seem more prone to this response.  

Tulip bulb emerging

In general, this is not the first or last time that plants have gone through similar or more extreme temperature fluctuations. While it is not likely to cause long-term damage, there could be decreased flowering potential if plants come further out of dormancy followed by normal or below-normal cold temperatures. There is much more weather to get through this winter before we can know the outcome!

Rosie Lerner - Purdue Extension Consumer Horticulturist