A Warm Winter and Growing Bulbs in Dallas

photo courtesty of Doug Green’s Garden

We are having an unseasonably warm winter, even for Dallas, and one of the results is that gardeners growing bulbs have already begun to see early blooms from bulbs sprouting and have been asking me about it.  Some gardeners worry that their plants may die if a sudden cold spell hits (remember the snow we had last February?)  The good news is your plants are hardier than you think.

Right now, most of what you are seeing is foliage (rather than buds and blooms) which can withstand cold temperatures.  However, if the flowers actually bloom, then there is reason to be concerned if a cold snap is in the forecast.  If you are concerned about your bulbs experiencing shock due to frost, you can cover them with a frost blanket.  Your other option, of course,  is to cut a bouquet and enjoy the blooms in the house.  Realistically, the latter may be your best option with daffodils as they can be most affected by a late cold snap.  (It’s also a good reason to consider planting early, mid-season and late-blooming daffodils.)

If your plants do develop flower buds and are damaged by the frost, it is normal for emerging buds that have been affected by frost to turn yellow or brown and drop off.  This is an indication that the plant is returning to dormancy and may bloom again once the warmer weather returns.  If your bulbs have flowered, they could be damaged for the rest of the year but should continue to grow in later years.