Subscribe now

Earth

Most UK plants will flower at once in short ‘condensed spring’

By Andy Coghlan

17 April 2018

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

All blooming at once

Chris J. Ratcliffe / Getty

UK gardens are likely to be ablaze with colour this week as plants all break into flower simultaneously.

This “condensed spring” follows much dismal weather: the UK spring has seen snow, twice the usual amount of rainfall and temperatures that are below average.

“Cold has held spring back by two weeks, so suddenly everything will come out in a rush,” says Guy Barter at the Royal Horticultural Society, which has forecast the condensed spring.

Plants need a period of cold to kick-start genetic programs for flowering. “It’s like a sort…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Popular articles

Trending New Scientist articles

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop