Early bloomers!

[1208]

not to rain on your parade but...global warming. it screws up the cycles of bloom and although it might seem nice it makes it so it is no longer synchronized with the life cycles of bees, birds, other plants, etc. which means they will have trouble pollinating and the plant will die too early, all that. basically screws up the natural cycle of things.

[GrandviewGloria]

Such wonderful photos! I'm having a blast with what can be grown here. We planted our Crocus in one of the few sunny locales at this house (out by the street, and between inner and outer gates), and I love driving past them. Can't wait for the other bulbs to bloom!

We've been loving the Hellebores and Witch Hazels all winter. Plus, the Camellias and Pansies which were mainstays of our winter garden in Mississippi. From my viewpoint as a gardener, Portland's is the ideal climate.

[Minervah]

Originally Posted by 1208

not to rain on your parade but...global warming. it screws up the cycles of bloom and although it might seem nice it makes it so it is no longer synchronized with the life cycles of bees, birds, other plants, etc. which means they will have trouble pollinating and the plant will die too early, all that. basically screws up the natural cycle of things.

I do not think that applies in this context. I am originally from Chicago where one does not see flowers bloom until May. Ever since I have lived in Portland which has been 33 years, I have seen flowers poke their little heads up as early as February.

Flowers are "early bloomers" here in comparison to the Midwest and Eastern part of the country. Now if I were to go back to Chicago and see pansies blooming in February, I would say that was an indication of global warming. I am not disputing it exists, I am just saying flowers blooming in February in this part of the country is normal and not an indication of global warming or climate change.

[1208]

well I hope you're right then

[gypsydoc]

Originally Posted by 1208

not to rain on your parade but...global warming. it screws up the cycles of bloom and although it might seem nice it makes it so it is no longer synchronized with the life cycles of bees, birds, other plants, etc. which means they will have trouble pollinating and the plant will die too early, all that. basically screws up the natural cycle of things.

I agree overall, but in the Pacific Northwest, it is a Maritime climate and things naturally grow during the mild winters here. My garden still has broccoli, chard, turnip greens, parsnips, carrots, onions, from last summer. In some winters, there are NO freezing temperatures in town, but you can still drive up to Mt. Hood to ski... even in the summer! We have a long, cool spring and fall with ample growing season. However, there usually isn't enough heat to bring out the tomato flavor I crave!!

I'm not sure if the climate here has changed that much. At least in the last 10 years since I've been here.

How about 20 years ago? Does anyone remember that far back?
Interesting stuff!

[EnricoV]

Originally Posted by gypsydoc

How about 20 years ago? Does anyone remember that far back?
Interesting stuff!

Yes. And nothing has changed except the size of the population.

[Minervah]

Originally Posted by gypsydoc

I'm not sure if the climate here has changed that much. At least in the last 10 years since I've been here.

How about 20 years ago? Does anyone remember that far back?
Interesting stuff!

Yes, 30 years and the climate was not that much different in the winter. Some years were milder than others. But that's about it.