March 15, 2023
My first reaction was, ‘You go, girl. Get out there to get that pollen. Opportunity says it’s warm enough for you to be out foraging for your hive—just get the work done.'”
Director of horticulture at the High Line, an elevated park in New York City, Richard Hayden, on a honey bee he observed on a flower in mid-February.
What To Know: Although the official first day of spring falls on Monday, March 20, spring has arrived earlier than usual in some areas of the United States this year. According to the USA National Phenology Network – a group including research scientists and educators who study weather's impact on plants and animals – spring is "arriving several days to weeks earlier than average … in much of the Southeast, lower Midwest, and mid-Atlantic." In the west, spring is arriving in "a mix of early and late," while other areas have yet to experience spring's first blooms.
Why? The Wall Street Journal explains that a warmer winter season has led to this years' early blooms. What are you seeing where you live?
Speaking Of Spring: Last week, the President and First Lady announced the beginning date for the Spring Garden Tours at the White House, continuing "the annual tradition of opening the White House gardens and South Grounds to members of the public." This year, the free tours will take place on Saturday, April 1 and Sunday April 2. Learn more HERE.
Trees Across the U.S. Are Sprouting Leaves Earlier Than Usual This Year (The Wall Street Journal)
STATUS OF SPRING (USA National Phenology Network)
by Jenna Lee,
