How Frost Affects Flowering Ornamental Trees

As spring arrives in Clarkston and our gardens awaken from winter's slumber, few sights ensure that spring has arrived as the blooming of ornamental trees. From crabapple blossoms to dogwoods to redbuds, these vibrant bursts of color signal the season of renewal. However, a sneaky adversary lurks in the form of late spring frosts, which can drastically impact these beautiful flowering specimens.

Frost can be particularly harmful because many ornamental trees in Clarkston begin to bloom before the threat of frost has fully passed. When temperatures dip unexpectedly, the delicate flowers of these ornamental trees, freshly in bloom, can suffer severe damage. The cells within the flowers may freeze, causing them to brown, wilt and fall prematurely. Fortunately, this only affects the immediate aesthetic appeal of the tree and oftentimes doesn’t hinder its overall health.

It should be noted that, beyond simply damaging flowers, frost can impact the tree’s ability to produce new growth. For many species, flowers are closely tied to the development of leaves and fruit. If flowers are killed by frost, the tree may respond by diverting energy into survival rather than growth. This could result in a lackluster display for the season and diminished fruit yields if the species is fruit-bearing.

Selecting varieties known for their late blooming can provide a natural defense against frost damage. Additionally, employing protective measures such as covering small trees with a tarp or plastic sheeting if frost is predicted will eliminate, or at least minimize, frost damage.

While ornamental trees bring joy and beauty to our landscapes, they remain susceptible to the whims of late spring weather. Understanding the implications of frost and taking proactive measures can ensure that your flowering trees not only survive but thrive, providing Clarkston homeowners with breathtaking blossoms year after year.