Spring flowering bushes and trees have such a short window of time to strut their stuff in Wisconsin. Just as they are beginning to unfurl their lovely petals, showcasing vibrant colors that attract the attention of passersby, this week’s weather is challenging them to the max with tornadic storms and an excess of ground-soaking rain that threaten to damage their delicate blooms.
To make spring gardening even more challenging, tonight’s trial will include a cold snap that has the potential to dip below freezing. A freeze will undoubtedly bring an abrupt halt to the magnolia’s pageantry of colorful blossoms. My experience has been that some of the unopened buds may survive, but her beautiful flowers will be marred by browning of the petals.
Wisconsin may not be the most hospitable state in which to grow magnolias, but the hope of enjoying their exquisite floral charm keeps this midwest gardener from giving up. Each spring, I find myself eagerly anticipating the moment when the buds begin to swell and hint at the beauty to come. Though fleeting in nature, the magnolia’s graceful charm causes me to stop, take notice, and appreciate this amazing creation of our wonderful Creator. April draws me out of my comfy chair near the window overlooking the garden and into the outdoors to nurture my garden with care. As I work, these magnificent blooms remind me of resilience and the power of God’s creation to inspire hope and joy, even in the face of adversity.
After a very long writing hiatus, I am excited to say that today I’m rejoining the Six on Saturday group! It’s truly a lovely corner of the internet, filled with passionate gardeners who share their creativity and love for gardening. Each week, many talented bloggers post 6 recent garden photos, showcasing their beautiful blooms, vibrant veggies, and inventive garden spaces. If you’re looking to connect with fellow garden enthusiasts and discover new gardening ideas, you have landed in the perfect place! Here is the link for those who’d like to come join us for a virtual garden stroll:
https://gardenruminations.co.uk/author/lairdstephens/
Barefoot Lily Lady 
Storms in the Midwest are no joke!
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This year seems to be particularly stormy. Tonight’s forecast includes a dip below zero. Thanks for stopping by to enjoy my magnolias.
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How do we go from 80⁰ on Thursday to a freeze warning on Saturday?? It boggles the mind and drives my allergies and sinuses crazy.
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Crazy, huh?! This barefoot gardener had to put on shoes!
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It’s a bit easier to grow Magnolias here in the UK, but I grew up in Switzerland, where we have the same problem. Every second season or so, they’re beautiful. Then the next season, they get ruined by a late frost. Still, they are wonderful while they last.
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I have it in my heart to one day travel to the UK and visit some fabulous gardens.
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The star magnolia and the tulip magnolias are beautiful. They arrive early in our spring and remind me of renewal.
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Oh, I so agree about the Magnolias. They are so stunning, and yet their bloom time is way too short. Blink and it’s done. You’ve captured their beauty so well in your photos!
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Thanks so much, Beth. The cold snap is already settling in. I went out today to cut a few smaller branches and bring them in to enjoy their beauty just a little bit longer. My husband helped me cover the smaller pink magnolia. I really hope its blossoms will receive enough protection from the cold.
In another blink it’ll be time for the peony and iris show.
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