Reporting a False Spring

This, from the UK's Tree Council website (here), makes slightly concerning reading: 

'A blistering summer of record temperatures led to suggestions of a ‘false autumn’ as trees’ leaves browned early – now there appears to be evidence of a ‘false spring’ after The Tree Council team observed flowers emerging on seeding shrubs and trees. 

Over the last few weeks, unusual flowering was recorded on apple, blackthorn, dogwood, hawthorn, horse chestnut and sweet chestnut trees, particularly in locations around the South of England. It is not clear how geographically widespread this is, and we are calling on the Great British public to get out and about in your area, record your observations and send them in to The Tree Council, with details of location and date (see link below).'

 Sighting at the London Welsh Rugby Club. Kew, on 22nd September. Photo: The Tree Council 

'The budding and flowering could be born of the summer drought conditions, combined with unusually warm, early autumn weather. Effectively, the very dry summer was followed by warm, wet weather, which may have moved trees from stress into recovery growth. Jon Stokes is The Tree Council’s Director of Trees, Science & Research​, he said: "Biologically, the flower buds of many trees are formed for almost a year, developing in late spring, and then forming during summer, autumn, winter, and early spring."

The inherent consequence of unusual autumn flowering is that there is likely to be a partial loss of the next year’s flowers and fruit – if a tree flowers in the autumn, new flower buds will not have time to form during the winter period because conditions are unsuitable. “Flowering also takes energy, so to flower – or put on new leaves – in the autumn, the tree diverts energy that would have been stored, potentially reducing its ability to cope with winter.'

Let's hope we don't have too harsh a winter.

So, please keep your eyes open and your camera ready as you walk the dog, trek through the countryside or stroll in the park, and send your images – including date and location – to comms@treecouncil.org.uk, marked 'Autumn Flowering'.