We've had no shortage of moisture here in west-central New Jersey this year, but yesterday's rain was a tipping-point weather event. Apparently the rain, in combination with air and ground temperature (and who knows what else) have reached that magical stage where spring, a day or two late, has arrived.
In the course of a day, things are different. Yesterday's winter-red sedums and sempervivums are letting go of their cold weather finery and taking on their growing season hues. The stubs of cut back lavandula are showing signs of life that were nearly absent just 24 hours ago. Bud swell is now very apparent on the lilacs and quince and the trees are stirring. Perhaps most gloriously of all, spring bulbs which we'd seen a sprinking of flowers on prior to yesterday are blooming in larger numbers, making a push to finish things up before it gets warm again.
It's game-on in the garden!
