Blossomed Out from Climate Change

Have you noticed cherry blossoms flowering earlier and earlier each year? In the hundred year blooming National Park Service record, bloom dates have jumped forward about a week. Earlier bloom dates make cherry blossoms more susceptible to spring freezes and if blooms are damaged during freezes they no longer flower and fruit for the rest of the season. Scientists cite climate change and urban heat island effect (i.e. cities are warmer than rural places because more concrete absorbs and holds more heat) as reasons behind premature blossoming. Cherry blossoms are not only a national treasure, but an important food source for pollinators! Check out this article for more detail on how cherry blossoms, both in Japan and the U.S., are peaking earlier and earlier.

Climate Confuses Crops

Some crops are finding it harder to grow due to climate change; changes in temperature and water resources impact more delicate, but much loved, crops. Wheat, peaches, coffee, and almonds were all mentioned as at risk crops in a 2018 NPR article. Peach trees, like cherry blossom trees, require enough “chill time” in the winter in order to bloom properly, which becomes an issue as winters warm. Additionally, almond trees are also at risk due to climate change, because the primary water source for these crops is snow melt. When it snows less, or snow melts quickly all at once, the water needed to irrigate these crops is no longer available for these thirsty crops. We are well aware of the negative impact climate change has on crop production, but significant changes in greenhouse gas reduction have yet to be a priority in the U.S. Check out the article for more information on how wheat and coffee are also impacted by climate change.

Climate Confuses Crops– and Cause Quakes:

If you weren’t worried about the crops in the previous news article, you may be alarmed to hear that avocado trees are similarly affected by climate change and wreaking environmental havoc. Farmers say “screwy” weather patterns have caused their trees to be “totally confused” and one study estimated California avocado trees could be cut in half by 2050. What’s even more alarming is increased demand for avocados, or “green gold”, has not only caused extensive biodiversity and soil loss, but also continues to cause small earthquakes to occur! Check out these two articles to find out more about the stresses this crop faces and the incredible environmental consequences of the “green gold” rush.

Natives to the Rescue

Native plants are an important asset to our local ecosystem; they provide food and shelter for butterflies, insects, birds and other animals. Natives are already at home in the weather and soil conditions that our yards have naturally and do not require harsh chemicals to control pests. Overall, natives are easier to care for AND better for the environment! NoVA Natives has posted a call for volunteers in their April update and visit their website for more information. Happy planting!