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(Ames, IA) -- Freezing temperatures this weekend could put an end to magnolia tree blooms in Iowa. Aaron Steil of Iowa State University Extension-Horticulture says other early bloomers could also be nipped by cold temperatures. He notes, however, ornamental trees that are close to blooming, but have yet to do so should be okay.
Steil is less optimistic about apple, peach, and cherry trees, as well as strawberry plants that may already be blooming. He says the amount of fruit from those trees may be less if the temperatures nip the early blooms. He says there's little that can be done to protect the blooms.
Steil notes if you have a container with tender flowers outdoors, it would be a good idea to bring it indoors to protect it. Perennials including tulips that are budding or blooming should be able to withstand temperatures in the upper 20s to low 30s. He says some cool-weather vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, and kale may also survive the cold snap.
Most Iowa gardeners may want to delay their planting a bit. Iowa State University publishes dates for the last frost dates and the first frost of the fall season, which can be found HERE.