WATCH: Vancouver Island is used to mild winters but above average temperatures this month means blooms are coming out even earlier than usual. It’s good news for garden centres and those with green thumbs. Isabelle Raghem reports.
It’s starting to look like and feel like spring in Victoria.
While Victoria prides itself on its mild winters, this year has been even milder. Average temperatures have been a few degree higher than it normally is.
The recent warmth and rain have led to even earlier blooms at garden centres.
“This is paradise. It’s the best climate in the country,” says a shopper who was relieved he was reaching for gardening tools instead of a shovel.
Even fruit trees are getting an early start, says Gord Nickel of Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre.
“This is a pear tree [and] the buds are really starting to break it won’t be long if the weather stays like this,” Nickel said.
So what does this mean for people who can’t wait to get out there and start gardening? Experts say pace yourself because winter isn’t over quite yet.
“Buy things and put them in a protective area until we know for sure we’re not gonna have any long cold snaps,” adds Nickel.
Isabelle Raghem
