Last week's unusual September snowstorm wasn't great for plants.
Assistant Extension Educator for Horticulture at University of Wyoming Donna Hoffman said there are a lot of broken branches on trees, and flowers that were not protected are probably done growing for the season.
Hoffman said some plants like broccoli and brussel sprouts actually like cooler seasons, so they may not suffer as much damage. She also said more established plants are probably doing better.
"Those that have been in the ground and growing for a few years are not necessarily as tender as something that might have been planted in the garden this year," said Hoffman. "It's that plant's first time experiencing our cold climate, so they may suffer a little bit more than plants that have been in the ground a little bit longer."
Hoffman said plants that grow in Wyoming are accustomed to cold conditions, just not this early.
"Anything that's hardy enough to grow in the various zones across Wyoming is probably doing okay, and they probably appreciated the moisture that came from it because we've been so dry," she said.
Hoffman said it's too soon to tell if the damage will affect the plants this spring.
Have a question about this story? Please contact the reporter, Ashley Piccone, at apiccone@uwyo.edu
