Knowledgebase

weird weather #816963

Asked November 27, 2022, 8:05 PM EST

While out raking leaves this weekend I noticed viable (for now) terminal buds on fig trees, several inches of sprouted florence fennel, whiteflies still present on kale, and a grasshopper. It is surprising what surives our up and down weather.

Anne Arundel County Maryland

Expert Response

Prominent buds on overwintering branches can be typical for a range of tree/shrub species. The fennel might not have gone completely dormant yet, which is also normal. Whiteflies and many other insects can often withstand chilly temperatures before a deep freeze (which we haven't had yet) either kill them or render them inactive. Overwintering insects protect themselves from freezing by creating compounds in their blood that act like antifreeze.

Miri

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