At first glance, in the dead of winter, trees and shrubs look like a collection of lifeless stems and branches.

At first glance, in the dead of winter, trees and shrubs look like a collection of lifeless stems and branches.

But take a closer look and you’ll discover winter buds full of promise.

Already in late summer and fall last year, trees and shrubs began forming flower buds in anticipation of spring growth.

Some trees, such as elm and oak, have small, almost unrecognizable buds, while others such as magnolia and beech have robust, plump buds that can’t wait to be opened.

A flower or leaf bud is a tiny version of the real thing. If you were to cut a bud in half and inspect it under a magnifying glass, you would see compressed leaves and flower buds, wrapped in a protective shell.

As long as........

© Sarnia Observer