Every year we worry the tulip magnolia tree in the front yard is going to get pinched by frost. It’s a glorious tree to behold – the magnificent pink blooms can be seen as one approaches our house in every direction for at least a block. It is the first tree to bloom every year and many neighbors have told us they consider it the first official sign of spring. Every few years though, Mother Nature gets the last word on the beauty of the tree, for unlike other early blooming trees, the tulip magnolia does not react well to frost. In fact, frost makes the large pink and white flowers turn brown, definitely not as glorious.
Last weekend, just as the protective outer coating of the flower beds fell off, the temperatures plummeted down into the twenties and thirties. We despaired our tree would be a huge brown mess and not a glorious pink one. And while there is some damage, there are still some lovely, lovely blooms.
We spent most of yesterday afternoon outside, reveling in the beautiful spring day while I took, not kidding, close to 500 pictures of the tree. It’s a sight to behold and the smell was not at all hampered by the frost, so the front yard definitely smells like spring. Glorious, delightful, pollen filled spring.
While we were out there, the cherry tree blossoms started opening up and I noticed the dogwoods starting to move towards blooming.
What really made me happy though was what I saw out there today:
The Virginia Bluebells I planted two springs ago, finally blooming for the first time.
I’d say spring has sprung.
Chicken Wire & Paper Flowers 
I’m glad your magnolia squeaked by 🙂 I planted two little sprouts of Virginia bluebells a couple of years ago, and both have turned in to nice size clumps. They are one of my favorite flowers, and I’m hoping to continue the increase and spread them to other gardens.
We’re hoping they take off down there (they are down by the creek). I’ve also planted some trillium and may apples around them for an early spring wonderland!
What a glorious display of beauty. I really didn’t think anything could outshine the tulip magnolia, but I must say the blue bell is giving it a run for its money!
Thank you. I’ll be sure to post shots when they are fully open!
I love the tulip trees! They really do go all out, so I’m glad the frost didn’t get to yours. Great bluebell photo.
It got to it a little bit, but I photographed around it. Thank you – I’m looking forward to the bluebells fully opening!
Reblogged this on jnegrete158.
I love your new blog design!
Thanks!
Happy happy happy Spring!! What gorgeous blooms!
ps. lovely new blog design lady!
If only you could smell them! Thanks!