Journey North | Citizen Scientists Studying Plants, Climates, and the Seasons

Tulip Test Gardens

Emergence: First for 2017!
February 08, 2017, Mary Hosier

Why did these gardens emerge first? Maps can reveal clues to help answer your questions.

blooming tulips
Fourth graders at Greensboro Day School, North Carolina Rose Marie Cook

Emerging in Winter

In a winter filled with up-and-down temperatures, freak snowstorms, and record rainfalls Test Gardens are emerging! How will winter's fickle weather affect garden predictions across the continent?

"Last Saturday we had an unusual snow event and then today, January 12, 2017, it is 51 degrees. We have 4 emerged tulips!"
Prosperity, South Carolina 01/12/17

"It is Ground Hog Day and our tulips have emerged. It's cold and partly cloudy. We predict the tulips will bloom in April."
Bowie, Maryland 02/02/17

"Our first tulip emerged on Tuesday, January 31st. Kids were excited and are watching everyday, often twice a day, to see if their tulip has emerged."
Anona Elementary, Largo, Florida

Lorraine Stargel

Debra Templin

Investigating Climate Maps

Maps present information about the world in a simple, visual way.

Climate maps show temperature, rain and snow, sunshine, and wind - conditions that affect how and when plants grow.
Maps provide information on latitude, land mass, and proximity to water.
Maps can help us understand more about plants and the seasons.

Using Maps as Tools

How do maps help you predict when gardens will emerge?

Companion Resources

Journal

Photo Gallery

Text Only Article

Teaching Suggestions

Driving Question

How do maps help us predict when gardens will emerge?

Maps

So far 13 gardens have reported emergence from Florida and Texas to Virginia, Maryland and more. Will your prediction change after studying this week's Test Garden map?

What's happening in your garden?

Report to the map.

Journey North Climate Garden Map: North America

report | map | list

report | map | list

Next Update February 15, 2017