Above average temperatures in the winter are something most Albertans cheer about, but it could mean trouble for the greenery around town.

Many of the trees throughout Okotoks are beginning to flower, at least two to three weeks earlier than expected.

Okotoks Urban Forester Gordon White says if temperatures drop again it could damage some of the plants.

"There is potential this year to have frost damage on leaves and flowers in the spring." he says.  "Plants that might be at risk too are perennials, so if you've got tender, green foliage that's coming up now, and if we get real cold temperatures without any snow cover and such they are certainly at risk of being damaged."

White says its best to cover up perennials with leaves or a blanket if temperatures drop, to protect them from frost damage.

There have also been dry conditions throughout the foothills, which may affect foliage in the spring. White says there's a simple way to tell if plants need water.

"With respect to watering the best thing to do is stick your finger in the ground, and check if the ground is moist or not. If there's moisture in the ground there's probably no need to water."

Evergreen trees such as Junipers, Cedars, Spruce, and Pine are at the highest risk of drying out, White says to pay close attention to any new plants as well.

"When your checking your young trees and shrubs that are still in the establishment phase, make sure you're checking at the base of the plant where the root ball is."

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