A combination of factors likely caused magnolias to bloom weeks early in the South West.
At Lukesland Gardens near Ivybridge, a 90-year-old magnolia tree has erupted in a “pink explosion.” The owners attribute its early bloom to recent wet weather. John Howell noted that his grandfather planted the 65ft tree in the 1930s, stating, “It’s been here beside the little stream for all that time.”
Dave Bouch, head gardener at Buckland Abbey near Yelverton, confirmed that a magnolia x soulangeana on the grounds has bloomed four weeks earlier than usual, likely due to above-average temperatures.
Regarding the Lukesland Gardens magnolia, John Howell remarked, “It comes from the Himalayas, so it’s non-native to Britain, yet it thrives in this Dartmoor habitat.” Co-owner Lorna Howell emphasized its extraordinary nature, saying, “While everything else looks wintery, this amazing pink explosion brightens the garden.”
In St Austell, Cornwall, Caerhays Castle reported that its magnolias appear “magnificent,” with staff suggesting that the best viewing time is from March to mid-April.
