Winds of change as seasons shift
Florists - 25/08/2006 11:08:42
Florists across the country can look forward to more money next year as a report released reveals that climate change is causing spring to arrive earlier every year.
A Europe-wide study has found what it claims is conclusive proof that climate change is altering the way flowers and animals behave.
Scientists from 17 countries looked at 125,000 cases across 561 species as part of what is thought to be the world's largest study in to naturally recurring events, such as when flowers bloom.
Results showed that 78 per cent of leafing, flowering and fruiting was happening earlier in the year and Dr Tim Sparks, from the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, has said that this could cause havoc with the ecosystem.
Mr Sparks said: "If you have species that are dependent on each other changing at different rates that could just break down the food web.
"For example, caterpillars feed on oak trees and birds feed on the caterpillars. Unless these species remain synchronised, there could be problems for any one or more of those elements of the food web."
Florists will also be intrigued to hear that climate change is prolonging summer by delaying the start of autumn by three days on average, according to the study.
You can find out when your favourite flower is coming in to season by checking out florists in our online directory.