As winter’s chill descends upon Rapid City, park crews have been diligently preparing Memorial Park and Halley Park for the upcoming frosty season. In a proactive effort to safeguard the health of park rose bushes and flower beds, crews undertook the essential process of winterization, covering the vibrant blooms with a protective layer of leaves to insulate them against the impending cold.
In a noticeable shift from last year’s timeline, the flower winterization process commenced a full month ahead of the 2022 schedule. The determining factor for the early start of this protective measure lies in the behavior of the surrounding trees, which are in the process of shedding their leaves. Once the deciduous trees have relinquished their foliage, it signals the need to insulate the flowering plants.
“The short-term freeze, like the recent ones, won’t have a detrimental effect on our floral residents. In fact, it induces a dormant state, which is beneficial. This dormancy allows us to apply the leaf cover for insulation, ensuring they remain at a suitable temperature throughout the winter,” explained John Berglund, a specialist in greenhouse management at Rapid City.
The vigilant approach to winterization not only safeguards the flowers from the harsh winter conditions but also fosters their health and longevity. When temperatures consistently rise above 20 degrees, signaling the arrival of spring, the protective cover will be removed, allowing the blossoms to thrive once more.
Rapid City’s park crews are committed to ensuring the vibrant beauty of their parks endures the cold season, promising a picturesque and colorful return when spring’s warmth graces the city once again.
