Spectacular spring won’t last for long, warns RHS

SPRING “could be over in the blink of an eye” so we had better enjoy it, the Royal Horticultural Society has said.

Recent cold weather has meant that flowers have remained in bud for longer than usual, but warmer temperatures this week will likely result in a “magnificent” display as many plants flower at once.

The Met Office has predicted a miniheatwave will hit Britain on Thursday, with highs of 77F (25C) expected in the South East.

“I would urge people to get outside in their gardens or visit green spaces this weekend as spring could be over in the blink of an eye and you really don’t want to miss what’s coming,” said Guy Barber, RHS chief horticulturalist.

“Look out for daffodils – they are usually over by now but later flowers are still stupendous, flowering cherries are at their best and with the rain holding off, will be looking sensational.

“Magnolias are flowering late, as are camellias and rhododendrons.

“Usually, spring begins in March and lasts until mid-may so this shorter, condensed spring will create magnificent displays in our gardens, public spaces and roadsides across the UK as everything flowers at once.”

The arrival of the sun follows an unusually cold spring. Although February and March brought Storm Emma and the freezing “Beast from the East” cold snap, this week will “comfortably break” the warmest day of the year so far, the Met Office said.

Temperatures are expected to settle around 66F (19C) next week.