Late bloom on flowering trees and shrubs is not typical. This phenomenon generally follows a stress period for the plant, such as damage from insects or disease, or environmental factors such as drought. If the tree survives the current stress, blooms will be absent or sparse next spring. Flower buds are initiated in the summer and flowers that bloom this fall will not return. Fall bloom does not necessarily indicate that the spring flowering tree or shrub will die. The injury may naturally be repaired and normal plant performance may resume next year. Late fall fertilization and sufficient moisture may help stimulate root development for a healthier plant for the future. Common flowering tree and shrub species in which fall blossoms may occur are forsythia, lilac, crab apple, redbud, and dogwood. Early fall bloom may also be seen on most fruit tree species.

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