With the first blooms of 2012 already appearing on campus, grounds crews are eager to get into flower beds, says supervisor Garry Moore. However, the spring-like temperatures can’t fool the professional gardener, who knows the soil isn’t ready for working yet.

“What can come up are spring bulbs, which we have planted earlier,” like the snowdrops that have blossomed outside Memorial Hall, Moore says. He says Facility Services plans to plant more trees on campus this season, including some varieties that “push the boundaries” a little in terms of range.

“I’m looking to plant some types we haven’t had around before,” Moore says.

He adds that the mild winter has been a boon to groundskeepers’ efforts to keep the campus snow-free.