Yes, last year was record mild and we are mild again so far this year. Normal snowfall by this date is 55.5". Last year we were at 21". Currently 29.8". Temps are warmer than usual also. We haven't seen -50° yet this year in my neck of the woods. Temps have been above or very slightly below 0 for a while, though we are predicted to go to -35° tonight.
The snow is a wonderful insulator so that helps the plants survive. Just wish the skeeters and especially the APHIDS would freeze their little buns off and disappear, but they are just biding their time to make their warm weather attack. I read (most...LOL) of a book about the different methods critters (from bugs to bears) use physiologically to survive in the winter in cold climates. It's called "Winter World by Bernd Heinrich. A little technical in parts, but very interesting...Mother Nature is creative...
