During unseasonably warm periods, early bulbs might sprout prematurely, especially those planted with a southern exposure, close to a house or garage. The first greenery to show is foliage, with flower buds appearing much later in the bulb’s growth. Subsequent cold weather might damage the edges of the foliage, but unless the flower bud has appeared, it will not affect the future flowering or health of the bulb.

A few of the little early bulbs can tolerate a bit of frost. They include winter aconite, snowdrops, and glory-of-the-snow.

Check garden beds to be sure plants have not heaved out of the ground due to freeze-thaw-freeze cycles. Gently press the crowns of perennials back into the ground but avoid compacting the soil by stomping heavily around plants.