The saying “April showers bring May flowers” means good things come after bad times.
But is there any actual scientific truth to the proverb? Not really.
In April, rain is less common in Jacksonville compared to other months. Rain totals for the entire month average less than 3 inches making it the third driest month of the year.
Look around right now and you will see flowers in bloom despite a 3-inch yearly rainfall deficit and drought conditions across north Florida.
Temperature not rain is the key to making flowers pop. As the length of daylight increases and temperatures warm, the genes in flora are programmed to begin the reproductive flowering schedule right on time.
In summer watering takes on greater importance to offset the wilting effect of daily 90-degree heat.
There is some scientific evidence to support the saying “April showers bring May flowers.” However, it is important to remember that there are other factors that play a larger role in flowering.
Temperature: Plants need a certain amount of warmth in order to flower. If the temperature is too low, the plants will not flower.
Daylength: Plants also need a certain amount of sunlight in order to flower. If the day length is too short, the plants will not flower.
Nutrients: Plants need certain nutrients in order to flower. If they do not receive these nutrients, they will not flower.
Diseases and pests: Diseases and pests can also affect flowering. If plants are infected with a disease or infested with a pest, they may not flower.