A snowstorm in the middle of summer? It might sound like a tall tale, but parts of South Dakota recently experienced an extraordinary weather event. This rare “summer snow” marked the earliest measurable snowfall in the state in over 120 years, kicking off the 2014-2015 winter season in an unforgettable way. The unexpected storm left up to 7 inches of snow, even blanketing Mount Rushmore, a popular summer tourist destination.
Summer Snow in South Dakota
For those worried about their upcoming travel plans to South Dakota, there’s no need for concern. Temperatures are forecasted to climb back into the 70s this weekend, which should melt most of the snow. However, this rare event has left residents and visitors marveling at the strange sight of snow-covered landscapes in late summer.
Wyoming Shares the Spotlight
South Dakota wasn’t the only state caught off guard by this unseasonal weather. Wyoming also reported snowfall, with some areas receiving over 4 inches during the second week of September. The snow surprised farmers and gardeners, as summer-blooming perennials were still thriving. Imagine mowing your lawn one day and shoveling snow the next—a scenario few would expect in early September.
Preparing for a Harsh Winter?
This unusual “summer snow” might be a glimpse of what’s to come. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, this winter could bring higher-than-average precipitation and cooler-than-normal temperatures. With fall officially starting in two weeks, most of the country can count itself lucky for avoiding this surprising snowstorm—for now.
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The Elegance of “Summer Snow” Plants
“Summer Snow” isn’t just a rare weather event; it’s also the name of a striking perennial plant. Known for its vibrant white florets, which bloom from early July to late August, this plant is a favorite among pollinators. Its bold, dark green foliage remains free of powdery mildew and emits a subtle vanilla fragrance, making it a standout in any garden.
Ideal for moist to mesic perennial borders, waterways, or pond edges, “Summer Snow” thrives in full sun to light shade. It tolerates short droughts and occasional flooding, making it a resilient addition to native plant landscapes. For best results, provide good air circulation and ample moisture. To maintain its beauty, remove spent stems in late fall and pinch them back in spring to encourage bushier growth. In trials at the Chicago Botanic Garden, “Summer Snow” proved its durability and aesthetic appeal, outperforming similar cultivars.
Embracing Nature’s Surprises
Whether it’s an unexpected snowstorm or the perennial beauty of the “Summer Snow” plant, these moments remind us to appreciate nature’s unpredictability. While we prepare for what could be a challenging winter, let’s take a moment to marvel at the fleeting magic of summer snow in all its forms.
4 Amazing Snowy Summer Activities at Whistler Blackcomb
When you think of summer, you probably picture sunny beaches or lush green parks. But what if we told you summer snow is a thing? At Whistler Blackcomb, early summer brings unique opportunities to enjoy snowy adventures even in shorts and t-shirts! With over 12 meters of snow blanketing the slopes this past winter, the alpine areas are a frosty wonderland. Here are four must-try activities that make the most of summer snow:
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Walk Through Giant Snow Walls
Imagine walking through towering snow canyons surrounded by breathtaking alpine views. A short trek from the Roundhouse Lodge to Pikas Traverse brings you to these magnificent snow walls, which can reach heights of up to 10 meters. These walls are a seasonal spectacle, gradually melting as summer progresses, so be sure to catch them while they’re at their peak!
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Slide Down the Slopes
Who says tobogganing is only for winter? Whistler Blackcomb’s free sliding zone, located near the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola terminal, is a thrill for all ages. Grab a cushy tube and enjoy sliding on the snow – no heavy winter gear required. It’s an exhilarating way to experience summer snow and cool off from the valley’s heat.
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Picnic with Snowy Peaks as Your Backdrop
There’s nothing quite like a picnic surrounded by majestic snow-covered peaks. Pick up picnic-ready food from the Roundhouse or Rendezvous Lodges and head to the alpine. The mix of melting snow and sun-warmed rock outcroppings provides the perfect setting. Pro tip: place your drinks in the snow for an instant icy refreshment!
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Make a Classic Snow Angel
Escape the summer heat with this simple yet delightful activity. Find a pristine patch of snow, lay down, and make a snow angel. The cool snow against your skin is a refreshing contrast to the summer warmth. Capture your masterpiece for Instagram with #360ofWB and make memories to last a lifetime.
Why Visit Early in the Season?
The earlier you visit Whistler Blackcomb in summer, the more snow you’ll find. But even as the snow melts, the landscape transforms into a haven for alpine hiking and blooming wildflowers. So whether you’re chasing summer snow or scenic trails, there’s always a reason to visit.
Spotlight on Snow-Inspired Plants
Beyond Whistler Blackcomb, the concept of summer snow extends to gardening. Certain conifers and perennials bring a snowy touch to landscapes, even in warmer months. For example:
- Cedrus deodara ‘Snow Sprite’: This slow-growing conifer flaunts buttery-yellow new growth that lightens to near white. Ideal for Zones 7 and above, it’s a radiant addition to gardens along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.
- Tsuga canadensis ‘Summer Snow’: Hardy in Zone 4, this intermediate-sized tree produces brilliant white foliage in spring. It contrasts beautifully with mature green foliage, creating a striking visual effect.
- Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum): This tough groundcover dazzles with small white flowers from late spring to early summer. Its silver foliage remains year-round, thriving even in harsh drought conditions.
These plants bring a touch of summer snow to your garden, making every season magical.
Where to Plant Snow-in-Summer
Snow-in-summer (“Cerastium tomentosum”) is a versatile and visually striking plant that thrives in sunny spaces. Ideal for filling cracks in retaining walls or between stones in rock gardens, it also makes a great groundcover for open sunny areas. Use it as a floral accent around stone walls or as a complementary fill-in for spaces left bare by spring bulbs after they bloom. Thanks to its salt tolerance, snow-in-summer is perfect for coastal planting and thrives in mild temperatures.
How and When to Plant Snow-in-Summer
Plant snow-in-summer from seedlings in early spring, or start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant’s container and plant at the same depth as it was growing in the pot. If planting multiple plants, space them 12-24 inches apart to prevent overcrowding.
To manage potential spreading, install in-ground landscape edging about 5-6 inches deep around your plants to keep their growth contained.
Snow-in-Summer Care Tips
Snow-in-summer is low-maintenance but thrives best in ideal conditions. Follow these care tips to keep your plants healthy and visually appealing:
Light
Ensure your snow-in-summer receives full sun for the brightest silver foliage. Insufficient light may cause the plant to become leggy and less vibrant.
Soil and Water
Snow-in-summer’s rocky, dry origins make well-drained soil essential. Avoid wet soil to prevent root rot. This drought-tolerant plant performs poorly in excessively rainy regions.
Temperature and Humidity
High humidity and extreme summer heat can affect snow-in-summer’s growth. It performs better in moderate climates and may act as a short-lived perennial or annual in warmer zones.
Fertilizer
This plant does well in nutrient-poor soil, so fertilizer isn’t usually necessary. However, for underperforming plants, apply a high-phosphorous fertilizer before blooming to encourage flower production.
Pruning
Pruning helps control snow-in-summer’s spread and keeps the plant’s foliage compact. Remove spent blooms and runners after flowering to prevent self-seeding and overgrowth. A regular trim keeps the plant neat and prevents unwanted spreading.
Pests and Problems
Snow-in-summer is resistant to most pests but may suffer from root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. High humidity can also lead to fungal diseases. Ensure proper airflow and drainage to minimize these risks.
How to Propagate Snow-in-Summer
It may eventually fade away in the midst of summer as snow matures.. Remedy this by dividing and replanting the healthier sections. You can also propagate snow-in-summer through seeds. Sow seeds 12 inches apart in early spring, cover lightly with soil, and expect germination in a few weeks. Keep in mind, plants grown from seeds won’t flower until their second year.
Types of Snow-in-Summer
‘Silver Carpet’
This popular variety features striking silver foliage and bright white blooms in spring and summer. It’s hardy in Zones 3-7 and is perfect for adding texture and brightness to rock gardens or pathways.
Why Choose Snow-in-Summer for Your Garden?
Snow-in-summer is a beautiful, drought-tolerant groundcover that’s perfect for sunny spots. Its vibrant silver foliage and delicate white blooms make it an excellent addition to garden paths, rock gardens, and coastal landscapes. With proper care and pruning, this low-maintenance plant will provide a stunning display season after season.
Transform your garden path with snow-in-summer and enjoy its ethereal beauty while benefiting from its low-maintenance charm.
Conclusion:
Nature often surprises us, whether it’s an unexpected snowstorm in the middle of summer or the perennial beauty of “snow-in-summer” plants. These phenomena remind us of the unpredictability and elegance of the natural world. The rare South Dakota snowstorm, alongside the versatility of plants like “snow-in-summer,” captivates us with their fleeting beauty and lasting impressions. As we prepare for winter or redesign our gardens, these events inspire us to embrace the wonders of nature in all its forms.
FAQs About Summer Snow
- What is summer snow in weather terms?
Summer snow refers to unexpected snowfall during warmer months. This rare phenomenon can occur due to unusual atmospheric conditions, as seen recently in South Dakota and Wyoming. - How often does summer snow occur?
Summer snow is extremely rare and happens under specific meteorological circumstances, such as a sudden drop in temperature combined with moisture in the air. - What is the “summer snow” plant?
“Summer Snow” is a perennial plant known for its white blooms and vibrant green foliage. It’s a low-maintenance choice that adds beauty to gardens while thriving in diverse conditions. - How do I care for “snow-in-summer” plants?
Ensure full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering. Prune spent blooms to prevent overgrowth, and avoid high humidity to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. - Can snow-in-summer plants spread aggressively?
While not officially invasive, snow-in-summer can grow vigorously in cooler climates. To manage its spread, consider using landscape edging or regular pruning.
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