How to move forward after a harsh winter took its toll on South Plains trees, plants If your trees, shrubs or other outdoor plants haven't started budding or perking up for spring yet, you're not alone. From drought conditions to harsh freezes, they've been through a lot the last few months, and could just need some more time, or perhaps a bit of hands-on help, to recover. Experts said they're already seeing signs and hearing reports of delayed blooms, trees not coming out of dormancy yet and other potential damage to vegetation in yards and landscapes. "I think we're, unfortunately, going to see a lot of winter-related losses this year," said Vikram Baliga, greenhouse manager and research associate in Texas Tech's Department of Plant and Soil Science.