Like clockwork, most of Augusta's spring blooms emerged precisely as they should: Japanese magnolias first, followed by daffodils and Bradford pear.

But there is something amiss with the Garden City's signature bloom: azaleas. They are early, having begun their annual eruption weeks ago.

"It's weird," said Sid Mullis, a perennial azalea watcher and the director of the University of Georgia's Extension Service.

"Everything else is on schedule but azaleas are early," he said. "If you can tell me why, then you'll be the only one who knows."

By some estimates, azaleas began unfurling their colors seven to 10 days early this season, while everything else appears to have bloomed right on time.

In Augusta and surrounding locales, the smaller-leafed Karume azaleas usually peak around March 30, followed by the larger Indica variety -- most prevalent at Augusta National Golf Club -- a week to 10 days later, he said.

Even the Indica plants are flowering, although they are still far from their peak and blooming only in scattered areas.

With tee-off for the Masters Tournament more than a week away, will there be plenty of blooms left to brighten the backdrop for golf's grand event?

"It will still look fine," Mr. Mullis predicted.

He added, jokingly, that there might be remedies for premature blooms.

"Of course, everybody knows they pack the plants with ice out there to keep them from blooming early," Mr. Mullis said.