Ive seen some threads where people in america are stating it seems to be getting darker earlier? or dark before sunset? Something like that. Anyway if it is could it be related? I don't know much about other plants budding cycles, but i do know that marijuana buds when it senses a change in the day/night cycle (less daylight hours). Also i was under the impression some plants bud when they sense their end is coming as to prepare for the next generation.