Blossoms by the park are an uplifting reminder that life is getting back to normal after winter. They’re also a great way to decompress and reconnect with nature. While some blossoms, such as cherry trees, are a fleeting sight, other species – like mayapples and trilliums – have an extended bloom period that makes them especially memorable to see in the springtime.
In the UK, blossoms are commonly seen in hedgerows and along forest verges. They’re also found on solitary trees and in gardens.
The National Trust has launched a campaign to encourage people to share photos of their spring blossoms on social media as part of the National Trust’s “Blossom Season” promotion. It’s a great opportunity to show off these delicate flowers, which are only in full bloom for a short time.
One of the most iconic springtime sights in New York City is Central Park’s cherry blossoms. Ranging from deep magenta to pale pink to crisp white, these beauties are a must-see when they’re in bloom. This year, thanks to a warm winter, peak bloom has arrived early and will likely continue to do so through the summer.
As the season progresses, several areas of the park will be in peak bloom, including the Reservoir (east side from 86th to 96th streets), the Great Lawn, Cherry Hill and Cedar Hill near the Central Park Lake. The Conservancy has also designated several areas as pre-peak, including the Shakespeare Garden on the west side from 79th to 80th streets and Dene Slope on the east side from 65th to 67th streets.
Another of NYC’s most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing is the Hudson River’s Little Island, a floating park on the river that boasts stunning views of Akebono Yoshino cherry trees. This pristine space offers plenty of other benefits, too, from a dog run to bike paths and platform terraces.
There are also many other flowering trees in parks throughout the country, from daffodils and tulips to lilies and crocuses. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, blossoming trees offer a much needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, fostering community connections and providing scenic views that bring all visitors a little peace.
This spring, take your love of blossoms to the next level and plant some in your own garden! It’s easy to do, and a beautiful addition to your outdoor spaces.
A simple tip to prolong the life of your cut blossoms is to remove any leaves under the water line when you’re cutting the stem. This will help your flowers get more water, which will make them last longer in your vase.
You can also add a small drop of bleach to your vases, which will control bacteria and keep your blooms fresher for longer. When it comes to keeping your flowers looking their best, follow the same tips you use for other plants – don’t over-water, trim the base of the stem every few days and cut it at a 45 degree angle so water can flow more easily through the petals.