Sakura Watch April 16, 2021 - Cold returns and slows down the bloom with only 1% open in High Park. The drop in temperatures, mixed with rainy weather, is less than ideal for the anxiously waiting blossom buds. Overall, the buds are all in their final moments of stage 5 and ready to bloom. You can see the fully extended florets and well-defined white petaled bulbs just waiting for the right time and temperatures to open. Of course, all of this is being overshadowed by the rather serious situation we are all in as a Province with the pandemic numbers continually rising to record levels on a daily basis. A good part of my update today will be focused on discussing this, virtual viewing and how we all need to be cautious, safe and responsible in this time of public health crisis.

Watch my latest YouTube update below:

The City of Toronto Announcements About High Park

I’ve already touched on this in a dedicated post and page that will continually update with the latest details and how they relate to the 2021 Cherry Blossom season. First to recap, during the most recent COVID-19 City of Toronto Briefing, Mayor John Tory announced the following:

• High Park will remain OPEN to public for fresh air and exercise;

• Three (3) main cherry blossom areas (Sports fields, Cherry Hill, and Jamie Bell Adventure Playground) will all be FENCED OFF to prevent in-person viewing and discourage crowds and gatherings in the park;

• City Staff and Bylaw Officers will monitor the park’s closed location and enforce the rules;

• No vehicles will be allowed to drive through the park, except for TTC Wheel Trans and City Staff

• LIVE Virtual 4K Streaming video will return and allow anyone to watch the trees safely due the peak bloom #BloomAtHome

We all need to do our part and do the right thing and respect these temporary rules for another year.

Not A Typical Cherry Blossom Year

First, let me start by saying that having crowds and large gatherings in the park to view cherry blossoms would be a huge mistake. If you or anyone you know are planning to do this - DON’T! Please, I am asking everyone to understand the severity of what is happening with the pandemic and going out for the sole purpose of trying to see the blossoms is NOT WORTH THE RISK.

This is why the City is launching the Virtual Stream, and media outlets and I are doing our best to bring you all photos and videos of the cherry blossoms in order to allow all of you to enjoy them safely at home.

There are plenty of other opportunities to see all types of blossoms all around the city! Toronto is blessed with over 1,500 parks, and there's a great chance you can explore your own neighbourhood and spot a variety of blossoms and other beautiful sights of nature. Currently, I’ve spotted Apricot trees that have already bloomed (and look similar to cherry blossoms) and magnolias getting ready to bloom soon as well!

There is so much more for all of us to see all around us other than High Park.

First 1% of Cherry Blossoms

Now speaking of High Park, the return of cooler weather has once again slowed down the opening of the blooms by a few days. That’s not to say the first few blossoms that have opened are a welcome sight to see! Once we get some sunny days back again, things should pick up the pace once again.

Here are some photos I captured of the few blossoms that have opened. Notice that many of the florets are primed and ready to bloom any day now:

We’re Still On For An Early Bloom

As I previously predicted, the first few blooms began opening on April 14. Due to the cold, I am adjusting my prediction for the 2021 peak bloom by a couple of days. I now predict that we should see the cherry blossom trees at least 75% in bloom,  starting around April 20th, and continue through to the 28th. How long they will last will be dependent on the weather as rain or wind can knock down the delicate petals prematurely. I will be watching for more signs during the next visit in a few days.

Keep Park Visits Safe and Clean

Anytime you visit the park, it's essential to be safe and remember to follow these health guidelines. Social distance from others by keeping at least 2 meters or 6 feet apart, avoid public crowds or engaging in large gatherings, and if ever in doubt, protect yourself and others by wearing a mask that adequately covers your nose and mouth.

And also, please respect the park and others when you are out. Dispose of your mask and other items in trash bins, or take them home instead of tossing them on the ground. This helps keep our parks clean and safe.

For more COVID-19 information

Every day we're seeing just how highly contagious this virus is and how it can infect both young and old alike. Even if you don't have the symptoms, you may still be carrying it and spreading it to your family and friends. Your best and only right option is to listen to the advice from our medical professionals.

City of Toronto - https://www.toronto.ca/COVID-19/

Health Canada - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada.html

Remember to follow the advice from the health experts. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, stay home (if you can), and if you absolutely need to go out in public, practice Social Distancing by keeping at least 2 meters or 6 feet apart from others.

Thank you all for visiting the site. Be careful, be safe, and watch for more updates soon.