Sakura Watch March 8, 2021 - High Park cherry blossom updates are back! So yes, after what always seems like a long winter, I’ve made my way back to the park this past weekend. It has been a longer than usual while since I’ve been there due to the pandemic of the past year. Even though spring may getting closer by the day, the fight against COVID-19 continues well into 2021, as can be seen by the sign with warnings to keep wearing masks and practice social distancing still prevalent throughout the park. But I'll talk more about that in a moment. For now, you can watch my latest video update below:

Watch the YouTube update below:

2021 Blossom Watch Begins

The sun has been shining, snow melting and a few days of real spring-like weather are on its way, but winter is definitely not over yet. Let me start by stating the cherry trees all seem to be doing very well, and I have seen a fair amount of blossom buds developing on the branches throughout the various blossom zones. The abundance of buds is a welcome sign. If all things hold up over the next weeks and months then we should see a good showing of blossoms this year.

Overall, the trees are all looking very healthy, and the buds appear to be well-shaped and developing ideally. I didn’t come across any obvious signs of damage or degradation beyond what was seen last year. Our winter wasn’t too harsh this year and fairly wet which seems to have helped the trees survive with minimal stress. These initial impressions indicate that the progress is on-track for a typical bloom to occur in late April and early May.

Have a look at these photos of the buds from this past weekend:

Virtual Viewing for 2021

Any hopes of getting back to the normalcy of viewing the blossoms in person this year fell prey to the recent rise of the pandemic's numbers. The City of Toronto recently announced that to help slow the spread of COVID-19, the City is extending the cancellation of all City-permitted major outdoor events to July 1. The hope is to avoid the vast crowds at these events threatening to accelerate the spread and help keep everyone safe. With this announcement, it does appear the spring 2021 blossom viewing will once again be a virtual experience only. It's merely too risky to have the large crowds return to High Park for the time being. Once again, I will keep you updated on this news in the weeks ahead.

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.