Sakura Watch April 22, 2022 - Blossom buds move into Stages 3 and 4 throughout High Park as warmer weather has helped the trees progress. I’m happy to finally see the return of more spring-like weather recently, but am even more pleased to see how it all has helped the progress of the sakura trees. With a mix of warm and cool weather forecast for the coming week, it is looking good for an early May bloom this year.

Watch for my latest YouTube update or continue reading below.

Stage 3

Walking around the park, I could see most buds are already in the advanced stages, thanks to the warmer temperatures recently. Even with the bouts of rain and cooler nights, the trees are, in fact, on a more average timetable, like in past years when the bloom was expected in late April and early May. Here are some photos showing stage 3 in more detail.

Stage 4

Surprisingly, a few trees were already in Stage 4, where the florets are visibly emerging. At this stage, the florets usually open in about 5-10 days, depending on weather conditions. Each floret will represent a cherry blossom, and each bud can contain anywhere from 3 to 5 florets. This can be seen much more easily once the florets fully extend in stage 5, which we could soon begin to see in the upcoming days. Here are some detailed photos of the stage 4 buds.

2022 Bloom Prediction

With the progress seen today, I predict that the first blossoms will begin to open by, or just before, April 28th. The peak bloom, where about 70% of the blossoms are open, will likely start the first week of May, around May 4.

Of course any significant changes in the weather can change these dates by a day or two, but overall this is what I am seeing the signs of as of today. But I will keep checking and updating if anything does change, so keep watching out for future updates.

Keep Park Visits Safe and Clean

Although the mask mandates have been lifted in Ontario, and specifically Toronto, its now optional, and recommended, for visitors to wear a mask when viewing the cherry blossoms while in large crowds. Other ways to stay safe it to visit the park during less peak times such as early morning weekdays. Late afternoon, weeknights and weekends tend to draw the largest crowds. Virtual viewing will also be setup by the City of Toronto.

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.

All COVID-19 Restrictions Lifted

The City of Toronto has lifted restrictions for in-person viewing of the cherry blossoms in High Park for 2022. However, the park will be closed to ALL vehicle traffic during the peak bloom. Watch for more details and information posted here and on the City of Toronto website.

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

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

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