Spring flourishing with colours as cherry blossoms come to life
The blossoming of cherry trees is in full force, so now is the time to go see their dashing colours before they disappear -- possibly by Tuesday.
Here for a good time, but not a long time. That statement particularly rings true for the cherry blossoms.
Every year, the peak bloom of the cherry trees draw thousands to parks across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) with their vibrant colours. In Toronto, High Park is one of the go-to destinations to see them.
SEE ALSO: Citizen scientists predict peak of cherry blossom season
For the first time in two years, people are able to enjoy the sight of the cherry trees in High Park restriction-free. Blossom enthusiast Steven Joniak is one of many happy to be partaking in the viewing without any COVID-19 restrictions.
To make the experience even more pleasant, he says the forecast this year has been ideal, despite some hiccups with some unsettled and cool weather at times this spring, in an interview with Lexi Benedict, video journalist with The Weather Network.
(The Weather Network)
Parts of High Park were blocked off in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, a situation that benefitted the cherry trees greatly as there was no foot traffic putting them in harm's way, Joniak said.
"The city always encourages people...to come take your pictures, view the trees but try not to break branches, shake the trees or climb the trees because all of those actions can actually damage them," said Joniak.
However, cherry tree season is rather short-lived. Typically, the peak bloom lasts from four to 10 days, weather-dependent, of course. Rainy and windy conditions tend to knock the petals off sooner, making for a more abrupt end to the bloom, Joniak said.
The peak began on May 5 and is expected to stay with us until Tuesday, May 12...again, depending on weather conditions.
TOP 5 PLACES TO SEE CHERRY BLOSSOMS IN THE GTA
Besides High Park, there are plenty of other locations to see the cherry blossoms. The Weather Network meteorologist Jessie Uppal and video journalist Kabir Bageria list five spots to consider visiting in the video above.
"It's a peaceful getaway without the long journey," says Uppal. "Wherever you choose to view these blossoms, be mindful of the timeframe."
If you do come to High Park to see the cherry trees via vehicle, the site is closed to car traffic during the peak, and on weekends and public holidays following the season conclusion.
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