Cherry Trees in bloom on Azalea Way in the University of Washington Arboretum

The cherry trees along azalea way were in full bloom at the University of Washington's arboretum (G. Thomas Bancroft)

The cherry trees along azalea way were in full bloom at the University of Washington’s arboretum (G. Thomas Bancroft)  [All pictures are available as prints by clicking on the photo to go to www.thomasbancroft.com.]

The cherry trees in the UW Arboretum are in full bloom right now.  It was lightly raining while I walked along Azalea Way and the soft light made the cherry blossoms really glow.  Light rain and cloud cover creates a beautiful light for viewing flowers and really appreciating the intensity of colors.  The arboretum has a number of varieties of cherries and each is slightly different in their flowers and tree shape.  The twisted trunks of some trees created an intricate design with their knobs and blanket of moss.  A dusting of blossoms floated to the ground under a few of the trees.  Up close, the blossoms were just exquisite to study and the perfume of some trees was strong and sweet.  I stood for several minutes under many to just enjoy the ambiance of the moment.  A walk now through the arboretum is well worth your time.  Soon the azaleas and rhododendrons will be blooming.

The chickadees and juncos were singing away as I strolled along the path.  Several robins were also telling the world they had staked out territories for the coming breeding season.  I watch several crows work the lawn for grubs and worms.  The place was alive with activity and showing signs that spring is here.

Take a walk in the woods to see what spring offers.

The twisted tranks and knobs on the trunk created an unusual design that was accentted by the soft light glowing through the flower pedals. (G. Thomas Bancroft)

The twisted tranks and knobs on the trunk created an unusual design that was accentted by the soft light glowing through the flower pedals. (G. Thomas Bancroft)

Flower pedals floated slowly down to join those already blanketing the ground under this cherry tree, (G. Thomas Bancroft)

Flower pedals floated slowly down to join those already blanketing the ground under this cherry tree, (G. Thomas Bancroft)

The pink wash on the white pedals draw the eye toward the pistal and stamines in the center of the cherry flower.  Water droplets from the light rain glide across each pedal.  The perfume scent of these flowers was strong in the stillness of the morning. (G. Thomas Bancroft)

The pink wash on the white pedals draw the eye toward the pistal and stamines in the center of the cherry flower. Water droplets from the light rain glide across each pedal. The perfume scent of these flowers was strong in the stillness of the morning. (G. Thomas Bancroft)

 

The cherry blossoms covered the ends of branches in a thick array. (G. Thomas Bancroft)

The cherry blossoms covered the ends of branches in a thick array. (G. Thomas Bancroft)

 

 

2 thoughts on “Cherry Trees in bloom on Azalea Way in the University of Washington Arboretum

  1. Absolutely stunning! I especially love the shot of the older, gnarled tree covered in moss and crowned by the beautiful blossoms.

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