2023 Peak Bloom Predictions
- National Park Service: March 22 - 25
- Washington Post: March 19 - 23
- NBC Storm Team 4: March 15 - 20
These are the current predictions, but it's not unusual for them to be revised as we get closer to peak bloom. You can always find the latest information on the 2023 cherry blossom peak bloom page.
If Thursday felt like the beginning of summer, by Saturday it felt like winter again. There was even a little snow and sleet around the area.
A couple of cooler days have slowed the pace a little. Most of the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin are still in the green bud stage, but there are also quite a few that are getting more definition with the florets visible–I've included some examples below.
The indicator tree is still flowering, but not all of its flowers are open yet. And the saucer magnolias are still coming into bloom but have many yet to open (I have a separate update on them with more photos here).
The National Park Service will be announcing their peak bloom prediction on Wednesday. At this point, it's mostly a question of just how early the bloom will be this year.
How It Looks This Morning
These were all taken this morning.
Indicator Tree
All of these photos are of the indicator tree, a single tree that reliably blooms ahead of the others. You can find more information about it here.
Saucer Magnolias
I've posted a separate update on the saucer magnolias at the Enid A. Haupt Garden that includes more photos, but here are a few shots from this morning.
Local Charity Spotlight
Looking to give back? Here's one of the local charities (or with local links) that is well worth contributing to.
Cape Ivy
Cape Ivy provides warmth, comfort and support to children who have chronic or critical illnesses and their families.
Cape Ivy provides fleece ponchos to children in the hospital because robes, sweaters and jackets don’t work well with IV lines and other medical equipment. Cape Ivy is a resource for families experiencing long-term hospitalization of children.
I've had the pleasure of personally seeing a small glimpse of the impact this organization. They're wonderful people doing wonderful work.
You can donate directly on their website and learn more about their mission and impact.
