April marks the crescendo of spring, where vibrant colors paint the landscape and the air hums with the delicate buzz of bees. Among the most magical sights are the blooming trees, their branches adorned with blossoms that range from soft pastels to bold hues. In the Pacific Northwest, there are five stunning varieties that grace us with their floral displays.
- Flowering Plums: Kicking off the show in early April, flowering plums boast clusters of delicate white or pink blooms. Their fragrance is subtle yet enchanting, and their branches offer a haven for early-season pollinators. Once the petals fall, they often give way to small, tart fruits enjoyed by birds and humans alike. Plums prefer well-drained soil and full sun and require minimal pruning.
- Flowering Cherries: The iconic Japanese Cherry Blossom (Sakura) is arguably the most popular April bloomer, with its cascading branches laden with soft pink flowers. However, don't miss out on other varieties like the Yoshino Cherry with its white clouds of blossoms or the Mt. Fuji Cherry with its deeper pink hues. After the blooms fade, these trees produce small cherries, and their light shade makes them perfect for picnics under their leafy canopy. Cherry trees thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and benefit from light pruning after flowering.
- Crabapples: Not just ornamental, crabapple trees offer a delightful display of white, pink, or red blooms in mid-April, followed by small, colorful fruits perfect for jams and jellies. Their dense foliage provides nesting sites for birds and attracts pollinators. Once the fruits fall, leave them for the feathered residents to enjoy. Crabapples require moderate watering and full sun and respond well to occasional pruning to maintain their shape.
- Redbud: This native North American tree is a showstopper in mid-April, adorned with clusters of vibrant pink flowers that hug its bare branches. Its heart-shaped leaves emerge soon after, creating a canopy of delicate green. As the summer progresses, the leaves turn a rich green, providing shade and attracting butterflies. Redbuds prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, and require minimal pruning.
- Magnolias: These early bloomers bring a touch of elegance to the April landscape. Saucer magnolias boast large, showy flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple, while star magnolias offer star-shaped blooms with a sweet fragrance. Once the petals fall, magnolias produce interesting cone-shaped fruits. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, and benefit from light pruning after flowering.
When the Blooms Disappear
As April draws to a close, the floral spectacle wanes, but the story doesn't end there. The fallen petals nourish the soil, and the trees begin focusing on producing leaves and fruits. This is the perfect time to fertilize (according to the specific needs of each tree) and water deeply to support their growth.
Caring for Your Blossoming Beauties:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering.
- Mulching: Mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased branches.
- Disease and pest control: Monitor your trees for signs of disease or pests and address them promptly.
By providing these simple measures, you can ensure your blooming trees continue to grace your landscape with their springtime magic for years to come. So, step outside, breathe in the fragrant air, and witness the symphony of colors that unfolds in April. Visit our website to learn more about these blooming beauties.
Leave a comment