When Do the Washington Cherry Trees Bloom?

Washington, D.C., is famous for the spring Cherry Blossom Festival. Each year, hundreds of trees bloom in the spring around the nation's capital, creating a sea of pale pink and white flowers. Visitors and residents flock to the area to witness the arrival of spring.

Blooming Period

• The blooming period begins when 20 percent of the buds are open and does not end until all the petals have fallen from the trees. Peak bloom is defined as the period of time when 70 percent of the trees are in bloom. This period lasts slightly more than two weeks unless weather intercedes.

Weather

• Weather plays a key role in the timing of the blossoming of cherry trees (mostly Yoshino) in Washington. Overly cool or warm temperatures can alter the bloom time for the cherries.

Historical Bloom Times

• Due to weather circumstances, the cherry trees have bloomed as early as March 15 in 1990 and as late as April 18 in 1958. Based on the statistics, an average peak bloom date is set at April 4 each year.