High Park is set to become one of Toronto’s busiest spring destinations this weekend as its famous cherry blossoms are expected to reach peak bloom by Friday.
According to the High Park Nature Centre, the sakura trees are now in stage five of bud development, meaning white petals have already begun to appear and the trees are nearing full bloom.
Peak bloom happens when at least 70 per cent of the blossoms have opened. The display typically lasts about a week, although weather conditions can shorten or extend the season. Cooler, calmer temperatures usually help the blossoms remain longer, while warm or windy weather can cause petals to fall more quickly.
The cherry blossom tradition in High Park dates back to 1959, when Toru Hagiwara gifted 2,000 Somei-Yoshino sakura trees to Toronto. The donation recognized the city’s support for relocated Japanese Canadians after the Second World War.
Other popular spots to see cherry blossoms across Toronto include Toronto Island Park, Trinity Bellwoods Park, Exhibition Place, York University and the Cherry Street area near Villiers Street.
With thousands expected to visit, park-goers are encouraged to plan ahead, use transit where possible and help protect the trees by staying on marked paths and avoiding climbing branches.