There is more to the start of spring than a calendar date. March 20th can arrive with snow still falling and a general feeling that despite the calendar date, spring hasn’t arrived yet.
The real spring comes with a distinct feeling to it that is recognizable and carries with it a sense of elation. You can always tell the real spring has arrived when the birds flock back from their southern vacations, the air begins to smell sweet again, the days become warmer, and the daylight hangs around later and later. But are there more definitive signs that can tell us when spring has officially sprung. That’s what we’re here for.
Nature provides plenty of clues that let us know that it’s time to hang up the winter coats. Here is a list of the things to look for to let you know that spring has officially arrived.
1. Daffodils: Also called Narcissus, Jonquils, and March Blooms, these flowers are synonymous with the beginning of spring and are one of the earliest flowers to bloom. When you see their tell-tale yellow flowers springing from the ground, you can be sure that spring has sprung.
2. Cherry Blossoms: These beautiful trees are the centerpiece for the “Nations Greatest Springtime Celebration” held every year in Washington D.C. For those unfamiliar with the Cherry Blossom Festival, in 1912 the city of Tokyo, Japan gifted 3,000 Cherry Blossom trees to Washington D.C to commemorate the lasting friendship between the two countries. The trees were planted around the Tidal Basin and are in full bloom during the earliest days of spring.
3. Tulips: These perennial flowers are planted as bulbs during the fall and are some of the earliest risers during the spring. From early April to early May you will see residential gardens or commercial nurseries bursting with various colors. Tulips are part of the Lily family and there are currently 75 known species of this springtime favorite.
4. Hyacinths: When you see the unmistakable starfish-shaped purple or white flowers of the Hyacinth, you will know that spring has officially begun. These flowers, like many of the early-flowering spring flowers, are planted as bulbs in the fall and bloom in March and April. An interesting fact about the plant is that it’s named after the Greek divine hero Hyacinthus.
5. Allergies: Yes, spring is also the season for sneezing! As plants and trees begin to bloom as the weather changes, massive clouds of pollen are released into the air. This is a recipe for disaster for anyone who has even the mildest case of allergies. Despite the sniffles and sneezes, the warm weather and wonderful colors of spring are usual worth the temporary incapacitation.
Enjoy learning about plants of all kinds? Learn about the plants that make your favorite drinks in Tea Leaves, Coffee Trees, and Cocoa Beans: The Untold Stories of the Plants that Make Our Favorite Fall Brews
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