If those temperature bumps have you wondering “When do cherry blossoms bloom in NYC,” rest assured you probably have some time. (Apologies, we know that’s not the answer you want to hear.)
While yes, we’re finally feeling a little relief after the coldest winter in 13 years — you know, the polar vortex — and the Hudson River has unfrozen, there are a few reasons why we likely won’t see the springtime flower anytime soon.
When do cherry blossoms bloom in NYC?
According to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the flowers typically bloom in mid-April. However, given that we’ve had such cold temperatures this winter, it’s likely we won’t be seeing their arrival until the end of April.
Melanie Sifton, vice president of Horticulture for the Brooklyn attraction, indicates that temperature is a much more important factor — as opposed to sunlight or precipitation — in determining whether or not the flowers will hit the scene early. Making assumptions in February for a floral that arrives in April is far too soon. She says that the test “growing degree days,” the number of days above a particular temperature — usually around 60 degrees. ‚ is usually a good predictor.
Well, we hate to bring even more bad news but even though we’re seeing highs in the 50s and 40s this week, we will not likely sustain them. In fact, Sunday, March 2nd, will revert back to the 30s. As we like to say, we’re in the midst of the “Spring of Deception” here in NYC.
All in all, we’re going to have to be patient just a bit longer and act when the moment strikes: once the tree blooms, it’ll hold the florals for roughly 10 days (and yes, colder temps can help preserve them). In the meantime, while you way for those gorgeous baby pink blooms, might we suggest a visit to the New York Botanical Garden for the 2025 Orchid Show, Mexican Modernism?