If you’re here reading this post, you’ve probably heard quiet whispers talking about the Utah cherry blossoms. They’re an iconic piece of Salt Lake City culture, a free activity for the public, and signify the start of spring for many locals. Once they bloom, you’ll catch photographers with camera gear, families galore, glowing brides, and influencers dressed in spring outfits near the Utah State Capitol building! As always, please respect nature by leaving the plants, trees and blooms untouched. Blossoms should never be picked, and tree branches should not be moved. Now, onto the good info about the Utah cherry blossoms!
History of State Capitol and Utah Cherry Blossoms
Interestingly enough, the first Sakura cherry trees to be planted on the UT State Capitol grounds were on April 24, 1931 for Arbor day. Many have also heard the true story that (more) trees were sent by Japan as a symbol of friendship after World War II. This act of diplomacy is the tale you’ll hear the most often from the community.
Unfortunately, there was a major storm that killed many of the original trees. After said weather commotion, 433 Yoshino trees, grown in Portland, Oregon, were transported and replanted. These trees were grown and grafted with a straight trunk to allow branches to cover the walking path at The Capitol.
They Don’t Stink Like Their Twin Tree
Unfortunately, the Utah cherry blossoms often get a bad rap around town because of the similar-looking tree with white flowers. This other tree, known as the Callery Pear, can be quite repulsive with an aroma of rotten fish, or even cat pee. They were originally welcomed due to their gorgeous blooms, ability to grow in many climates, and resistance to disease. Now, many Salt Lake locals will tell you how much they hate the stinky, white trees. Rest assured, the Sakura cherry blossoms trees at the Utah State Capitol are an entirely different type, and have a much more pleasant, sweet smell.
When do the Utah Cherry Blossoms Bloom
Ultimately, the Utah cherry blossom trees stay in full bloom for only a couple of weeks. The flowers are sensitive little things, so they are very weather dependent. If it snows or gets windy, it may delay the bloom, or force the flowers through a shorter life cycle. They typically begin to open up the end of March, hitting full bloom the second week of April (4/7 in 2021, and 4/14 in 2022). This bloom carries through the end of the month and early May. The bloom starts on the West, South, and North sides with the East side of the Capitol building getting the blossoms last.
Cherry Blossom Trees Symbolize Life
Furthermore, since the trees bloom for only a few weeks every year, in Japan they symbolize the vulnerability of life. Similar to spring and the blooming of all flowers, the blossoms represent rebirth and a chance to start anew. The cherry blossom cycle of birth and passing is quick, and is a great reminder to never take anything for granted.
Best Time of Day to Visit for Photos
Certainly, there are many of you that landed on this article to try and find the best time to take photos of the Utah cherry blossoms! As stated above, full bloom of the pink flowers begins second week of April and lasts through the first weeks of May, depending on the weather. Weekends are always going to be the busiest time, as most people are off work and spending time with family. To avoid crowds, you’ll want to visit during the week, especially in the early hours of the morning, or during work hours.
As someone that has gone to take photos at the flowers many years in a row, I understand that lighting can be tricky! If the sun is overhead, you’ll get a lot of shadows from the trees and blossoms in your photos. For an airy, bright photoshoot, head to The Capitol between 6 am and 8 am. If you want golden lighting with less shadows than during midday, you will want to visit the grounds between 5 pm to 7 pm. Just remember, even on weekdays, you’re more likely to see people and have to circumvent other photoshoots if you are going in the evening.
Wanna visit the Sakura Cherry Blossom trees at the Utah State Capitol? Save this post for later with the Pinterest images below!
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