Magnolias and Cherries are flowering throughout the Arboretum

You know you work in the right place when, after a wonderful spring weekend, you can't wait to get back and see what's happened. A lot did happen. The Flowering Apricots, Prunus mume (see the bottom picture), are peaking as are the early Magnolias (eg. M. biondii and M. zenii). The rest of the deciduous magnolias are following along. That's Magnolia sprengeri 'Diva' in the top photo, and a sample of the Magnolia collection beneath it. Perfect temperatures, not too hot, not too cold, and plenty of moisture are making this a banner year for early flowering trees and shrubs. If you're in the area, I would try to make time this weekend or next for a trip, even if it's just a quick drive-by.