Spring Explodes!

Trillium grandiflorum

Two weeks ago these trilliums were just buds ready and waiting for a warm day to burst into bloom. We have had summer-like temperatures the past couple of days and everything is finally opening and growing. I love walking through this local bush in May when trilliums bloom en masse on the slopes of the glacial landforms. 

May 11, 2020

Two years ago today we had a spring snowstorm after many flowers had started blooming. Late frosts and snow events are worrisome for fruit tree farmers but it is unlikely we will have that problem this year. Whether it is warm or cold, the ephemeral spring season is always short. With the summer-like forecast over the next few days, the trilliums will be done by the weekend for another year. 

Trout Lily, Dutchman's Britches, Violets, Jack-in-the-Pulpit (L-R, top to bottom)

Trout Lilies, Violets and Jack-in-the-Pulpits were everywhere in the bush as well. I found only one blooming Dutchman's Britches and the flowers were almost done. Once these flowers are finished, mosquitoes will be hatching and our woodland visits will be suspended until autumn. 

Blue Jay in a Black Walnut Tree

Most of the trees around our property are in leaf now. The Black Walnut is slow to open as is the Rose of Sharon shrub in my garden. A pair of Blue Jays appear to be preparing to nest nearby again this spring along with a pair of Northern Cardinals. The male birds are very vocal as they establish their territories.

I am so grateful for this little corner of planet Earth that we occupy where we live in peace and have no fear when exploring our natural areas. We have good friends and neighbours, jobs we enjoy and all the benefits of a free country. There is always something we could complain about, but today was all about beauty and the renewal the spring offers. May is a month worth repeating each year if that were possible.