spring blossom
How to identify spring blossom
As light flows slowly into our woodlands and hedgerows, once-bare branches begin to bloom. The brief blossoming of blackthorn, rowan, wild cherry and hawthorn is a magical spectacle, wreathed in ancient folklore. Learn how to identify spring blossom found in the UK and best places to spot blossom with our ID guide.
Blackthorn guide: how to identify, folklore and uses
As February turns to March, millions of tiny blooms spring from the spiny shrubs in our hedgerows, covering their dark stems in creamy white blossom – later in the year, sloe berries appear. Learn all about blackthorn through the seasons with our expert guide.
How to join in with #BlossomWatch 2023
Celebrate blossom season this spring by joining the National Trust's #BlossomWatch campaign
Orchards more than halved in England and Wales since 1900s
New research by the National Trust reveals a 56% decline in the total area of orchards in England and Wales since the early 1900s, resulting in huge losses to vital wildlife habitats.
How to take beautiful photos of blossom
The start of spring sees trees and hedgerows bursting with beautiful blossom, and longer days providing us with more opportunities to get outside and photograph these flowering trees. Our guide explores some top tips for taking photographs of blossom on spring days, including advice on exposure, contrast and composition.