First Signs of Spring by Mary Moerlins, Education Programs Manager

It may not be warm enough to spend a lot of time outside without a jacket, but that doesn’t have to keep you inside. For those of you getting cabin fever from all the months stuck indoors, dress in layers and get outside!  The end of winter heralds a time for fun and exploration as the Park sheds its winter grays and browns and starts to sprout and grow with bright spring greens. During the winter, the grass and trees in the Park may seem to be sleeping, but they’re just biding their time for the additional heat and sunlight to get them to show off their winter growth.

Look closely at cherry and pear trees and you might just see shiny sap indicating that the trees are warming up for their bright spring display. Under the yellowed and straw-like winter grass, look closely and you will see the small green spikes of the next generation of our grand lawns. While few trees and plants are blooming, flower and leaf buds can be seen on tulip poplars, red bud trees, and even magnolias. Listen and you’ll hear the music of songbirds returning to their nests from southern climates, and even our year-round residents singing for their springtime mates. The whole ecosystem is about to burst with potential. If you look closely you can see the first changes of the season to come. Goodbye cabin fever and
HELLO SPRING!