Fun fact: The crabapple blooms at the college can vary up to almost a month. One year, they popped with full bloom on April 13 and the next year, May 6.
So how do I pick my dates all the way out in February for my spring sessions? Do I have a magic crystal ball or a direct line to Mother Nature? Gosh, I wish! Apparently I just love a good gamble... but one that I've been watching the odds on for 17 years ;)
In general, I don't get excited about the pending bloom until we have FIVE consecutive days above freezing for the low temperature. I also consider the snowpack around New Years as a good litmus. From the start, I was banking on this year being a later bloom which has so far proved true.
So what's my prediction for 2023?
While there are pockets of blossoms popping around town, the crabapples at FLC are safely buttoned up at the moment while we see a pattern of cool and unsettled weather in the forecast this week. Towards the end of the nice weekend ahead, it is possible the trees will start to open up, though not likely until later next week.
The duration of the bloom will also depend greatly on the low temps, with wind also coming into play. The deep dark pink blooms tend to last about 3-5 days and then fade to a pastel pink around days 6-8. I've contracted a 2 week window with dates available on 4 days.
Initially, I planned to give a 48 hour notice for activating the backup dates. Having studied the temps, and knowing I have several people traveling from out of town, I've decided to activate May 4, 5, 6 and 7th on the calendar.
As those who are registered know, each booking included a late bloom reservation the following week. I am so glad to have this detail already ironed out-it has lessened the worry and headaches that come with a fluid bloom. Spring is on her way-just coming off of a big winter.
For those already booked, please watch for an email on your session update options. While the plan is to transfer straight across to the following week, there are a couple of other options available, should your backup date not be ideal.
Looking forward to all the beautiful, wonderful shoots to come!
Practicing patience,
Aspen