Karmactive Staff
The iconic cherry trees around DC’s Tidal Basin have reached Stage 5 – puffy white blossoms – as of March 23, 2025, marking the final stage before peak bloom, according to the National Park Service. Peak bloom is expected between March 28-31 this year, with National Mall and Memorial Parks Chief of Communications Mike Litterst putting his money on March 28.
The Six Stages to Full Bloom
Cherry blossoms progress through six distinct stages before reaching their full splendor:
- Green bud
- Florets visible
- Extension of florets
- Peduncle elongation
- Puffy white blossom
- Peak bloom
This year’s bloom timeline has been somewhat different from recent years. Last year, Stage 1 began on March 2, with peak bloom arriving on March 17 – tied for the second earliest on record. In 2023, budding began as early as February 23.
Climate Change: Shifting Bloom Times
The cherry blossoms serve as more than just a beautiful spring marker – they’ve become indicators of climate change. National Park Service data collected since 1921 shows peak bloom dates have shifted approximately eight days earlier, with the average historic peak bloom date being April 3.
Over the past 25 years, the blossoms have reached peak bloom before the historic average 19 times. Climate projections suggest that by 2070, peak bloom could occur as early as the first week of March.
Tidal Basin Restoration: Protecting a Legacy
Climate change threatens the cherry trees beyond just bloom timing. Rising sea levels combined with failing infrastructure have created water levels about six feet higher than the Tidal Basin walls can handle. Daily brackish tidal water flows over the seawalls, damaging the roots of these treasured trees.
Last year, the National Park Service began a $113 million construction project to rebuild the Tidal Basin walls. This critical work required removing about 150 cherry trees, including the beloved “Stumpy,” to make room for the restoration.
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The project is making good progress, with approximately 450 of the 6,800 feet of reconstruction completed. Construction crews are anchoring the walls to bedrock to prevent sinking, with sustainable design elements that allow for additional height if water levels rise faster than anticipated. The work is ahead of schedule and on budget, with completion expected by spring 2026.
A Gift That Keeps Giving
The removed trees will be replaced after construction is complete. In a renewal of the original gesture of friendship, Japan is giving the United States 250 cherry trees to honor America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
The National Park Service maintains a commercial nursery for cherry trees, as about 90 need replacement each year due to their finite lifespan.
Visiting the Blossoms
For those planning to see this springtime spectacle, the National Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off on March 20, 2025. The Festival’s Welcome Area and ANA Stage will be open from March 22 to April 6, offering daily live performances and educational opportunities.
Transportation experts recommend using public transit rather than driving. The Smithsonian Metro station offers the closest access to the Tidal Basin, though it gets crowded. L’Enfant Plaza station serves five Metro lines and provides another good option. Capital Bikeshare and various boat tours also offer alternative ways to experience the blossoms.
The National Park Service reminds visitors to be gentle with the trees – no climbing, shaking branches, or walking near the roots.
With approximately 1.5 million visitors expected to view the cherry blossoms this year, these delicate flowers continue to serve as both a symbol of international friendship and a barometer for our changing climate.
