Cherry blossom

10 years to become mature enough to bloom. In these days of instant everything, a decade seems a long time to have to wait for something, but I am sure she’ll more than make the distance.

I reassured her seed-grown trees can sometimes flower more quickly (perhaps at seven years) and as the tree was already two years old her wait may be just five more. Now the boronia and kowhai are flowering, I can anticipate the next flowering event: ornamental cherries.

I watch these trees carefully as the blooms are fragile. Although well-sheltered, a gale as the flowers open can bring what should be several weeks of flowers to a premature end and a pink carpet on the ground.

If I am on tenterhooks about the flowers on my cherry trees, I can’t begin to imagine how the organisers of the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden’s Cherry Blossom Festival must be feeling. The festival is on next Saturday, from 10am–3pm.

Although known for its rhododendrons, the garden’s cherries and maples are a major feature. Each year, the flowering of the cherries is celebrated with Japaneseinspired displays. This year there will be taiko drummers, Japanese martial arts, bonsai, tea ceremonies and cherry blossom.

Entry to the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden, at 55 Breffny Rd, Romaine, is $10 ($8 concession). Open 9am-5pm. For more information, visit emuvalleyrhodo.com.au or phone 6433 1805.