BOUNTIFUL BLOSSOM

The delicate snow-white blossom and contrasting black twigs of this hedgerow shrub are a classic combination of early spring. There’s no foliage at this stage – that emerges later. Traditionally a March or April spectacle, blackthorn flowering has been moving steadily forwards, so in places can be as early as February. Wise foragers take note of where the blossom is most prolific, as it’s a handy guide to where the best sloes will be.

GET INVOLVED Report timings of spring events at www.naturescalendar.org.uk