DC Cherry Blossoms: Florets visible stage 2 reached; peak bloom about 3 weeks away

WASHINGTON - D.C.’s famous Japanese cherry blossom trees have reached stage two in their development toward peak bloom.

"The cherry blossoms have progressed to florets visible, the 2nd of 6 stages. Depending on the weather, peak bloom should be around 3 weeks away!" said an online post from the National Park Service on Tuesday. Last year, the trees reached the same stage on March 1.

DC Cherry Blossoms: Florets visible stage 2 reached; peak bloom about 3 weeks away (National Park Service)

The trees surrounding Washington’s Tidal Basin and National Mall reached stage one over the weekend. They are expected to reach peak bloom from March 23-26.

Peak bloom is defined as when 70% of the blossoms have opened, revealing the magnificent pink and white blossoms. It typically occurs between the last week of March and the first week of April.