The National Trust is launching #BlossomWatch in the UK this spring to get everybody connected to nature, following on from the success of last year.
The conservation charity, which first launched the initiative in lockdown last March, wants to make it an annual tradition, asking people to share the joy of blush-tinted blooms to help lift spirits. To get involved, all you need to do is share a photo of a blossom tree on social using #BlossomWatch, for those who can't see it for themselves.
New research by the charity found 67% of all adults said that spending time noticing nature has made them feeling happier in these challenging times, while 65% said that watching nature from their window has helped boost their mood.
The move is part of the National Trust's 'Everyone Needs Nature' campaign to help people of all ages become more connected with the everyday outdoors. The campaign idea was born off the back of the Trust's Noticing Nature report last year, which found that only 6% of adults and 7% of children celebrate natural events such as the first day of spring, solstice or harvest.
The conservation charity wants #BlossomWatch to go big and is asking institutions and schools to support it by encouraging people to engage with nature’s annual calendar.
Simon Toomer, plant conservation specialist at the National Trust said: "Blossom watching is a simple pleasure that can help lift our spirits over the next few months. It can be seen on city streets, in gardens, public parks, throughout the countryside and even out of the window, for some lucky people.
"Our recent poll revealed a massive boost in people's everyday connection with nature since lockdowns began. And that blossom is the aspect of nature adults are most likely to stop and notice, after the sight of a sunset, the feeling of sun on your face and birdsong. It is also the fourth most likely natural event adults would view and share on social media, alongside sunsets, sunrises and the sea/river/stream.
"Results also revealed that 90 per cent of adults said they can see a tree from their window. Even if a small percentage of these are blossom trees, we hope many will be able to enjoy this year’s blossom spectacle even from their windows."
Elsewhere, the Trust has also called for a "green recovery" from the pandemic, saying that planners, policy-makers and NGOs must seize on the opportunity of increased nature connection across the population. They hope that, as restrictions begin to lift, we will continue to connect with nature.
Professor Miles Richardson added: "Moments in nature can help people recover from the stresses and strains of the pandemic. There's a need for greater public understanding that a close connection with nature is a key component of a worthwhile life, a sustainable life – a good life."
To get involved, share your images on social media and make sure to tag @nationaltrust and include #BlossomWatch. You should also tag your location.
See some of the Trust's beautiful blossom images below and get inspired:
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8 stylish garden parasols, umbrellas and bases to enjoy this summer – including a £30 designer collab
Staycation Vintage Parasols Pavilion-Portico Blush Parasol
We love the chic, vintage look of this striped garden parasol. It's been constructed with a solid beechwood pole (FSC-certified) and a water-resistant, UVF50+ canvas canopy.
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Who says parasol bases have to be boring? This super stylish number from Dunelm is weighty enough to support your umbrella while still adding some charming vintage appeal with its pretty scallop design.
Add a harmonious pop of colour with this zesty green tasseled parasol, with a delicate dappled print. Its ergonomic pulley system with a swivel handle makes putting it up and down a breeze, too.
Habitat x Scion Garden Parasol
An exclusive collaboration with quirky designers Scion, this pretty parasol features a whimsical floral print and tassels that will lend a relaxed, jolly feel to any garden.
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This striped parasol, complete with a fringe edging, will make a fun addition to any garden. Designed for ease, it has a push-up mechanism for a simple setup. Please note, the base is available to purchase separately.
Add shade to your next alfresco lunch or dinner with Rowen & Wren's vintage-inspired design, hand-made in small batches.
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This parasol is best suited to small-to-medium tables; we tried it with our 10-seater setup and a few seats at the end didn't get the full benefit.
Our writer found the parasol easy to set up within about 15 minutes, and they earned multiple compliments on its smart looks from guests. The crank handle works smoothly, and the parasol has UV30+ coating for a little extra sun protection.
The Happy Place Handmade Patio Parasol
Resplendent in fringing and tassels, this handmade garden parasol brings Balinese artistry to your garden. There are lots of well-considered details to enjoy here, including a durian wood pole.
This parasol would add a relaxed yet celebratory feel to any garden party or alfresco event – assuming you're happy to share the shade.
