Dogwood in Bloom, Winter a Week Away

Let’s start tonight’s blog on a glorious note. Cary Lyle over at Greenbo Lake State Park in Greenup Kentucky offers a captivating look at the trees in full bloom. The flowering crab apple and dogwood are stealing the show! (I will have the photos on-line after dinner).

Of course, the dogwood is the best known spring tree in our region. The subtle cherry mixes with the pristine white dogwood to produce a bouquet of spring color. The petite petals are susceptible to a spring wind gust, but manage to hold onto their color for up to 2 weeks.

The small dogwood petals are dashed with a brownish stain in their 4 corners. Legend has it that since Jesus Christ was crucified on a dogwood, the stains are symbolic of Christ’s blood stains from being nailed to the cross.

As far as weather folklore is concerned, the dogwood may bloom and sparkle in mid-late April, but it seems they are always prey to a damp and chilly spell. This occurs when blustery winds cross the Great Lakes and put a temporary end to the warmth of spring. This begins what is known as Dogwood Winter.

Why mention dogwood winter in the middle of a warm and bright week? Well, I just want you to enjoy the sunshine and near 80 degree days that are ahead, since by next week, I sense cold winds, grey skies and yes even a night frost threat as the legend of dogwood winter lives on!