Cherry Orchard

Welcome to stop 2, the cherry orchard!

Picnicking under cherry trees in Japan is a century-old custom  known as "hanami," which means flower viewing. Early records hint that the tradition began with emperors and members of the Imperial Palace feasting under the trees' blooming branches.  They also picnic at night, these late-night picnics, known as "yozakura," the Japanese hang paper lanterns in cherry blossom trees to illuminate them.

Please  explore and then pick a spot to sit and enjoy!

 There is one very special tree, can you spot it?

 It is the pollinator.  The pollinator is the unsung hero of the orchard because it has a special job, it attracts bees.

When a bee lands on a flower, the hairs all over the bees' body attract pollen grains through electrostatic forces. Stiff hairs on their legs enable them to groom the pollen into specialized brushes or pockets on their legs or body, and then carry it back to their nest.  This creates a happy environment in the orchard and because of that, it helps all the trees to be able to grow.  Just like us humans need friends, the trees need friends too!

1 more stop on your tour before gathering back at the patio. When your ready, head to stop 3, the pluot orchard!