Blog

3rd March 2021
A Change for the Better?

We Certainly Think So

With the news that a number of towns and cities in the UK are introducing circles of blossoming trees to their urban landscapes, we take a look at what might be in store for many more of us in the very near future.

Inspired by Japanese tradition of hanami, and backed by the National Trust, Historic England and various local councils, the plan is to plant circles of blossoming trees in town centre locations, bringing a riotous splash of spring colour to places not normally associated with such splendid arboreal displays.

Benches under cherry trees in full bloom during Hanami along Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park, a park near Ueno Station, central Tokyo. Photo credit; Benny Marty

Nottingham, Plymouth and Newcastle are among the first towns to adopt the idea, with many more earmarked to be included in the next five years. The project, partially funded by the Postcode Lottery, began in March 2020 but lockdown meant the operation had limited time to establish itself.

Hilary McGrady, Director-General of the National Trust focused on some details that in many ways mirror the principles of Green Team Interiors ‘A Better Way’ : ‘Our simple ambition with this project is to bring elements together in the creation of green, nature-rich havens in the very heart of urban areas which are also beautiful and inspiring spaces that people can use.’

At Green Team Interiors we have very similar goals, bringing the benefits of plants into workplaces across the UK.  We wholeheartedly support the aims of the National Trust and fellow stakeholders in their work on such a grand scale.

Hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers (cherry blossom in particular but occasionally plum), is celebrated with outdoor events, picnics and concerts. The first UK blossom garden to be planted is in the Olympic Park in East London, where the tree circles will include cherry, plum, hawthorn and crab apple.

Queen Elizabeth Park – the location for the first UK blossom garden

We hope that we will soon have our very own British version of hanami to celebrate.

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