Cherry’s Lost Blossoms | Spring Special

Hear the story of how an eccentric Victorian and a potato helped save Japan’s lost blooms, visit an international Hanami party in London and wander through an underwater flowering meadow. Join us as we celebrate the beauty of blossom. 

(Ad) This episode is supported by Blue Diamond Garden Centres. Celebrate the unsung heroes of the tree world with the National Trust Native Tree Collection, available to purchase in store and from National Trust Native Tree Collection | Blue Diamond. A minimum of 10% of the retail selling price will be given to support the National Trust’s conservation work and ambitions to plant and establish 20 million trees by 2030. 

Find the best places to see blossom: 

nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/gardens-parks/best-places-to-see-blossom 

And share your blossom experience on social media with #blossomwatch

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**National Trust Podcast: Cherry’s Lost Blossoms**

*Hosts: Kate Martin*

**Introduction:**

- In this episode, the National Trust Podcast explores the beauty and significance of blossoms, focusing on the lost cherry blossoms and efforts to bring them back.

- The episode delves into the cultural importance of blossoms, the impact of cherry trees in the UK, and the efforts to plant more blossom trees for communities to enjoy.

**Main Topics Discussed:**

1. **Cherry Blossoms in the UK:**

   - The story of an Englishman, Cherry Ingram, who fell in love with Japanese cherry blossoms and brought them to the UK.

   - The return of cherry blossom varieties to Japan as a symbol of peace and friendship.

   - The planting of cherry trees in the UK as a gesture of friendship between Japan and the UK.

2. **Community Efforts to Bring Blossoms:**

   - Marie-Claire's initiative to plant blossom trees in urban communities and schools.

   - Positive impact of blossom trees on neighbourhoods and schools.

   - 'Street Trees for Living' project planting street trees in London for children to benefit from nature.

3. **National Trust's Blossom Tree Planting Initiative:**

   - National Trust's pledge to plant 4 million blossom trees by 2030.

   - Filling orchards with fruit trees and creating blossom circles for people to enjoy nature.

4. **Artistic Interpretation of Seagrass Blossom:**

   - Installation at Devil's Point blossom circle showcasing the beauty of sea grass blossom.

   - Multimedia immersive installation at the National Aquarium exploring blue carbon and seagrass meadows.

   - Marine biologist Mark Parry's insights on seagrass blossom and unique marine ecosystems.

**Key Takeaways:**

- Blossoms hold cultural significance and can bring communities together.

- Efforts to plant more blossom trees aim to enhance urban environments and provide access to nature.

- Artistic interpretations of blossom, like the Seagrass Walk, can raise awareness about unique ecosystems.

**Guests:**

- Naoko Abe: Author and expert on cherry blossoms.

- Claire Vincent: Senior volunteering officer at Chartwell.

- Marie-Claire Denyer: Community activist and director of 'Street Trees for Living'.

- Rosie Sherwood: Artist behind the Seagrass Walk installation.

- Mark Parry: Marine biologist and diver studying seagrass meadows.

**Conclusion:**

- The episode highlights the beauty and importance of blossoms, encouraging listeners to appreciate and celebrate nature's wonders, especially during the vibrant season of Spring.

For more information on where to see the best blossoms, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/blossom.