Our John Downie crab apple tree on the driveway is in full bloom and it is a sight to behold. The wonderful sunny weather over the last few days has opened most of its pink flower buds. Seen against the blue skies it is definitely having its moment of glory.
The tree is also covered in bees. Standing underneath its branches, which I’ve found myself doing repeatedly, is like being inside a hive (or so I’d imagine). The buzzing sound is incredible. There are small movements everywhere: bees, hoverflies and bumblebees flying constantly from blossom to blossom. It’s hard to know where to focus, but wherever you look there is sure to be an insect in the field of view within seconds. It’s addictive.
I tried to upload a video to show you what it is like, however I don’t have the right wordpress ‘plan’ apparently, so here are some static shots instead. You don’t get the noise, but hopefully you will get the general impression.
Tomorrow temperatures are set to drop by at least ten degrees and the sun will disappear for a while.
Meanwhile, I hope that you’ve been able to enjoy some sunshine and buzzing too!
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Heavenly! Oh, the scent, sight and sound must be wonderful! ❤
I didn’t mention the smell, but of course you are right. It is a fully submersive experience standing under the tree!
Full submersion is what I aim for! 😉
Fantastic pictures, isn’t it wonderful to watch bees working flowers. The Crab Apple is a must have tree in any garden.
I agree wholeheartedly. Best choice we made ever!
great pics, great tree 🙂
Thanks. The crab apple is a favourite in every season!
Now that is a seriously gorgeous tree, Allison. Did you plant it?
Yes. It was one of the first trees that we planted in the garden (along with the multi-stemmed betula utilis jacquemontii and a sorbus). It’s got wonderful fruit too!
It does my heart glad to see so many happy pollinators with full pollen pockets! It’s a beautiful tree, too, with its pink buds and cupped white flowers.
I was taken by the amount of pollen in their baskets too! A very cheering sight.
Beautiful x 10. Great photos.
Thanks
I love the whole genus Malus, I think it is very underrated. Your John Downie is a wonderful sight. Lovely photos.
When we were students we used to scrump for crab apples to make jelly, so I’ve always planted one whenever we move home. John Downie is lovely, as is ‘Red Sentinel’
Our crab apple has already finished flowering ☹️ the noise of the bees on the wisteria is the constant sound here too.
Sounds wonderful … our wisteria is almost ready to roll, but we will probably be away for its debut 😦
Great shots. Have you visited The Hive in Kew Gardens? I think you’d love it.
Thanks. I haven’t. I don’t often go near London, but I have read all about the Hive. I think it sounds like such a brilliant idea and I know that I would love it!
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