SeeCalifornia.com

In addition to the annual blossom festivals in California such as the San Francisco Cherry Blossom Festival, Almond Blossom Festival in Ripon, and Apple Blossom Festival in Sebastopol, there are trails you can see in all their glory, dripping with blossoms from orchard trees  that should soon produce  fruit and nuts. One of the most spectacular places to visit is the Central Vally and Fresno County Blossom Trail where you can see almond blossoms begin to flower in February and continue through March, creating a stunning backdrop. The 25th Annual Blossom Trail Opening Ceremonies took place in Sanger on February 1, 2013. Fresno County Blossom Trail information is available  (goblossomtrail.com) to help you plan self-guided tours, visit farms, shops and beautiful road stops.

HOW TO RECOGNIZE THE BLOSSOMS YOU SEE:

Almond Blossoms have white petals. Two or more varieties may be planted in the same orchard for cross pollination by bees. Harvesting, usually done mechanically, runs from late Aug. to early Oct.
Plum Blossoms are white. At least two varieties will be planted in an orchard for cross pollination. Over 200 varieties are grown commercially. Harvested in mid to late September.
Apricot Blossoms have pink petals. Fewer than 12 varieties are grown commercially. Harvest season lasts two to three weeks during mid to late May.
Peach and Nectarine Blossoms feature pink to red petals and bloom at the same time. Over 100 varieties are grown commercially. Harvest runs mid-May to October.
Apple Blossoms have white petals. Up to six varieties are grown commercially in Fresno County. Harvest is Aug. to Nov.
Citrus Blossoms are white with most aromatic fragrance. Navel and Valencia oranges, and lemons are the most common citrus grown locally.