Starting out from Brooklyn, an amateur naturalist explores our world.
As John Burroughs said, “The place to observe nature is where you are.”
Dozens of ornamental cherries were recently planted in Sunset Park. They’ve already lost their blossoms, so they’re back to their eleven-months-of-the-year uselessness.
P. subhirtella ‘Autumalis’ and P. serrulata ‘Kwanzan’ do nothing to little for the ecosystem or biodiversity. I find it hard to imagine how, in 2024, the parks Department could be so foolish.
This effort may have been inspired by the display of Japanese cherry trees at the Tidal Basin in Washington, D. C. A recent news story showed a rennovation effort there necessary due to rising water from the river. The joy of traditional spring beauty meeting realities of climate change. Perhaps you may be able to add some insightful suggestions to your local planners and come up with a more appropriate tree solution for this neighborhood. Beauty and ecology can be served and thrive together.
Janine Perky
Amen. The pit of my stomach grimaces every time I see a new Japanese cherry installed on the street or in a park. My only theory is that the Parks Department bows to neighborhood or building pressure — ornamental cherries are still a symbol of SOMETHING to many people — but I would hope that Parks would use such an opportunity for education, or at least a mixed planting with natives.
Backyard and Beyond 
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