We’ve had at least an inch and a half of rain over the past few days, and the trees are leafing out very enthusiastically. Most of the dogwoods are in full bloom. I imagine that this weekend will be the peak. The crab apples are starting to bloom, although it doesn’t look like a great year for them so far. A few flame azalea are in bloom, but most of them are yet to come. The flame azalea is the azalea native to this area. The pink ones are Atlanta. If you are going to plant azalea, I would encourage you to seek out the orange ones. The Master Gardener sale is coming up May 12, starting at 8:00 AM at the United Community Bank Pavilion (behind the bank), and the Ace in Blairsville (on the old highway) usually has a good selection.
The Trout Festival is this Saturday. It’s worth going even if you don’t fish, as there are some good conservation presentations and booths. The Cousins Lobster Truck will be there, along with Williamson Brothers BBQ and a few others.