Spring is bursting open here in the GTA! The grass is getting greener, birds are busy chirping, flowers are starting to bloom and trees buds are opening up.

Too often I have been so focused on my hiking destinations that I have not taken the time to look at the unique features of local trees. While the tree limbs are still bare, nature gives us one last chance before the seasons change to see the unique aspects of trees. (Photos are included for each description.)

Leaves from many local trees and bushes begin their journey as flowers. Here in Toronto, we often think of the spectacular and attention-grabbing cherry blossoms and magnolias that make their debut before their leaves emerge. Taking a closer look at other tree varieties, one will find lots of “green” flowers blooming prior to their leaves emerging.

Other than moss or fungus, I thought that plants growing off another tree only happened in the tropics but we have the same phenomenon here in Canada. “Air plants” (epiphytes) have no attachment to the ground. We spotted a few of these on our recent Colonel Danforth Trail hike.

The amazing ability for trees to self heal is on display at an east end school yard. I suspect to prevent children from climbing the tree on school property, a majestic pine has evidence of its lower limbs sawed off at various times over the years. Fresh cuts are evident higher up. The older, lower cuts have healed over with large lumps of growth and bark.

With or without their greenery, barren trees along the Highland Creek offer the viewer beautiful sights to behold. Large welcoming tree trunks and roots offer a seat and a rest stop along hiking routes.

So many inspiring sights and painting ideas for me. I hope you can take the time to get outside and find sights that inspire you.

“Green” flowers are a preview to the budding leaves.