The orchards and groves around Tulare County in California’s Central Valley will soon be awash with pops of color with the onset of the annual blossom season. Wildflowers in the foothill and seasonal fruit stand will also begin to sprout up around the county, making spring the best time to explore the back roads and country lanes in and around Visalia. Whether headed to Sequoia National Park or simply taking a Sunday drive, this burst of color is a must-see. Visit Visalia has just announced the release of its 2022 Blossom Trail Map, just in time for the annual springtime event. The seasonal display of brilliant color traditionally begins in mid-February and continues through March, making it prime blossom viewing time in this agricultural rich part of the state.
In California’s Central Valley, agricultural fields dominate the landscape with more than 120 crops in and around Visalia. Tulare County actually stands as the most diversified ag producing area in the world. For Visalia, those fields that surround the city become awash with color in springtime as the trees begin to sprout their buds.
The self-guided driving tour takes visitors through the county just north of the city where almond, peach, plums and apricot orchards burst forth with their blossoms each spring. Along with the colorful orchards, visitors will see other crops like kiwi, citrus, almonds, walnuts, cherries and more. With a variety of orchards and groves, visitors can see many types of agriculture.
The seasonal bloom is not just about fruit and nut trees. Wildflowers also color the landscape with orange, purple, yellow and red flowers like California poppies, fiddlenecks and baby blue eyes. Sequoia Riverlands Trust properties make for excellent viewing and photography. Dry Creek Preserve, Homer Ranch, and Blue Oak Ranch are just a few of the preserves that wildflower lovers can explore. The trust also offers monthly stewardship days which provide opportunities for visitors to have hands-on experiences like working in the native plant nursery or helping with trail maintenance.
Seasonal Fruit Stands and Farmer’s Market
Along with the blossoms, spring is when the local fruit stands also begin to sprout, dotting the roadsides. Stop at any of the farm stands to get the ripest, in-season produce. The local Farmer’s Markets are also worth a visit. All of the farmers, artisans, and community groups are local to this region of California.
Farmers are certified and many offer organic produce and goods. The weekly farmers markets are held in two locations: Saturday mornings at Mooney Blvd and Shady Lane from 8:00 am to 11:30 am and Thursday evenings in downtown Visalia on Church St at Main St. from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm and offer the very best of seasonal produce to choose from. A list of farm stands, farmer’s markets and u-pick options is available on the Visit Visalia website.
Make it a side trip to the parks
For those headed to the national parks, this quick side trip to experience the spring season of bloom is worthwhile. With the Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop, capped with snow from recent storms, the Visalia Blossom Trail is an easy route to take towards the park entrances.
Images courtesy of Visit Visalia , the Visalia Visitors and Convention Bureau and TravMedia
