"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
22 Apr 2023
The recent major storms in California may have been intense and tragic, but they have also brought about an unexpected and awe-inspiring sight. Nature has a way of bouncing back and bringing beauty and hope to those who look for it. This year's spring in California is one such example of the rejuvenating power of nature.
What's causing excitement among nature enthusiasts and scientists alike are the "Superblooms" that have emerged across the state. These Superblooms are so large and colorful that they can be seen from space. But what exactly is a Superbloom? According to a scientist interviewed by the LA Times, it's a cultural phenomenon, rather than a natural one. When humans decide that enough flowers have emerged in one place at one time, it's considered a Superbloom.
To fully appreciate the Superblooms, the California Department of Parks and Recreation recommends seven sites in Southern California, where visitors can witness the beauty of the wildflowers. To enhance the experience, Parks and Rec staff are urging residents to download the iNaturalist app, which provides information on each flower species. Learning about the flowers, their cosins, and coexisting species fosters a closer connection and appreciation of the land and its beauty.
Superblooms serve as both a visual extravaganza and a reminder of nature's inherent duality, which is one of the reasons being outside is so spiritually gratifying. Flowers are only present for a short time on Earth and autumn leaves are beautiful since they change and eventually fall off the trees. After several years of drought, seeds go dormant until a welcome shower prompts all of the seeds to sprout at once, giving rise to the splendor of a Superbloom.
Superblooms are a natural phenomenon that reminds us of the beauty of the land and its resilience. The current blooms in California offer an opportunity for residents to connect with nature and witness the splendor of the wildflowers.