The Tale of Cherry Blossoms at Uva Wellassa University

The Tale of Cherry Blossoms at Uva Wellassa University 

 

Cherry Blossoms at Uva Wellassa University by here

 Cherry blossoms, commonly known as Sakura, hold a special place as the national flower of Japan. These delicate flowers symbolize the arrival of spring, a season of renewal. As nature's paintbrush strokes the sky with pink and white, the mindsight of cherry blossoms transforms the landscape into a dream cloud. 

Steeped in Japanese culture, cherry blossoms carry profound meanings. They embody the duality of life and death, beauty and violence. As spring awakens with the promise of new beginnings, cherry blossoms evoke a sense of vitality. Yet, their ephemeral nature also serves as a reminder of life's fleeting moments. 

Typically, cherry blossoms bloom from March to May, enveloping the surroundings in a mesmerizing spectacle. However, their beauty is transient, lasting only about a week for each tree within the month-long season. Flourishing primarily in temperate regions, especially East Asia, flowering cherry trees demand specific conditions such as sun exposure, watering requirements, and seasonal adjustments. Consequently, cultivating and blossoming this plant in tropical climates poses a significant challenge. 

Nevertheless, despite Sri Lanka's tropical climate, the seven diverse climatic and topographical conditions found in the Uva Province led to the selection of Badulla for an experimental cherry blossom plantation, aiming to enhance tourism development. 

In line with this initiative, ten cherry blossom plants were imported from Japan for a collaborative project involving Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, Meijo University of Japan, and District Secretariat, Badulla. Coordinators of this cross-cultural endeavor were Professor Ananda Kumara of Meijo University and Dr. P.H.T. Kumara of Uva Wellassa University. Overseeing the nurturing process and research was Dr. Evon Kaliyadasa of Uva Wellassa University. 

After years, the long-awaited moment arrived, and the aesthetic magnificence of Sakura flowers graced the grounds of Uva Wellassa University. This enchanting spectacle proves that the climatic conditions in Badulla align with the requirements necessary for the Sakura tree's flourishing existence. 

Since the research worked successfully, the project will now expand to include the planting of 1000 Sakura trees, along with the creation of a captivating "Sakura Path" within the Badulla area. Tourists and visitors alike will be attracted to traverse this pathway, offering them an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience among the calm beauty of cherry blossoms. 

Hence, with the advent of each spring season, this gorgeous display of pink and white beauty Sakura will continue to grace the misty grounds of Uva Wellassa University, enchanting all who are fortunate enough to behold it. 

 ✍Poornima Rathnasinghe

Published on 2023/July Volume 07 of Leo Times, Leo club of Uva Wellassa University.  https://bit.ly/LeoTimes-July