Catkins

Catkins but not perhaps as we generally know them.

Here we go again, the walnut trees so lovingly and optimistically given to me by my father, who loved all things French. And why not have a walnut harvest in Cumbria?

They sensibly wait until mid May before unfurling their catkins, with leaves yet to follow.

But what about the female flowers? Well, they follow in another couple of weeks.
This is to ensure cross pollination with a different tree, of course. I do have another tree, but if we get the dreaded easterly 'Hagg' blowing, which does seem to happen at this time in spring, these delicate French catkins will,shrivel and blacken, just in time for the flowers to open.

Result- no walnuts. Again. And again. Never mind, this year will be different!