WASHINGTON » Washington’s famous cherry tree blooms are expected to be at their best between March 26 and March 30.

National Park Service cherry tree expert James Perry made the prediction for the peak bloom time at a press conference today.

The average peak bloom date is April 4, but last year’s peak bloom date came earlier on March 20, due to the warm weather. Perry said today that the trees are blooming a little bit earlier than 50 or 75 years ago. But, he said, "ultimately it’s up to Mother Nature," when the trees bloom and how long they last.

The cherry blossoms draw about 1 million visitors to the nation’s capital each spring. This year marks the 101st anniversary of the gift of trees from Japan.

The dates of this year’s National Cherry Blossom Festival were already planned for March 20 through April 14, but the National Park Service holds its prediction for peak bloom until the season is a little closer at hand.

The cherry blossoms draw about 1 million visitors each spring. This year marks the 101st anniversary of the gift of trees from Japan.