JMSDF Maizuru Education Corps Conducts Fertilization to Restore Cherry Tree Vitality at Repatriation Memorial Park

On Tuesday, May 26, 2026, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Maizuru Education Corps carried out fertilization work for cherry trees at the Repatriation Memorial Park. The commemorative planting of Yaezakura (double-flowered cherry trees) at the park in Maizuru City originated from a donation made during the 'National Gathering to Remember the Repatriation Port of Maizuru,' held on October 7, 1985, to mark the 40th anniversary of repatriation. Currently, about 100 cherry trees are planted in the park, making it one of the city's most popular cherry blossom viewing spots. However, some trees, having been planted over 30 years ago, are showing signs of declining vitality. Maintaining and restoring the health of these cherry trees requires essential tasks such as weeding and timely fertilization, which have been difficult for the city's park management department to handle alone. Against this backdrop, and continuing from last year, the fertilization work was conducted with the cooperation of the JMSDF Maizuru Education Corps. This work is known as 'oreigoe' (thank-you fertilizer), applied after the flowering season to promote vitality recovery for the following year. On the day of the event, approximately 100 students from the Maizuru Education Corps participated, working in pairs to carefully apply fertilizer to the cherry trees in the park.