A dozen flowering Akebono cherry trees will be planted at the Oregon State Capitol on Thursday, Feb. 29, to replace some in poor health and add to the existing canopy of blossoms.

Crews will remove three trees on Wednesday that were damaged by ice storms in recent years, according to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The new plantings will also replace another tree that previously died.

The work is part of a long-term strategy to keep the North Mall’s 149 trees healthy and thriving. Kevin Strandberg, Valley Region operations manager for the department, said in a statement that the new trees being planted are at least eight years old.

“We’re moving and planting the trees now while they are dormant and during late winter, so they have time to establish strong root systems before warm weather arrives,” he said. “I expect they will blossom this year and continue to grow and flourish.”