Banner year for Bluebonnets?

The bluebonnet is to Texas what the shamrock is to Ireland, the cherry blossom to Japan, the lily to France, the rose to England and the tulip to Holland.

- Historian Jack Maguire

The wet weather we got in the fall plus the cool weather this winter has the potential to make 2014 a banner year for wildflowers in the Hill Country.  We still need favorable weather this spring to seal the deal but so far, so good. 

However, good conditions for our much loved wildflowers is also great conditions for weeds that invade our lawn and landscaping beds!  Make sure you checkout our most recent blog series on the secrets to a weed free lawn so you can be doing all you can to prevent unwanted weeds from popping up in your landscaping.

Create your own Bluebonnet patch!

Bluebonnets and other wildflowers are creating a beautiful spring this year in South Texas.   Many say this is one of the best years for wildflowers so make sure you take the time to tour some country roads and enjoy the view!

 Would you like your very own patch of bluebonnets?   With a little patience, you can create your very own bluebonnet patch. 






Here are a few planting tips:

1.  Bluebonnet seeds should be planted in the fall - September and October are the best months to plant.

2.  Plant in well drained soil and in a location that receives a lot of sun.

3.  Seeds should be raked into the soil or planted ~ 1/8" in the soil. 

4.  Bluebonnet seeds have a hard protective coating that can delay germination.  Often growers will scarify the seeds to speed up the process by nicking them or using sandpaper on them.

5.  Plant about 8-10 seeds per sq ft of area you are trying to cover.  Many seeds will not germinate the first year.  It may take several years to get a good patch of bluebonnets in your yard. 

6.  Water them sparingly - over watering is the top mistake gardeners make in trying to grow bluebonnets.  They do require water to germinate and grow but they don't like saturated soil.