By Jeanette Castanon
Bluebonnets grow best in soils that are alkaline, moderate in fertility, and most important of all, well drained. Full sun is also required for best growth. Seed may be planted September 1 through December 15; however, for best results, plant seeds no later than mid-November. This allows seed time to germinate and grow throughout the winter months, during which time a heavy root system and a sturdy plant is developed to produce an abundance of spring flowers.
Bluebonnet seeds are known for a hard coat that can take years to germinate naturally. But seeds scarified to grow when planted are readily available online.
Anyone interested in planting wildflowers for a spring family photo needs to prepare the soil. To ensure that the seeds come into contact with the soil, till and tamp them into the soil. After planting, lightly water the area to settle the seeds into the soil.
Because of the fall planting, the seeds should not require too much care and watering. Blooms should begin to appear in early spring, depending on the weather, and, with a good-quality seed variety, may continue into summer.
For more information, call the AgriLife office at 498-4071 in Odessa or at 686-4700 in Midland, email [email protected] or visit aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu or westtexasgardening.org.
