Texas Wildflowers

Bluebonnet field at Live Oak Park in Ingleside, TX.

Spring in Texas brings about the iconic annual bloom of wildflowers. Depending on which parallel is closest to where you call home, the actual timing of the ubiquitous bloom varies widely. In the south, along the Gulf Coast and Rio Grande Valley, the bloom can begin as early as mid March and continue for three to six weeks based on how quickly the summer heat rushes in. The Hill Country comes on some three to four weeks later depending on how late the cold of winter lingers, how many sunny days are enjoyed, and how much rain falls during late fall and winter. 

There are so many variables when seeking to enjoy a spring wildflower drive.

Living along the southern Gulf coast, the wildflowers bloom early on in my hometown. This year, we began to see them in mid-March, and they will continue to bloom through most of April. The actual blooms will vary and the variety of blooms will be ever changing. As I write this, the rights-of-way are blanketed with small purples, bright yellows, tiny whites, and fiery reds. Many a school child learns the names of mother nature's decorations, however I choose to simply enjoy them and not worry too much about names. 

Colorful wildflower mix in Rockport, TX near the intersection of Airport Road and TX 35 N.

Much like people, these little gems are dependent upon nourishment and sustenance from sources that can be hard to predict. 2017 was one for the record books in my home of Rockport, Texas. Record rain, scorching heat, and actual measurable snowfall accumulation. Those in and of themselves are a banner year according to local meteorologists. The crown jewel of the 2017 weather calendar, however, was Hurricane Harvey. A creeping landfall speed of two miles per hour coupled with 130 mile per hour sustained winds brought devastation that is difficult to put into words even now, seven months later.

The wildflowers persist, as do the people. After an autumn of turmoil and recovery and a bitterly cold winter, it is good to see the blooming harbingers of spring. I will enjoy their multicolored blanket on roadsides, pastures, and in yards as long as they last. 

Get outside & walk in the wildflowers. I always have a more positive outlook when I do. 

Happy Spring!

White flowers on the roadside near Aransas Airport at junction of TX35 & Airport Road.