Spring is nature’s time to show off all of its wondrous artwork, from vibrant hues of fresh greens in vegetation to a color pallet of flowers blooming all around us. It’s in these colors that we’re reminded of the beauty of new beginnings and the simple pleasures in life. Among our springtime floral friends are Texas bluebonnets. These vivacious flowers get their name from their sharp blue color and their small and lively pedals that clump together to form a quaint bonnet shape.
With Wondercide’s headquarters located in the Lone Star State and the fact that bluebonnets are the state flower, we feel a strong connection to this bloom. Bluebonnets liven up curbsides, driveways, and pathways throughout the Texan countryside, signaling the start of spring and starting the trend of photo opportunities for pets, families, and friends. To our Austin-based team, these flowers are far more than a botanical treasure; they are the vivacious soul of Texas.
You may be unfamiliar with these blue gems, so we’ve broken down everything you need to know. Soon, you’ll be a bluebonnet expert and will have the skills to blue-up your neighborhood!
Where to grow bluebonnets.
The first step in embarking on your bluebonnet journey is to scout the perfect location to plant these sparkling floral joys. Bluebonnets are a perennial flower that thrive in zones 4-8. In colder areas throughout the country, bluebonnets can be planted as an annual.
No matter where they’re planted, bluebonnets thrive in complete sunlight, so it’s important to find a bright space that is exposed to sunshine for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. In addition, bluebonnets don’t do well with wet surfaces, and will only grow if planted in dry, alkaline soil that’s well-drained.
When to grow bluebonnets.
So, when's the ideal time to kickstart your bluebonnet bloom? Well, that depends on what region of the country you reside in.
Typically, bluebonnet enthusiasts in the southern, warmer states start sowing seeds in the fall, aiming for November to ensure a spectacular spring display. If you're in a cooler area, plant in early spring to allow ample time for germination and flowering.
How to plant bluebonnets.
How do we get these mystical plants in the ground? The process of planting bluebonnets is simple but precise. First, prepare the soil by digging about six inches deep and making sure the pH is between 7.0 and 8.0. If you find the soil is too acidic, you can add some lime to adjust the levels. When your soil is ready to go, sprinkle your bluebonnet seeds on top without covering them with dirt to allow for them to completely bathe in sunlight.
After the seeds are comfortable on the ground, drizzle a little bit of water on top of the seeds to wet them just enough, but not too much or the seeds will rot. After long dry spells, it’s okay to wet the seeds lightly again during germination. However, due to their strong Texan spirit, bluebonnet seeds are built for drought and thrive in dry terrains, especially during the spring and summer months.
Spacing out the plants is important for a healthy blossom. Bluebonnets like their elbow room. If you notice crowding, try to separate each plant by about 6 to 8 inches. In addition to distance, an ample flower blossom may be hindered by fertilization.
Benefits of planting bluebonnets.
Bluebonnets are a great plant for beginner gardeners to ignite their green spirit because of their low-maintenance nature. Once planted, bluebonnets can be left unattended except for an occasional light watering if your area experiences a long dry spell without rain.
Planting flowers is also a great way to give back to our beautiful planet. Flowers provide an abundance of joy and scientific benefits. Flowers help other plants grow by allowing for fertilization of the embryo in the seed to take place, thus creating new life. Plants also provide oxygen through photosynthesis and take in carbon dioxide produced by humans. The more plants that grow, the more fresh oxygen that enters the air for us to breathe. That fresh breath of spring air is the product of your handy garden work!
Find your bluebonnet a friend.
Like pairing an aged cheese with a nice red wine, you can accompany your bluebonnet with a compatible plant pal to elevate your garden even more! The following are plants that complement the Texas bluebonnet and are a great addition to a superb spring display.
Yucca: These striking plants are known for their sword-shaped leaves that generally resemble a blue-green color to perfectly match your bluebonnet collection.
Indian Paintbrush: These native plants shine with a fierce red color that blends stunningly with a bluebonnet. Indian paintbrush flowers get their name because of their resemblance to a paintbrush that’s been dipped in vibrant red paint. Together, Indian paintbrushes and bluebonnets will create a lively, colorful floral habitat around your home.
Prickly Pear Cactus: This spunky plant can live in perfect harmony with the Texas bluebonnet due to its ability to thrive in the same kind of dry environment. The prickly pear cactus often blooms colorful flowers off of its stems which will blend delicately with the blue colorscape your bluebonnets supply.
And when it’s time to keep the bugs off your bluebonnets, use a yard spray that pollinators can love too, like this Outdoor Pest Control. It takes care of mosquitoes, ants, ticks, fleas, and gnats in the yard while the residue is safe for bees and butterflies, so the bluebonnet pollination can continue. Plus, you and your pets won’t get attacked when you’re trying to enjoy your expanded garden.
