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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.
Bluebonnets produce large, hard-coated seeds that may cause them to have a
low germination rate the first year or two. As the hard seed coats wear down by
rain, abrasion, and decay, the seedlings begin to sprout.
Soil preparation is not necessary; the seed can be broadcast over undisturbed
soil. However, seed to soil contact is essential. When sowing seed in turf
areas, make sure to scalp the grass as low as possible with a mower and rake up
any thatch which may prevent the seed from contacting the soil. Small areas can
be sown by hand or with a mechanical hand device. Large areas require a seed
drill or other mechanical means that can be calibrated for the seeding rate. For
small areas, or places where you want a good display more quickly, seed
companies recommend using 8 to 10 seeds per square foot. At that rate an ounce
will cover approximately 135 square feet, and 1/2 a pound covers 1,000 square
feet. An acre will require 20-30 pounds of seeds.
After seeding, it is best to cover the seed with soil no more than
one-quarter inch deep. This protects the seed from being eaten by birds or being
"baked" by the sun. Water thoroughly but gently. Follow the first watering with
additional light waterings every three days for about three weeks if rain is not
present. Fertilizing is not recommended as it will produce more leaves but not
more blooms. Some seed will begin to sprout in 4-10 days. The germination
process can continue over 18 months or more.
Be aware that one of the reasons bluebonnets fail to bloom is the lack of an
essential bacterium in the soil. These bacterium known as rhizobium form nodules
on the roots of the bluebonnet plant and are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen
(this is the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen to a form usable by plants).
This nitrogen fixation is needed for the bluebonnets to bloom.
Do not soak bluebonnet seed or prick it with pins or in any way disturb the
seed coat. Although these methods can speed up germination, they can also damage
the seed so that it is really better to let nature take its course.
In general, the first flowers open about March 15 in the southern part of the
state, and in the more northern part of the state, first flowers may not show
before May 1. The length of the flowering period is about a month. Allow two
weeks after the full bloom period has passed for the seeds to mature. As a rule
of thumb, when the dead brown foliage offsets the floral color display, the area
can be mowed. If it is a large area, it should be mowed to a height of 4-6
inches. Annual mowing aids in seed dispersal and reduces competition of unwanted
weeds and grasses.
If you wish to store the seed, the pods should be harvested before they
explode and scatter the seed. The seed should be thoroughly air dried on
newspaper. Seeds which are not completely dry prior to storage will contain
excessive moisture which will cause mold to grow and damage the seed. After the
seeds are completely dry, store in a water resistant container. Add a packet of
desiccant to the seed such as silica gel (which can be found in craft stores).
This gel will remove any moisture that remains in the storage container after is
it sealed. Seed stored under these conditions will remain viable for many years.
Seed may be sown at harvest or stored for future planting in the produce section
of the refrigerator until the fall.
In brief, it may be said that the most important factors in establishing
bluebonnets are: (1) plant prior to December 15 (2) plant seed in soil well
adapted for bluebonnets (3) make sure there is good seed to soil contact when
planting. |
