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collapse 2010
2010 wildflower scouting report around the Brenham areaBy: Murry Grigsby

Observed: 2/27/2010

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Henbit, Wind Flower, Phlox, Baby Blue Eyes;#Type: Early BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: See commentsRoute: Brenham-EastLocation: BRENHAM, TX 77833
I thought I would share my early 2010 wildflower scouting trip with you and my findings are generally very encouraging for the areas that I visited.  First the bad news – there will be no flowers along FM1488 from FM2978 to Moyston Drive this year due to widening construction.
I found lots of small bluebonnet rosettes at US 290 and TX 6 in Hempstead even though all the Lawrence Marshall car dealerships are gone.  At Jingle Bell Lane just outside of Hempstead on TX 159 there were scattered sand bluebonnet rosettes.  The field in front of the white church just off TX 159 in Nelsonville is void of any bluebonnet rosettes but is covered with Henbit.  At Main and TX 159 just as you enter Industry the phlox are already starting to bloom.  There are lots of bluebonnet rosettes here and up the hill to the church.  All along Main there already nice big bunches of baby blue eyes in bloom.  The old white house with the outside water pump is now occupied and the yard is mowed – too bad.
LaGrange looks real good along TX 71 and US 77 with a few bluebonnets already in bloom and tons of rosettes the size of an adults hand.  Round Top had a nice bunch of wildflowers already in bloom, Henbit, wind flowers, bunches of a very small blue star shaped flower (smaller than a pencil eraser), bunches of small white flowers (maybe storks bill or sand bells?) and big bluebonnet rosettes in the church graveyard.
Off of Scenic 390 at Zibilski Road “THE FIELD” is showing good promise with lots of bluebonnet rosettes.  Old Baylor is covered with wind flowers.  There were many bluebonnet rosettes but I could only find one bluebonnet in bloom in the entire field.  There were a few Indian paint brush in bloom near the bright blue house in Independence.
It was a beautiful day (a little windy) for a drive in the country and I was please with the early progress of the 2010 wildflower crop.  You can view 25 photos that I took along the way at:
http://grigsbys.smugmug.com/Texas-Wildflowers/Spring-2010/Spring-2010/11374839_kuWKe#799117896_HmhuB
bluebonnet plants startingBy: Del

Observed: 2/26/2010

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: SeedlingsCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: I've seen plants starting to come up along FM roads outside Ennis. Have to get out of your car and walk along the roadside to see them.Route: Location: ENNIS, TX 75119
video of bluebonnets in brenhamBy: Visitor

Observed: 2/24/2010

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Early BloomCoverage: Light (>10% <30%)
Directions: Route: Location: BRENHAM, TX 77833
 
I think this is the video that was the one Murry talked about in the forum.
Early Blooms of BluebonnetsBy: Visitor

Observed: 2/7/2010

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: ;#Early Bloom;#Full Bloom;#Seedlings;#Coverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: Along I-37 and 77Route: Location: CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78473
I was in South Texas and saw some Bluebonnets. I saw lots of thick seedlings too all along the highway.
Some a decent amount of Phlox just south of San AntonioBy: Visitor

Observed: 2/7/2010

Wildflowers Sighted: PhloxType: ;#Early Bloom;#Full Bloom;#Coverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: I was headed north into San Antonio on I-37 just south of 410Route: Location: SAN ANTONIO, TX 78264
BluebonnetBy: Tom Rice

Observed: 1/1/2010

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Early BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: Route: Location: BRENHAM, TX 77833
Went to Brenham area for New Years Eve and New Years Day, went looking for rossettes after breakfast on New Years Day. Saw lots by the way and one ambitious critter even had a bloom. How bout that a New Years Day bonnet, that's gotta be some kind of good sign if your in to superstitious New Years Day stuff. Anyway I think there's gonna be a bumper crop of wildflowers this year.
collapse 2009
Bluebonnets on I 45By: Visitor

Observed: 3/21/2009

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: On the north side of I 45 in Corsicana, parking lots adjacent to Chili'sRoute: Location: CORSICANA, TX 75110
I'm not a photographer or bluebonnet enthusiast, so I don't know how technically great these bluebonnets were, but I was on the lookout for a nice field on a drive from Galveston to Dallas.  I spotted a nice field off I45 which was adjacent to a Chili's parking lot in Corsicana, and spotted a family taking photos in the field.  I thought it was nice to see bluebonnets that you wouldn't have to brave highway traffic to get close to. 
Small patches of bluebonnetsBy: Jack Seigler

Observed: 3/15/2009

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Early BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: Access road heading east on 1604 from Braun Road.Route: Location: SAN ANTONIO, TX 78254
Fields behind Wal-Mart/Home Depot area in Brenham LOADED with bluebonnets.By: Visitor

Observed: 3/13/2009

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: Route: Location: BRENHAM, TX 77833
This area rec'd 1 1/2 inches of rain from 3/13/2009  to 3/14/2009 which should help bring on more blooms.
Also, more popping up along HWY.290 and along FM 389.
To answer the question about bluebonnets close to HoustonBy: Murry Grigsby

Observed: 3/8/2009

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Full (>80%)
Directions: Aldine Westfield north of FM1960Route: Location: HUMBLE, TX 77338
The bluebonnets are almost perfect right now in the garden.  From the entrance walk straight back past the koi pond through the covered seating area to the left past the small fountains.  Both blue and pink bonnets are in good shape.  Also if you'd like a great scent of grape KoolAide check out the Texas Maountain Laurel at the front right of the garden but hurry they are on the down side of blooming.  One other location you might try for bluebonnets is Creekside Park in The Woodlands.  One corner of the park is planted each year in bluebonnets.  I45 to Woodlands Parkway, left on Gosling and then right on CreekSide to the park.
I am a photographer in Houston/Sugar Land - anyplace close you think???By: Visitor

Observed: 3/5/2009

Wildflowers Sighted: Type: Coverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: Route: Location: SUGAR LAND, TX 77478
Anyone have any suggestions for bluebonnet photo locations for the Houston area??
 
>>Editor<<
Check the report filed by Murry below. The best areas for bluebonnets in the Houston area are usually close to Brenham or between Brenham and the Woodlands.
This year because of the lack of rain it will be hit and miss, so check our forums at: http://community.wildflowerhaven.com/forums . As reports come in they will be posted there as well as here.
Early bluebonnet report in the Brenham area.By: Murry Grigsby

Observed: 2/28/2009

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: ;#Early Bloom;#Full Bloom;#Coverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: US290 Hempstead, FM1155 to Dillard Rd to Winston Rd to Flewellen Rd to TX105 to Scenic TX 390 to US290 to TX237 to US71 to TX159.Route: Location: BRENHAM, TX 77833
Most good patches of bluebonnets are along the roadsides or in the medians like along US290 from Hempstead to Chappell Hill the exception is Lake Dr @ West Hilltop Dr in the Chappell Hills subdivision where there is a full field of good rosettes and 2% blooms.  Nice patches along Flewellen and Winston Drives and TX105.  Scenic TX390 is pretty bare with few rosettes in the fields. Old Baylor 2% in bloom with small rosettes and flowers.  It is very dry and gets drier as you go south.  Good roadside bluebonnets along US71 between TX159 and US 77.  The south banks are doing much better than the north side with big plants and blooms maybe at 2%.  Industry is not looking good and very dry.  Big field at Main is almost devoid of any wildflowers and the empty house at Main and Schamm is now occupied and their yard is closely mowed.  Lots of "Burn Ban" signs and not many signs of wildflowers south of Brenham!  I know it is early but without any rain this season could be a bust?
Yellow jasmine very showy through out The Woodlands (just north of Houston on I45) with cornflowers along Grogans Mill and bluebonnets along TerramontBy: Murry Grigsby

Observed: 2/17/2009

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Yellow jasmine, cornflowers and small daisys;#Type: Early BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: I45 take flyover into Woddlands Parkway (5 miles+) then right along Terramont to Branch CrossingRoute: Location: THE WOODLANDS, TX 77381
This is an excellent showing for so early and considering the rough treatment from Ike's cleanup.  I wouldn't drive too far to see these yet but if you're in the neighborhood bring your camera :0)  I'm guessing one to two percent in bloom but the bonnets along Terramont are big and fresh.
collapse 2008
texas blue bellsBy: daphne

Observed: 6/20/2008

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#texas blue bells;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: private residenceRoute: Location: SAN ANTONIO, TX 78230
they are in my backyard. very good showing this year.  the last few years they have been very spotty. popped up in the worst soil in backyard.
Small field of bluebonnetsBy: Visitor

Observed: 4/2/2008

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: Route: Location: SAN ANTONIO, TX 78250
Small field bluebonnets on the east side of Loop 1605 between Hwy 161 and Culebra.
 
Google Maps link:
 
beautiful bluebonnet sightings in Dallas CountyBy: marsha

Observed: 3/29/2008

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: ;#Early Bloom;#Full Bloom;#Coverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: don't know exact town, but I was north on Loop 12 (spur 408) headed toward Main St exit in GP, it was just on the left on a hill after you get on Loop 12 off the Mountaincreek Lake BridgeRoute: Location:
They were thick in spots but really pretty!
W Travis, Burnet, Llano, NW Gillespie counties: virtually no bluebonnets, indian paintbrushBy: Visitor

Observed: 3/28/2008

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#Type: Coverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: Hwys 71 to Llano, 16S, 965S, and 29E to BertamRoute: Location:
With the exception of only a handful of small patches along the roads listed above, I saw virtually no signs of bluebonnets. The Willow City Loop was bare. My favorite wildflower field off of Hwy 29 was bare. What's going on? I don't know. Perhaps Austin got a lot more rain than the hill country. Maybe this week's rains might help. I was very disappointed and depressed about it all.
 
Editor: Bluebonnets are very dependent on fall rains. Without good fall rain, the bluebonnet plants will not germinate. All of Texas received less than normal rainfall during Sep-Nov 2007. The Hill Country received even less. This left us with few seedlings to start with. The winter rainfall from mid-Feb to end of March is needed to help the seedlings develop into mature healthy plants. The Hill Country received less than normal rainfall during the winter. Any rainfall now will not result in more bluebonnet seedlings, but could help improve the May-June wildflower display. Also, any perennial plants (like paintbrush and showy primrose) will also benefit from recent rainfall. The best areas this year will be Brenham and Ennis...and even those areas might not see an average display of bluebonnets.  Check our forums for recent sightings:
http://community.wildflowerhaven.com/forums/
 
collapse 2007
12 to 14 miles of gorgeous bluebonnets...By: Visitor

Observed: 4/15/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: approx. 3 mi north of johnson city on road to sandyRoute: Location: JOHNSON CITY, TX 78636
3 miles north of Johnson City, follow road to Sandy.  12 to 14 miles of gorgeous bluebonnets...some poppys, yellows and a few paintbrush as well
Mason: Bluebonnet Heaven Has ReturnedBy: RichO

Observed: 4/10/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#Verbena;#Poppy;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Full (>80%)
Directions: RR-2618, RR-1900, RR-1871, US 87Route: Location: MASON, TX 76856
Tuesday (4/10/2007) I traveled to Mason County. I am very happy to report that the recent snow and sleet had little or no negative effect on the wildflowers I saw. The coverage in the northern routes that I traveled was equal to and in some cases more than in 2004. To me the coverage this is year far exceeds that of 2005 and certainly 2006. Not all areas are necessarily experiencing a better year, but even in the less covered areas the coverage was much better then 2006. Coverage along RR-1900 exceeds that of any area I have seen this year with the exception of parts of Keyserville road in Loyal Valley. The best locations are in the northern part of Mason County with the exception of Keyserville Road in Loyal Valley. I did not travel all of the southern routes, but I saw enough to tell you that the northern parts are doing much better. For the complete report with photos see: http://community.wildflowerhaven.com/forums/2023/ShowPost.aspx
 
Parker, Johnson, Hood, and Tarrant CountiesBy: Silphium_albiflorum

Observed: 4/6/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#Verbena;#Showy Primrose;#Exotic: winter vetch, Rap-rug, Queen Anne's Lace, prickly sow's thistle: Native; Texas bluebonnet, purple paintbrush, orange paintbrush, Indian-blanket, pink evening primrose, slender-stem Four nerve daisy, stork's bill;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: Vicinity of Benbrook, Crowley, Cresson, Weatherford, Granbury, Godley, Fort WorthRoute: Location: BENBROOK, TX 76126
Marble Falls, Burnet and KingslandBy: RichO

Observed: 4/6/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#Verbena;#Showy Primrose;#Poppy;#spiderworts, phlox, greenthread;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: See report...Route: Burnet AreaLocation:
I took a hurried scouting trip to Marble Falls, Burnet and Kingsland. Overall the theme of the trip was "hit and miss" with some spots with no bluebonnets and others heavily covered. The good news is that the famous house just north of Marble Falls along US 281 is once again surrounded by a field of bluebonnets. For the full report see:
 
Mason County Bluebonnets in full bloomBy: Mason County Chamber of Commerce

Observed: 4/4/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: Route: Location: MASON, TX 76856
I received an email report from Mason Chamber of Commerce concerning the bluebonnets in Mason County.
Bluebonnets are blooming well in the Northeast and Northwest part of Mason County.
Details see:

 
Bluebonnets Have Returned to Sandy, TexasBy: Rich Olivieri

Observed: 4/3/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Verbena;#Showy Primrose;#Poppy;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: RR-1320 and RR-1323 near Sandy, Texas (10 miles northwest of Johnson CityRoute: Location: SANDY, TX 78665
On Tuesday, 4/3/2007, I took a scouting trip to Sandy, Texas via RR-1320 and RR-1323. This is the original route of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Loop.
 
In banner years, the bluebonnets along RR-1323 and RR-1320 near Sandy can put on display like Willow City. Growing in red sandy soil much like that along the northend of Willow City Loop, the bluebonnets near Sandy only need a little rain to get growing tall and big.  This year is not a banner year in Sandy, but for the first time in several years the roadsides and some fields have a fairly good coverage of bluebonnets.  The coverage is about on par with the north end of Willow City Loop, but a bit less than what I saw along RR-2323.  The good news is that there are places to stop along RR-1320. (At Willow City Loop, stopping along the Loop is discouraged. )
 
Read the entire report and view the photos at:
Brenham and Industry AreaBy: Several people

Observed: 4/2/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Verbena;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: Various roads - see linkRoute: Location: BRENHAM, TX 77833
We have had several reports reports on the Brenham - Industry areas filed in the forums at WildflowerHaven Community. Bill Purcell and Gary Regner have provided maps with their reports. You can view these reports at the East Texas forum:
Willow City Loop, Prairie Mountain, US 71, Enchanted RockBy: Rich Olivieri

Observed: 4/1/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Verbena;#Poppy;#phlox;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: RR-2323, SH-16, US 71 and Willow City LoopRoute: Location:
Sunday 4/1/2007, I took a scouting trip covering RR-2323, Prairie Mountain, US 71, Enchanted Rock SNA and Willow City Loop. You can read the entire report and view photos from my trip at:
 
Trip from Austin to Fayetteville, Frelsburg, New Ulm Industry, BrenhamBy: Colette

Observed: 3/30/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Verbena;#Showy Primrose;#Poppy;#Phlox;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: 71 out of Austin, 159 to 1291 to 109 to 36 to Brenahm, 290 to 2769Route: Brenham-WestLocation: BRENHAM, TX 77833
71 between Austin and Bastrop began to show numerous Bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrush in the road ditches.  We saw lots of BBs and pink primroses around Fayette Lake.  Actually we saw multitudes of many different kinds of blooms all along the route.  The old part of the Catholic Cemetery in Frelsburg is literally covered in BBs and some Paintbrush, well worth stopping.  New Ulm was wonderful as well, just going through on 109.  Unfortunately I wasn't able to investigate Industry as I had planned because of car trouble.  Independence was a little disappointing, perhaps it was still too early.  The church at Antique Rose Emporium and a nearby house usually have a yard full of BBs and Paintbrushes, but not this year.  Also, Old Baylor Park was a bit sparse.  The biggest thrill was taking 2769 off of 290 a few miles west of Brenham.  Zionville had a nice showing of BBs and Paintbrushes in the area.  Taking side roads as suggested by Bill Purcell really paid off.  We saw acres and acres of blue.  I had never seen such a thing!  Check out my shot in the Brenham section of photos of the huge Yucca plant in bloom in a pasture full of BBS.
See photos at:
 
Bluebonnet fields near Simmons, TexasBy: Phone Report

Observed: 3/26/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: FM-1042 between Simmons and US 281Route: Location: THREE RIVERS, TX 78071
I got a phone report of bluebonnet fields near Simmons, Texas (Ten Miles southwest of Three Rivers, 84 miles south of San Antonio) along FM-1042. See details at WildflowerHaven Community:
 
A sea of Bluebonnets and other assorted wildflowers.By: txtedbr00 (Ted)

Observed: 3/24/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: Going south on Hwy181S past FM 1604 to FM 3444, then turning right.Route: Location: ELMENDORF, TX 78112
There are truly huge fields of Bluebonnets, some as far as the eye can see.  Absolutely breathtaking and you can literally smell the aroma of the wildflowers, making you wish you could bottle it and take it home with you.
 
Edited: Thank you Ted. This is southwest of San Antonio toward Floresville, correct?
San Antonio: FM-1283 Bluebonnets are back!By: RichO

Observed: 3/16/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#phlox; mountain laurel;#Type: ;#Early Bloom;#Full Bloom;#Seedlings;#Coverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: 2-4 miles west of FM-1283 and FM-471 on FM-1283Route: San Antonio FM1283Location: MICO, TX 78056
After a few years of dismal showing, bluebonnets have returned to FM-1283. FM-1283 is the main route to Medina Lake on the west-northwest side of San Antonio.
While not at the coverage back in the banner years of 1999 and 2000, there are a few stretches where the coverage is 60-70%. See full report with photos at:
Bluebonnets at Loop 1604 and Braun Rd.By: RichO

Observed: 3/14/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: ;#Early Bloom;#Full Bloom;#Coverage: Light (>10% <30%)
Directions: Loop 1604 between Braun Rd and Bandera Rd (SH-16)Route: Location: SAN ANTONIO, TX 78250
Bluebonnets are showing up in the medians of Loop 1604 between Braun Rd and Bandera Rd. Coverage varies from a few moderately covered stretches to areas less than 20% covered. Blooms are still early, but it looks like most of the plants have buds that will bloom soon. There were also several mature blooms mixed in with the others.
 
I also saw patches of bluebonnet plants along Bandera Road between Loop 1604 and where Braun Road intersects with Bandera Road. (Braun Road runs diagonally from Bandera Road to Loop 1604.
 
Unfortunately, both Loop 1604 and Bandera Road are much too congested to safely stop or slow down.
It has started here in The Woodlands (just north of Houston).By: Murry Grigsby

Observed: 3/12/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#crovich, cornflower, scarlet clover, yellow clover;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: I45 at woodlands Parkway and FM242Route: Location: THE WOODLANDS, TX 77380
Indian paint brush and crovich along FM242, corn flowers and bluebonnets along Grogans Mill and blueblonnets along Woodlands Parkway.  Our warm dry stretch ended with a rainstorm last night. Plants look big and healthy!
Willow City Loop Pre-season ReportBy: RichO

Observed: 3/10/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: SeedlingsCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: Willow City Loop - 16mi north of Fredericksburg on SH-16Route: Willow City LoopLocation: WILLOW CITY, TX 78675
I made my pre-season visit to Willow City Loop on Saturday, 3/10/2007. While this year is not likely to be a banner year for Willow City Loop bluebonnets, there are enough rosettes present to produce a good showing along several sections of the Loop. I would expect that good bloom coverage will begin around April 1st and continue through April 15th with the peak around April 8th – 9th.
Complete report with photos can be read at:
 
Early Bluebonnet Blooms - Loop 1604By: RichO

Observed: 3/4/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Early BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: O'Connor and N Loop 1604Route: Location: SAN ANTONIO, TX 78248
City: San Antonio
I spotted several early bluebonnet blooms in the medians of Loop 1604 on the northside near O'Connor Road. The number of plants seems to be much smaller than in previous years, so the coverage will not be as good.
I think this is the earliest that I have spotted bluebonnet blooms in the San Antonio area. This is likely due to the erratic weather we have had with swings between really warm nights/days to cold nights/warm days.
Good sized plants some blooms!By: Ethan

Observed: 3/1/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Early BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: Off highway 45Route: Location: CORSICANA, TX 75110
On the south facing slopes of the highway I saw the early stages of blooms.  This was over a week ago so things have most likely progressed. 
Seedling Report - Brenham/BelvilleBy: RichO

Observed: 2/25/2007

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Type: ;#Early Bloom;#Seedlings;#Coverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: Route: Brenham-EastLocation: BRENHAM, TX 77833
One of our community members has posted a very detailed seedling report for the Brenham/Bellville area. Visit:
to read the full report.
collapse 2006
Wildflower Explosion in Llano and San Saba CountiesBy: RichO

Observed: 5/12/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#brown bitterweed, standing cypress, winecup, thelesperma, coreopsis;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: SH-16 and RR-501Route: Location: CHEROKEE, TX 76832
Above normal rainfall in the past 30 days has created an explosion of wildflowers in the northern Hill Country counties of Llano and San Saba. The predominant colors are red and yellow. Areas along SH-16 and RR-501 near Cherokee look like scenes from a watercolor book.
See: Wildflower Explosion in Llano - San Saba Counties
http://community.wildflowerhaven.com/forums/1243/ShowPost.aspx
Wildflowers Abound Near SaladoBy: RichO

Observed: 5/7/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#mealy sage, prickly pear cactus;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: I-35 service road near exit 283, FM 2268, FM 2243Route: Location: SALADO, TX 76571
On my way back from Dallas this past weekend, I spotted a section of I-35 just south of Salado that was filled with mealy sage and yellow prickly cactus. Just down the road from that spot was a large stretch of firewheels.
 
Washington/Austin/Grimes/Waller counties very good in partsBy: Tony Crowley

Observed: 4/7/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#Verbena;#Showy Primrose;#Sunflower;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: See post in East Texas forum - all photos have road namesRoute: Location:
Industry and Bleiblerville areas remain excellent. See here for details. http://community.wildflowerhaven.com/forums/1094/ShowPost.aspx#1094
Washington County still good for bluebonnetsBy: Murry Grigsby

Observed: 4/4/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Verbena;#Showy Primrose;#Sunflower;#Poppy;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Full (>80%)
Directions: FM1155 between TX105 and US290Route: Brenham-WestLocation: BRENHAM, TX 77833
We spent Tuesday, mostly in Washington County, chasing bluebonnets and the news is still good for this area.  I’ll just share the highlights.  FM1155 from TX105 to US290 is excellent.  Lots of full big patches of roadside bluebonnets and several full fields.
Editor's note: Read Murry's full and several others in the East Texas Sightings forum at:
 
Area around Industry is wonderfulBy: Ed Cooley

Observed: 4/4/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#Showy Primrose;#Poppy;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: Hwy 159 - Main - Industry - Blue Hole - CemeteryRoute: Location: INDUSTRY, TX 78944
Wow, when it was good it was very good. Too many locations to mention, just follow the route. The Brenham East route is pretty good in spots but not as awesome as industry. I only have a few pictures posted but will be adding more later this week. Flower Gallery Here.  (http://ed-cooley.com/cgi-bin/gallery/index.cgi?mode=album&album=./Texas%20Wildflowers)
 
Thanks to Bill Purcell for his excellent scouting reports, it made all the difference for a first time visitor.
 

Editor's note: You can read several full reports in the East Texas Sightings forum at:
http://community.wildflowerhaven.com/forums/7/ShowForum.aspx
Bluebonnet fields in SchulenburgBy: Rich Olivieri

Observed: 4/4/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: From I-10 Exit 668 west of Schulenburg to SchulenburgRoute: Location: SCHULENBURG, TX 78956
Bluebonnet covered fields can be seen along the service road of I-10 beginning at exit 668 just west of Schulenburg to Schulenburg US 77 exit. For updated report (4/10/2006) with photos see:
 
Lake Buchanan areaBy: John Chung

Observed: 4/1/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: 1431 and 29, 690 and 29, Old Spanish TrailRoute: Burnet AreaLocation: BUCHANAN DAM, TX 78609
Conditions around Lake Buchanan are not very good this year for bluebonnets or other wildflowers. The fields where it were full of bluebonnets last year are empty.
Brenham, Hempstead, Chappell Hill, IndustryBy: Gary R

Observed: 4/1/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Verbena;#Showy Primrose;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Full (>80%)
Directions: Washington/Austin/Waller CountiesRoute: Location: BRENHAM, TX 77833
For the best displays of wildflowers head to Washington and Austin counties. Areas around Brenham, Chappell Hill, Hempstead, and Industry have an abundance of wildflowers. There are many big fields of bluebonnets and other wildflowers in some areas. Many large fields of bluebonnets can be seen along Hwy290 starting west of Brenham and continuing towards Houston. Peak appears to be now and perhaps for another week. This appears to be a banner year for this area, and things have improved significantly over the last week.
Conditions at Willow City LoopBy: Rich Olivieri

Observed: 3/29/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Poppy;#Phlox;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: 16 mi north of FredericksburgRoute: Willow City LoopLocation: WILLOW CITY, TX 78675
Conditions are Willow City Loop are not very good this year for bluebonnets or other wildflowers. The best I saw was along the south end of the Loop where the road rises from the valley going south. Bluebonnets were lining the roadsides along that section of the Loop. For a detail report with photos see:
 
Large Bluebonnet FieldBy: RichO

Observed: 3/25/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Full (>80%)
Directions: FM-78 near the town of CiboloRoute: Location: CIBOLO, TX 78108
A huge field of bluebonnets is located along FM-78 near the town of Cibolo. See photo at:
 
It's prime time in The Woodlands, Texas just north of Houston.By: Murry Grigsby

Observed: 3/25/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#scarlet flax, corn flower, red clover, dew berry;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Full (>80%)
Directions: I45 at Woodlands lake ParkwayRoute: Location: THE WOODLANDS, TX 77381
The best patches of bluebonnets are on both side of the bridge over the lake at Northshore park and then just to the north off of LWP at Indian Springs Road.  If we get rain this week it should extend our blooms some but they are really at their prime right now, 3/25/06.
Chappell Hill and Brenham are having a Banner Bluebonnet Season!By: Donna Cummins

Observed: 3/23/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Full BloomCoverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: FM 1155 North, Hwy 290 W between CH and Brenham,Route: Brenham-EastLocation: CHAPPELL HILL, TX 77426
Great year in Brenham and Chappell Hill, many fields are now starting to bloom. Gorgeous year! Hwy 105, 1155, Hwy 290. Bring your camera! It's beautiful in the Birthplace of Texas!
Blue Bonnets on Highway 6By: John Dolan

Observed: 3/14/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Showy Primrose;#Spider Lilies, Purple Vetch;#Type: ;#Early Bloom;#Full Bloom;#Coverage: Full (>80%)
Directions: Highway 6 north of 290 to NavasotaRoute: Location: NAVASOTA, TX 77868
Highway 6 from 290 to Navasota is covered in Blue Bonnets. I have never seen the Highway covered like this even in banner years. North of Navasota to College Station there is nothing!105 East of 6 has blooms also. 362 has a few small patches and some Spider Lilies down towards 1488, but nothing to brag on. The dead end road off of 362 that I reported the BlueBells on last year has a colony of Blue Bonnets that are just starting to flower. They should be good for picture taking in 2 weeks.
BluebonnettBy: Mike Jones

Observed: 3/13/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: BluebonnetType: Early BloomCoverage: Spotty (<10%)
Directions: 1604 East and West of I-10Route: Location: SAN ANTONIO, TX 78249
Spotty patches of Bluebonnets surrounded by very dry vegetation.
Rt. 29 LlanoBy: Julie

Observed: 3/12/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: Route: Location: LLANO, TX 78643
Drove up to Llano yesterday on Rt. 29 and was surprised to see roadsides full of Bluebonnets.  One spot actually had bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrush up.  Checked the Sullivan's property and nothing is up there yet.
Washington Cty is looking goodBy: John Dolan

Observed: 3/12/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Paintbrush;#Verbena;#Showy Primrose;#Type: ;#Early Bloom;#Full Bloom;#Coverage: Moderate (>30% <60%)
Directions: 290,390,1155, 105,50, Various backroadsRoute: Brenham-EastLocation: WASHINGTON, TX 77880
Lots of Blue Bonnets along the roadsides and plenty of other flowers statring to show. It's been dry, but you can really see how the Texas DOT's work over the past decades is paying off. The fields may not be full like other years, but the roadsides are starting to look real good.
Small clumps of Bluebonnets around Brenham areaBy: Visitor

Observed: 3/6/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Showy Primrose;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Light (>10% <30%)
Directions: Hwy 290 going right through BrenhamRoute: Location: BRENHAM, TX 77833
Only small clumps observed currently.  Not enough for good people picture taking yet.  Most of them were in the middle of the road...not easily accessible.
Mercer Gardens: Bluebonnets and Moutain LaurelBy: Murry Grigsby

Observed: 3/5/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Texas Mountain Laurel;#Type: Full BloomCoverage: Full (>80%)
Directions: 22306 Aldine Westfield RoadRoute: Location: HUMBLE, TX 77338
Wildflowers:  For anyone in the Houston area Mercer Gardens has a nice display of bluebonnets and mountain laurel in bloom right now.
The Mercer link is:http://www.hcp4.net/mercer/ ; I know they are exactly wildflowers but for those that can't get out to the country this is a great location to enjoy some of our Texas floral stars!  The Azaleas are also full out and there are many other rare flowers, bushes and trees in bloom.  Enjoy!
Bluebonnet CloverBy: John Dolan

Observed: 2/11/2006

Wildflowers Sighted: ;#Bluebonnet;#Indian Blanket (Firewheel);#Showy Primrose;#Type: ;#Full Bloom;#Seedlings;#Coverage: Heavy (>60% <80%)
Directions: Hgy's 36,50,105,290,390.2679Route: Location:
I took several drives on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to check out the bluebonnet clover. It's all over the place and in some areas it's thicker then I've ever seen it. There are small clumps of Firewheels and Showy primrose in several locations. Lots of the Firewheels on beltway 8 just south of W little York on the North and South bound Feeder. Might not be a banner year but it should be good.
 

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