Bluebonnet season is nearly here thanks to warmer-than-normal February weather! Our beloved Texas State Flower typically peaks in bloom around late-March to early-April, but this year a string 80° days will no doubt push those buds out several weeks early. Considering how unusually cold this winter's been, the idea of an early flower season is a bit of a surprise. This means it's nearly time to to snap those baby photos!
While it's a myth that it is illegal to pick Bluebonnets, it's widely considered in bad form. Remember even the karma is bigger in Texas. If you crush one by accident as you walk, don't worry but do be careful to look for fire ant mounds before placing your little one into a patch for that perfect shot. Those biting buggers are out in force this time of year. Also, watch out for rattle snakes in the flowers. While pretty rare, they are here and they do love to bask in the same sun that shines upon those beautiful, blue buds. Toddlers may not be looking for them as they run through them like a scene from, Little House on the Prairie.
Also, be mindful of trespassing. There are plenty of flowers available on public lands. Finally on that note, as a parent, I offer a personal plea: Even though you may see bluebonnets by the side of the highway, they are not rare and it's not worth the risk of taking photos with cars blasting by at high speed. Last year I came upon on a family doing just that on a small median on Memorial Drive, in Houston: They had walked across lanes of traffic onto the triangular-shaped area of grass and Bluebonnets, surrounded by on/off ramps from Studemont. Their child was freely bumbling around inside of this tiny grass strip, as cars whizzed by and a distracted adult snapped pictures. (Eeek!) There are many parks in that area with ample parking, where many more Bluebonnets grow. Be safe and enjoy! -Brooks Garner
