Planting Bluebonnets In Texas

Let's talk about how to plant Texas bluebonnet seeds. Knowing how to plant bluebonnet seeds will allow you to enjoy these flowers right in your own garden.

Timing is crucial. The best time to plant bluebonnet seeds in Texas is in the fall, typically between late September and early November. Then the flowers will come up in the early spring, most likely in late February and early March. The seeds will fall to the ground at the very short end to bluebonnet season and they will grow back early next spring in Texas.

In the spring of 2024, here on the farm and all around the area, we had the best showing of beautiful Texas bluebonnets since we moved here five years ago. The bluebonnets, as well as the other native wildflowers, were spectacular!

If you live up North and want to try planting bluebonnet seeds, do not plant them in the fall. You will need to plant them in early spring. Here is why. Texas bluebonnets cannot withstand temperatures of 10° Fahrenheit or less. They will die if you plant them in fall and the temperature goes below 10°. You will have to plant new seeds each year in the spring if you live in a cold weather climate.

Bluebonnets prefer well-drained soil and full sun, so choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day.

Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it and ensuring it's free of weeds or grass. This allows the bluebonnet seeds to establish more easily.

Scatter the seeds evenly across the soil surface, then lightly rake them into the ground. You can also press them into the soil with a board to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

Water the seeds well, but be careful not to over water. Bluebonnets are drought-tolerant, and too much water can cause issues with germination. Remember that here in Texas, we don't usually get that much rain. Yes, on occasion, there is flooding but that only happens once in several years. Most summers are hot and dry.

Once the seeds are planted, it’s mostly a waiting game. You’ll see sprouts in a few weeks, and then the beautiful flowers will bloom come spring.

Remember, patience is key. It may take a season or two for a full bluebonnet field to emerge, but it's well worth the wait.

After they come up in spring, you may want to collect and save some of the seeds to plant elsewhere. After the petals start coming off, the seed pods will begin to yellow and then turn brown. Before they turn brown, cut the seed pods off of the plant with scissors. Let them dry all the way out before you store them in a bag.

In the fall, (October is perfect), you will want to scarify the bluebonnet seeds before planting. This will make the seeds easier to germinate. We recommend that you plant the seeds about 1/4 of an inch deep, cover with dirt, and water. The plants will begin to grow but they will not flower until early spring.

We sell bluebonnet seeds all year long although we do run out from time to time.