Do All Bluebonnets Have Pods?

Bluebonnets

• Named for the bloom's resemblance to the sunbonnets of women pioneers, bluebonnets are vigorous annual or perennial wildflowers that germinate and begin growing in the fall and then flower the following spring. The genus name Lupinus comes from the Latin word lupus, "wolf," recognizing the plant's long-standing common name "wolf flower." It was once thought that lupines "wolfed down" available soil nutrients, given that they grow where few other plants are found. It's now known that the opposite is true. Because they are legumes, lupines enhance poor soil where other plants can't grow by producing their own fertilizer with help from nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria that live on root nodules.

Seeds

• Texas bluebonnet seeds have evolved to help plants survive in harsh, unpredictable environments. Hard pea-like seeds are coated with natural chemicals that inhibit the uptake of water -- thus preventing germination until those chemicals are washed off. Seed germination is usually about 20 percent in the year after planting, though the rest of the seeds will germinate in subsequent years. Delayed germination ensures species survival during periods of prolonged drought. It may take a few years to grow a healthy stand of native bluebonnets, but once the plants are established they will reseed every year and keep coming back year after year.

Scarification

• You can purchase chemically scarified seeds that will all germinate and begin growing within about 10 days -- making it easier to start that initial bluebonnet bed or field. Or, you can scarify native plant seeds yourself. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center recommends several methods. For small quantities of seeds, you can physically scratch or nick them with a knife, or rub them with sandpaper, to simulate natural weathering. Easier if you're planting many seeds is freezing them overnight, quickly pouring boiling water over them and then soaking the seeds in room temperature water for several hours. Don't scarify seeds that won't be watered during dry periods in winter or spring, because many plants won't survive.

Grow

• Plant bluebonnet seeds, or transplant young nursery-started plants, in fall. Bluebonnets need an extended period of cool weather for proper root development. Sow seeds in full sun in well-drained soil, raking soil over seeds for good contact. Don't over water bluebonnets -- they are adapted to drought conditions -- but do water seedbeds occasionally during dry spells. Water transplants only when the top inch of soil is dry. Plants seem to grow very little during winter when in actuality they are growing vigorously underground. Interplant with pansies, dianthus or flowering bulbs for color while waiting for bluebonnets to bloom. Fertilizer isn't necessary, but apply it lightly in spring for more vigorous blooms. Protect young plants from sow bugs.