HOUSTON — Not seeing as many bluebonnet photos in your social media feed? There’s a reason. The bloom this year isn’t as good as it’s been in past years.
The reason – rain is essential for germination and we just haven’t had that much lately.
“Unfortunately, we’ve been a little on the dry side both in the fall and in the spring until recently,” said Dr. Mike Arnold with Texas A&M University. “So, the crop of bluebonnets might not be quite as good as usual, but you can still find some good patches for pictures.”
According to Dr. Arnold, we should be in peak bloom right about now and you should still be able to find some Instagram-worthy settings. Bluebonnets thrive on hillsides or elevated areas where drainage is better.
In Southeast Texas, look to the northwest of Houston, especially in Brenham. Check along Highway 105 and the tollway loop where there’s new construction or exposed soil.
According to Dr. Arnold, this weekend may be one of your last chances to find bluebonnets anywhere, as we’re at the end of the peak. Here’s a map showing where you could find them.
But if you plan to get bluebonnet photos outside of Southeast Texas, they’re more scarce as you head to Austin or San Antonio. Those parts of the state have been drier than we have here in Houston.