Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_00.gif)
Saturday - March 20, 2004
From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Best of Smarty, Wildflowers
Title: Mowing Bluebonnets
Answered by: Sage Kawecki
QUESTION:
When is it safe to mow Bluebonnets?ANSWER:
Bluebonnet seed generally matures six to eight weeks after flowering. When mature, the pods/fruit turn yellow brown and start to dry. Mowing at the proper time will ensure re-seeding for a good crop of Bluebonnets for following years. For more information, download our article from our Native Plant Library, entitled “How to Grow Bluebonnets”.
From the Image Gallery
More Wildflowers Questions
Tidying up Copper Canyon Daisies in San Antonio
March 30, 2010 - We have a small bed with 4 copper canyon daisies. We cut them back in the fall but have not pruned them during growing season; as a result they become a big tangle by September. Should they be pruned ...
view the full question and answer
Wildflowers native to Pennsylvania
April 02, 2008 - Please provide the names of a few wildflowers that are native to Pennsylvania.
view the full question and answer
Hanging plants for Austin, TX
May 18, 2014 - I'm looking for a hanging potted flower suggestion for Austin. Most locations are shaded under a large tree, but some locations may have several hours of afternoon sun. I'd love to see some hummin...
view the full question and answer
Wildflowers to grow in dense crownvetch in Missouri
July 27, 2008 - What wildflowers might grow in dense crownvetch?
view the full question and answer
Time to mow bluebonnets from Smithville TX
April 12, 2012 - When is the best time to mow the seeded Bluebonnets? I have them and Drummond Phlox in my front yard. I need to clean and trim to start pulling the large numbers of Purple Hooked Sandburr.
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |