Predicting the Flower Display

Each year flower lovers wait in anticipation, and wonder what the wildflower blooms will be like. To say, you’ve seen it once and know it, is totally wrong. Each year, depending on a variety of factors, the display of wildflowers changes.

The deserts offer the most amazing display, virtual carpets of flowers amass, but the mountains, hills and coast also have their floral bonanzas.

To accurately predict when to visit for the peak two weeks or so of optimum blooms in each area, you need to know what the weather was early on before the season. For example, too little rain means the seeds can’t germinate; too much rain can wash the seeds away or promote rot. Rain too early in the season or too late, doesn’t really help.

Steady warmth is better than high temperatures, especially during February and March. If the temperature rises to over 85 degrees, the seeds parch and seedlings scorch. Cool nights help the desert blooms by keeping the the more aggressive plants like mustard and grasses at bay. Very cold weather can ruin new blossoms.

Wind also plays an important fact. Not only can hot winds dry out seeds and seedlings, but if the winds get too high, they can scatter pollens before the next years seeds are produced.

Late February through March is the best time to check for desert flowers. There is a peak where the display is magical, but then there are a lot of people out there looking. A quiet walk through the desert just before or after the peak, is also very rewarding.

To enhance your view pleasure, it is helpful to have a field guide so you can identify the flowers. Of course, a camera is a must, and a walking partner so you can share the fun, is a good idea.

Most of the known viewing areas have information centers of Wildflower Hotlines, so you can time your trip the way you want to. This year promises to be a good year, and remember each viewing is different from year to year. Remember to book your accommodations early so you don’t miss out.

Wildflower Hotline for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (760) 767-4684

Check out the Flower, Bird and Wildlife Festivals

RV Resorts & Campgrounds in Desert Wildflower Areas