The Harris County Flood Control District is planting wildflower seeds on more than 150 acres this season, which is equivalent to more than 100 football fields.

Planting typically begins in November, but crews got an early start this year to help give residents a longer bloom season to enjoy. Blooms are expected to begin appearing in February and continue through June or July.

How the Flood Control District selects wildflower sites

When evaluating potential planting locations, the Flood Control District’s maintenance team looks for highly visible areas where residents can enjoy the blooms and wildflowers can help reduce mowing needs.

The team also considers existing vegetation, long-term maintenance requirements, community input and the distribution of wildflower sites across the county. New locations are typically selected during the summer for planting in the fall.

Some sites begin naturally. Crews occasionally discover areas where wildflowers have already taken hold. If the flowers are thriving, the Flood Control District may add plantings to build on what is already growing.

Residents can also inspire a new wildflower site. Along Mason Creek, for example, nearby residents had planted wildflowers on the channel slopes. The Flood Control District is now supplementing their efforts with additional plantings.

Residents can recommend potential wildflower planting locations throughout the year by submitting an idea through the Flood Control District’s contact form.

Why the Flood Control District plants wildflowers

Wildflowers provide benefits beyond adding color to the landscape. They help stabilize soil and support pollinators.

Wildflower sites also do not require the first spring mowing cycle. This allows the Flood Control District to direct maintenance crews and funding to other areas of need.