Herb Society of the Hill Country hosted Wildflower Seminar and Herbal Shoppe

The Hill Country Unit of the Herb Society of America hosted an educational seminar in Wimberley in April that featured speaker John Thomas, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Wildseed Farms in Fredericksburg.

More than 70 people attended. Thomas shared some of his vast knowledge about wildflowers with the audience, focusing primarily on the Texas bluebonnet. Thomas told listeners how to achieve the best results for the Texas State Flower.

“It is important to plant in the Fall. October 1 gives the best chance of exposing them to Fall rains. It is fine to cast the seed on the ground; it is not necessary to bury them or to water them in. They need to be in a well-drained spot that receives at least six hours of sun per day,” he said. “Bluebonnets require bare ground in the winter for the seedlings to thrive. Do not fertilize them. Doing so is likely to kill them.”

On the subject of wildflowers, Thomas said, “In general, a hot, dry Summer, paired with a cold, wet Winter will produce an abundance of wildflowers in Spring. Don’t plant wildflowers with any grass that is green in winter, such as rye or wheat.”

Part of the seminar included an Herbal Shoppe. Live plants, herbal tinctures, teas and salves, as well as artwork, were among the items for sale. Food and beverages that featured various herbs were served.

Proceeds from the event go towards maintaining the society’s sensory herb garden at EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens and to fund monthly educational programs.