What is El Nino? Some scientists feel that our "El Nino" for this weather season actually was at its peak back in the period of August and September of last year. That would account for the wonderful soaking rain we got during the fall. Whether they were brought by "El Nino" or not, a continuing string of winter storms has blown over the mountains, brining a nearly perfect pattern of soft, soaking rains. However, if one looks at the precipitation records, this weather year is not particularly wet -- San Diego is "average" for the season, so far, as is Anza-Borrego. What really sets this weather year apart from previous ones is the timing of the rains. If El Nino gets fired up again, and brings more rain in the near future, it can only enlarge and extend the bloom.


Photo Caption:
 Spring Wildflowers on the Carrizo Plain.  this beautiful shot of spring wildflowers on the Carrizo Plain north of San Luis Obispo. "Spring of 1998, after the heavy 1997 El Niņo rain season. It's off Highway 58 east of Elkhorn Road."

 

Fall of 1997 was a wonderful season of flowering extending into winter and becoming the phenomenal Spring of 1998. El Nino had given the deserts two to three times the average annual rainfall. Warm temperatures encouraged growth and cooler than normal weather lengthened the blooming season. What a special desert flowering!

 

PLANTING WILDFLOWERS OF YOUR OWN

Site Preparation

Proper site preparation is important for prompt germination of seed and healthy growth of seedlings. Best results will be obtained by planting on cleared ground. Remove existing vegetation to avoid competition from other plants. This may be done by pulling, tilling under, spraying with a general herbicide, or by a combination of these methods, depending upon the size of the area, type and density of vegetation and other factors. Loosen soil by scraping, tilling or scarifying. Tilling should be used utilized only when soil is very compacted and further weed control measures can be taken. Specific recommendations are given under the heading "Weed Control".

Seed Application
Method of application depends on the size of the area and the terrain. On small areas, broadcast seeds evenly ether by hand or by use of a drop or cyclone spreader. It a helpful to mix a carrier such as clean, dry sand with the seed; sand adds volume and aids in even distribution of your seeds. We recommend using a ratio of 1 or 2 parts sand to 1 part seed. Rake in lightly covering seeds to a maximum depth of 2-3 times their thickness. Or drag the area lightly with a piece of chain link fence to mix the seed into the surface of the soil. For seeding large areas over one acre, specially designed seed drills are most effective. Drill to a maximum of 1/4 inch and firm soil with a culti-packer; this maximizes seed/soil contact.

 

Moisture
All seeds, including wildflowers, need ample moisture to germinate and to develop into healthy seedlings. Best results will be obtained by soaking the planted areas thoroughly and maintaining consistent moisture for 4 to 6 weeks -- then gradually reducing watering In non-irrigated situations, plant in the spring or before periods at anticipated rainfall. After seedlings are established, watering may he reduced depending on the climate and rainfall. In arid climates or during drought conditions, up to 1/2 inch of supplemental water per week may be required to maintain an optimal display. If weeds are present, remember that they benefit from moisture as much as the wildflowers and may dominate over watered areas.

During the Years of 1997 and 1998.
I lives in the California Desert near 29 Palms California.
Wonder Valley.
Due to The El Nino rains in 1997
The whole Desert Floor was covered with all kinds of Wildflowers in Spring of 1998.

During that time I made a Video Tape of the Desert Wildflowers.
During those years there wasn't no such thing of DVD'S.
But have Transfer those Video's to DVD.
If anyone would like a copy.
I will make some for 8.00/DVD./ One Hour Long.
Shipping is Free.

EMAIL

 

 

The Palms Restaurant
Wonder Valley Ca.

Wild Desert Prim Roses