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)
Monday - November 06, 2006
From: Angels Camp, CA
Region: California
Topic: Wildflowers
Title: Methods of planting state wildflowers on roadsides in California
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
My garden club is initiating a program to plant state hwy 49 within our county with our state flower, California Poppy. Do you have information on using hydroseeding as a method of planting?ANSWER:
Sorry, we do not have anything on hydroseeding as a means to sow large areas with seeds. We do, however, have several articles (e.g., "Large Scale Wildflower Planting" and "Planting Wildflowers along Roadsides") in our Native Plant Library that you may find useful for your project.You may not be aware that Caltrans has an Adopt-a-Highway Program. From their Fact Sheet:
"Groups can participate by removing litter, planting and establishing tree seedlings, planting wildflowers, removing graffiti or by financially sponsoring a litter sweeper or roadside rest area maintenance...If you need assistance with the planting plans or need technical help, Caltrans staff will be available to assist you."
This information is from District 11 in southern California, but the Adopt-a-Highway Program is statewide. You should contact your District 10 office for information and assistance. Caltrans also has a brochure on hydroseeding and they might be able to help and advise you on using it for your project.
More Wildflowers Questions
Survival of bluebonnets in extreme heat from Tioga TX
September 03, 2011 - Is there anything I can do for my bluebonnet patch in this extreme drought for the rest of the summer and fall? Should I have watered this summer? I had a good show and think seeding was fairly normal...
view the full question and answer
Planting for slope in Boone, NC
April 13, 2010 - What would you suggest for planting on a slope, located in Boone, NC? Approximately 600 to 800 sq. ft.
view the full question and answer
Native Edible Plants of Pennsylvania Books
April 25, 2013 - What is the best book that you know of for finding wild plant edibles in Pennsylvania?
view the full question and answer
Overwintering Texas bluebonnets
November 17, 2011 - I planted Texas Bluebonnet and I want to know how to save them through the winter months. I think they are so beautiful. Can I cover them with something?
view the full question and answer
Soils for Central Texas wildflowers
November 04, 2007 - Our family is moving to 40 acres near Lexington, TX with deep soil. Briefly talking to personnel at the Wildflower Center during Goblins in the Garden, I found that not all flowers in the Central Texa...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |