The Flowering Phase

  • Photo by David Rosen, Wildside Photography
    Photo by David Rosen, Wildside Photography

As the pools dry down in March, the seedlings grow, springing into bloom during April and early May. Most grow to less than six inches high. Vernal pool flowers create colorful rings, patches and ribbons of yellow, white, pink and purple.

The displays change from week to week, as each species gives way to the next, like a floral kaleidoscope.

Assume that every part is important

To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering.

- Aldo Leopold

Sacramento Splash - Helping children understand and value their natural world picture
Patient, little bees

Solitary Bees generally only collect pollen and nectar from a single species of plant (or from a few closely-related plants). Researchers have discovered that vernal pool Solitary Bees can hibernate underground for up to four years, waiting for the 2-3 weeks when their host plant is in bloom.