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or screened from view and focused on improving the appearance of highways by planting native wildflowers and trees. In 1982, along with actress Helen Hayes, they established the National Wildflower Research Center in Austin to protect and preserve North America’ s native plants and natural landscapes. In 1997 the center was renamed becoming the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. They have a very interesting and informative website at https:// www. wildflower. org.
The most significant factor in the proliferation of the bluebonnets and other wildflowers is the work of the Texas Department of Transportation. In the 1930’ s, as part of a beautification program, the department started sowing bluebonnet seeds along state highways. In 1932, the Wildflower Program was officially established and Jac Gubbels, a landscape architect, was hired to maintain, preserve and encourage the planting of wildflowers and other native plants along the highways. In the mid-1930’ s a policy was implemented to delay mowing until the wildflowers had gone to seed. Today, TxDOT’ s Wildflower Program continues to maintain the wildflowers and sows about 30,000 pounds of seeds every year.
Texans are proud of their bluebonnets and all the other wild flowers in our state. Although there is no law against picking the flowers, picturetaking that damages the flowers and picking the flowers is discouraged. Many flowers including bluebonnets are annuals which means they only flower for one season and then they die. After flowering they go to seed which is how they multiply. If the flowers are trampled or picked and the flower dies, they won’ t go to seed to come back the next year.
Sugar Land Jazz Festival
Friday & Saturday May 9 – 10, 2025
LOCATION: Crown Festival Park 18355 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77479 TIME: Performances begin at 5pm each day TICKETS: Starting at $ 4
Get ready for a weekend of smooth grooves and soulful rhythms as the Sugar Land Jazz Festival takes over Crown Festival Park on May 9 – 10, 2025. This two-day celebration of jazz features an impressive lineup of renowned artists, including Brian Culbertson, Sheila E. and The E-Train, Adam Hawley, The Commodores, Jackiem Joyner & Nicholas Cole, and Bob James.
Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy a variety of food vendors, craft booths, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for jazz enthusiasts and families alike. Don’ t miss this opportunity to experience world-class performances right here in Sugar Land.
For tickets and more information, visit: sugarlandjazzfestival. com.
Come and be part of Sugar Land’ s premier jazz event of the year!
In Texas, bluebonnets are more than just a flower. They are a true symbol of Texas pride and represent the natural beauty, resilience, and independent spirit of our state.
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4734 LJ Parkway # 308 Sugar Land, TX 77479
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