The unsung heroes in our concrete jungles are wildflowers. As autumn brings crisp air and mellow light, this season ushers in a bouquet of native wildflowers that paint our green spaces into a floral wonderland. From the bright yellows of Black-Eyed Susans to the purples of New England Asters, Brooklyn's vibrant wildflowers are a hidden gem in our urban landscape.
At Dragonetti Florist, we're excited to showcase the native beauty found locally and right here in our Brooklyn flower shop. Let's dive right in and see what's in bloom among Brooklyn's native wildflowers, where to find them, and how to care for them.
Prospect Park: A Blooming Oasis
If there's one place to get a glimpse of Brooklyn's wildflowers, it’s Prospect Park. This large urban park, designed by the renowned landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, consists of several natural habitats featuring native wildflowers. By September, it transforms into a gorgeous abode of color and scent.
Meet Brooklyn's Wildflower Stars
Goldenrod
Goldenrod is like Brooklyn's small explosion of sunshine in a flower. These bright yellow blooms are in full swing from late summer into fall, diffusing their joy with their bold, sunny appearance.
They aren't just pretty faces, either. Goldenrods are fantastic at attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making them a buzzing hotbed for local wildlife. They prefer to grow under the sun with well-draining soil, so plant them where they can drink up those golden rays!
New England Aster
If showstopper is the name of the game, then look no further than the New England Aster. This aster will add a touch of regal color to any garden or wildflower bouquet with its impressive arrays of purple to pink petals.
These blooms are crucial for late-season pollinators, offering a vital food source when the weather gets cooler. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil; hence, they are also hardy, besides being beautiful in your floral lineup.
Black-Eyed Susan
Bright, cheerful, and easy to love, the Black-Eyed Susan is Brooklyn's floral ray of sunshine. With their golden-yellow petals and dark centers, these flowers are like nature's confetti.
Versatile, Black-Eyed Susans grow well in various soils and conditions. They're also known for their resilience and long-lasting blooms, making them a staple in wildflower gardens and a delightful choice for cut flower arrangements.
Purple Coneflower
The Purple Coneflower is a hardy wildflower that possesses a rather unusual appearance. This spiky, purple-petaled flower with its middle cone certainly stands out in any setting.
But this isn't just a pretty face; it's also known for its medicinal properties and is a favorite of bees and butterflies. Purple Coneflowers prefer full sun but can tolerate a range of soil types, making them a reliable choice of beauty for any garden.
How to Grow and Maintain Brooklyn's Wildflowers
Planting and Growing
Location
Most wildflowers like full sun to partial shade. To help flowers bloom healthy and strong, let your picked spot be sunny enough and with well-drained soil.
Water Wisely
Most wildflowers don't need a lot of water; however, a nice drink during prolonged dry periods is very much appreciated. The smartest time for watering is in the morning because this way, at least, evaporation is reduced, and their roots remain cool.
Soil Savvy
Wildflowers are adapted to poor soil, so don't over-fertilize them. They originally germinated in nutrient-poor conditions, so too much fertilizer could give you results like more foliage and fewer blooms.
Foraging and Picking Tips
Follow Local RulesMost parks and other areas of natural beauty prohibit the picking of wildflowers to help maintain them in their natural state, further benefiting the local wildlife.
Give Back to the EcosystemIf you are foraging in a less formal setting, take only a few flowers and leave plenty for pollinators and other wildlife.
Experience the Botanical Beauty of Brooklyn
At Dragonetti Florist, we love and embrace Brooklyn's natural wildflowers and the beauty they bring to our city. If you’re taking a tour of local green spaces or bringing some of that wild charm into your home, let Dragonetti Florist assist you at every turn. We’re here to create beautiful, artfully designed arrangements showcasing the best of local and seasonal blooms. Visit us or order online; let's bring a touch of wild Brooklyn beauty into your life.