COLUMBUS, OH -- Ohio's fields and forests are bursting into bloom as the state's 2,300 species of spring wildflowers begin their annual show of colors, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
Warmer temperatures and (most importantly) lengthening hours of sunlight trigger the annual phenomena, drawing thousands of outdoor enthusiasts to Ohio's state parks and nature preserves.
"Ohio's traditional wildflower-viewing season begins in mid-March in the south and advances northward as different species bloom in succession over the next three months," said Lynn Boydelatour, chief naturalist with Ohio State Parks. "The unique beauty of spring wildflowers is intense, but all too brief. It is a special time of year to get one's feet on a woodland trail and enjoy the warmth and splendor of spring."
Here's a list of the wildflower-related events slated for coming month:
MAY
Spring Wildflower Hike at Lake White State Park in Pike County: 10 a.m. to noon on May 3. Meet in the main parking lot for a hike to see spring's wildflower spectacular up close. Call 740-493-2212.
Lakeside Daisy Open House at Lakeside Daisy State Nature Preserve in Ottawa County: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 10. Preserve staff will be on hand to provide information about Ohio's most unique wildflower, the Lakeside daisy. This preserve is one of only three places in the world where the daisy blooms naturally. It is open to the public (without a permit) only during May when the wildflowers are in full force. Call 419-981-6319.
Spring Tonic Time at Van Buren State Park in Hancock County: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on May 10. Meet at the nature center for a hike amid the May flowers and learn how pioneers and Native Americans used these blooms as medicines and tonics. Call 419-832-7662.
Spring Tonic Time at Mary Jane Thurston State Park in Wood County: 10 a.m. to noon on May 10. Meet at the park office and caravan to the Turkeyfoot area for a hike amid the flowers used as remedies by Native Americans and early pioneers. Call 419-832-7662.
Spring Wildflower Hike at Pike Lake State Park in Pike County: 10 a.m. to noon on May 17. Meet at the amphitheater for a relaxing hike to see the park's best spring wildflowers. A hayride and movie are set for 7 p. m. at the park. Call 740-493-2212.
Springtime In The Park at Rocky Fork State Park in Highland County: May 16-18. Daily wildflower hikes, along with kite building and flying. Call 937-393-4284 for information.
For additional information on Ohio's array of spring wildflowers, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com