As summer progresses, one of my favorite things to do in the field is to enjoy the variety of wildflowers.  Many of our common species – both native species and non-native species - do not bloom until late in the season making this time of year full of color along our fields and roads. 

Queen Anne's Lace
Queen Anne's Lace

            I plant native wildflowers in my yard and so right now my brushy garden is awash in the pink (and amazing fragrance) of common milkweed, accented by the whites and purples of asters, and is aglow with late goldenrod.  It is not only something I enjoy, but the birds seem to love it as well – hiding in the cover the flowers provide and feeding on the seeds as summer turns to autumn. 

Flat-topped Aster with Goldenrod
Flat-topped Aster with Goldenrod

            But to really experience large displays of wildflowers, you have to get out and explore, and while I’m in the field for work or just walking the dog, I’m trying to remember to bring both my wildflower field guide and my camera to help me enjoy the colorful arrays.  And you don’t have to go far or trudge to difficult to reach places that are almost inaccessible.  A stroll along any open trail or road or body of water will yield plenty of wildflowers to enjoy.  Here are a few more photos for those interested in following the trail to this late summer attraction. 

New England Aster
New England Aster
Cow Vetch
Cow Vetch
Oxeye Daisy and Birdsfoot Treefoil
Oxeye Daisy and Birdsfoot Treefoil
Goldenrod
Goldenrod