Exploring Sullivan County’s Springtime Flowers

As warm weather of late spring has finally started to grace us, Sullivan County’s springtime flowers transform the Sugar River Region into a delightfully vibrant scene. Our gorgeous landscape boasts quite the array of native and cultivated flowers that herald the arrival of warmer days. From wildflowers dotting the meadows to cultivated gardens bursting with color, the Sugar River Region shows the vibrance and beauty of late spring! 

Blue Scilla Decorating a Lawn. Image Credit: Madeline Ferland.

Spring Wildflowers of the Sullivan County Countryside

One of the most enchanting aspects of late spring here in the Sugar River Region is the emergence of wildflowers across the countryside. As the greenery makes its presence known, a carpet of delicate blooms begins to unfurl. Look closely along roadsides, in woodlands, and beside streams, and you’ll discover an assortment of native wildflowers.

Crabapple blossoms adorn trees with white, pink, or red blooms, thriving in woodlands, meadows, and along roadsides. Wild Lupine paints fields and roadsides with shades of blue, purple, pink, and white, favoring dry, sandy areas. Painted Trillium adds elegance to rich, moist woodlands with its white petals adorned with pink or reddish markings.

Scilla, in hues of blue, purple, white, or pink, decorates woodlands, meadows, and gardens, thriving in well-drained soil and partial shade. Forsythia’s bright yellow flowers burst forth in early to late spring, adorning gardens, roadsides, and urban landscapes. Lilacs on the other hand, in shades of purple, pink, white, and blue, grace gardens, parks, and roadsides, prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Crocus, with its vibrant purple, yellow, white, or striped petals, brightens gardens, lawns, and meadows in early spring. 

Daffodils on a Riverbank in Monadnock Park, Claremont. Image Credit: Dana Ferland.

Springtime Garden Treasures Around the Region

In more cultivated settings, Sullivan County’s springtime flowers form a variety of garden delights. The climate here is well-suited for a wide range of flowering plants.

Tulips, with their diverse colors, including red, pink, purple, yellow, and white, bloom in gardens, parks, and flower beds. Geraniums come in shades of pink, red, purple, white, and bi-color varieties. They are commonly in garden beds, borders, and containers, where they add vibrant color and texture to the landscape. They also make for excellent potted plants in window boxes and hanging baskets. Daffodils, in their cheerful yellows, are also commonly seen brightening up gardens, parks, and even sporadically outside.

This does not nearly cover all of the species of flowers and blossoms that are emerging during this time of year – the diverse natural landscape in the Sugar River Region is truly remarkable! 

Tulips Blooming in a Garden. Image Credit: Madeline Ferland.

Charming Parks and Gardens – Springtime or All Year 

Several public gardens and parks in Sullivan County allow visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of spring blooms! The Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, for instance, not only showcases the works of renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens but also features lush gardens with a variety of flowering plants. The Fells Historic Estate & Gardens, situated on the shores of Lake Sunapee, is another must-visit destination boasting meticulously landscaped gardens bursting with seasonal flowers.

Spring Blossoms at the Sullivan County Complex in Unity. Image Credit: Sullivan County Government.

Preserving the Sugar River Region’s Natural Beauty

The arrival of Sullivan County’s springtime flowers is not just a feast for the senses. It is also a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Efforts to conserve wild habitats and support sustainable gardening practices ensure that future generations can continue to revel in the beauty of these seasonal displays.

No matter where you’re viewing the regional blossoms, the beauty of our natural environment is sure to leave a lasting impression. And if you’re not from around here, like us on Facebook and plan your visit soon!

Written by Isabel Marsigli on April 29, 2024.