Kip’s Comments - July 16, 2025
Not a Monoculture Environment
For those who strive for a perfectly manicured yard where pollinators find no blossoms, no pollen, and no nectar, I am sure a segment of our property is their worst nightmare. Several years ago we sprinkled wildflower and grass seeds across what used to be cropland. From a distance the foliage appears unkempt at best and a possibly a wasteland from a distance. But, when you slow down, get close, and look around you find plant variety abounds - many colors, species, and opportunities for butterflies and bugs. To me the area is beautiful.
This morning I roamed the area with my camera set for macro photography. Before long I had many photos on my memory card. Had it not started raining I might still be out there.
Following are some of the images made in our prairie. Missing are the many yellow plant species. I will save them for another day. (Species identifications are in the captions.)
Blue Vervain - Image 996419
Canadian Milkvetch - Image 996472
Cluster Fly on Swamp Milkweed - Image 996476
Common Milkweed - Image 996506
Field Mustard - Image 996582
Field Mustard - Image 996539
Garden Cosmos - Image 996590
Hoverfly on Spiderwort - Image 996620
Purple Coneflower - Image 996644
Purple Prairie Clover - Image 996646
Rattlesnake Master - Image 996660
Swamp Milkweed - Image 996703
Tall Cinquefoil - Image 996718
Tiger Lily - Image 996728
White Prairie Clover - Image 996732
White Sweet Clover - Image 996753
Wild Bergamot - Image 996824
Wild Bergamot - Image 996857
Wild Bergamot - Image 996802
