March is the start of the wild flower season in northwest Arkansas. Early arrivals are Blood Root and Dutchman’s Breeches. The Blood Root will be found in leaf litter. Dutchman’s Breeches can be found in the more open areas. Prior to leaf-out, look for the flowers of the Paw-Paw tree, their dark red flowers are very distinctive.  There are many earlier bloomers to be seen and photographed; for instances - Pale Corydalis, Rue and False Anemone, Henbit, Speedwell and Toothwort.

Our objective this year is to observer and photograph Trout Lilies and Lady’s Tresses. Perhaps Hobbs State Park, Tanyard Creek Nature Trail and Newton County might be a good place to begin the search. Hit the trails early and often this spring and see what nature has to offer.