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Showing posts with label sunflowers. Show all posts

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Photographing Wildflowers in Missouri

Purple Coneflower

I love wildflowers and, in the spring and summer, they are abundant in Missouri. It makes photographing them so very easy, I can find them in parks, along the sides of roads, on my neighborhood walks and even in my own yard. When I am planning to go out specifically to take photographs, I usually bring my Sony mirrorless camera along with a 55-200 zoom lens. It makes it easy to take pictures at a distance and also to zoom in for closer shots. When I am taking my dog for walks in the neighborhood, I always have my iPhone handy, and I find that it takes great shots of the wildflowers I find in the neighborhood and at our park.

The photo at the beginning of this article was taken at O'Day Park in O'Fallon, Missouri. It is a purple coneflower, that is very popular in my area in the summer months. It is one of my favorite wildflowers. I took my granddaughters to the park and brought along my Sony to capture the wildflowers that were in abundance.

O'Day Park Wildflowers

O'Day Park is a 57-acre park in O'Fallon that features a lodge, playground, camping and miles of paths and trails throughout the park. Near the playground area, I discovered a paved trail that had lots of beautiful wildflowers along the sides. They were in full bloom during our visit, and I was able to capture several different types of Missouri wildflowers. Here are some of my favorite shots.

Plains Coreopsis

Rough Blazing Star

Queen Anne's Lace

Purple Coneflower with Bee

Around the Neighborhood

The photos in this section were all taken on my walks in my neighborhood. They were all taken with my iPhone.

Trumpet Vine

Purple Coneflower and Golden Alexander

Lance Leaf Coreopsis

In My Yard

As I was looking at lists of Missouri wildflowers online, I noticed that many of the flowers in my flower beds are considered wildflowers. I know that all of them were started with a single clump given to me by and friend and all have spread like crazy. They make a colorful bordered on the side of my house.

Primrose

Wild Geranium

Bottle Brush Blazing

Black-eyed Susan

Learn More about Wildflowers

There are many books to give you tips on photographing wildflowers. Here is one I found on Amazon.

Sunday, April 9, 2023

Bringing Warmth and Cheer to Your Home with Sunflower Decor

Sunflowers are one of my all-time favorite flowers. Their bright yellow petals never fail to make me smile and lift my mood.

Did you know that sunflowers have been cultivated for centuries, dating all the way back to 1000 BC in the Americas? No wonder they have become such a beloved flower in many cultures.

Embrace the Positive Symbolism of Sunflower Decor in Your Home

Not only are they beautiful, but sunflowers are also associated with positive traits such as happiness, warmth, and loyalty. Incorporating sunflower decor into the home can bring a sense of joy and comfort.

If you're also a fan of sunflowers, here are some fun ways to add a touch of sunflower-themed decor to your space:

Sunflower Lamps: Adding a sunflower lamp is an easy way to bring warmth to any room. I personally love table lamps with sunflower designs, but there are also beautiful floor lamps to consider. You can find them in different materials like metal or glass, and they can make lovely pieces for end tables or foyer tables.
Sunflower Rugs: A sunflower rug can add an extra pop of color and texture to a space. They come in different shapes and sizes, so you can choose the one that best fits your room. You can use it to anchor a seating area, but you could also use it to make your entryway more inviting.
Sunflower Pillows: If you're looking for an easy way to add some sunflower decor to your bed or sofa, consider getting some sunflower pillows. They come in all shapes and sizes, with different styles like embroidered or printed designs.
Sunflower Drapes: Adding sunflower drapes is a great way to bring some elegance and warmth to any room. They come in different fabrics like cotton or silk and can be found in many patterns and colors. You could even get creative and use them as a room divider.

Beyond Aesthetics: Uncovering the Lesser-Known Benefits of Sunflowers

Not only are sunflowers aesthetically pleasing, but they also have some amazing benefits. Did you know they're a food source for birds and other wildlife?

Sunflowers are also used in many human food products, as they are rich in nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium. They are even used in cosmetics and skincare products to help soothe and moisturize the skin.

Sunflower Symbolism: Elevate Your Home Decor with a Deeper Meaning

Sunflowers also have a rich symbolism behind them. In addition to their association with happiness, warmth, and loyalty, they symbolize faith and worship. Sunflower petals resemble the sun's rays, and the flower itself always turns towards the sun, making it a powerful symbol of growth and renewal.

Incorporating sunflower decor into a home is a small but meaningful way to bring some joy and positivity to daily life. Whether it's a sunflower lamp, rug, pillow, or drape, there are many ways to add this sunny flower to your decor.

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Thursday, August 26, 2021

Review of Sunflower Facts and Photographs

Fields of Sunflowers

Each year during the month of July, I anxiously wait for the sunflower fields to bloom. Several years ago I discovered some sunflower fields in the Missouri river bottom land about 10 miles from my house. My granddaughters were visiting and I took them to the fields to take some photographs. I wrote this article telling about my experience in photographing the sunflowers. Photographing Sunflowers

Before they Bloom

In reading about sunflowers I have found that there are actually five stages in the life of the sunflower. Three of those stages take place before they bloom.

1. The first stage, the germination stage, takes places when the seeds are planted. This stages takes about eight days. After the seeds are planted the roots develop and seep into the ground and then a shoot will start peaking out of the ground in search of sunlight that it needs to grow.

2. The second stage is called the vegetative phase. During the first 13 days after the seedling starts its growth toward the sun it is in the vegetative emergence stage. Then the first leaf comes and it is now in stage 1 of the vegetative phase, a second leaf comes and it is now in stage 2, this keeps on as more leaves are added to the stalk.

3. The third stage is called the reproduction phase. In this stage a bud will form between the cluster of leaves. It will initially be star like in appearance but in time will grow into the tall beautiful plants with bright yellow flowers that we know so well. This whole stage takes about 30 days. In our area I know that this stage should be coming to an end in mid to late July. This year I was out with friends in mid July and we decided to take a drive to see how the sunflower fields were coming along. They were right in the middle of the reproductive stage and I got some nice photos of the flowers in this stage.

field of sunflower buds photo by mbgphoto

Reproductive Phase

Blooming Stage

During the blooming stage the sunflowers are in full bloom. During this phase you will see lots of bees busy fertilizing and pollinating the flowers. This stage will only last for about 20 days so I knew I had to get back to the fields quickly if I wanted to see the fields in full bloom. Fortunately about a week after my first visit a friend posted some photos showing the flowers in full bloom. I grabbed my camera and hopped in my car and headed right out to take some photos. I was rewarded with the following glorious sights.

Harvesting Phase

After the blooms are finished the seeds are harvested. You will want to wait till the flowers turn brown and start to bloom and then you cut the stems about 4 inches from the head of the flowers. Sunflower heads should be stored upside down in a dry and breathable bag.

Sunflowers are annuals so they must be replanted each year.

Fun Facts and more Sunflower Photos

The Sunflower has been named the plant of the year for 2021. In her review of this information, Olivia Morris shares more fun facts and photos about the Sunflower. Hope for the New Year Sunflowers Plant

Zazzle Products from My Photographs

I enjoy making cards and other Zazzle products from my photos. Here are a couple I hope you like.

Sunflowers Note Card
by mbgphoto

Festive Sunflower Two-Tone Coffee Mug
by mbgphoto

Here some more Zazzle Sunflower gifts from my photographs.

Sunflowers
by mbgphoto

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Wednesday, July 28, 2021

Photo Review of a Random Act of Beauty in Paso Robles

Sunflowers on Paso Robles Corner Parking Strip, © Barbara Radisavljevic

A Random Act of Beauty?

Would you rather see these gorgeous sunflowers next to your house every day or would you rather have the view below?

City Maintained Paso Robles Corner Parking Strip, © Barbara Radisavljevic

That's what I thought. And that's probably what Tiffany, the woman who planted the sunflowers, thought, too. This is part of the parking strip the City of Paso Robles planted. It's across from the house next door to Tiffany. I can see why she preferred sunflowers.

I discovered her literal forest of sunflowers on my way to the grocery store in Paso Robles California one July afternoon. I was participating in a Medium Photo-a-Day Challenge and I hardly ever go out of my neighborhood. When I do go anywhere I can't walk, I try to take a picture of something unique for the challenge. So on my way to the store my plan was to drive around the block the store was on, park behind the store, and walk until I found something worth taking a picture of. I hadn't even turned the corner when I saw this in front of me.

Sunflower Forests on 21st Street, © Barbara Radisavljevic

In the foreground you see the sunflowers in the parking strip in front of Tiffany's house. In the background is the center strip across the southbound lane of the street heading toward Vine Street. I walked the center strip and it appears that besides the flowering trees there, the city had also planted some hummingbird sage (unless someone else did). Most of that strip past the sunflowers looked like this.

Hummingbird Sage in July on 21st Street Median Strip, © Barbara Radisavljevic

There was also a lot of this grassy plant on the median strip. I'm not sure what it is but the city plants it in all these storm drain strips. The white flower is bindweed or wild cucumber. It's a weed. I've no idea what the green plant at the back is. I can understand why Tiffany preferred sunflowers.

median strip filled with ornamental grass

Unidentified Grasses and Bindweed on 21st Street Median Strip, © Barbara Radisavljevic

You Can Also Create This Kind of Beauty

When I see sunflowers in bloom they lift my spirits. They speak of the energy it takes to grow tall and reach for the sky. And they are easy to grow. Would you like to get involved in your own random act of beauty in your neighborhood or property? You could even make it a family project.

First you need seeds. Here are some good choices for an awesome display.

Start Your Day with Sunflower Energy

I confess my normal wake-up default condition is not energetic. It's groggy. I can't even get my eyes to focus when I first get up. Until I've had a couple of cups of tea I'm not very alert. Having your preferred hot beverage while looking a sunflower in the eye should brighten your morning perspective as you fuel up. So I made this for you on Zazzle. You can make it whatever size or style you like best. The largest size mug is eleven ounces. That's enough to wake the brain up!

Sunflowers to Perk You Up as You Enjoy Your Drink Coffee Mug

Are you ready to go plant sunflowers this autumn and help brighten the corner of the world where you live? Too many sunflowers live lonely lives with only a few weeds for companionship.

Lonely Sunflower Surrounded by Weeds on 21st Street Parking Strip, © Barbara Radisavljevic

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Wednesday, December 23, 2020

Hope for a New Year, Sunflowers Plant of the Year for 2021 A Garden Review

Everyone I know has had enough of 2020, so even though Christmas is still a day or two away, it's time to look forward!

There seems to be many authorities on Plant of the Year for 2021 and I know we all need something to look forward to, so I'm going with the authorities at the Winnipeg Free Press! They (and I agree with them) have dubbed 2021 the Year of the Sunflower!

There is so much about sunflowers that I just love and I'm going to fill you in on just a few of them.

They are easy to grow from seeds.
They will grow without any help from you. No fertilizers, no need to baby them!
By summertime, you will have a beautiful stalk of bright yellow flowers (or some other cultivar).
They are beautiful cut flowers that last a long time.
The bees will love you! as well as butterflies, ladybugs, dragonflies, and other insects that all feed on the nectars they produce.
The flowers are interesting not only for their colors (and there are many) but also for the seeds they are producing.
If you are into "mathematics", they love working the Fibonacci Sequencing with the seed heads as they are revealed in growth patterns in nature.
The seed heads are food for birds, squirrels, chipmunks, field mice and more.
You can bake the seeds for human consumption too! But you can also eat them raw.
You can have a variety of sunflowers growing together. They will delight you in so many ways.

So when you think of sunflowers are you just thinking of the big yellow multi petalled flower? There are so many more varieties of sunflowers than the traditional yellow.

Sunflower "Elf" is probably the shortest growing at stems of 16 inches or so in height. Then there is one called Sunforest Mix which can grow up to 10 feet tall. The seed heads can measure almost 12 inches across! As it's name implies, if you plant a bunch of these you will have a "Sunflower Forest" growing. What could be more beautiful? The bees, birds and small wildlife will thank you!

Did you know that Sunflowers are also yellow with orange centers, or white? Some varieties have just a few layers of petals around the seed head, while others are so full of petals that they look fuzzy!

One thing that they all have in common is that they will surely bring a smile to your face!

Ripening Seed heads! Just one sunflower can produce hundreds of seeds. That will feed a lot of birds!

This bird can hardly wait for the seeds to ripen on this seed head and he's helping himself to a delicious snack!

Seed heads are easy to harvest. Just grab a sharp knife (be careful) and cut the seed head off. You don't need to remove the seeds from the rest of the flower head, unless you want to. Turn the heads upside down and suspend them with some string and the birds will come for them. If you have lots of seed heads, you might want to ration them out a head at a time, so that as winter sets in you still have some heads for the birds. Sunflower seeds are a great source of food for the birds in the winter months. They are loaded with oils that birds need for energy during the coldest months of the year.

If you want to get an idea about how many colors and sizes of Sunflowers there are, here is a link to HGTV's 13 Crazy and Colorful Sunflowers!

I think I would love to have a few acres that I could plant with sunflowers of all types, can you just imagine the riot of color that would be seen?

As we lead up to Christmas, I won't fill your minds with too much more than beautiful pictures of the Sunflowers that hopefully will grace your gardens in 2021. In the language of flowers, sunflowers mean Adoration, Loyalty, and Longevity! We( all the writers) at Review This Reviews, adore our fans and readers. We will loyally bring you a variety of reviews that you will enjoy and we want to be with you and have you visit us often. A very fitting flower for us, for this time of year and the year to come.

Decorate your life with a little sunshine that lasts and lasts. Sunflowers are just one of the cheeriest flowers and so charming in their own way!

I can't think of a flower that would make me smile bigger and longer than the sight of a bright yellow or red sunflower!

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Thursday, July 26, 2018

Photographing Sunflowers

Review of Photography Tips for Photographing Sunflowers

In Midwestern USA, July is the time that we have beautiful sunflowers blooming. Their beauty lasts just a short time, so if you have sunflowers near you be sure to take the opportunity to photograph them while they are in full bloom.

I saw some photos that friends had taken and posted online so I got directions to the sunflower field and was so glad that I did! The flowers were beautiful. I went just before sunset and was able to capture the beauty of the flowers as the sun went down. This seemed like a perfect time and the setting sun seemed to light up the backs of the blooms. Here are a couple of tips I have for you.

Look for fresh blooms. Raggedy blooms don't show good on photos.
Turn your flash off.
Watch you background. A bright blue sky works well but I have also seen flowers against brick or wood that look great.
Choose your focus point. Do you want everything in focus or just one flower?
Take some photos of the entire field and then zoom in to take that close up bloom. You will be glad you got both.

Here are a few of my photos.

Sunflowers Come in a Variety of Colors

I always thought sunflowers were yellow, but did you know they come in a variety of colors. My neighbor is growing some pretty maroon ones this year. I took this photo in the early evening.

www.zazzle.com/mbgphoto

Maroon Beauty

Using People in your Photos

A sunflower field is a great place for family photos. I took my granddaughter with me and here are a couple of the photos I took of her. I love the look of the first photo. The sun over the hill behind the field lit up the backs of the flowers and her hair.