Randy Suits

The Mojave Desert is a most unlikely place to find colorful annuals and wildflowers. But with rain well spaced between winter and early spring, sufficient warmth from the sun and lack of desiccating winds, in some years the Mojave Desert is carpeted with wildflowers. There are over 1000 plant species in Death Valley National Park. Thirteen species of Cactus and 23 endemics are known to grow only in the Death Valley region in hues of white, yellow, purple, blue, red and magenta. The floral display is best in years when rainfall is several times above the average annual rainfall of 1.9 inches. Best viewing at lower elevations is from mid February to Mid April. Best viewing at 2,000 to 4,000 ft elevations is from early April to early May and above 4,000 ft late April to early June. Unfortunately National Park rules prohibit picking the wildflowers. Should we be surprised that even the deserts of the earth are covered by wildflower beauty? The flowers are suited to the desert because of seeds with coatings so thick or waxy that they can hibernate for decades. Only heavy rains will enable them to grow. When there is just the correct amount of moisture, warmth and sunlight, the seeds burst open and yield the hidden floral treasure stored in the thick seed husks. Life springs forth in vibrant color and blossom. The glory of God is even in the desert where water is insufficient to support life. God created flowers with seeds which would hibernate until sufficient moisture, warmth and sunlight enabled germination and supported growth to maturity. These desert flowers grow quickly but they leave seed for the next season, possibly ten years later, when the elements will bring ideal conditions for growth. The hand of Creator God, the Great Gardener, scatters seed and brings forth beauty from the most unlikely places because He is the author and finisher of all living. Death Valley wildflowers are just one of countless miracles which prove the existence of our Heavenly Father. God brings life to Death Valley and He gives his blessings and life to all people who look to him for the issues of Life.

God is love and He gives his blessings to us, Kochany