Seed and Feed

A few months ago I wrote about going to see the prairie in Plymouth County. Yesterday evening, I returned with Jonathan for a "Seed and Feed" event. A group of about 40 people joined to collect seeds from prairie plants and then share a meal.

We gathered at the home of Bill and Dotty Zales and then hopped on a wagon and a truck bed and rode to a few different spots to collect specific types of seed. We collected purple prairie clover, lead plant, partridge pea, and a few others. From what I understand, the seeds will be made into mixes and auctioned at an annual fundraiser for a prairie related organization. But I really don't know because I didn't ask. I think the event definitely had a great educational value, plus it's fun to get together with other prairie people. Some were college students, college professors, people who know a lot about prairies, and people who are just starting to learn.

Seeds from purple prairie clover

I also got to learn about some plants that we came across, such as the silky aster, below. I've seen the silky aster numerous times in the Loess Hills, but every time I was told the name, I'd forget it immediately. I'd always think "silverleaf scurfpea" (a plant in one of my ID books) every time I'd try to remember. It is called silky aster because the leaves are fuzzy and soft.

silky aster

These are pussytoes! In the spring, there is a little stalk coming up the centers with flowers that look like fuzzy little kitty toes. I've seen them in spring but I didn't realize this was the same plant.

pussytoes

And this is Missouri milkvetch. It's very rare!

Missouri milkvetch

Afterwards, we gathered at the guest house on the Zales' property for good food and home brewed beers...

...and ice cream from Bill's father's soft serve ice cream machine!