It doesn’t seem possible but the golden rod has been in bloom for weeks. This typical flower of Fall is not showing off in a typical way with its early arrival. Unlike other wildflowers the drought seems to have little effect on its blooms or bright colors. We let this native plant spread on our property in the wilder areas and ones that we have given over to chance. It is one of the few plants that seem to ignore the lack of water and the unrelenting heat.