Darroch Wood - The Bluebell Wood of Blairgowrie and Rattray, East Perthshire.
One of the finest bluebell displays in the East Perthshire countryside can be found at Darroch (Oak) Wood, situated on the outskirts (Essendy Road) of Blairgowrie.
Known locally as the 'Bluebell Woods', the old oakwood is renowned for its breathtaking carpet of bluebells and other wild flowers during late Spring. During a typical season where conditions are right, the best time to see the annual show of vivid colour is late April to mid May. Although, some bluebells will flower earlier or later depending on the local climate.
Between Febuary - late April - Bluebells shoots emerge and are visible above the ground. They sprout new leaves and produce flowering stalks. A most welcome sight, but it's all about the flowers.
1st week of May - Clusters of flower buds are close to opening. They are out in abundance and slightly drooping their distinctive flower stems to one side.
2nd to 3rd weeks of May - Peak flowering time and bursting into life. The bluebells really come into their own, proudly displaying wonderful shades of deep purple-blue petals and noticeably open bell-shaped flowers. Should be a magnificent spectacle until the end of May but enjoy them while you can.
The season is short and I'm sorry to say that the bluebells just don't last very long. They tend to flower for only a few weeks before the bluebell foliage gradually starts to die off and they quickly disappear. They are completely dormant by June.
You must catch the bluebells at the right time of day (when the sun is low) and at their peak to enjoy them at their very best.
Photograph Opportunities.
It doesn't get any better than this. The gorgeous, idyllic setting with it's wonderful light and beautiful colours just begs to be captured by photograph or even painted.
The true beauty of the bluebells is very hard to convey in photos and although I'm quite pleased with my images they really don't do justice to such a wonderful natural environment.
Spend some time amongst the fabulous bluebell displays.
Over the years the woodland has brought great pleasure to many local residents and has also attracted visiting walking groups, nature lovers and photographers to take in the wood and bluebell trail. The spectacular display of bluebells and foliage really does have to be seen to be believed. A visit to Blairgowrie bluebell wood in May is a truly magnificent experience and should not be missed.
The bluebells in Darroch wood are very important and are there to be enjoyed by everyone. Please remember to take care whilst enjoying the beauty of Blairgowrie bluebell wood.
Either side of the woodland path is bordered by bluebells. Trampling on the foliage of the plant is a serious risk to their survival and the bluebells suffer badly from being crushed. Keep all dogs under control. Stick to the set footpaths and be careful where you place the legs of your tripod.
Visitors are urged not to:
Step on the foliage - Wander through the bluebells - Pull at the flowers, leaves or stems - Dig up (uproot) the bulbs from their natural environment or feel tempted to pick a fistful of flowers to take home for granny or mum.
Blog Updates:
10/05/2010: Bluebell spotting - Flowering stems are very thin on the ground.
15/05/2010: Disappointing - Bluebells were quite elusive here today with only a few sprouting around the edges of the woodland. Warmer temperatures will help bring them out over the next few days.
23/05/2010: Glorious colour - Nature has rolled out the blue carpet. What a change from just over a week ago. The bluebells have taken advantage of the very warm and sunny weekend displaying a sea of blue and the sweet rich fragrance of a bluebell wood.
As expected the spectacle has been a little late this year but has been well worth the wait. Nature and East Perthshire at its very best.
Make the most of the bluebell season:
Still time to get out amongst the bluebells. If you get the chance and a wander down to bluebell wood is on your to do list, then now is the time to do so. There should still be plenty time to savour the bluebells for a few more days as they are normally in full bloom for about one week.
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