Matthiessen State Park sunflowers expected to bloom by late July

The sunflowers at Matthiessen State Park are expected to bloom some time near the end of July.

A representative from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources said the fields were planted for dove hunting season and anyone planning a professional photography session must apply for a filming and activity permit through the park office at least two weeks in advance for approval.

The field is located behind the model airplane field at the River Access Area.

“We ask that the public do not cross through the airplane field or trample the plants,” said the IDNR representative.

This will be the sunflower field’s return to Matthiessen State Park after not being planted in 2019 because of the large amount of rain.

The flowers bloom through July and by August they seed and wilt through early September, attracting pollinators and providing shade for deer, opossums and raccoons.