As we hike in the winter months we see the shapes of plant’s seed heads against the snow this is both interesting and beautiful. Common Teasels (Dipsacus) can be spotted through out New York. Many people gather these seed head in the fall to use as decorations. Sometimes they are left in there natural form sometimes they are spray painted various colors.  You can also use them to fashion Teasel animals. 

It is interesting to note Teasel are not native, they come from Europe, and can be invasive. They start out as a basal rosette of leaves; they stay in that form for a year or two. Then they flower once; produce the seed heads and then the plant dies. The Plant grows from a deep tap root. The leaves are spiny and where the leaves come together at the stem forms a cup that will hold water the leaf formation. A seed head can produce over 3000sds and they are spread by birds and small mammals. Teasel seed floats so sometimes they are carried long distances by water. Fortunately the seed is not long lived. Teasel is common on sites that have been disturbed, it can form dense stands.

Teasel was used in the textile industry for its use in raising the nap of fabrics but teasel also has some medicinal uses. Water that collects in stem-clasping leaves has been used to soothe eye inflammation.

Teasels are interesting plants and one to note when you are out for hikes. Please be careful not to spread the seed. One of the concerns when building new trails is that non-natives and invasive plants can be spread easily on to newly disturbed sights. It is up to the individual to make sure that we foster a healthy ecologically sound environment.

The seven hikers who ventured out to Big Flats Sunday afternoon were rewarded with a glorious walk in the woods.  Sunny and mild weather, plus dry trails.  The photos tell it all.

Our host, Bob C. met us at the trailhead with his usual cheerful welcome and helpful information.  His wildlife account about a cinnamon bear, got us all excited at the prospect of seeing this black bear of a different color.   After the initial hike up to the trails, Bob left us to explore on our own, cautioning us about the LONG hill on our selected route.  The climbers (our only group on this hike) were not to be deterred.

For those who have not been to this preserve, It is about 800 acres of newer growth trees, overlooking the Chemung River. The  6 miles of trails are meticulously maintained by the aforementioned Bob C., the steward of the property.  Each year during hunting season, volunteers patrol the preserve for the Land Trust to assure that no hunters stray into its borders.  We encountered none.

Our route took us through some new territory, the northeast corner of the preserve.  Conditions were perfect for this hike down then up, up, UP to the top of Steege Hill.  Our group then traversed some gentler terrain on the hilltop along a steep gully to a small pond.  By then it was near sunset and time to head out of the woods.

Off we went to Tag’s Restaurant, a cozy little eatery nearby, with friendly service and a sizeable menu.  There we were welcomed by Bob, three other Steege patrollers, and the famous Irene S., trail builder extraordinaire.  It was a pleasant ending to a perfect day.  Do not hesitate to visit Steege Hill on your own.  You might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of that bear.