As I work my little garden, I can sometimes recognize these mini seasons and how they affect what is going on with my garden. Is winter beginning to end as the first snowdrops and crocus appear? Or do we wait for a calendar date to tell us spring is coming. Part of the lure of the garden is seeing these little changes appear one by one as each and every species decides it is safe to emerge from winter slumber. Flowers begin to open, sometimes braving cold weather, but following their own path and thrive when the late arrivals would freeze to death. Maples send signals and their leaf buds begin to swell, waiting and ready for that time when it is safe to expose their new leaves to the world.
Spring is a long ways off, and we are now at the time when the growing season is coming to a close. I knew all along the leaves would soon be changing color and dropping to the ground. And another circle begins: this year’s leaves will soon be next years nutrients. It is all so complicated and fascinating, one can never expect to understand but so much about the life cycles of Earth. One thing I do know is that all are interconnected, and what happens to one will affect everything even if the effect is too small for us to see.
So, knowing fall is coming, why do I find myself surprised to find the leaves changed and many herbaceous plants going dormant? Maybe it’s because winter seems to have decided on an early visit this year; it seems we are a few weeks ahead this fall and all the changes we expect came sooner than expected. And as much as I will miss the lazy hot days of summer, it is exhilarating to feel those first cool winds of fall. Shorts and sandals are pack away, and it feels good to be wrapped tight and out in the cold air. And maybe we are reduced to growing only greens and cool season crops that are not quite as tasty and varied as our summer crops. But, there are no regrets, and I actually look forward to kale and collards with a splash of vinegar, because when they are the only fresh veggies available, they are as good as the finest tomato ever grown. Each season brings it’s own wonders; our job is to recognize and appreciate them. How else are we to get through the cold dark days ahead?
