November 2006
Winter Solstice is coming up fast… now just a few weeks away. Days have
been getting shorter since the Equinox in September; nights in turn are longer.
As a gardener, I have always noted these special astronomical turnings. The
weather is uncertain as it ebbs and flows with the air stream currents. Today,
warm and sunny. Tomorrow, perhaps warm, perhaps cold and more seasonal. Having
cold weather helps my holiday spirit rise to the occasion. Bundling up for the
cold: scarves, hats, gloves and overcoats remind me of my carefree childhood,
running outside with my brothers to frolic in the snow. The holiday season was
magical to me then, and it still carries mystery and wonder now.
Gardeners are almost done with the chores of autumn. Winter storms bringing
in heavy snows, breaking branches and squashing the late flowers set us back
somewhat. Ornamental grasses, not hardened off to sustain the weight of the
snow, crashed over, needing support and grooming. Sadly, some grass plants we
had to cut down totally. The gardens lost the winter interest aspect of upright
golden grass heads.
Planting of the bulbs is nearing the end as well. Christmas lights are going
up and a few new beds wait for preparation before the winter takes over. Finally,
the roses will be put to bed under a soft blanket of humus mulch to protect
them. Then the gardeners can rest for a few weeks before the call of winter
pruning is heard in January. We may need to winter water if the warm and dry
weather continues.
This time of year is very busy in the garden though. Squirrels rush to fill
their winter caches. Birds squabble over the seeds. The hills are brown and
dappled with the evergreen of the conifers. Deciduous trees, bared and leafless,
reach out to the passing clouds. The night's stars rotate over our heads, revealing
winter constellations.
Gardeners are powerless against the coming cold. Gardeners must give in - to
sweaters, hot cider, pumpkin pie and snow. Red noses and icy toes. Candle light
and steamy windows. Hot soup and warm bread. Mmmmm.
All gardeners could celebrate the Winter Solstice as the planet begins to turn
toward the sun and the days begin to lengthen. I feel sure the plants know and
perhaps they celebrate in their plant-like way. One celebration could be the
swelling of the winter buds. They will grow until they must pop open with green
leaves in spring… but that is a long while away from this moment in time.
For now, this gardener will satisfy herself with crystalline starry nights and
the familiar chilly breath of winter. Blessings!
Becky the gardener