Gratitude for Melancholy Days

utumn sets the table as we give gratitude for the harvest and beauty around us.

November provides a time of reflection to celebrate the fruits of our labor and is time of rest for nature and the gardener's soul. While the garden pace slacks, it is a time to think ahead as we enjoy all this year's season has provided up.

Think of planting bulbs to prepare for their own seasonal show in a few months. Pruning dormant plants, planting evergreens and culling plants that do not fill our needs. It is time to be out and doing things as we tidy up and set our beds to rest.

November can be a second spring, with fresh beds of leaves, new sounds of drying foliage and the flow of the season filling our leafless world with a new beauty. The pleasure of planning a good fall and winter garden provides a remarkable bounty in the spring. Fruit bearing trees and shrubs are welcome additions to the landscape and to the birds looking for havens. In addition, set up feeders for birds to help sustain them for the upcoming winter.

Rain gardens can be a great consideration to plan into the garden this time of year. Noticing where water accumulates and flows naturally provides a blank canvas for winter planning and seed preparations. If you are a seed starter, look for plants to place in a riverbed of winding rocks to offer drainage that can create a beautiful accent to the landscaping in your yard. It also creates a pollinator belt for birds and bees while providing a a way for water to flow where you want it.

Pruning and harvesting herbs in preparation for the upcoming turkey day meal is a reward the garden provides us this time of year. Herbs will enhance your holiday dishes, and pruning provides a boost to the plants as they nest into winter. Be sure to trim a little extra and share with neighbors, family, and friends.

Gratitude for the Garden:

“The rains they did replenish springs,

And its gratitude to each heart brings,

When we reflect on bounteous season,

For grateful feelings all have reason.”

James McIntyre, “Thanksgiving Ode, November 15, 1888.