Favorite, Continued
Get to know your plant!
It’s time for more research and discovery. What is uncovered today could potentially develop into a project for the upcoming year, if you so choose. Before I scare you off with ideas of grandiose commitment, this will be simpler than you might imagine. You may just find that the following invitation to become aware and engaged is quite welcomed.
Things Needed:
1. Grab that notebook and a writing utensil
2. Your plant selection from the “Favorite” activity
Section One:
Use the following prompts to guide you in recording information about your treasured plant:
1. When should it be planted, and what range of zones will your plant tolerate?
2. What types of soil does it like? Does it need soil that is slightly acidic? Can it tolerate slightly basic soil? Does it need soil that drains very well, or can it thrive in clay?
3. How much water does it need?
4. How tall does your plant grow? How far will it spread?
5. If there are blooms, what color are they? When will it bloom and for how long?
6. If it gives fruit, when does it come in, and what does it look like when ripe?
7. What color is the autumn foliage? When does it typically change?
8. What type of care does it need over winter? Does your plant enjoy a little covering?
It may take some time to collect all of this data. Spread out your research in a way that suits you, but stick with it. Use a chart to organize the information, if you would like.
Save the Date:
Grab your calendar!
The instructions in this section will encourage engagement throughout this next year. For those who live in the city, let this be a particular opportunity to stay connected with nature.
Make sure you have your notes from “Section One,” and mark your calendars with the following:
1. The approximate date your plant could be planted in spring (or fall, if it is a bulb etc.)
2. The approximate date your plant will flower (if it flowers)
3. The approximate date your plant will give fruit (if it does)
4. When the foliage will turn
5. If it needs to be trimmed back and the date it should receive pruning
6. Any other dates of note
I think there is something to connecting with what is outside of ourselves —connecting to something else living. You will very likely forget these dates are in your calendar, but when they randomly pop up on your phone, think about what it was you learned through this exercise.
Some Thoughts:
It can be very easy to take things for granted. The more we understand and invest, the more we appreciate the complexities and wonder of life and all it entails.
Next…