November 

I always think of November as brown, grey and dark.  The beautiful fall coloured leaves have dropped to the ground and turned brown.  It is dark in the morning and dark in late afternoon.  The frosts have rendered plants various shades of brown as they die back.  There are often grey and rainy skies.  Not my favourite, most inspiring time of year in the garden. 

However, there are still garden chores to do on those days when it isn't raining and cold.  I have some vegetables to finish harvesting - kale, cabbage, chard, beets, carrots.  I have mulch to spread over my beds before the winter snows arrive.  Straw needs to be put on my garlic beds, rhubarb and strawberries.  Chopped up leaves are waiting to be put on beds as well. I need to clean up my greenhouse and sort through my pots in readiness for next year.  In doing these tasks, I take another opportunity to reflect on my garden this year.  What worked, what didn't, what I want to move next year! 

So, November is not all bad.  According to author Catherine Pulsifer, "November is a month of transformation and preparation."  I will try to alter my perspective in the future! 

As a reminder, we will be hosting our free winter seminars starting in January 2025.  Please watch for information about dates and speakers.  We look forward to seeing you this winter!

Happy Gardening!