By Gary Crispell, North Carolina Extension Master GardenerSM volunteer of Durham County
Oh, my! It’s December.
How can that be?
I still have pumpkins.
May I put them on the tree?
The weather’s been balmy
Compared to the norm.
But that’s okay by me
I much prefer the warm.
The lawn needs a rest,
So just let it sleep
And hope winter’s rains
Will water it deep.
Put away the fert.
Lock up the shed.
Plants and their roots
Are asleep in their beds.
Plant things in the ground
Only if you must.
Mulch them really well
So the root cells don’t bust.
Prune the magnolia
And red-berried plants.
Leave them outside
Until you shake off the ants.
The sprayer belongs
With the fert in the shed.
The bugs you might spray
Are asleep or quite dead.
There are a great many things
Still to be done.
Some service-minded
Others just plain fun.
Volunteer at the Food Bank
Or start a clothing drive.
There are folks out there
Who need both to survive.
Now plop down in your chair
In front of the fire.
Enjoy cocoa or eggnog
To your heart’s desire.
Then lie down in the bed
For a well-deserved rest
Knowing in the garden
We all do our best.
(Image credit: Pixabay)
May whatever holiday you celebrate this month be filled with love, kindness, and grace.
Happy Holidays, Y’all, and a delightful December!!
Gary Crispell has a degree in horticulture from NC State University and had a long career as a landscape designer. He works with nonprofits to address homelessness and hunger in the community. Every month in 2024 he provided outstanding seasonal advice for gardeners and always made us smile! We are so appreciative of his contributions to the Durham County Master GardenerSM Blog. Thanks so much, Gary! You have earned a rest!
Resources and Additional Information
Here are some suggestions for your time spent in reading and reflection about gardening:
The Washington County Cooperative Library recommends 14 books with gardening themes. https://wccls.bibliocommons.com/list/share/1350633061/2294103529
The Princeton Library has recommendations for books that might inspire you to think about making changes to your garden.
https://princetonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/list/share/104627853/380978577
Read whatever brings you joy!
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