In the Garden

Winter is upon us and it may seem there is little for a gardener to do.

Although we had a little snow on the ground for much of November and December, snow has been scarce as we move towards the New Year. If this continues, does this have any consequences for our gardens?

As winter drags along, I long for warm sun and green plants surrounding me outdoors. It’s much too early to start spring seeds (even indoors), but I can plant some flowers bulbs now.

Like Rodney Dangerfield, kale doesn’t get enough respect. I’ve been told that it only became a commonly grown vegetable in the 1970s, when salad bars ordered it to use as the bed upon which other edibles, like tomatoes, carrots and cukes, slept on in nearly ordered arrangements.

This is the darkest time of the year: not only are the days short, clouds obscure the sun much of the time. Many of us find the gloom oppressive, especially when there is neither enough snow to ski, nor ice to skate on. And for gardeners, there is little we can (or wish to) do outside. So, what do I do?

CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – Ready to shop! Every time I turn on the radio or open a newspaper, there are articles about supply chain issues. Even the reliable old US Postal Service is saying deliveries may well be delayed. So, share some garden produce this year or shop at a local, family-owned business when you can.

One of the reasons I garden is that I love to cook and to create wonderful, flavorful dishes that I might not get elsewhere. I think many gardeners share that inclination. One of the techniques I have not used much is roasting vegetables, but I recently did some roasting, and will do some more. I find it sweetens and intensifies flavors.

New England is known worldwide for its fall color. People swarm here from all over, largely to see the color of our sugar maples. As a senior citizen, I am legally entitled to drive around at 25 miles per hour, holding up traffic and enjoying every brilliant red tree I see.

If you have cleaned up the vegetable garden and cut back your perennials, you might be feeling just a little smug – especially since this gardening guy admits he is behind you in completing those tasks.

by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – I love the winter, but by March I am ready for spring. I