It’s an exciting time, early spring is, and its the time when we fret about timing. Timing is everything. The early crops that favor the cold, seeds that miraculously germinate in near frozen soil are at the top of the To-Do list.  The peas were a little iffy , germination wasn’t happening, I fretted, until I spoke with my sister in Northern Maine who asked, “Do you know what they call March snow in Maine?” No, what? “Pea fertilizer.” It runs out to be true. We had a snowfall the day after we’d sowed the peas, and now, a few weeks later, the peas are looking robust and eager to please.

Meanwhile, the other cold weather crops have been sown; spinach, lettuce, arugula, cilantro, potatoes, onions, shallots, radishes, pac choi, beets, swiss chard, broccoli di raab, carrots, parsnips, and all are coming up with the lengthening days and the fluctuating temperatures.

The greenhouse continues to be a source of great hope and anticipation. The alimentary seedlings; broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower,  tomatoes, eggplant, celery, celeriac, peppers, basil (5 different varieties) leeks and sorrel are going great guns. The ornamantals; lupines, calendula, marigolds (the gem types that we love for their citrusy fragrance and their edible qualities, not to mention their great beauty), larkspur…are all emerging from their dormant seeds and offering promise of a productive and richly colorful gardening season.

Gardening season! Hooray! Bring it on…we’re more than ready!