The last Friday of February brought the most beautiful ice storm. Everything – trees, grass, fences, railings, cars – was coated in ice that shone like polished silver in the dawn’s early light. Later that morning, rain fell, and the temperature rose, so that by the time I walked the gardens, you wouldn’t have known there had been ice at all. The ground that had been frozen, and, just a week before, covered in snow, was muddy, and the first early spring weeds were blooming.
Which is to say that while it looked like all was cold and frozen these last months, the earth was silently preparing for its annual spring awakening. What we couldn’t see was happening all the same, and, at the first opportunity, plants burst forth.
Awakenings are often like that. We think nothing is happening, we are frustrated when nothing seems to be changing – and then one day, change is here.
We see this often in the flower world. Seeds that take forever to germinate, brides that take forever to book, a silent ordering system until suddenly we spot green in the soil or bookings overflow. What do we do when we are awaiting these changes?
We organize. We plan. We learn. We connect. We prepare so we can ride the wave of abundance when it arrives. Often a wild ride to be sure, but always worth the wait.
What’s Available Locally in March: This list is by no means comprehensive, just a sampling of what growers in our area may have this month.
Daffodils, Forsythia, Freesia, Hyacinth, Paperwhite Narcissus, Pussy Willow, Quince, Succulents, and Tulips. Also ask your local growers about dried flowers and wreaths – many dry their harvest!
Care Tips for Daffodils – Narcissus pseudonarcissus - Daffodils define cheerful! Whether yellow, white, orange, or pink, the many forms and colorations are uplifting in early spring. When cut in the “gooseneck” stage, they can be stored dry in the cooler or in buckets of water. If flowers are to be placed with other types, place just the daffodils in water for at least six hours first so the sap can leek out. Don’t get the stems again before designing with other flowers. Vase life is three to six days.