January in the garden may look quiet, but there is plenty going on.
Before the snow and wintery mix arrived this weekend, I spread orchard grass seed in Ruby’s pasture and crimson clover seed in the orchard. Clover is a generous cover crop that feeds the soil, and sowing just before a snowfall is an old way of planting. The freezing and thawing of winter naturally works the seed into the earth, a practice called frost seeding, letting nature do the work slowly and well.
Right now the beds are tucked in under mulch, compost and snow, letting winter weather do its slow and steady work. This is the season for feeding the soil and trusting the process.
As soon as the snow and ice melt enough, I will be out pruning fruit trees and berry canes while they rest, checking on overwintered herbs, and leaving seed heads standing for the birds. The bees are doing what bees do best this time of year, staying cozy and conserving their strength, so I keep my visits brief, respectful and only if it is sunny and above 50°.
Inside, there is seed sorting, garden mapping, tool sharpening, and a fair amount of dreaming. Notes from last season are spread across the table, and spring is already taking shape one thoughtful choice at a time.
It may not look busy from the outside, but January is full of quiet preparation. Everything is getting ready.
Happy Gardening,
Rachael Lieck Bryce
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