Gardener As Guardian, Scientist, Mystic And Artist

Gardening is often credited with being a mode of exercise, an opportunity for fresh air and fresh vegetables, and can build community.

By Sarah Joplin
Published on December 9, 2021
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by Sarah Joplin

Picking beans the other day in the garden, the wind picked up ever so slightly as a light mist began to fall. This might have been the moment when those sunbathing or picnicking, easily enjoying the outdoors, would reach for their towel or umbrella and head indoors. Rather, as I stood enjoying the mist, facets of my gardening-self seemed to take hold.

My breath slowed and senses heightened to the natural world around me, no longer was I simply undertaking the task of harvesting ripe beans, but being lulled into deeper or higher realms by the shifting winds and airborne waters. With skin moistened by the drifting drops and lungs filled with humidified air, time slipped away as the grey skies held me suspended with my brethren the beans, vines and leaves. We all drank in the water and were freshened by such a delicious, ephemeral gift from above.

Gardening is often credited with being a mode of exercise, an opportunity for fresh air and fresh vegetables. It can be a method of building community. Its attributes are myriad and equally varied. Some, however, are not as conspicuous until you fully engage in the process.

person wearing gloves planting a sweet potato plant in soil

Guardian

As a gardener, you become the front line of protection for your vigorous but fragile plants. You are, in effect, their guardian. Vigilant observation is vital for the plants to survive much less thrive. Among other things, you are tasked with knowing when the plants need water and when you become keenly attuned to your garden, there is no need to touch the soil to determine its moisture content. The plants’ fullness and color will tell you if, when and how much water is needed.

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