March Garden Journal
Nectarine flowering in our orchard.
This month, we celebrate the arrival of the spring equinox on March 20th. As the balance of light and darkness shifts, nature stirs from its winter slumber. The birds are singing, solitary bees are taking flight, and spring-blooming trees are bursting into vibrant flower. This surge of energy in the garden fills us with excitement and a sense of urgency as we sow seeds for summer crops such at tomato, basil, squash, and cucumber in the greenhouse and plant out our perennial natives and herbs, such as downy wood mint, green-headed coneflower, sage, and oregano.
Our overwintered crops—kale, mustard, carrots, lettuce, and Brussels sprouts—are reaching their full potential, rewarding our patience through the slower growth of winter. These crops are harvested and shared with the community through the Durham Community Fridges, nourishing our neighbors. As daily harvests create space in the garden, we continue to interplant and succession sow to ensure a steady, bountiful harvest.
American Robin nestled among the fresh aster growth.
We stand on the threshold of abundance as we move through spring and into summer. In this season of vernal ponds, ephemeral flowers, and migrating birds, we are reminded that all things are impermanent. Change is inevitable. Even after the scarcity and harshness of winter, we will always find moments of beauty and renewal in nature—if we simply take the time to look.
As we work in the garden, we do so with an eye toward supporting our wider community through the sharing of plants and knowledge. Our plants are chosen not only for their productivity but also for their cultural heritage. Among these are Aztec marigolds, Turkish poppies, African garden huckleberry, Cherokee Trail of Tears beans, and amaranth from Central and South America—each carrying with them stories of resilience, tradition, and the wisdom of generations. We hope our community will see their own heritage reflected in these plantings, sparking conversations and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared connections to the land and each other. This is a hopeful time, one that invites us to act with intention. We know that building a secure and thriving future requires diligent work and care, for it is through this collective effort that we will nurture a world of lasting abundance.
Today, light and darkness stand in equal measure. Yet tomorrow, we celebrate the triumphant return of the sun as the days lengthen and warm.
We invite you to come enjoy this season of renewal and possibility in the garden.