My Garden

My garden before its renovation in June 2021

“I can’t remember what I sowed last year”,

said the novice gardener in spring.

“The earth seems to be waking up,

unfolding new growth from the soil.

Now that March is here!”

“Be patient, said the earth.

Give me time to unfold.

Keep an eye on me, let me grow,

and soon I shall surprise you,

reminding you of your efforts last fall,

“I know you struggle with my horticultural names,

and your pitiful labels,

well, they seem to have vanished in the rain,

But I promise you, I shall grow.

Because you have nurtured me,

fed me,

and from my slumber,

I shall rise and surprise you!”

“Ah, patience, you say!”

said the novice gardener to the earth.

“It’s a lesson I’m still trying to learn.

You know my impatient temperament,

I like to be on time, and hate waiting.

The virtue of patience I often overlook!”

“Oh, but fear not!” said the earth.

“I shall be on time.

I shall grow and multiply.

Every month, you shall see new life,

but not in unison.

Some of us will emerge early,

as the days grow warmer and longer.

Others will wait their turn,

peaking when the time is right,

bringing you joy in their own time.

“And as we surface and unfold,

look closely.

Be sure to see us

when you say hello!”

“Ah!” said the novice gardener,

“You are my garden, that’s for sure.

You are my earth, my shrubs, my trees,

my annuals, my perennials, my herbs

my vegetables, my plants!

“And with a mug of tea in hand,

I’ll be outside in my back garden,

watching and waiting,

You have a lot to teach

And I have a lot to learn!”

Written for Herts NGS Instagram Post March 5th 2025