Nature is out there making all sorts of promises and I intend to hold her to them. I am not afraid of spring. I know what’s coming. My eyes are open and I’m ready for it.

Some might say that spring is – or at least ought to be – a gardener’s least favorite season. There’s too much to do and not enough daylight to do it. The possibilities are so endless that a gardener could conceivably become paralyzed with indecision and the coming season holds so much potential that we could easily feel overwhelmed.

Whatever.

I love spring the very best – always have. If it weren’t for spring, there would be no reason for summer, fall, and winter. What would be the point? Besides, is there anything better than the spring tease of new growth busting out? – Much sexier than the undressing of fall – though I love that the very best too. I know that the work through the next few months will be mentally and physically challenging at times and the hours long but I can honestly say that I’m looking forward to it.

The crocuses are up at Blithewold – look carefully and tread lightly – especially in the grassy vicinity of the Osage orange by the North Garden. Stinking hellebores (Helleborus foetidus) have started to open by the Moongate; tulip foliage tips have emerged (don’t tell the deer); and of course buds everywhere are swelling. The weekend forecast is for near 50°F and sunny. Spring is a promise. Bring it on.