Welcome Spring: The Spring Equinox

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Mar 12, 2002

Looking out my window, as I write these words, and watching the snow fall for the fifth straight day, it is difficult to believe that the Vernal Equinox is almost here. The Equinox or Ostara signals the arrival of Spring in the North. The Sun rises to ascendance in the sky, and the northern hemisphere turns green. For a few delightful weeks, we experience long sunny days and can enjoy the spectacle of Life being reborn.

It is a time to celebrate the eternal dance. The continual turning of the Wheel of Life heralds another season. A season where we can participate in the endless interaction that is Life, as we plan and plant our gardens.

Here in Thunder Bay, it is the time to start seeds and begin the process that brings both flowers and food to our homes. The seeds and plants have been ordered and our garden plans draw. As we watch the seedlings sprout, we will revise those carefully drawn plans and consider what other purchases we will make once the plant nurseries open. This event, the opening of the nurseries, is still 2 months away but so is the day when we can put the hardiest seeds into the Earth. Beans and other plants, which are dependent upon warm soil, must wait, until the danger of the last frost has passed. This date coincides with the June new moon, although I must admit, I usually plant a few days before that. Because I do plant early, I have a row cover handy and pay close attention to frost warnings until at least a day or so pass the new moon. This is the behaviour I return to at the season's end while waiting for the tomatoes to ripen and one final bean crop.

I like to incorporate the starting of seeds with our celebrations for the Equinox. Seeds hold Life's beginnings. Our food supply system depends upon their ability to renew each year. Our role as gardeners is to nurture that process. We are stewards to the seed and soil. We are responsible for their care and growth. If we follow the seasons and learn that Life is indeed a celebration then we can carry out our allotted tasks, in ways that are as meaningful, as they are joyful.

Bob Ewing, Permaculture Design

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