No Fooling April!

Posted on March 31, 2026 by shobha

April begins tomorrow. The first Quarter of 2026 has been rather challenging for certain. At this point, with everything going on in the world, I can’t take any additional foolery. Good humor and fun certainly but nothing else. Let’s just put our best efforts towards creating a better, healthier, sustainable environment for all. Lift each other up with kindness, compassion and empathy. Peace in every which way.

One step in that direction is of course in our gardens. Let’s get cracking!

What To-Do In April –

1. Time to restart the compost pile! Give it a good stir and add fresh compostables. If you don’t have a composter, please do make or buy one.

2. Clean up all winter debris.

3. Can you believe weed patrol begins now? Look carefully, some weeds are already emerging! Be regular about it and you will always be on top of this chore.

4. Seedlings started indoors can be planted out once the soil has warmed up and has been well prepared for planting. Stay vigilant for spells of late frost. Keep cloches and fleece covers at hand.

5. Attend to the lawn. De- thatch, aerate, reseed and finally, fertilize with a good layer of compost. Do give serious consideration to reducing the size of your lawn.

6. Similarly, feed trees, shrubs and all garden beds with compost.

7. Remove burlap and other protection from plants and pots.

8. Divide overgrown perennials. Check that the soil is fully thawed first!

9. Plant summer-flowering bulbs.

10. Remove any dead, damaged or diseased stems/branches from roses, other shrubs and trees.

11. Start using an organic control to put off slugs and snails. I’m going to lay a ribbon of copper mesh around the vegetable bed. Fingers crossed!

12. Clean out birdhouses. Wear a mask and gloves when doing so.

123 Put out nesting material such as pure wool, moss, cotton string, shredded paper, small twigs, feathers and hay for the birds.

14. Uncover the outdoor furniture and give them a good cleaning. Now you’re prepared for the first truly warm day!

15. Plant or move evergreen shrubs and conifers.

16. Get your tickets to the Lyndhurst Flower House event. Tickets sell out fast so don’t wait. I am participating in it once again – so excited!

17. Similarly, order your copy of the Open Days Directory and reserve tickets for the gardens you want to visit. Better yet, join the Garden Conservancy and the directory comes with membership. My garden is open May 9.

18. Take the time to revel in the beauty of the bulbs and early perennials in bloom. Enjoy the birdsong!

Spring up close –

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

Ain’t March Misbehavin?!

Posted on March 24, 2026 by shobha

March is arguably the month that misbehaves the most. We expect it to make up for the cold, harsh days of February and often, it starts off like it will. But then very quickly we learn this month likes to tease us with glimpses of Spring and then sock us with winter by way of steep dips in temperature, freezing rain and numbing winds. March seems to find mirth in our winter weakened condition. It’s not funny March!

I’ve taken advantage of the better days by doing assorted chores. Every little task I get done is one I can tick off on the very long to-do list of Spring chores. So far, I’ve picked up all the litter that was blown around and got buried under the snow. Why can’t folk close their garbage bags/cans securely? It’s quite unpleasant to retrieve used tissues, food wrappers and such.

The debris of fallen twigs and branches, matted leaves and other plant parts have been cleared and tossed on to the compost heap in the woods.

Having taken an inventory of what’s been damaged, needs repairing, replacing, repainting or replanting, work has begun. The mailbox that had been knocked off was put back in place, fence posts straightened, ornamental edgers straightened and aligned, broken pavers replaced. Much else on aforesaid list still remains.

Pruning has begun. The native wisteria and panicle hydrangea were taken care of yesterday. I hope to get to the roses, apple-pear espalier trees and the Concord grape this weekend.

The old leaves of the hellebores were cut away and discarded on the compost pile. It’s such fun to reveal the buds lying beneath. It won’t be long before they lift their heads and unfurl the petals to adorn the garden splendidly.

A task that was meant to get done last year was finally dealt with over this past weekend. I’d learned at a symposium at Untermyer Gardens in the fall of 2024 that a fence comprised of rows of marine grade fishing line between posts was proven to be an effective deer deterrent. I don’t recall which expert on the panel gave us that tip but he was the director of a large public garden. Apparently, the deer are spooked when they come in contact with the near invisible lines and flee. I’m very hopeful that this will prove to be the easy, inexpensive solution to the problem that plagues so many of us. Do give it a try if you are similarly troubled by marauding deer.

The spring window-boxes of daffodils and pansies are up as are several urns and pots around the garden. A witch hazel got planted as well.

The magnolia looks like it got walloped by the winter’s intense cold and enormous amounts of snow. Fingers crossed it will bounce back nicely. Meanwhile, I’ll give it some TLC and let it know that it is cherished and needed.

And just like that, the busy season has begun. Pure joy.

Happy Spring one and all!

Note: I am once again participating in the very popular annual Lyndhurst Flower House in April. Then, my garden is open through the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days Program in May. Mark your calendars! Get your tickets!

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

And The Award For Best Performance Goes To …

Posted on March 17, 2026 by shobha

the snowdrops! Emerging from a harsh winter ( I’m aware it’s not done yet!), starved for sightings of new and joyous growth, the clumps of shimmering snowdrops are glorious. I give props to the lemon-drop yellow winter aconites scattered like jewels as well. These ephemerals might be diminutive in stature but their parts are mighty in this moment. There are no small parts in a good garden. While some plants have their shining moments, it does not happen in isolation. A supporting cast is always responsible for it.

A garden at its best is a production of fine actors, great casting, creative design by way of color, texture, form and function, clever scripting that plays out seamlessly through the seasons, a dedicated director, producer and the set design, lighting etc., crews, background actors and stand-ins – a true ensemble presentation. Every element and detail matters equally. Admittedly, the humble gardener wears many hats.

As the gardener, I take my responsibilities very seriously. I want the gardening to be interesting and deliberate in creating something authentic that must take its place in the larger landscape without apology, It cannot overshadow or be overshadowed because it too is but a member of a production at a much grander scale. Just like a brilliant film, play, book, opera, ballet or symphony, I want my garden to entertain, educate, tell a fine story of life, love, loss and laughter. Timeless yet unique. It must speak to all. Then and only then will I know that I have played my part well.

That said, when I’m given praise for my garden looking beautiful, I feel quite the fraud. In the larger scheme of things, I play a small part. My efforts are mostly by the seat of my pants laced liberally with hope. When matters turn out as well or better than envisioned, I’m happily surprised. The garden looks good despite me. I’m beyond grateful for that.

What’s doing in the garden right now –

Inside the new greenhouse — The new greenhouse

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

Spring Up!

Posted on March 10, 2026 by shobha

A thaw is underway! Since last Friday, temperatures have been rising and so has my spirit. It’s 67 degrees as I write this article. Sunny and simply gorgeous. Patches of winter weary earth are visible; the dull green has never looked more pleasing to my eyes. Behold! Snowdrops are shyly, silently, ringing their sweet bells. The birds are filling the air with all manner of song – they too are just as ecstatic no doubt. The winter must have been so hard on the wildlife.

We’re being cautioned that the temperatures will be dropping to the 40’s by Thursday which is of course more in keeping with where it ought to be. I’m fine with that. I don’t want to hurry up spring but this little taste of what will be served in a month is positively delicious.

In fact, I’m burning up with garden fever because the snow melt is a not so subtle wake up call to get ready for the season. Once all the snow has disappeared a gardener will have to hit the soil running digging. And cleaning up, clearing, pruning, planting and yes, even weeding. I’m ordering up the new plants I will be planting this year, the sharpened tools are waiting for action, an inventory of pots, seeds and other supplies has been done/replenished, chores are being scheduled and I’m giddy with the excitement of getting my hands in the soil once again.

So fair warning if one has been dragging their feet on the to-do list in preparing for spring. Don’t waste any more time. Snap out of the winter stupor and get cracking. See how the snowdrops were properly ready to shine? They didn’t know the snow was going to melt two days ago but had been doing due diligence and anticipating exactly this possibility. Carpe Diem they say!

Don’t forget – My Open Garden Day is May 9!

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

March Tidings

Posted on March 3, 2026 by shobha

March

A petulant child

Tossing stormy days

Beaming sunny rays

Till Spring arrives to play

– Shobha Vanchiswar

Things To Do In March–

Cut some forsythia and pussy willow branches for indoor forcing. Place in water and keep in a cool place until the buds are swollen. Then move them to a location where they can be viewed as the blooms burst forth. A lovely prelude to spring.
As snow melts, start clean up process. Twigs and other debris can be removed. Protect the still wet areas of grass and beds by first placing cardboard or wood planks and stepping on those instead. They help distribute the weight better.
Later in the month, remove protective burlap and/or plastic wrappings and wind breaks.
Get tools sharpened. This includes the mower blades.
Commence indoor seed sowing. Begin with the early, cool weather crops. Read seed packet instructions and calculate dates for planting out.
Order plants that will be required for the garden as soon as the ground has warmed up. Let your local nursery know your needs – they will inform you know when shipments arrive.
As soon as possible, once snow is all gone and soil has thawed, spread compost on all the beds including the vegetable plot.
Finish pruning fruit trees, grape vines and roses early in the month.
Take an inventory and stock up on whatever is lacking. Soil, gloves, mulch, tools, water crystals, grass seed, pots, hoses etc.,
Survey the garden and see what needs replacing, repairing or painting. Schedule and do the needful.
Start bringing out or uncovering outdoor furniture. It’ll soon be time to linger outdoors!
Get Open Days directory from Garden Conservancy – www.gardenconservancy.org. Mark your calendars to visit beautiful gardens in your area. Come to my Open Day on May 9 between 10 am and 4 pm. I’m looking forward to seeing you!

Since we’re still under a couple of feet of snow, I’m sharing my watercolors of my garden in winter –

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

February (Nothing?) Doing

Posted on February 3, 2026 by shobha

February (Nothing?) Doing

With about 2 feet of snow deposited on us last week, I can only assume the garden is in cozy slumber under it. It’s been so crazy cold that not a creature is stirring. Including myself. Except for trudging forth to the greenhouse to check on how the residents are getting on, there doesn’t seem like there’s much else to do. Or is there?

February’s To-Do List –

(Much of the items in the January list are applicable here. Do check that list)

Stay on top of effects of snow and storms. Take quick action.
Keep bird feeders full. Whenever possible provide water.
Get garden plans and designs ready.
Check garden supplies. Does the hose need repair or replacing? Is there enough soil, organic fertilizer, twine, stakes etc.,? Make a list and do what is needed.
Towards the end of the month (assuming the snow has melted sufficiently to allow access), prune roses, wisteria, grape vines and fruit trees.
Cut back ivy on walls and fences before birds start nesting. Brightly colored stems of Salix and Cornus should be cut back to about 6 to 10 inches from ground. This will encourage brighter color next spring. Again, if there’s still too much snow on the ground to do this task this month, get to it as soon as you can.
Prepare for seed sowing. Get seed flats clean and ready. Check if there’s enough seed growing medium.
Order seeds. Once seeds arrive, write labels and clip to each pocket. This saves time later when there is so much else to do.
If there is not much snow, cut back old leaves on Hellebores. New growth and flowers will be emerging. Cut back other perennials that were skipped in autumn.
Attend to indoor plants.
The New York Botanical Garden’s annual orchid show opens this month. Do reserve your tickets and go! It’ll banish winter blues and get you motivated.
Renew ( or join) your membership to the Garden Conservancy. Place your order for the Open Days directory. Once you receive it you can start scheduling visits to beautiful gardens near and far. Inspiration is only a garden visit away!

A little trivia – Freezing rain and partial thaws create a thin layer of ice that fuses with soil, leaves, twigs and such to create a glassy coating that reflects and refracts in the sunlight. Resembling enameled jewelry, this icy marvel is called ‘ammil’– an Old English word for enamel. What a charming word,

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

Just January

Posted on January 5, 2026 by shobha

January carries the weight of our collective hopes, resolves and promises. We expect this month to set us up to be and do better. That’s a lot of pressure to put on it!

On my part, I’m planning on spend some time this month honestly examining my performance as a gardener this past year, what worked and what did not, and how I want to move forward this year. We expect so much from our gardens that it behooves us to regularly question our intentions and goals. As I’ve stated often, my abiding tenet is To do no harm. I am privileged to be the custodian of a tiny part of this precious and beautiful Earth and I take the responsibility very seriously. Particularly right now when we are confronting climate change and so many environmental crises.

Rest assured I will be sharing my thoughts and plans in the months ahead. I hope you too will return the favor. After all, we are in this together and together we can make powerful, positive things happen.

Lest one things there isn’t any other work to do this month, here is the list –

Things To Do In January

Survey the garden after every storm or snowfall. If any damage such as broken branches or torn off protection has occurred, try to fix it as soon as possible. Likewise, large icicles hanging from roof edges pose a threat to plants below: shield the plants if the icicles cannot be removed.
Take down holiday decorations. Before disposing off the Christmas tree, cut branches to spread as mulch on flower beds.
Keep bird feeders full. Whenever possible, keep water available for the birds.
Inspect stored tubers, corms and bulbs for signs of mold and rot. Get rid of any that don’t look healthy.
This is a good time to examine the ‘bones’ of the garden. Make notes of what needs developing, changing or improving.
Make icy paths safe by sprinkling sand or grit. Avoid salt and/or toxic de-icing products.
If ground is wet/soggy, take care to protect the sodden areas by not walking on it too much. Better yet, protect it by putting down a temporary path of wood planks.
Take an inventory of garden tools. Get them repaired, replaced or sharpened.
Gather up seed and plant catalogs. Start planning for the coming season.
Begin forcing the bulbs kept cool since late fall. Time to start an indoor spring!
Keep an eye on indoor plants ( in the house or greenhouse). Inspect carefully for signs of pests or disease. Act right away if either is detected. Organic practices only please.
Still on indoor plants: water as needed, rotate for uniform light exposure, fertilize every two to four weeks. Remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Enjoy the respite offered by this cold month.

I’m traveling to India next week as I have to do the necessaries regarding my father’s personal effects and estate. I know it’ll be a time fraught with emotions and memories so I will not be posting anything till February. I so look forward to reconnecting with you.

Here are 12 images (in reverse order) from each month of 2025. 11 from my garden and 1 from vacation –

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

Looking Forward

Posted on December 30, 2025 by shobha

In 2 days we bid farewell to 2025. In doing so, we look back to the year that was and look ahead to the year we hope it will be. As I examine 2025 from a gardener’s perspective, it is apparent that the garden experienced 2 distinct periods of attention.

For the first 6 months it got by with the bare minimum of care. Thanks to work done the Fall of 2024, the Spring did not suffer too much. The bulbs rallied splendidly and my negligence was somewhat obscured. But neglect I did. Albeit with good reason. The year had started with the untimely loss of 2 dear friends and through the winter my grief distracted me from the routine planning and preparing for the start of the growing season. And then, as I slowly began getting into the rhythm of vernal duties, my beloved father passed away. That hit hard. While I found solace in the garden, doing the necessary work was all I could muster. None of the plans I’d considered months earlier were accomplished. My heart just wasn’t in it.

Then, sometime in July, as I walked around the garden, quite unconsciously, I started making mental notes about things I thought needed improvement, required drastic changes or, more of the same. I returned indoors inspired and excited to get cracking. Suddenly, lists were made, research initiated, plans drawn up – the gardening juices were once again flowing in my veins. Hallelujah.

I’ve spent the rest of the year happily busy and excited in the garden in a manner that reminded me why I love gardening so much. Life in the garden teaches hope, patience, acceptance, understanding, cooperation, coexistence, resilience and forgiveness.

I’m immensely grateful for the lessons.

I am deeply aware of the privilege of having this plot of earth to tend and protect. It is not lost on me that the garden reciprocates in exactly the same way. We encourage each other to keep showing up and we grow together. That’s what life is all about.

Wishing each and everyone of you a very happy, healthy 2026.

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

Season’s Greetings One And All!

Posted on December 22, 2025 by shobha

I’m taking the week off to enjoy friends, family and festivities. I hope you will be doing the same. Wishing everyone a warm, joyous week.

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

Leaning Into The Light

Posted on December 16, 2025 by shobha

It cannot go unaddressed – the spirit of the season is unmistakably uneasy right now. So much discontent, discord and despair everywhere that it would be delusional to say all is well in the world. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, fearful and frustrated has become our default setting these days. It’s easy to find company in this state of misery. While the commercials urge us to shop our hearts out and party hearty, it’s pretty much impossible to ignore the news and reality of our time.

For me personally, it is a struggle to push ahead and plan for festivities with the full knowledge that there are horrible things going on. Rather than succumb to aforementioned external pressures, I unhesitatingly take a step back to regroup my thoughts and intentions. It isn’t easy to be calm and still in the midst of chaos and turbulence. However, we know better don’t we? We are fully aware that there is indeed a time tested remedy to soothe our frazzled nerves, cool our tempers and heal our hearts. Get outside and spend time in Nature.

Never mind the sub-zero temperatures – I bundle up and take a walk. The rhythmic crackle of my feet shattering the crust of snow makes a chatty, comfortable companion. Draped in crystal, the trees along my path dazzle in the sunlight. Encased in ice the floating leaves on the small pond glint like finely enameled jewelry. Such breathtaking beauty!

A flash of red grabs my attention and I observe a pair of cardinals in a hedge. How effortlessly they move through the thickly enmeshed limbs of privet and bramble. I make a mental note to return to this area later in the spring to do some “nesting” – where I can discover the nests of certain birds. Only to observe; never to touch or intrude.

Closer to home, I examine the magnolia buds warmly clad in soft fuzz and their promise of a beautiful spring warms my heart. I know the bulbs I planted in the Fall are resting quietly in the earth, insulated by the snow – they don’t care what’s happening above. For now, they lie patiently and with optimism.

So engrossed in my surroundings, I lose all track of time till I’m made aware of a shift in light. The snow is glowing in hues of pink and lavender. The sun, unfazed by earthy concerns and crises is setting with great flair and aplomb. Bewitching.

Returning home full of joy and inspiration, I’m determined to set my mind on only what truly matters to me, gives me purpose, brings me joy. That resolve will be reaffirmed anew each day with a daily walk and, with the return of Spring, work in the garden.

My covenant with Nature is what will guide me to do my part in making a positive impact in this planet we call Home.

[do_widget “Blog Subscriptions (Jetpack)”]

Seeds of Design

by Shobha Vanchiswar

Category Archives: Seasons Greetings

No Fooling April!

Like this:

Ain’t March Misbehavin?!

Like this:

And The Award For Best Performance Goes To …

Like this:

Spring Up!

Like this:

March Tidings

Like this:

February (Nothing?) Doing

Like this:

Just January

Like this:

Looking Forward

Like this:

Season’s Greetings One And All!

Like this:

Leaning Into The Light

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this: