A new year brings new hopes and plans. For many it is a fresh start – an opportunity to do over, make change or turn a new leaf. I’ve never been one to make resolutions per se but have instead aimed to do better. To work on improving myself wherever I’ve fallen short of my own expectations. Over the years I’ve learned it’s important to get more specific about it.

For instance, I love books and used to be a voracious reader. However, in recent years the time devoted to reading had diminished to the point that it really bothered me. And every year I’d say I’d read more – a couple of books or more every month. As easy as that seemed, I’m embarrassed to admit that with everything else taking up my time, I was lucky if it was a book a month. Until I hit upon the solution most suited for me. Instead of thinking reading was to be done when I had free time or at the end of the day, I now read first thing in the morning. For at least 30 minutes I indulge my love of reading – guilt free. Then, whenever some time frees up, I might read some more. This is usually more serious/non-fiction reading. At night, I read a few pages of something lighter before sleep takes over. As a result, I’m reading more and feeling so much better about myself. Simple personalized tweaking.

Similarly, in the garden, there are many chores that get done regularly but almost without attention or mindfulness. It’s great to tick off items on the to-do list but all too often they don’t get done as well as they ought nor with the application of better, more current information and sensibilities. We can do so much better. And that’s what I hope to bring to attention from here on. While a general list of what needs doing each month will be presented, we will consider what and how we can improve on some things. I hope you too will share your thoughts and ideas. #bettertogether !

And that’s what I’ve resolved. Who’s on board?

What to do in January –

1. 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.
2. Take down holiday decorations. Before disposing off the Christmas tree, cut branches to spread as mulch on flower beds.
3. Keep bird feeders full. Whenever possible, have water available for the birds.
4. Inspect stored tubers, corms and bulbs for signs of mold and rot. Get rid of any that don’t look healthy.
5. This is a good time to examine the ‘bones’ of the garden. Make notes of what needs developing, changing or improving.
6. Make icy paths safe by sprinkling sand or grit. Avoid toxic de-icing products.
7. 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.
8. Take an inventory of garden tools. Get them repaired, replaced or sharpened.
9. Gather up seed and plant catalogs. Start planning for the coming season.
10. Begin forcing the bulbs kept cool since late fall. Time to start an indoor spring!
11. 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.
12. Still on indoor plants: water as needed, rotate for uniform light exposure, fertilize every two to four weeks. Remove dead or yellowing leaves.
13. Enjoy the respite offered by this cold month. Busy season will be here soon enough.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, productive 2025

With the garden asleep I hope you enjoy the sampling of my black and white watercolors of flowers –

(c) 2025 Shobha Vanchiswar

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