Back in October, even while the hardy raspberries, onions, and potatoes were still providing their goodness, we cleaned out a section of the garden and planted garlic for next summer’s harvest. Garlic is one of those vernalization-type crops, meaning it needs a cold season of rest before starting its growth in spring. We planted individual cloves, saved from the previous harvest, and tucked them in with dried grass clippings and fallen leaves. Sleep tight, I said to them, mindful of the fact that I was starting next year’s garden while still harvesting from this year’s.
Isn’t it interesting how the decomposition of autumn provides a nutrient-rich insulation for seeds, roots, and hibernating animals against the cold harshness of winter? The synergy of nature can only be attributed to a brilliant creator.
These days the warm colors of autumn have been replaced with cool whites, blues and grays. My garlic is now covered in a stillness of snow. The hours of sunlight are shortened and my garden appears fallow. But “appears” is the operative word here. In reality, life in my garden continues. Deep down, the garlic is patiently waiting and renewing its strength.
Let’s take these thoughts over to the design world. If you’re into color trends, you may have noticed the color experts at Pantone recently announced Cloud Dancer as its 2026 Color of the Year. It’s described as a billowy white that offers a “whisper of tranquility and peace in a noisy world.” Oh, that sounds lovely ( I always admire Pantone’s copywriters:-). Maybe, if we stretch our imaginations, we could say Cloud Dancer mirrors the snow we’ve had here in the Midwest. Personally, I think we could, it’s been just that beautiful. And yes, if we let it, calming our hearts in nature can bring renewal as we hunker down for the winter.
Happy Winter Solstice everyone!