- Author: Rho Yare
Yes, I realize that this past year has been, to put it mildly, a little out of the ordinary in many aspects. We have been for good reason a little pre-occupied with international, national, and of course local news. Besides concern for family, health, job security, and having enough toilet paper to “weather this current storm,” many in our population are witnessing the unbelievable: changes in spring training, changes in hockey games, changes in a favorite high school sport activity, and of course the massive changes in men's and women's NCAA basketball tournament. Which for many years has been monikered as “MARCH MADNESS.”
Seasons and the changes that appear have been celebrated for as long as our ancestors have wandered the earth. These people recognized that at certain times of the year the sun (our natural day/night clock) would appear at certain locations. Today most of us only know these important life and light changing dates because of our calendars or that perky news anchor announces that the season change is coming. Well, it occurred recently. We went from winter to spring. Did you see it?
Perhaps you might think about walking in your neighborhood. Many of us have been relegated to stay in one location, but still allowed to roam the streets using “social distancing.” Notice the yards with flowers that are blooming. The magnolia tree in my front garden bloomed a few weeks ago and the huge purple and white blossoms have dropped replaced by foliage. That is a miracle to me. I was pacing near my home (not a big fan of this stay place business) and saw irises, lilac, evergreen pear all in magnificent colors that only can be found in nature.
And if you have questions about plants in your neighborhood or seeds you wish plant the Master Gardeners of Stanislaus County are here to assist. We can be reached by phone or email and it is a free, non-judgmental service. Join us in celebrating the return of spring. Right now, we all need something to celebrate after our long, often difficult past year.
The UCCE Master Gardener's answer the Help Line Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Other days and times, leave a message and we will return your call within two business days. (209) 525-6802. Or, fill out our survey to be contacted by email: http://ucanr.edu/ask/ucmgstanislaus
Note: these services are available for Stanislaus residents only. For other California counties, visit our map at http://mg.ucanr.edu/FindUs/ to find your local program.