Cultivating Thankfulness

Written By: Debby Hall | Issue: November 2024

As we move into November, a time traditionally associated with gratitude, I’m in a bit of a reflective mood. I think about the many pleasures, and admittedly some pain, I get from gardening and how rewarding it is to commune with nature all year long. Here are some ways to cultivate thankfulness in your garden this season:

Harvest and Reflection

Take time to appreciate the fruits of your labor. Whether it’s vegetables, herbs, or flowers, each harvest is a reminder of the effort you put into nurturing your garden. I like the idea of keeping a gratitude journal to jot down what you’re thankful for. I think I’ll name mine “Lessons From My Garden”. Trust me, there have been many with more to come!

Seasonal Changes

Embrace the beauty of the changing seasons. Take a walk through your garden or around town to observe the unique colors, textures, and scents of late autumn. One of my favorite sights is watching the wildlife prepare for winter. It’s worth a moment to reflect on how each season contributes to the cycle of life in your garden.

Nurturing Wildlife

Appreciate the role that wildlife plays in your garden. Create spaces for birds, bees, and essential insects, I’ve come to appreciate how these creatures benefit us. Think about installing bird feeders or houses to enhance your garden’s ecosystem and enjoy watching these creatures as they foster a sense of connection to nature.

Garden Gatherings

Host a small gathering in your garden with friends or family to celebrate the season. There is nothing better to me than sitting around a firepit or outdoor fireplace sharing food and stories. It deepens our connections to this amazing place we call home.

Creating a Gratitude Corner

Have you ever thought of designating a small area of your garden as a “gratitude corner.” You fill it with plants that hold special meaning for you or remind you of loved ones. As corny as it may sound to some, I have several plants I have moved with me from house to house because they were from different family members and friends.

Mindful Gardening

Practice mindfulness while tending to your garden. Take moments to breathe deeply, observe the details of plants, and appreciate the process of the changing season. Fall is about the end of a season of growth and introduction to a season of rest. I like to think of it as putting your garden to bed, tucking it in with mulch and a nice clean up so it can sleep through the winter.

End-of-Season Maintenance

As you prepare your garden for winter, reflect on what worked well this year and what you’d like to improve. Express gratitude for the lessons learned and set intentions for the coming growing season. I like to take pictures of what worked and what didn’t so I remember when spring rolls around. After all, this is as much a learning process for me as it is a journey!

Giving Back

Consider sharing plants with friends. I love to walk around my yard and point out where some of my plants came from. There is a certain happiness I feel knowing my plants came from friends who cared enough about me to share something special they love. This act of giving is one of the things I love about gardeners. By doing this, friendships are strengthened and new bonds are formed. What could be better than that?

Thankfulness in the garden goes beyond mere appreciation; it’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of life, nature, and community. As you cultivate your garden this November, take time to reflect on what you’re grateful for, and let that gratitude inspire your gardening practices and beyond.

Happy Gardening!