SUNLIGHT
Recent research helps to explain why some people feel lethargic and ’blue’ during the winter months. It is the lower levels of Serotonin that causes these irregularities. Researchers have shown that during the months when there is less sunshine, there are lower levels of mood elevating serotonin in the synapses between the brain cells. Depression is thought to be associated with reduced serotonin in the synapses (Archives of General Psychiatry 11-08). To help produce more serotonin, we should make every effort to get outside on sunny days and take advantage of the natural ways that help our body produce these feel good chemicals.

CROCUS
One of the signs of spring are the emergence of the Crocus bulbs. We may start to see the flowers of the bulb emerge from the ground and begin to bloom around Valentines Day. The bulb derives it’s name from the autumn flowering saffron crocus ‘Krokos’. This is the Greek name for the bulb. It is the saffron flowering bulb that traces its roots back to ancient times.

ROSES
We think of red roses as the flowers to give on Valentines Day. However, other colors may mean more. Yellow roses mean friendship and joy. Purple signifies love at first sight. Pink expresses gratitude and orange signals desire.

GROUNDHOG DAY
Feb. 2nd is known as the date when a famous groundhog emerges to see his shadow. The days are getting longer and hibernating animals begin to stir in their underground nests. Groundhog day has evolved from the German holiday of Badger Day. When German emigrants came to America, there was a lack of badgers and the groundhog was adopted to continue the tradition. Feb. 2nd marks the mid point between the shortest day of the year and the first day of spring. We start to see other signs of spring, such as crocus, daffodil and other bulbs starting to emerge. These signs bring us hope that spring is close at hand.

“With a garden, there is hope” – Grace Firth

DIVERSITY
When we plant a single species we foster monocultures. A lawn, apple orchard, cornfield or a rose garden are all examples. The problem with monocultures is that they are vulnerable to invasion from pests and disease. Mixed planting or polyculture reduces the risk that organisms can destroy a crop or wipe out a row of trees. Consider planting a variety of any species. Think about trying some of the older, heirloom, varieties of plants in your garden this year. Maybe you can start to remove some of the lawn and replace it with indigenous shrubs and perennials that are attractive to birds and butterflies.

SPRING BLOOMS
Spring flowering trees bring delight to our garden as we revel in their colors and fragrance. These special ornamental trees can also be used to feed the animals and attract pollinators. The colors of Flowering Dogwood are a welcome sight in spring and the trees make great nesting sites for birds in the fall. Fringe Tree offer feathery flowers and the female produce small fruits which the birds will enjoy. Sassafras produces clusters of tiny yellow flowers in the spring and great fall color. The fruits have a high fat content that is welcome food for birds.

FORCING BLOOMS
If you cannot wait for the flowering trees to begin to bloom, you can move the color indoors by cutting budding branches and forcing them into bloom. Branches from forsythia, quince, redbud and cherry trees are good examples to use for forcing. Cut branches 12 inches or longer and cut a slit in the end of each stem. Place the stems in a container of warm water. Be sure to add one tablespoon of beach. Keep the branches out of direct sun and in a cooler spot (60 degrees) until they bloom. Their colors will help remind us that spring is right around the corner.

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