Wherever we live, whatever climate we enjoy, each one of us can grow a plant. It could be an herb on a windowsill, lettuce in an old plastic tub, a cactus terrarium on a bookshelf, potted plants on a balcony, or a garden in a yard.
Soil is foundational to our existence. It is important that all of us learn how to conserve this precious resource. Whether or not we are aware of all that soil encompasses in our lives, we are all responsible for taking care of it.
The word inspire has two important meanings. The first is to breathe in, (inhale). This is of primary importance to living. Inhaling allows us to take in not only air, but also aromas. The second is to gain appreciation or become charged with wanting to do something like a task, hobby, sport, etc., or to learn something. I would like to bring forth both aspects in this blog.
Become inspired to support local small farmers by purchasing their products or even volunteering your skills and muscle. Help plant a tree or volunteer during a clean-up day. Take a walk in the woods and breathe in clean air while appreciating the forest floor & all the living organisms a healthy forest system supports. Learn how to create soil & stop throwing organic matter into landfills. Help harvest at vineyards, orchards, or a friends large garden. Join a community garden and meet new people while growing food. Create ways to conserve and capture precious water. Get your hands dirty & share the bounty of the fruits of the soil with others. Learn how to prune, graft, create root cuttings, lay in plants that will form roots, or sprout seeds……. Explore archeological sites and learn of the deep connection people had with the soil. Tour a farm, plant nursery, orchard, vineyard, a botanical garden or a living history village to appreciate that present day connection. Nurture your mind, body and soul by getting back to the basics of working in, and enjoying the wonders of, healthy soil.
