Getting Pruned
January 1, 2010
Getting pruned…..
Our gardens in the winter can be a reflection of how we perceive this season—either dormant or alive. In nature there seems to always be a purpose which leads to the next moment. When we attempt to understand the mysterious workings of divine design we become receptive to new ideas and vision.
Just before Christmas I watched on DVD an original Christmas musical play by the Global Change Theater Company called The God Child Came (you can watch the trailer at globalchangemusic.org/media/videos/1/43). As I was listening intently to the many meanings there came the scene where Mother Mary shared the following about her garden which she was tending in heaven:
You know, it takes a lot of work to maintain this garden. It doesn’t just grow itself, even here in heaven. Over time I have learned its ways. I know when to plant and when to prune, when to harvest and when to replenish the soil. Our souls are like precious flowers in Jesus’ garden. He tends to each one of us with care and the touch of a gentle gardener’s hand. He keeps us watered with truth, and warmed with the love of the Son. He even helps prune away the old debris to make room for new growth. The time and energy I put into this garden make it a special haven to enjoy. The Master gives the same care and attention to each one of us, hoping that we will follow his example, and make his garden a place of beauty, peace, and love.
Realizing that there is so much that needs tending in order to create such a garden, I was encouraged by the blessings of this season. Within its dormancy and the longest nights of the year, there is life that needs to be discovered and nurtured. The truth comes in many ways, and how we love our gardens each step of the way brings peace and manifests beauty.
So let’s prune in order to make room for new growth. Pruning is an art that also has function. Pruning an ornamental bush or tree allows you to direct new growth by keeping the branches that you like and removing the ones that are in the way. Pruning addresses the height and density of the specific plant. There are strengths and limitations of what a plant can offer, so you need to learn about it either by observation or study. Plants are often very forgiving and are flexible enough to allow new experiences. When I think of plants, I think of myself and how I would like to be formed and shaped by unseen hands. It’s as if we can sense our potentials and abilities just as we can sense each plant’s purpose as well.
Let’s look at the rosemary bush. It can grow very large with many branches going in all directions and will shape itself to the natural surroundings. After several years of growth it seems to slow down, apparently having reached its limit. Not much changes unless we take another look. If there is not enough light reaching it or if it has no protection from the elements, one can reduce the amount of branches and some of the length to create lots of air circulation. The energy from its roots will now go in a few directions which will bring lots of new growth. By removing some of its structure you are actually stimulating it to reshape itself in a new way. Feed it with good compost and mulch as well as regular deep watering. The rosemary will begin to stretch and grow, sharing the essence of being alive. When a plant feels that it is taken care of it will shine and bloom even more profusely. Don’t forget to use the fresh and dried leaves for cooking; and, there are many more uses including medicinal, teas and air fresheners.
In a way the rosemary bush is a mirror of us in life. Just think about it, and you will know how to shape this plant and many other plants. Even fruit trees, roses, grape vines and other perennials enjoy the personalized touch. It’s pruning time; and if you approach each plant with true insight, you will be blessed in the seasons to come.
You are always welcome to tour Avalon Organic Gardens, Farm and Ranch in Tumacacori. Call us at (520) 603-9932; email us at csa@avalongardens.org; visit our website at www.avalongardens.org, or come see us at our farm stand Saturdays from 11 a. m. to 1 p. m. in Tubac in the Plaza next to the Out of the Way Galleria. I look forward to meeting you.
Have a wonderful New Year, and may the many blessings seen and unseen help you and your garden. Tarenta Baldeschi
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