As the holiday season it in full swing, the garden settles into its winter rest, It was just a couple short months ago the fields were overflowing with large colorful blooms and the sweet sent of roses filled the air. Those same fields are now covered in a sparkling bed of snow. The garden art has been wrapped up in burlap, and the yard furniture has been pulled in for storage. The garden looks different now, it’s quiet and peaceful. There is a calm across the long stretches of white.
Soon enough, we will shift our focus to the indoor activities as we plan for next seasons flower beds and planting the first of the seasons seeds. But first, we take a pause. This is our opportunity to slow down and recharge even if it is just for a few short weeks. With months of planting, pruning, harvesting, and nurturing, both the garden and the gardener are ready for a well-earned rest.
Embracing the Pause
Gardening is a rhythm of growth and rest, and winter naturally invites a pause where all of us on the farm take rest. The shorter days and cooler weather encourage reflection and restoration. We have come to understand that taking time to rest isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. This time allows our energy to be renewed. For me the pause allows my creativity to return, and enthusiasm for the next growing season to flourish.
This period of rest allows me to gather new inspiration and plan for the upcoming season. Some days that is a leisurely walk in the chilly air. Others it is cozying up by the fireplace scrolling through Pinterest to get an idea of the upcoming trends.
Perhaps my favorite is the time when I pull out my favorite coffee table books and old magazines to dream over the beautiful flowers and designs each one shares in page after page of artistic flair. Some of my favorite books and magazine
Magazines
in her garden | Stampington & Company | In Her Garden shares the stories and lives of women who are passionate about gardening and outdoor spaces.
Magnolia Journal | Magnolia | Most of us with an interest in home or garden know of Joanna Gaines. Her magazine offers inspirations in cooking, home, and words of affirmation. Her style has become iconic and easily recognized.
Books
The Flower Hunter | Lucy Hunter | Everything you want a coffee table book to be. This book is filled with page after page or beautiful floral inspiration, including materials and how to guides.
Planning for Renewal
As the holidays pass and the new year approaches, planning for the season begins. Careful consideration about next season’s garden begins to take shape, its about exploring new plant varieties, and sketching out the design for the upcoming seasons flower beds. In this time we are are pairing inspiration from the anticipated trends with the blooms and layout of the fields. This mindful preparation keeps a connection to the farm and its fields fresh without the physical demands of the growing season.
This year I am anticipating for neutral colors to be the focus with whites, blush, greens, and mauves being the favorite. I am seeing the trend for structured pieces and a shift from traditional centerpieces. I must say as a creative and floral artist, this is something I am looking forward to. I love the opportunity to step beyond the normal and create truly one-of-a-kind pieces.
A Season for Restoration
During this holiday season we will be engaged in celebration—it’s our favorite time of year. For us we take this queue from our gardens. Just as soil replenishes its nutrients in winter, taking time to rest ensures that energy and inspiration will return stronger than ever when spring bulbs arrive.
By embracing rest, reflection, and renewal, the transition from one gardening season to the next becomes not just a pause, but a meaningful part of our flower journey.