Garden's Letter to Spring: a fall gardening journal

As snow begins to blanket our city and our garden beds settle under a delicate frost, darkness falls sooner than expected, and we enter the quiet of winter. Even as we close this chapter and our gardens ease into hibernation, they still have plenty to say.

Once the fallen leaves are where I want them, the last weeds politely escorted out, and the spent foliage trimmed back, my energy is nearly spent. But I can be carried by the momentum through one final task—one that pays dividends: a seasonal reflection.

With a view through my mind’s eye, I picture my garden's progression through the season and take a few moments to jot down what worked, what didn’t, and what I hope to try next year. This simple journaling act feels like a letter from my Fall Garden to my Spring Self—filled with reminders I’ll be glad to have when the busy season returns.

Gardening in Calgary is fast-paced, with spring pushing us to dive in and make the most of a fleeting season. As the season begins, we’re like sprinters at the starting line, eager to keep up. But in those early days, every moment spent deciding or rethinking can feel like time lost. That’s where a few reflective notes now can make all the difference. Your garden will understand if you can’t get to everything right away, but a bit of planning in the quiet of fall can set you up to flow right into spring, feeling prepared and connected.

If you have a few minutes in the next couple of weeks, consider creating your own “letter to Spring.” See if any of these prompts resonate:

• What were some wins, what gave me joy? A container I loved? Finally nailing the proper watering for that tricky spot?

• What were some challenges and pitfalls? What frustrations did I face that I’d rather not repeat?

• What practical improvements have I made or can make now? Will staking this plant in June instead of July make all the difference? Does something need more sun next year and I have the perfect new spot for it?

• What little reminders am I "sure I'll remember" (but secretly know I might not)?

When we open these 'letters' in spring, we reconnect with our garden’s rhythm and with our own hopes and plans. We step into the season feeling grounded and ready to channel that burst of energy into early progress. So, as winter settles in around you, take a moment to jot down whatever’s on your mind. Your spring self will thank you.