Stillness in the Garden

Photo by Mary Sirgo

By Mary Sirgo, Permian Basin Master Gardeners

As nightfall creeps in earlier and the air begins to cool, we may notice that just as nature slows down, so do our own energy levels. The pace of the year begins to shift as holiday gatherings approach, followed by winter festivities and soon enough, the pressure of New Year’s resolutions. Perhaps this year, we might take a cue from our gardens. Instead of pushing forward into another round of goals and growth, we can choose to spend this time in quiet reflection.

The most seasoned gardeners will tell you that gardening is not about constant, exponential growth. It is about honoring cycles, recognizing the rhythm of renewal and rest, and cultivating an intentional relationship with the plant life we steward. According to UT Health Austin, gardening offers multiple health benefits, including improved cognitive function, emotional balance, and a strengthened immune system. These benefits do not disappear with the first frost. In fact, they may become even more meaningful in winter when shorter days can challenge our mental and physical well-being.

Interestingly, studies have shown that cooler weather can enhance cognition by reducing inflammation and improving our ability to retain new information. That makes winter an ideal season to stay connected to your garden through reflection, observation, and planning.

So, what does it look like to garden through stillness?

Begin with a moment of honesty and curiosity. Look back on your garden’s year and ask what thrived and what surprised you. Make notes about the plants that brought you joy or proved resilient in tough conditions. Jot down lessons learned and plans for spring. This inventory helps you stay connected to the land while setting thoughtful goals for the next season.

Winter is a great time to care for the soil that sustains everything else. Add a layer of mulch to protect roots from freeze and thaw cycles. Perform a simple soil test to understand what your plants will need next year. These slow, grounding tasks mirror the quiet work happening beneath the surface where microbes and roots continue preparing for renewal.

Even when outdoor gardens rest, there are small ways to keep your hands in the soil. Start an indoor herb garden with parsley, thyme, or mint to brighten winter soups and bring brightness to your kitchen. Or simply keep a garden journal nearby to sketch, dream, and plan.

The cold seasons are a time for both you and your garden to rest. Periods of reflection and restoration are just as vital as times of growth and expansion. As you look back on the successes and challenges of your warm-season garden and begin to ponder what comes next, give yourself permission to slow down, pause, and appreciate the stillness. It doesn’t last long.

If you have questions, call the AgriLife office in Odessa at 498-4071 or in Midland at 686-4700. Additional information, and our blog for access to past articles, is available at westtexasgardening.org. Click on “Resources.”