Not About the Now

“Now” there is a lot of chatter about sustainability. And that word “now” is why I’m concerned. Sustainability needs to be a focus beyond today and beyond right “now.”

 

We all lead busy lives. The pace to keep up with all the soccer matches, basketball games and wrestling tournaments barely allows us time to catch our breath. Making the most of today, the “now” takes almost all of our energy and attention. We become so involved in the present we often forget to plan for the future. I see sustainability as a way to look back, and remember those things that were truly a good part of our past, and to determine what steps we need to take in the present to bring those good things forward into our future and into our children’s future.

 

In celebrating our 60^th anniversary this year, we have been thinking a lot about our past, and how Al’s has sustained over the years. Looking back, it is easy to see the trail of “seeds” sown that have helped us grow into what we are today. Looking ahead, I wonder what steps we should take in the future to sustain the growth of Al’s Garden Centers and to instill in future generations the importance and joy of gardening.

 

Gardening is the practice of sustainability. By planting a row of raspberry canes, you are planting raspberries into your future. The raspberries you pick this year can become jam for next year. Gardening is rarely about the “now.” Gardening teaches us patience, anticipation, and excitement, as we wait for the seed we carefully planted into the soil to grow.  As it grows, we see the promise of the beauty it will share. 

 

At Al’s Garden Center, our future depends upon instilling the importance of gardening into generation after generation. We want to let everyone experience the beauty found in blooming color. We want to help communities see the longevity of what they plant today and what it can become tomorrow. And we’d like to share with families the rewards of growing their own fruits and vegetables. This season we hope to spark your gardening adventures.

 

It is spring and it is time for COLOR! I love color, and in Suspended Color we share our tips and tricks for creating our famous hanging baskets. If you need more color suggestions check out our Top Ten Premium Annual Picks for 2008. Plus, learn how the color blue can bring a little feng shui and balance to your garden in Garden Blues.

 

For those who like to do it themselves, we have a couple of great “how to” ideas, like how to rejuvenate your tired lawn, and how to create a water bubbler for your deck or patio.

 

We are delighted to have guest writer, Mike Darcy, garden expert and host of  “In the Garden with Mike Darcy” radio show, share his information on the impact of our carbon footprint in Breathe Deep. Mike shares what’s happening in our community to reduce our own footprint and how certain plants can help clean the air we breathe.   

 

Next to color, the second best thing that can come out of a garden is home grown tomatoes. We’ll show you how a small edible garden fed a neighborhood, and grew a community.

 

This spring, as you take those first steps back into the garden, take a minute to recall some of your favorite garden memories and the truly good things the garden brings to you.  Consider what you might plant today to sustain a future tomorrow.

 

Happy gardening,

Jack