When the Rains Come

This was published in the February 27, 2020 edition of The Fish Wrap

Water seems like an essential, but otherwise simple and straightforward component to a successful garden. But it’s actually a super complex issue. Careers, religions and the survival of a people have depended on the timeliness of rain. Looking at the sky and praying for rain today ties us to our most ancient ancestors and reminds us of our dependence on nature. Water is one of the key elements that allow nature to work her magic to create life.

You don’t have to worry about water if a good rain comes when you need it. But without rain, gardeners turn to the municipal water supply. Have you ever noticed how happy and vital plants look after a good rain compared to how they look after a watering from the hose? Plants prefer water from the sky! If the soil is loose and spongy, the water can penetrate and a thriving microbial population helps capture and bind minerals in the water so they can be used by the plants. 

Water from the tap contains anti-microbials that make the water safe for drinking, but also kill the microbes that live in healthy soil. And hard water from the tap binds up nutrients so that they can’t be used. Unhealthy soil is compacted so that the water doesn’t penetrate, it just washes away the topsoil. And without healthy microbes, it takes some vital nutrients and minerals along with it.

Our food, planet and our bodies are mostly water. Water is the most basic and at the same time the most precious element of life. Regenerative farming practices support soil and water in singing their song together - water from the sky contains everything the soil needs and healthy soil is prepared to receive the blessing of a gentle spring shower. Looking forward to May flowers!