As the end of November grows near, and winter's first month is about to start, Fall's gorgeous colors have landed on roadsides, and carpeted lawns, sidewalks, forest floors and high streets all over Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the rest of the northeastern states. Though ornamental grasses are still looking lovely right now, the general state of our gardens is very different than a month or two ago. Freezing overnight temperatures, rain, and windy conditions have combined with the waning heat and lower level of the sun to change our landscape view considerably. Only the most persistent annuals like verbena and petunias are still clinging to life, while impatiens stems turned dark, leafless and jelly-like weeks ago.
Aside from blowing or raking leaves, most garden owners have done no other type of gardening in their yards during November. Some have planted to provide late color, with favorites such as chrysanthemums and pansies.. When the wind chills are in the forties, though, many people's interest in gardening drops to zero.
But avid gardeners miss being able to at least putter in the garden. Well, it's never too late in the season to grow indoors! Even those with just one windowsill that will hold a flower pot can enjoy watching plants grow, while gaining healthy benefits, all winter long. During the months when it's too cold and uninviting to garden outdoors, we can have fun growing our own edible, delicious and nutrition-packed sprouts all winter long. We can keep our gardening interest alive, while giving ourselves a health boost all winter long.
The practice of growing and eating sprouting seeds has been followed for centuries in China and many other parts of the world. Recent studies continue to confirm their rich nutritional qualities including antioxidant levels noticeably greater than full grown produce.
Two sources for ordering seeds to sprout at home can be found at:
Note: Sprouting seed kits make great gifts.
One website that provides a lot of helpful information about the types of seeds that sprout best, the equipment used and suggestions for successful home sprouting is:
The interest in growing sprouts has made a come back over the past few years. It was a popular pastime during the 1960s and 70s. Now in the 21st century, we are rediscovering how packed these little sprigs and shoots are with nutrients - even higher in vitamins and minerals than their grown up versions. They are exceptionally easy to grow, care for and use. All it takes is good, light, moist soil and a sunny windowsill, and a windowbox or planter, or even a simple Mason jar.
Stay well this winter by bringing the green inside.
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