In a bit of a departure from the regular gardening article, this week I would just like to take some time to reflect on how lucky we are to live where we do, in the Niagara region.
Over these past few weeks, we have been engulfed by the beauty of nature. Everywhere you turn, the array of colours has been amazing this year and seems to have lasted maybe a bit longer than usual.
I love going for drives when I get the chance and never miss an opportunity to capture it on my camera.
It doesn’t need to be anywhere in particular. It might be a conservation area, down a country road, or just going for a stroll through town — there is always something magical to see around each corner.
One of my favourite places to spend time in Niagara, especially in the fall, is along the escarpment, hiking.
There is something about wandering through the tall, towering trees that have faced many adversities and the massive moss-covered rocks that have sat there for millions of years.
The different textures and shades of bark, highlighted by the large, leathery, maroon-red oak leaves, the golden-yellow beech leaves, the amber-orange autumn colour of the sugar maples and the crimson red of the red maples.
The vineyards are also captivating in the fall with the abundant clusters of ripening fruit waiting patiently to be harvested. The fall colour on the grape leaves can vary from bright yellow to oranges to wine-red, making the fields come alive.
It always amazes me how something like the vineyards and orchards can change so drastically from season to season, each season just as beautiful as the next.
It reminds me that we all go through different seasons in life. Sometimes a certain season can have a negative connotation, but we need to remember all seasons can be beautiful in their own way.
You just need to look for the beauty around you.
Gardens (or nature in general) are something that appeals to people’s five senses — sight, sound, touch, taste and smell. This is why being out in nature has such a positive effect on many.
Spending time outdoors can lower blood pressure, reduce stress levels and bring about a sense of peace and belonging to a bigger picture.
Make sure that you take some time outside this week and soak in everything that nature has to give you.
On those sunny, warm days that we just experienced last week, who couldn’t help but go for a long walk or bicycle ride down the Niagara Parkway?
The majestic old oak trees that are dotted along the path give you a sense of time gone by.
Joanne Young is a Niagara-on-the-Lake garden expert and coach. See her website at joanneyoung.ca
