Autumn Equinox in Our Gardens
The Autumn Equinox, falling around September 21st (this year it is on Sept 22nd), is the moment when day and night stand in perfect balance. It marks the official shift from summer to autumn, and like all turning points in nature, it’s an opportunity for us to pause and observe the changes happening in the world around us—and within ourselves.
This moment of balance is part of the Wheel of the Year, a cycle that honors the natural rhythms of the seasons. The Wheel invites us to connect more deeply with these transitions, using each shift as a guidepost for our lives and our relationship with the earth. You can learn more about the Wheel of the Year HERE. As we turn toward the shorter days and longer nights of fall, our gardens offer a mirror of this seasonal shift and invite us into a relationship with nature.
What We Can Notice in the Garden During the Autumn Equinox:
The Last Harvest: This is the time when we gather the final fruits and vegetables from our gardens, appreciating the abundance of the season. Late summer crops such as pumpkins, squash, and root vegetables are ripening, reminding us of the generosity of the earth and the importance of giving thanks.
Change in Light: With the sun lower in the sky, the light in our gardens becomes softer, signaling to plants (and us) that it’s time to slow down. Notice how this shift in light affects your plants—some may begin to go dormant, while others produce their final blooms.
Natural Decay: As the leaves fall and plants wither, the garden begins its cycle of decomposition. Instead of viewing this as a loss, we can see it as part of the cycle of renewal. Dead plant matter is breaking down to enrich the soil, readying the earth for the rest and regeneration that comes with winter.
Animal Activity: Birds, insects, and small animals are busy preparing for the colder months ahead. Observe how wildlife in your garden is gathering food, building nests, or migrating—all reminders of nature’s instinct to prepare for the next season.
Garden Rituals for the Autumn Equinox:
As we notice these changes in the garden, we are invited to become more mindful stewards of the land. The way we care for our gardens at this time can help nourish the soil, protect the ecosystem, and set the stage for a healthy growing season next year.
Composting: Gather fallen leaves, dead plant matter, and kitchen scraps to create rich compost. Composting during this time feeds the earth, returning nutrients to the soil and preparing it for future growth.
Seed Saving: As certain plants finish their growing cycle, now is a great time to collect seeds from your favorite flowers, vegetables, or herbs. This practice not only preserves heritage varieties but connects you to the full cycle of growth—from seed to plant, and back to seed.
Mulching and Soil Care: Spread mulch over garden beds to protect the soil during the colder months. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and prevent erosion, ensuring that your garden is well-cared for even in its resting period.
Planting for Spring: This is also a wonderful time to plant bulbs and cold-hardy crops that will rest in the soil through the winter and bloom in early spring. Consider adding garlic, onions, or tulips to your garden now for a future harvest.
Native Planting and Wildlife Support: Planting native species or leaving areas of your garden wild helps support local wildlife and pollinators during the colder months. Birds and insects rely on seeds and shelter from native plants, and by providing a safe habitat, we contribute to the larger ecosystem.
As the Autumn Equinox invites us to reflect on balance and harvest in our personal lives, it also calls us to participate in the ongoing cycle of life in our gardens. Tending to the land with intention during this time allows us to give back to the earth that sustains us, creating a reciprocal relationship of care and respect.
Wishing you a beautiful transition into autumn, and may your gardens thrive with the wisdom of the season.
