Am I nuts?

Joe Jancsurak, Editor 

My neighbors think I’m nuts. This stems from my disdain for powered outdoor equipment – snow throwers, rototillers, etc. I even have a reel mower that I used exclusively for several seasons before returning to a powered mower because the cut is better.

One reason I prefer old-fashioned manual tools is because they enable you to perform a task while getting much-needed exercise. In the winter, I’ve been known to send well-meaning neighbors and their snow throwers away because I wanted to “work out” and shovel my driveway.

In the spring, after I clear my 16 x 16 garden plot of weeds and debris, I turn over the soil one shovelful at a time. When the soil is ready for planting, and my muscles ache a bit, I feel good – even better when I sit down and enjoy a cold one.

In addition to the physicality associated with this activity, I appreciate the soulful aspects derived when one engages with nature, even if it is only dirt to some. Without the distractions that come from operating a gas-powered tiller, one is left with their thoughts and revelations. For example, the reality that weeds, like character flaws, will grow and proliferate if left unchecked, making it more difficult for plants, and character strengths, to thrive.

My garden plot, now in its 10th year, is also the source of some great memories. Like the times my daughter and her friend next door enjoyed looking for worms as I worked the soil. Or the times we shelled snap peas at the picnic table while listening to “Prairie Home Companion” on NPR.

That was many years ago and my daughter is now helping to grow middle-school minds as a teacher rather than veggies in the family garden, but the memories linger, thankfully.

Such memories leave me wondering why our industry isn’t doing a better job in selling emotion. The food industry does; shouldn’t we?

Or am I nuts? Just please don’t ask my neighbors. Better yet, if you have a favorite gardening memory, please let me know.

Happy growing!

Joe Jancsurak, Editor | jjancsurak@gie.net
(216) 236-5960 | Twitter: @GreenhouseMag