Springtime! 4/03/24 edition is published by Anton Media Group.

Spring Forward

Cultivating joy in every corner of your blooming garden oasis

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

As the last frost melts away and the first green buds begin to unfurl, gardeners everywhere know that spring has arrived, bringing with it the promise of lush landscapes and bountiful harvests. However, this promise is accompanied by a list of essential garden chores that must be tackled to ensure the health and beauty of your outdoor oasis. From preparing the soil to planting and beyond, springtime gardening tasks set the foundation for a thriving garden. Here’s your comprehensive guide to springtime garden chores.

1Clean Up and Clear Out

Spring cleaning isn’t just for the indoors. Begin your gardening season by clearing out the debris winter has left behind. Rake away leaves, twigs, and any other detritus that has accumulated over the colder months. This not only tidies up your garden but also minimizes hiding spots for pests and diseases. Be gentle with your cleaning, though, as beneficial insects may still be hibernating in the debris.

2Soil Preparation

Healthy soil is the cornerstone of a successful garden. Start by testing your

soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels, which will guide your amendment process. Most garden plants thrive in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Depending on the results, you may need to add lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it. Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure, enhance nutrient content, and boost its water-retention capabilities.

3Pruning and Trimming

Early spring is the ideal time for pruning many types of perennial plants, trees, and shrubs. Pruning stimulates growth, removes dead or diseased branches, and helps shape the plant. However, be aware of the best pruning times for specific plants; some may prefer fall or immediately after flowering. Always use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts that heal quickly.

4Weed Management

Addressing weeds early in the season can save you a lot of trouble later on. Pull weeds by hand or use a hoe to dislodge them while they’re still young, and before they have a chance to set seeds. Applying a layer of mulch can help suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature.

5Mulching

Mulch serves multiple purposes: it conserves moisture, keeps weeds at bay, adds aesthetic appeal, and contributes to soil health as it breaks down. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around your plants, taking care not to pile it against the stems to avoid rot.

6Planting

Spring is the time to plant bare-root trees, shrubs, and perennials, as well as cool-season vegetables and annuals. Wait until the danger of frost has passed before planting tender annuals and vegetables. When planting, ensure proper spacing to allow for air circulation and growth, reducing the risk of fungal diseases and pests.

7Pest and Disease Control

Early detection and intervention can prevent pests and diseases from taking over your garden. Inspect your plants regularly for signs of trouble, such as discolored leaves, sticky residues, or chewed foliage. Use environmentally friendly pest control methods where possible, such as introducing beneficial insects, using neem oil, or employing barriers and traps.

8Watering Wisely

Spring weather can be unpredictable, with periods of rain followed by dry spells.

Water your garden as needed, focusing on the base of the plants to reduce evaporation and prevent leaf diseases. Installing a rain barrel can be an excellent way to collect and conserve water for your garden.

9Support Structures

Early spring is the perfect time to set up trellises, stakes, and other support structures before plants become too large. Climbing plants, in particular, will benefit from having support from the start, encouraging upward growth and maximizing garden space.

10Enjoy and Observe

Lastly, take time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Walk through your garden daily, not only to monitor plant health and growth but also to appreciate the beauty and serenity it offers. Gardening is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

Springtime garden chores might seem daunting at first, but they are essential steps on the path to a rewarding gardening season. Each task, from soil preparation to planting and pest control, builds upon the last to create a healthy, vibrant garden. With patience, diligence, and a bit of elbow grease, you can transform your outdoor space into a thriving haven that brings joy throughout the growing season and beyond.

Photo Getty Images

Dandelions: Nature’s Golden Symphony

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

Dandelion wine is more than just a beverage; it’s a time-honored tradition, a golden elixir that captures the essence of spring in a bottle.

Made from the bright yellow flowers that dot meadows and fields in the early days of the season, dandelion wine embodies the spirit of renewal and abundance. With its delicate floral notes and subtle sweetness, it’s no wonder that this homemade libation has been cherished for generations.

The process of making dandelion wine is as simple as it is rewarding. It begins with a leisurely stroll through fields and meadows, basket in hand, in search of the humble dandelion. These cheerful blooms, often dismissed as weeds, are the stars of the show, their petals bursting with vibrant color and flavor. Carefully plucking the flowers, one by one, we gather nature’s bounty, mindful of the potential hidden within each delicate blossom.

Back in the kitchen, we gently separate the petals from the green sepals, taking care to discard any stems or debris. The petals are then steeped in boiling water, releasing their essence into the liquid, which takes on a brilliant hue reminiscent of sunshine itself. As the petals infuse the

water with their floral aroma, we add sugar and citrus, balancing the sweetness with a hint of tartness.

Once the mixture has cooled, we strain out the petals, leaving behind a fragrant liquid that forms the base of our dandelion wine. To this, we add yeast, the catalyst that will transform our simple infusion into a lively fermentation. As the yeast works its magic, consuming the sugars and releasing carbon dioxide and alcohol, our dandelion wine begins to take shape, bubbling away in anticipation of its transformation.

Over the course of several weeks, we

watch and wait as our dandelion wine matures, its flavors deepening and mellowing with time. With each passing day, the liquid clarifies, shedding its youthful exuberance in favor of a more refined character. And finally, when the time is right, we bottle our dandelion wine, sealing it away like a secret treasure to be discovered and savored in the days to come.

But the true beauty of dandelion wine lies not just in its flavor, but in the memories it evokes and the connections it fosters. It’s a symbol of the simple pleasures of life, a reminder to slow down and appreciate the

Simple Dandelion Wine Recipe

4 cups dandelion petals, carefully separated from the green sepals

8 cups water

4 cups granulated sugar

2 lemons, thinly sliced

1 orange, thinly sliced

1 packet wine yeast

In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the dandelion petals, lemon slices, and orange slices, and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sugar until dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, strain out

the dandelion petals and citrus slices, and transfer the liquid to a fermentation vessel. Sprinkle the wine yeast over the liquid and cover the vessel with a clean cloth or lid fitted with an airlock. Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature for 4-6 weeks, or until fermentation slows and the wine clears. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the wine into clean bottles, leaving behind any sediment at the bottom of the vessel. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool, dark place for at least 6 months before enjoying.

abundance that surrounds us. Whether shared with loved ones on a warm summer evening or enjoyed alone in quiet contemplation, dandelion wine has the power to transport us back to a time when the world seemed infinite with possibility.

And so, as we raise our glasses in toast to the golden elixir that is dandelion wine, letus also raise our hearts in gratitude for the fleeting moments of joy and beauty that enrich our lives.

BY ANTON MEDIA GROUP specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

Spring celebrations herald a season of renewal, joy, and appreciation for the natural world around us. Among the myriad festivities that grace this time of year, three stand out as pillars of tradition and reflection: Easter, Mother’s Day, Passover, Purim and Earth Day. Each holds its own significance, weaving together threads of spirituality, familial love, and environmental stewardship to create a rich tapestry of revelry.

Easter, perhaps the most widely recognized of the three, is a time of spiritual renewal and rebirth for many around the world. Rooted in Christian tradition, Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, symbolizing hope, redemption, and the promise of new beginnings. From solemn Good Friday observances to jubilant Easter Sunday services, the holiday is marked by a spectrum of rituals and customs, each imbued with profound meaning.

Central to Easter celebrations are

vibrant displays of color and life, mirroring the awakening of nature after the long slumber of winter. Pastel-hued eggs, adorned with intricate designs and patterns, serve as symbols of fertility and new life, while fragrant blooms such as lilies and tulips adorn churches and homes alike, filling the air with their sweet perfume. Families gather for festive meals and egg hunts, sharing laughter and joy as they come together to honor this sacred day.

Following closely on the heels of Easter is Mother’s Day, a time to honor and celebrate the maternal figures in our lives. While the origins of Mother’s Day can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman festivals honoring mother goddesses, the modern incarnation of the holiday emerged in the early 20th century as a tribute to the selfless love and sacrifice of mothers everywhere.

On Mother’s Day, we shower our mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures with tokens of affection and appreciation, from handwritten cards

Seasonal Celebrations

and bouquets of flowers to thoughtful gestures and acts of kindness. It’s a day to reflect on the countless ways in which mothers enrich our lives, offering unconditional love, guidance, and support through every triumph and trial. Whether gathered around the family table or sharing cherished memories from afar, Mother’s Day is a time to express gratitude for the remarkable women who shape our world.

Passover, a significant Jewish holiday, commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. Traditions include the Seder meal, retelling the Exodus story, and refraining from eating leavened bread.

Purim, a joyous Jewish holiday, celebrates the triumph of Queen Esther and the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman’s plot. Festivities include feasting, costumes, and the giving of gifts.

Earth Day serves as a solemn reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve the planet we call home.

On Earth Day, people come together t o participate in myriad activities aimed at promoting sustainability and conservation, from tree plantings and beach cleanups to educational workshops and eco-friendly initiatives. It’s a day to reconnect with the natural world, to marvel at its beauty and diversity, and to rededicate ourselves to the cause of environmental stewardship. By joining forces to protect the planet, we honor not only the Earth itself but also future generations who will inherit the world we leave behind.

In the tapestry of springtime celebrations, each stands as beacons of hope, love, and renewal. Each in its own way invites us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the myriad blessings that surround us, from the warmth of family to the beauty of nature. As we embrace these cherished traditions, let us also reaffirm our commitment to creating a world filled with joy, compassion, and abundance for all.

BY ANTON MEDIA GROUP specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

Springtime allergies, while often considered a nuisance, serve as a reminder of the vibrant renewal that accompanies the change of seasons. As nature awakens from its winter slumber, pollen fills the air, triggering sneezes and sniffles for many.

Amidst the pollen clouds and itchy eyes, spring offers a plethora of opportunities to embrace outdoor fitness activities, indulge in seasonal produce, and nurture mental well-being.

For those who suffer from allergies, outdoor fitness activities can present a double-edged sword. On one hand, the allure of fresh air and sunshine beckons us outdoors, enticing us to lace up our sneakers and hit the trails. On the other hand, the pollen-laden atmosphere can pose a challenge, exacerbating allergy symptoms and dampening our enthusiasm for outdoor exercise.

With a bit of strategic planning and preparation, it’s possible to enjoy outdoor fitness activities while minimizing the impact of allergies. Choosing the right time of day to exercise can make a world of difference; early morning or late evening workouts may offer respite from

peak pollen levels. Opting for activities that take place away from heavily wooded areas or grassy fields can help reduce exposure to allergens.

It’s Allergy Season

Activities such as hiking, biking, and jogging along paved trails or urban pathways provide an opportunity to soak up the sunshine and fresh air without venturing into allergy hotspots. Alternatively, indoor fitness options such as yoga, Pilates, or strength training can offer a welcome reprieve for allergy sufferers on particularly high pollen days. By listening to our bodies and adapting our fitness routines accordingly, we can stay active and healthy throughout the spring season.

Incorporating seasonal produce into our diets is another way to embrace the joys of spring while supporting our overall health and well-being. As the earth awakens from its winter slumber, it yields a bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables bursting with flavor and nutrients. From crisp asparagus and tender baby greens to juicy strawberries and tangy rhubarb, the possibilities are endless.

Not only does consuming seasonal produce provide a delicious way to nourish our bodies, but it also offers a natural antidote to springtime allergies.

Many seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune function and reduce inflammation. Incorporating these nutrient-dense foods into our meals can help strengthen our bodies’ defenses against allergens and promote overall wellness.

Spring presents an opportunity to prioritize mental well-being and self-care. After months of hibernation, the longer days and warmer weather beckon us outdoors, inviting us to reconnect with nature and cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility. Whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll through a botanical garden, practicing mindfulness in a sun-dappled park, or simply enjoying a picnic beneath a blossoming cherry tree,

spending time outdoors can have a profound impact on mental health. Engaging in activities that nourish the soul, such as gardening, painting, or journaling, can provide a creative outlet for self-expression and reflection. By carving out moments of quietude amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, we can cultivate a sense of balance and resilience that carries us through the challenges of allergy season and beyond.

While springtime allergies may pose a temporary inconvenience, they need not overshadow the myriad joys that accompany the arrival of spring. By embracing outdoor fitness activities, indulging in seasonal produce, and nurturing mental well-being, we can fully embrace the beauty and vitality of the season while supporting our health and happiness along the way.