Gardening in Santa Fe

The morning light in northern New Mexico is magical. The afternoon and evening sun is brutal and can make significant changes in the garden or in my body in a matter of minutes. I've been able to get out into the garden most mornings, at least for a little while.

Last year, a professional landscaper created a dry riverbed to divert water that drains from the roof. This year, I had to remove every rock from the riverbed, install weed barrier fabric, then replace the rocks. It was labor intensive.

I've been trying my hand at both container gardening as well as transplanting perennials that I purchase from at Santa Fe Farmers' Market. Every Saturday I attend a lecture someplace in Santa Fe, where I learn technical tips and suggestions for gardening in this harsh climate.

There has not been a thunderstorm in Santa Fe since January, when a freak snowstorm brought thunder and lightning. There has not been a slow steady rain here since last September. Trying to garden here has obstacles that I never imagined. The ground is parched. My soul is feeling much the same.