Spring 2023 is slowly approaching with cool winds and a forecast reminding us that winter is still in command. The anticipation of an early spring has the nursery on notice. The equipment gets final approval and nursery supplies arrive daily. Our farm is slowly coming to life for another spring.

Late winter and early spring come and go like a lighthouse that sailors use in good times and bad. Typically, as a nurseryman, I would like the seasons to be moderate and “average.” Extremes in temperature, rains and winds, give us pause in our rush. While farming and working the land has developed with new technology and tools, patience inevitably rules the day. A newly planted liner crop thrives when we are willing to wait for optimal conditions. With our “eyes to the acre” mantra, we can efficiently and effectively plant our crop for the future at the perfect time. Freshly dug trees are also on a timeline that cannot be rushed. We watch the buds swell in anticipation of another year of growth.

Spring this year is somewhat bittersweet. Since the passing of our fathers, Becky and I have been searching for validation for a job well done or a pat on the back that only our dads could give. Although our dads aren’t with us anymore, we can still hear their voices telling us, “Don’t mud that in!” or “Do you have the part that’s going to break?” This will be our second spring without our dads. We feel prepared for what may come, good or bad, because of the leadership and insight they passed on to us.

An old nurseryman once told me that spring planting is a reminder that we have time to create and enjoy the trees we are cultivating. Every spring crop gives us hope for the future. With this in mind, we are genuinely excited about what this spring has to offer! My expectation is that we will have temperature extremes, cold rains and sometimes crummy weather.  And like clockwork, we will have showy blooms on ornamental trees, just like we do every year.

Personally, I will look for signs in the nursery that will point to a prosperous year of growth, with an eye for the little things that may need our attention. Spring is around the corner; we hope yours is safe and “above average”!

Jamie Thomas