As we move through the year and our gardens evolve, there’s something magical about documenting the journey. Garden journaling is […] The post Garden Journalling – Slow down to tune in. first appeared on Sustainable Gardening Australia.
As we move through the year and our gardens evolve, there’s something magical about documenting the journey. Garden journaling is an art that enables us to cultivate memories as we cultivate plants. It provides an opportunity to savor the beauty of our outdoor space, connect with it, and understand it. There’s nothing more mesmerising than watching a bee meticulously clean pollen from its body and delicately store it in its legs.
Connection – Writing a journal makes you slow down and connect. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our gardens provide a refuge, a tranquil space where we can reconnect with nature. A garden journal becomes a bridge between the gardener and the garden, offering a canvas to capture the vibrant colours, fragrances, and the symphony of sounds that define each day in the garden. Journals help you appreciate and be inspired by your garden.
Chart Growth – Imagine flipping through the pages of your journal and witnessing the miraculous journey of a tiny seed transforming into a flourishing plant or an abundant crop. Garden journaling allows us to record the growth and development of our plants, serving as a valuable resource for future seasons. It becomes a personalised almanac, offering insights into the timing of blooms, pruning schedules, and the successes (or challenges) of different varieties. This is becoming increasingly more important as our climate changes and moves away from the historical and well documented patterns in many of our much loved resources.
Solace – Gardening is therapeutic, and so is the act of documenting it. Journaling provides an avenue for self-reflection, allowing gardeners to express their ideas, thoughts, feelings, and observations. Whether it’s the satisfaction of a successful harvest of the biggest pumpkin, or the resilience of a plant overcoming a heat event, a garden journal becomes a place to celebrate triumphs and learn from the setbacks, which gardens are full of.
Designing Dreams – For those that have big dreams and a flair for design, a garden journal can be a creative outlet. Use it to sketch out new layouts, experiment with color combinations, and plan for future additions. Your journal can evolve into a personalised gardening blueprint, helping you bring your dream garden to life. And to keep you on track when you see a plant sale at the nursery!
Digital Diarising – In the digital age, sharing our gardening experiences has never been easier. Consider starting a garden journaling community, either online or within your neighbourhood. Exchange tips, share photos, and inspire one another to create a network of green enthusiasts dedicated to nurturing their outdoor spaces. 
Tips for Starting Your Garden Journal:
Choose the Right Journal: Opt for a journal with sturdy, weather-resistant pages that can withstand the elements, but nothing so pretty you’re going to be too scared to start to use it!! Having good quality paper will make a difference if you’re going to stick items into it. Include Details: Note the date, weather conditions, and any noteworthy observations each time you make an entry. And incorporate sketches, photographs, or even pressed leaves or flowers to add a visual dimension to your journal. Make It Personal: Your garden journal is a reflection of your unique gardening journey. Feel free to infuse it with your personality, anecdotes, and even a bit of humour. Stay Consistent: Make it a habit to journal regularly, even if it’s just a quick update. Consistency will help you track patterns and changes over time. If it becomes a chore, then stop journaling. Wait to be inspired to write again.Garden journaling is a delightful practice that adds real depth and meaning to our gardening experiences. So, grab your favourite journal, head to the garden, and let the pages of your botanical adventure unfold.
The post Garden Journalling – Slow down to tune in. first appeared on Sustainable Gardening Australia.