We’re in a series examining life from the perspective of the gardening process. Last time, we looked at the preparing phase. To recap, the garden process includes, at a minimum:
- Planning
- Preparing
- Planting
- Processing
- Preserving
Today, we’re going to examine the planting phase and see how it applies to everyday life.
Since we already know what (select veggies determined in the planning phase) we’re planting, where (light and shade determined in the preparing phase) we’re planting it, and how (water, soil amended, and weeded, etc. determined in the preparing phase) to care for the plants once they’re planted, the next step is to actually plant. When it comes to this phase in the gardening process, it’s really about knowing three things:
- When to plant.
- How far apart to plant.
- How deep to plant
Not all seeds and plants are the same. That’s obvious, but it’s nevertheless critical in the planting process. If a seed is started too soon in the ground–when temps are still cold–it will not germinate. Each seed and transplant needs certain ground temperatures, as well as outdoor temperatures to come to life. Each seed and plant must have accommodation to set its roots and begin to grow.
At the same time, some vegetables need more space than others as they grow. While square-foot gardening is a unique approach to deal with maximizing garden bed space, it still doesn’t completely solve the spacing challenge. As a plant or seed begins to grow and then it’s crowded by other plants, it will be stunted and not reach its full potential.
When it comes to how deep to plant seeds, there needs to be proper consideration as well. Some seeds need to be just below the surface, while others need to be a little deeper. However, if the seeds are planted too deep they may sprout, but not have strength to reach the surface. On the other hand, if they’re planted too shallow then they will become too dry and won’t sprout at all. In both cases, the seed or transplant ends up as another bit of food for the soil to consume. Giving consideration to proper depth for each plant provides just the right environment for the plant to not only sprout, but to set a root and grow into maturity.
Applications to Everyday Life
- Timing is Key.
- In Ecclesiastes 3:1, the author starts his discourse on seasons by stating that, “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven.”
- As Christians, we can’t “wing it” or walk by “default” in relationships. Knowing when to bring up conversations, questions, or implementing plans is critical. Otherwise, we walk around discontent and discouraged.
- Thus, if I want to cultivate contentment and courage, I have to rest in the Lord’s timing and walk in the fear of Him (trusting as the Creator and Sustainer, He will work all things together for good).
- Make room.
- In Proverbs 18:16, Solomon stated that, “A man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.” In another place we learn, “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.” In essence, room is made through one’s appropriation of gifting.
- As Christians, the challenge is two-fold: (1) appropriate one’s gifts to spheres of influence and (2) make room for others to appropriate their gifts.
- Thus, if I want to raise up the next generation of leaders (discipleship, parenting, employee training, etc.), I have to apply my gifts and provide a place for them to employ theirs as well.
- Provide the right environment
- In Psalm 1, there is a man who is like a tree that provides fruit in season and a canopy of shade throughout the year. What makes this man unique is that he is rooted in the Word of God. The result is that his environment is both comfortable and life giving.
- As Christians, we set the tone of the environment as we ourselves are being set straight through God’s Word.
- Thus, if I want to know how to cultivate a godly, loving, and peaceful environment with those around me, I have to be a man of the Book.