ANOTHER VIEW Winter is over, spring has sprung
BY SUSAN BRYANT
Spring is a season of awaking and rebirth.
This is the time of year when the days get longer, the temperature gets warmer, flowers begin to bloom and we return to the outdoors after spending much of the dreary months of winter inside.
For gardeners, spring means planting vegetables and flowers.
Thomas “Tom” Bull, owner of Herbein’s Garden Center. Emmaus, said now is the right time to plant cole crops, cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, spinach, broccoli and cauliflower.
“It is also a good time to plant asparagus, rhubarb, onions and potatoes,” Bull said. “Most people around here plant their peas on St. Patty’s Day.”
Bull said now is also the time to plant flowers, such as pansies and English daisies.
“Ideally you would prep your garden in the fall, so it is ready to go in the spring,” Bull said. “When prepping your garden, it is wise to have a soil test done.
“The soil test will tell you what type of organic matter, fertilizer or compost your soil will need.”
Bull said for those individuals interested in gardening it is best to plan out your garden, measure the area you plan to garden and figure out what you want to plant.
“Do your homework on each vegetable, flower that you want to plant. Check out their requirements and spacing needs,” he added.
After this past winter, Bull says there is going to be many people wanting to start a garden.
“Gardening is a great opportunity to grow your own food and control the process of it,” Bull said. “Now is also a great opportunity to get your outdoor living area straightened out so you can enjoy it.”
Spring is also when many venture outdoors to participate in various activities.
Bicycling is one of the many popular activities throughout the Lehigh Valley adults can do alone or with their children as a family.
If bicycling is not your thing, maybe hiking or walking one of the many trails in the Lehigh Valley, such as the Ironton Rail Trail, or attending a softball, baseball or IronPigs game is something you may enjoy.
For those not interested in physical activity or sports, there are several ways to get outside and enjoy spring in the Lehigh Valley:
•Visit one of the 16 local parks for a picnic or barbecue;
•Explore the seven covered bridges;
•Tour the many outdoor historical landmarks; or
•Go bird watching at Hawk Mountain.
Spring will only be here for the next 81 days.
No matter how you plan to spend your time, Happy Spring!
Susan Bryant
editorial assistant
Parkland Press
Northwestern Press