Grow and Know - Book Thoughts - Thinking about Gardening in the Midst of Winter with "Garden Revolution" by Larry Weaner

By Ruth Landry-Stone

January 13, 2026

On yet another bone chilling day in January, I peer out the window at Winter's palette of grey and brown. I long for the warmth of vibrant color. I retreat to the comfort of my sunroom where I take a seat in the rocking chair that is placed directly in the sun's rays. To further take off the chill, my gaze falls on the coral red blossoms of the Desire Amaryllis. I exhale. Thankfully, the room is home to green leafed palm trees, flowering begonias and violets, red streaked green and white striped bromeliades. Yes, an interior tropical oasis. Surrounded by these thriving plants, winter seems far away.

Well, until I look outside again. My gardens of frozen twigs, burnt leaves and shriveled berries are sleeping. Oh well, I'll wait. I don't really have a choice. I've already done some winter sowing with the Central Rappahannock Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society. So, next on my list of favorite local activities(other than eating sweets) is to open a book about gardening.

The choice is "Garden Revolution-How landscapes can be a source of environmental change" by Larry Weaner and Thomas Christopher which I found at our esteemed Central Rappahannock Regional Library. What a thrilling find! The book invites you into the natural world with approachable ideas, beautiful pictures and beneficial designs. This is so helpful with my small piece of earth that contains varying soil conditions and numerous invasives that are suppressing native growth.

Where I was feeling a bit overwhelmed prior to immersing myself in this book, I am now inspired. Whew! Fortunately, I can now see the possibilities. We will care for our land, rid it of the invasives and return it to its rightful heritage with new native plants which will then create a healthier ecosystem where all wildlife and humans will benefit.

I've now got an internal fire for warmth. I inhale and exhale. I'm so ready for Spring.