Curling and Unfurling

We have done four weeks of Covid lockdown at this stage. The first half of that was still fairly loose and open to interpretation. The latter half however came with stricter instructions and tighter boundaries. And now we are challenged to take on three and half more weeks of the same.

So at a time when plants are breaking loose from seeds and pods and buds - we are under orders to curl up at home and wait out the virus. Our odd Spring time shut down is the mirror image of what is happening in the plant world around us.

 This is my dog, Penny, curled up for a daytime nap - this is not strictly caused by lockdown but could relate to the fact that with everyone at home she is getting walked more than usual. Below is whats happening by the moss covered limestone wall at the back of our garden. This fern is unfurling for its brief six month growing season, a great release of pent up energy as it bounces up into the warm Spring air.

This lovely beech seedling has its bright green downy leaves unpacking themselves, concertina like, from  the tight brown buds.

This Harts-tongue fern is slowly opening its long strap like fronds as the daylight lengthens and the temperatures rise.

It is a difficult time of year to be confined to home. Understanding the necessity of the lockdown measures does not fully mute the call of the sea or the Burren or the Connemara hills. 

At least the series of blocking high pressure weather systems means that the sun is shining and our garden and wild plants are giving us lots to enjoy.

Keeping to the stipulated 2km radius of home I can still enjoy the spring sunshine - viewed through the bare woodland trees.

 This week the woodland anemones have come into flower and happening upon a carpet of them, at the edge of a messy area of recently harvested conifers, really lifted my spirits.

Wherever you are doing lockdown I hope you can see some plants around you and take note of their seasonal unfurling.
I am also hoping that the lockdown will be successful and that we too can soon uncurl ourselves back into society and social contact.

Take care of yourselves.

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