This past Tuesday, September 22, was the Autumnal Equinox and the first day of fall. The fall equinox is one of only two days a year when the days are of almost equal length. The other day is the Spring Equinox, or the first day of spring in March. On this day, the sunlight hits both the Southern and Northern Hemispheres because the sun is pointed directly at the equator.
From here on out, in the Northern Hemisphere, the nights will continue to get longer and longer until the Winter Solstice (the first day of winter). In the spring, after the equinox, the days will get longer and longer until the Summer Solstice (the first day of summer). Do remember this is for the Northern Hemisphere. South of the equator, they’re celebrating the first day of spring.
People have celebrated the fall equinox in many ways over the years. In Norway, they thanked the gods for their harvests and prayed for a peaceful winter. Throughout China, they celebrated their harvest by holding what they called the Moon Festival. In Japan, they celebrated Higan, a time to honor loved ones, and the Mayans celebrated Chichen Itza, celebrating the god Kukulcan descending to earth to bless the harvest.
So what this have to do with your garden? Nothing. It’s just something to think about while you’re sitting on your deck or patio planning where you’re going to put all your houseplants when you bring then back inside. By the way, remember to bring them in when nights temperatures fall into the low to mid 50’s. Be sure to give them a quick check for insects (and be sure to continue to do that every week or two the rest of the winter).
Most important, Happy Fall.