Spring in Rural America

A nature lover, gardener and outdoorsman shares his musings about the unique joys of springtime in rural America.

Spring in rural America slips in on silent wings and often catches us unaware.

The early blooms suddenly break through the surface of the previously dormant soil, and the buds swell on the trees and shrubs.

It is a time of awakening and invigoration after the long, dark days of winter. Our thoughts turn to gardening and other outdoor pursuits.

Tilling the Soil

There is something about spring that beckons us to the outdoors.

After enduring the winter hibernation, we are eager to let the rich earth run through our fingers as we plant gardens, pot tender blooming plants and enjoy the return of colorful daffodils, tulips and other blooming perennials.

Even though cold weather may rear its ugly head for brief periods, we know that warmer days will become more common.

The fragrance of wisteria and other early bloomers delights our olfactory senses in anticipation of more to come. We are blessed with an abundance of visual announcements of impending spring by such indicators as the swelling buds and blooms on maples.

Even the blueberries are blooming, and each year my recurring comment is: “A late frost will surely kill the blooms and there will be no harvest to enjoy.”

Inevitably, I am proven wrong. The frost is nature’s way of thinning the blooms.

Outdoor Sports

Even though we might enjoy the winter sporting opportunities such as hunting for big game with bow or gun, thoughts of more comfortable weather for kayaking, canoeing, fly fishing and other water sports are present.

We enjoy fly fishing year-round in rural America, but there is no denying that spring is a more comfortable season to wade the mountain streams.

The abundant insects are welcomed by the fish and do little to dampen our enthusiasm.

Hiking

Hiking the abundant trails is pleasant in the spring, prior to the heat and humidity of a Southern summer.

Also, prior to the full leafing of the trees, the vistas are more rewarding, and the photography opportunities are more readily available.

If you plan on hiking, be sure to carry the necessities for a more pleasant adventure:

Water to quench thirst
Snacks – Even a granola or protein bar will provide a shot of energy
Sunscreen
Hat – Preferably water repellent
Socks – when socks are damp, they are more likely to cause blisters. Stopping to change will provide a rest break, and your feet will thank you
Hiking staff – This is an often-overlooked item that is an invaluable aid to a hiker
Camera – A cellphone camera is a minimal requirement, but a dedicated SLR camera with a zoom lens will provide much better photos
Pack a light windbreaker, preferably water repellent in case of a rain shower. Early spring days can be chilly and cloud cover may cause cooler conditions

Spring is a Time to Share with Family and Friends

Whether it be cookouts, special outings, lounging around the pool or a myriad of other pursuits, spring is a time to spend with family and friends in welcoming one of the most special seasons in rural America.