Keeping Rooted

This week's focus was on native plant root digging. Twice a year, Dan and I devote all of our energy to removing our lovely native plant beds so that the roots can be sold to a nursery.

The sides of the raised beds are removed, stems are cut, and roots are gingerly extracted from the soil. We can't help but be intrigued with the interesting root variations of different plants. Some are sending out bright white shoots. Some have large clusters of mycorrhizae. There are roots that are so tender, we must harness our inner badger and dig thoroughly around each plant. Others are strong and robust, able to handle a bit of tugging. But, one the best things about root digging is the variability in smell! There are sweet roots, and roots that smell like laundry detergent. Quite the sensory process!

Despite the exhaustion I feel, I'm also grateful to witness a part of the world so few see. A robust world beneath our feet, and constant validation with how valuable native plants are to the underground ecosystem.