From my perspective, the world is cold and still. My metabolic processes have slowed to a near halt. I am in a state of dormancy, a deep sleep crucial for my survival. My roots are dormant in the chilly soil, and my above-ground growth has completely ceased. This period of cold is not an enemy; it is a necessary signal that tells me to rest and conserve my energy for the vibrant growth to come. Please do not fertilize me now, as my roots cannot absorb it and it may harm me. A blanket of snow is a welcome insulator, protecting my shallow roots from harsh temperature swings.
The increasing daylight and warmer soils are my alarm clock. I am stirring from my slumber. My buds, which have been tightly held all winter, begin to swell with potential. This is the moment I have been waiting for—my grand performance. I channel all my stored energy into a spectacular display of blooms. It is my primary purpose to attract pollinators, and I put on my most vibrant show. Please ensure my soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged during this critical period. After my flowers fade, gently remove them (deadhead) so I do not waste energy producing seeds.
My showy blooms are now a memory, and I enter my main growth phase. I am focused on photosynthesis, using the sun's energy to produce new, lush stems and leaves. This greenery will be the foundation for next year's flower buds, which I will begin to set soon. The summer sun can be intense, and my shallow roots are vulnerable to drying out. I require consistent moisture. A layer of organic mulch around my base is immensely helpful; it keeps my roots cool, suppresses weeds, and slowly enriches the soil as it decomposes. Please shield me from the harsh afternoon sun if possible.
The shortening days and cooler nights are my signal to begin winding down. I have set my buds for next spring's display, and they are now safely encased, waiting out the winter. My above-ground growth has stopped, and I am gradually hardening off my tissues to withstand the coming cold. I am moving energy down into my roots for storage. This is an excellent time for you to ensure I enter my dormant period well-hydrated, so give me a deep watering before the ground freezes. Do not fertilize me now, as it could stimulate tender new growth that will be killed by the frost.
My world is cold and quiet again. I have returned to my state of dormancy. My leaves may droop or curl in freezing temperatures; this is a normal adaptation to reduce water loss. I am alive and waiting beneath the surface. A final check on my mulch layer is appreciated, ensuring it is in place to protect my roots from heaving caused by freeze-thaw cycles. I am at peace, resting and gathering strength for the cycle to begin again.
