By Jacob Inosencio
As the seasons change, I find myself reflecting on the rhythm of the natural world and how it mirrors the work we do at Grow Jackson. Each season brings its own lessons, challenges, and joys—just as each stage of our work has its own beauty and purpose.
I have always loved the seasons. They remind me that growth is a process, that everything has its time, and that patience and preparation are just as important as action and abundance. As I look back on this past year and ahead to the next, I am reminded that our work—like the seasons—is constantly shifting, always moving forward, and deeply connected to the cycles of the earth.
Winter: Laying the Foundation
Winter is often seen as a time of dormancy, but for us, it is a season of preparation and renewal. The fields may be quiet, the trees bare, and the gardens covered in frost, but beneath the surface, life is still at work. It’s a time for our team to step back, regroup, and set the foundation for the growing season ahead. We take time to work in our greenhouses and hoop houses, tending to the plants that will be the first to make their way into the soil in spring. We sharpen tools, organize supplies, and map out our plans for the months ahead.
Winter is also a critical time for certain crops, like garlic, which must endure the cold in order to establish strong roots. Without the chill of winter, garlic would not be able to grow into the strong, flavorful bulbs we all love. This serves as a beautiful metaphor for our own work—before we can experience a season of abundance, we must first take the time to build a strong foundation. The quiet, behind-the-scenes efforts of winter are what make success in the warmer months possible.
Spring: The Awakening
Spring is a season of new beginnings. After months of careful preparation, we start to see the first signs of life emerging from the soil. The frost gives way to tiny green shoots pushing their way toward the sun. Buds swell on tree branches, and the air carries the promise of warmth and growth. It is a time of hope, renewal, and anticipation.
For us at Grow Jackson, spring means long hours in the garden, preparing beds, planting seeds, and setting the stage for another fruitful year. It’s an exciting time, full of potential and possibility. There is something incredibly special about watching the first plants emerge from the soil, knowing that in just a few short months, they will provide food for our community.
Summer: A Season of Abundance
Summer is life-giving. The days are long, the sun is warm, and the earth is brimming with goodness. It is a season of abundance, connection, and hard work. Our gardens and farms reach their peak, overflowing with tomatoes, peppers, greens, and so much more. The farmers’ markets are vibrant, bursting with fresh produce, and the community comes together to enjoy the season’s bounty.
Summer is a busy time for us, but it is also a deeply rewarding one. It’s when we see the fruits of our labor in the most tangible way—fresh vegetables on tables, children learning in the garden, families enjoying meals made with food grown right here in Jackson. It is a season of celebration and gratitude, a reminder of why we do what we do.
Fall: A Time for Reflection
As the weather begins to cool and the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and gold, I always find myself reflecting on the year. Fall is a time for harvesting, but also for looking back—on everything we have grown, the food we have shared, and the people we have taught.
It is a season of transition, where we gather the last of the crops, tuck the gardens in for winter, and take stock of all that has been accomplished. It is also a time to celebrate our community, to give thanks for the partnerships, volunteers, and supporters who make our work possible. Every meal made with our food, every child who learned about where their food comes from, every moment spent in the garden—it all adds up to something truly special.
As we move through another cycle of seasons, I am reminded of how deeply our work is tied to the natural world. There is a time for preparation, a time for planting, a time for growth, and a time for reflection. Each season has its purpose, and each one brings us closer to our mission of creating a healthier, more food-secure Jackson.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us. No matter the season, your support, your hands in the soil, and your commitment to this work make all the difference. As we look ahead to another year of growing, learning, and sharing, I am filled with gratitude—and excitement—for what’s to come.