Looking Ahead | A Note from Rick Bogusch
March 27, 2026
By Rick Bogusch
Though it may not look like it right now, spring and the start of the growing season is here. That means starting seeds indoors should begin in earnest. Though too early for tomatoes, it’s the right time for all the brassicas. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and kale plants started now can be planted in the garden by early May. Onion and leek seeds can also be sown now, as well as artichokes and radicchio. Start lettuce plugs at the end of the month or in early April. Once snow has melted and soil temps have warmed to 40-45 degrees, you start your first crops, like arugula, radish, spinach and Chinese mustard.
Many trees and shrubs were damaged by last month’s snowpocalypse. When you can get to your plantings, it’s a good idea to shake off any ice and snow that hasn’t melted and prune broken twigs and branches. Bridge Gardens lost 3 large white pines in the storm in addition to lots of minor damage. The pines are too big for us to handle, so we’ll have professional help to clear them from the vegetable garden and take care of any other large limbs on the property.
The winter landscape can be beautiful. The architecture of trees and shrubs, their branching structure, different for each species, is highlighted by the snow. The many textures and colors of tree bark and evergreen foliage stand out in sharp contrast to their white background. The sun can be surprisingly warm this time of year, as its intensity increases and days get longer, so even though it takes a bit more effort to get outside, it’s a good idea to get out there and enjoy this beauty while it lasts.
One of my favorite American artists is Rockwell Kent. Though his winter landscapes were painted much further north than Long Island, the way he captured the lavender light of an early morning or late afternoon on snow and the orange glow of a setting winter sun, is what we can experience here on a winter’s walk. Artists have long loved the light of the East End and we should all get out and experience what they saw.
Winter is a time of sharp contrasts, visually and philosophically. It offers up what is to be endured, accepted and enjoyed, with the promise of what’s to come.
At Bridge Gardens, the vernal witch hazels are in bloom right now, soon to be joined by winter jasmine. I know there are snowdrops and emerging crocus under the snow. So, I hope to see you soon at Bridge Gardens to enjoy winter’s beauty and the first signs of spring.
Happy Gardening! Indoors and in the garden!
Rick Bogusch
Garden Director, Bridge Gardens
rbogusch@peconiclandtrust.org