resource conservation, ecosystem health, sustainability

Microclimates are areas that have slightly different temperature, light, soil type and moisture characteristics from most of the land around them. Some are natural, but some can be made.

In these parts, a natural microclimate exists among a pile of boulders on the south-facing side of a hill. These boulders hold quite a bit of solar heat, and they face the sun, even in the winter. Plants that otherwise might not thrive in New England because of the winter's cold may do well up close to the boulders.

I have started making a Mediterranean microclimate for my herbs. I am using medium-sized rocks on a slope that faces west, but my plan is to build up a south-facing mini-hill on one side. The rocks hold heat, keeping the area warmer longer. This spot is very well drained, and I don't water it except when it gets extremely dry. I cover the herbs with a row cover in winter to protect the plants from the most bitter cold days.

What kind of microclimate might you already have? A low, wet sunny spot that could become a mini-marsh? A high,cool, alpine spot? Take a walk around your place, and see the possibilities!