November Notes from the Farm: Roots, Rest, and Renewal
As the days grow shorter and the air sharpens with that unmistakable November chill, the land starts to whisper: slow down, breathe, and root yourself.
This is the season where nature teaches us the beauty of going inward — of preparing quietly for what’s next.
🌙 The Moon and the Moment
November’s Full Beaver Moon isn’t just pretty — it’s practical.
Traditionally, this was the time when beavers sealed their lodges for winter, tucking mud and sticks into every gap before the deep cold set in. Humans aren’t much different. Around this moon, we naturally feel the urge to nest, organize, and make things “just right” before winter locks us in place.
This moon brings two energies: settling and softening — perfect for getting things done, but also knowing when to pull back.
Best days to declutter or deep clean: November 15–17
These days fall right as the moon begins to wane — an ideal time for releasing, simplifying, and letting go of what no longer feels useful.
Best days to rest and recharge: November 24–26
The moon is quiet here. You may feel slower, more inward. That’s not laziness — it’s seasonal instinct.
Try this:
Light a candle, make a small list (no more than three items), and do them with intention. This month rewards slow, meaningful action more than speed.
🌱 Garden and Farm Chores
November isn’t the sprint of spring or the abundance of summer — it’s the gentle “in-between.”
Work still needs doing, but everything feels softer, slower, quieter.
Here’s what’s worth tending this month:
🧄 Plant garlic (if you haven’t yet).
Cold soil helps garlic root deeply and divide into strong bulbs next summer. It’s one of the few crops that wants winter.
🍂 Mulch & Compost
Layer beds with straw, shredded leaves, or compost to protect soil structure through freeze–thaw cycles. Think of it as tucking the garden in for its long sleep.
🌿 Take cuttings
Rosemary, mint, sage, and thyme can live indoors all winter with a sunny window and a little patience.
There’s something comforting about brushing against fresh herbs in January.
🛠 Sharpen & Oil Tools
It’s quiet, mindful work.
The kind of thing you do with a cup of coffee on a cold morning.
Farmers say tools hold “memory,” and caring for them feels like closing the chapter on the growing season.
Old-timers say:
A tidy shed means a peaceful winter.
And there’s a reason — organization now saves you hours later.
✂️ Almanac Notes — “Best Days For…
These are based on old lunar wisdom — the same rhythms generations used before calendars, clocks, and Google existed.
You don’t have to believe in it to appreciate the charm.
Cut hair to encourage growth: Nov 12–13
Haircut on waxing moon = faster, thicker growth.
Cut hair to slow growth: Nov 26–27
Perfect for bangs or styles you don’t want trimming constantly.
Visit the dentist: Nov 19–20
Folklore says waxing moon = quicker healing from dental work.
Start a new habit: Nov 5 or Nov 22
These days fall into powerful “initiation” energy. Great for workouts, routines, or small promises to yourself.
Bake bread: Nov 14–16
Traditionally known as “moist air days,” which help dough rise beautifully.
Whether it’s scientifically true or not… your sourdough won’t argue.
🌾 In Nature Right Now
November looks like nothing is happening — but that’s the biggest lie of all.
If you step outside early in the morning and actually listen, you’ll notice:
🕊 Last migrants flying south
Their calls sound sharper in cold air.
You can practically feel their urgency.
🦌 Deer filling out for winter
They move differently now — slower, heavier, cautious.
🌬 Earthy, mineral-rich soil smell
Cold brings out the scent of the ground itself.
It’s deep, damp, and alive.
Everything under the surface is working, even if you can’t see it.
🌲 Trees tightening their energy
Deciduous trees are bone-bare, but evergreens smell stronger this time of year — like they’re holding the season’s secrets.
Nature isn’t asleep yet. It’s simply shifting gears.
🌼 Bloom with Purpose
November is the month that teaches us the difference between stopping and resting.
Bulbs sleep underground.
Garlic settles its roots.
The soil tucks itself in tighter each night.
Everything is preparing — not pausing.
So light the candles.
Wear the cozy sweater.
Let the house get a little quiet around you.
This is the season for grounding, protecting your peace, and giving yourself permission to be still.
Rest isn’t a reward.
It’s part of the work.
And it’s how we bloom — with purpose — when the time comes again.
Hi, I’m Carie!
I’m a Missouri flower grower with a love for turning soil, seeds, and sunshine into armfuls of blooms. On our family farm, I spend my days growing dahlias, zinnias, and all the little flowers that make each season feel special. Gardening isn’t always perfect—sometimes it’s messy, unpredictable, and full of lessons—but that’s what makes it so rewarding.
Through this blog, I share stories from the garden, tips for growing cut flowers, and a peek into life on the farm here in the Midwest. My hope is to encourage you to dig in, grow something beautiful, and enjoy the simple joys that flowers bring..
