Reader submitted content: Crocus: A Late Winter Flowering
Reader Jeremy Friesen writes, “Each year I forget the joy crocuses bring. The first to bloom, ever a surprise at where they might sprout. This year, I couldn’t help but a poem.”

Crocus: A Late Winter Flowering
By Jeremy Friesen
Last year, we removed a few trees (110 feet tall and split at the base). It hurt our hearts to fell such grand trees, but they were a danger to us and our neighbors. The heavy equipment used wrecked the yard, so they brought in some soil to smooth things over.
As part of turning up that soil, they must’ve scattered many crocus bulbs. Our yard has 50 or more clusters bursting forth. And in these teetering days of late winter and early spring, the crocuses herald change.
—
Each year, brave and resolute,
You sneak upon the field
And show your colors for all
To feel what defiance means;
Taunting winter’s last fury;
Daring the old man to spit
Frost and ice on greening field.
Brave young crocus you are not
Alone but amidst a field
Of brothers and sisters true
To the cause of waking spring.
Quick, before you fade and wilt
Might I join you for a spell?