By Shelly Patterson
As this unusually mild fall lingers on Anarchist Mountain, many of us have found ourselves gifted with a little extra time—time to clear away low branches, tidy up deadfall, and dream up fresh ways to welcome the holiday season ahead.
One of the joys of living up here is the remarkable diversity of flora and fauna tucked into every corner of the landscape. Some treasures take a bit more searching—hidden behind rock outcrops or nestled into the forest floor—but the effort is always rewarded.
On our daily hikes, we often revisit a discovery we first made several years ago: a large, sprawling patch of native juniper (Juniperus communis), its blue-green needles brushed with a silvery tint. We had wandered off the beaten path—quite literally—and were astonished to find such hardy, thriving shrubs flourishing with absolutely no help from me. As an avid gardener, I’ve planted many nursery-grown junipers in city and rural yards over the years, so finding this naturally occurring patch felt like stumbling into a secret garden.
Since purchasing our property in 2019, our walks often lead us back to this peaceful oasis. Yesterday, with my dog trotting at my side, a pair of clippers, and a wheelbarrow in tow, I harvested a modest number of juniper branches—carefully chosen from densely packed areas—to create a winter planter. The lingering mild weather meant several planters were still sitting empty, soil ready to be filled with local evergreens.
Nearby, three birch trees (Betula papyrifera), in need of thinning and cleanup, also offered a few beautiful white branches. Paired with juniper, pine, and fir, the arrangement came together effortlessly. A bit of ribbon or a few winter-themed ornaments—small stars, bells, or colourful baubles—may be added later, but even in its natural state, the planter is beautifully complete.
If you’re out exploring your own yard or nearby trails before the snow settles in, keep an eye out for other seasonal treasures.
Red and yellow willow branches (Salix spp.), holly sprigs (Ilex aquifolium), and vibrant green moss-covered deadfall can all add colour and texture to winter décor. This is the season for cozy evenings, snowy walks, and making plans to enjoy everything mountain living has to offer. Cheers to life on Anarchist Mountain.