April
April is the month that keeps its promises late. Rain most weeks, blossom for about nine days, and a growing sense that the year has restarted properly — the windows open for the first time and stay open, and dinner starts drifting toward the back step.
Days 91–120 · Sunset near 7:47
In Season
What the month is made ofAt the market
Asparagus, rhubarb, radishes, and the first real lettuce. All of it is better this month than it will be at any other point in the year — eat it plainly while that is true.
The light
Long, grey, and even. April light flatters everything green, which is convenient, because everything is turning green.
Outside
The first dinner eaten outdoors, usually a week too early, wearing a coat, and better for it.
The rituals
Opening day, Easter somewhere in here, tax day, and the weekend the whole street is suddenly mowing at once.
What to Wear Now
Plan for rain, hope otherwiseThe rain jacket
April is wet on a schedule nobody can predict. Keep it in the bag, not the closet.
Lighter trousers
The first month for cotton chinos over wool. Small change, large feeling.
Shoes for wet grass
Everything outdoors is soaked until noon. Plan accordingly.
The April List
Four things worth owning this monthA folding outdoor table
The first meal outside is worth building a small infrastructure for.
See it →The packable rain shell
Lives in the bag from April to June.
See it →Garden gloves that fit
The cheap ones are why people stop gardening.
See it →A vegetable peeler
Asparagus season rewards a sharp one. Replace yours.
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