The Three Signs of Rain

Have you ever noticed that nature warns us that rain is coming?  There are three signs you can watch for.  Each one indicates that the conditions are right for rain, and each sign appears as rain clouds move closer.

1. Turtles crossing the road - This is the earliest forecast you can get from nature.  In the spring, there are always a lot of turtles crossing the street.  This sighting may be harder to come by in urban areas, but in the country, there is no shortage of turtles moving to higher ground.  They move slow, so they get a head start.  This usually means you've got a day or so before the rain arrives.
2. Tree branches cracking and breaking - You'll have to be in or near the woods to observe this one.  When conditions are just right, you can sit outside and listen for tree branches cracking and falling.  It doesn't always happen, but there is something about the humidity or atmospheric pressure or something that causes this.  It's something my grandma pointed out to me when I was very young.  This means rain is in the area, and you've got a good chance to experience some later that day.
3. Leaves turning inside out - Maple trees are the showiest when it comes to this sign.  Have you ever noticed that right before a storm hits, and the wind is picking up, that tree leaves look lighter in color?  They've actually flipped upside down.  I have never researched why this happens, but it means a storm is approaching within the hour.

Rain is essential to the success of a garden.  Watering it yourself will never yield the same results.  So try to be patient and let it do its thing -- there are plenty of hot days ahead.