Thanks to Bob P.
Ed note: Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, and John Denver (and of course Peter, Paul & Mary) all recorded the “Garden Song”, though they were not the first. Seeger was known for performing it live and helped popularize the song within folk circles after David Mallett wrote it in 1975 (Click here for his classic recording). Seeger’s version kept the folk spirit alive and resonated with audiences who appreciated simple, nature-based, and socially-conscious music. Below Arlo Guthrie gives his own take and adds his usual wandering commentary plus a verse for anti-gardeners!
Inch by inch, row by row
Gonna make this garden grow
All it takes is a rake and a hoe
And a piece of fertile ground
Inch by inch, row by row
Someone bless these seeds I sow
Someone warm them from below
Till the rain comes tumblin’ down
Pullin’ weeds and pickin’ stones
Man is made of dreams and bones
Feel the need to grow my own
‘Cause the time is close at hand
Rainful rain, sun and rain
Find my way in nature’s chain
Tune my body and my brain
To the music from the land
Plant your rows straight and long
Temper them with prayer and song
Mother Earth will make you strong
If you give her love and care
Old crow watchin’ hungrily
From his perch in yonder tree
In my garden I’m as free
As that feathered thief up there
Inch by inch, row by row
Gonna make this garden grow
All it takes is a rake and a hoe
And a piece of fertile ground
An inch by inch, row by row
Someone bless these seeds I sow
Someone warm them from below
Till the rain comes tumblin’ down