This little tree
confined to a ten gallon pot
set up against the south side
of the house
will want protection
from the winter frost

Despite the cold
her leaves have kept
their color
and their gloss
the lemons still
a pale lime green
are mostly hidden
in the foliage
but promise
in coming months
an offering
abundant
ready to delight
our palates and
adorn our kitchen windowsill
with color
primed to offset
the grey skies
of December

So a cold frame
such as this
is what she needs
to ensure
her fruitfulness
won't come to naught
after such generosity
it's the least
we can do
to protect her gift
the precioius fruit
she bears