Read by Matilda Longbottom

 

October tiptoes into the garden like a painter with a warm, earthy palette. The brilliant greens of Summer give way to cozy golds, fiery reds, and soft russets. Pumpkins perch proudly on their vines, mums cheerfully bloom in every shade of Autumn, and the air carries that crisp, apple-sweet scent that makes you want to wrap your hands around a mug of something warm. The garden feels quieter now, but it’s not sleepy—it’s humming with the magic of transition, as beds rest, bulbs tuck in for Winter, and we gather the last of the season’s gifts. October gardening is less about racing the clock and more about savoring the moments: raking leaves into playful piles, planting garlic for next year, and admiring the way frost turns the edges of kale leaves into sparkly lace.

We are definitely savoring the moments here at GreenPrints with our October issue. Amanda MacArthur helps us gear up for the Winter rest with How to Create a “Seed Quilt” for Winter Sowing in Place. Here’s your chance to skip the containers and let nature do the work with this revolutionary direct-seeding technique. Death and the Garden by Becky Rupp has me reflecting on the lifespan of a garden. As she so eloquently puts it, “This year’s garden, plowed under, makes room for next year’s garden.”

Mike McGrath brings plenty of laughs with Hydrangea frustrada. How well do your hydrangeas grow? Mike shares both his experiences and his mistakes along the way. Pat Stone reflects on the end of the gardening season in Going Cold Garden. It seems once October hits, the rest of the year just flies by—our gardens included.

This month, we’re focusing on several wonderful plants: radishes, kale, pumpkins, and various spices. Did you know how beneficial radishes are for your health? I didn’t, but now, I’ll be adding them to my recipes more often. October is also a perfect time for kale and pumpkin! We’ve gathered great information on both of these powerhouse plants and how they can enrich your garden and your kitchen.

Our Stories from the Garden this month celebrate pumpkins and the joys of Fall. Larry Johnson shares The Pumpkin Peace Treaty, a true story about how an egg ended the great pumpkin war—it had me giggling! October’s Fabulous Leafy Soirée by Hannah Dougherty Campbell is a thoughtful reflection on the gorgeous colors of Fall. Mary Redus also offers us a delightful poem in Making Ready for Winter. I may not be ready for Winter yet, but I’m getting there.

For our Garden to Table Recipe Collection, join Don as he recounts his adventures through Hungary, where every meal was a celebration of flavors and every bite told a story. Whether you’re cooking up a romantic dinner for two or a festive feast for family and friends, these recipes promise to bring a taste of Hungary to your table. Each dish is a testament to the vibrant culture and culinary heritage of the region, brought to life with fresh ingredients and a touch of love.

We’re also exploring indoor gardening as the cooler weather sets in. Whether you live in a high-rise apartment, a cozy bungalow, or a suburban townhouse, the idea of bringing a little green indoors has probably crossed your mind. Maybe you’ve longed for fresh herbs in your kitchen, crisp greens on your windowsill, or the bright cheer of flowering vegetables during the depths of Winter. If so, you’re in good company—indoor gardening is blooming across America. Learn more in our Indoor Gardening in America GuideBook.

October closes the garden season with a cozy mix of harvest and preparation. With pumpkins gathered, garlic planted, and bulbs tucked in, the beds are ready for Winter’s rest—leaving us dreaming of next year’s blooms. And as we dream, we can also read along to discover how others are putting their gardens to bed and preparing for the Fall and Winter seasons. ❖

Christy Page
Editor & Publisher
Food Gardening Network