Read by Matilda Longbottom
Dear Gardeners,
Can you feel that crisp October air? I don’t know about you, but here in New England, I love the way the leaves are starting to paint the landscape with their warm hues. It’s like Mother Nature’s giving us one last burst of color before winter sneaks in!
This month’s issue of Food Gardening Magazine is all about embracing fall in all its glory. We’re diving into how to make the most of your autumn harvest while also plotting and planning to keep those veggies coming even as the temperatures drop. Trust me, we have some fun gardening know-how in this issue, especially if you’re not quite ready to throw in your gardening gloves for the season.
I’m particularly excited about our feature on winter greenhouse gardening. Seriously, it’s a game-changer! Just imagine plucking fresh tomatoes in the dead of winter – it’s like a little bit of summer magic. And speaking of magic, wait until you see our guide on building a DIY hoop house. It’s easier than you might think, and it’s like giving your raised beds a cozy blanket to snuggle under when Jack Frost comes knocking.
Got a creative itch? Our pumpkin carving article is right up your alley – perfect timing for Halloween, right? And hey, if you’re wondering what to do with all those extra veggies (is there really such a thing?), our pickling guide is here to save the day. Nothing beats the satisfaction of popping open a jar of home-pickled goodies in the depths of winter.
This issue is packed with practical tips and seasonal advice that I’ve found invaluable in my own garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone.
Featured Articles:
- 12 Things to Grow in Your Greenhouse This Winter: Discover how to keep your green thumb active all year round with these winter-friendly crops.
- What to Plant in October in Zones 4-6: Learn about cold-hardy crops suitable for northern regions as winter approaches.
- What to Plant in October in Zones 7-8: Explore fall planting options for these transition zones.
- What to Plant in October in Zones 9-10: Uncover late-season planting opportunities in warmer southern areas.
- The Best Pumpkins to Grow for Carving & Tricks for the Ultimate Jack-O’-Lantern (with video!): Get ready for Halloween with expert pumpkin-growing and carving tips.
- How to Pickle: 3 Ways (with video!): Preserve your harvest with these three delicious pickling methods.
- How to Build a DIY Hoop House for Raised Beds (with video!): Extend your growing season with this simple and effective structure.
- How to Get Seeds from Your Vegetables to Save for Next Year (with video!): Learn the art of seed saving to ensure a bountiful garden next season.
- Pumpkin Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Bacon (with video!): Indulge in this comforting fall recipe that makes the most of your pumpkin harvest.
- Frost-Defying Feasts: Mastering Cold Frames for the Fall: Discover how to use cold frames to protect your crops and extend your harvest.
In this edition, our Gardening Guide Close-Ups focuses on celery, winter squash, Brussels sprouts, lettuce, and green beans. These articles offer in-depth advice to help you master these fall favorites:
- From Stalk to Success: 20+ Advanced Celery Cultivation Tips: Take your celery growing to the next level with these expert strategies.
- The Curious Case of Cross-Pollinated Squash: Unravel the mysteries of squash genetics and how it affects your harvest.
- From Bitter to Better: Conquering Bitter Brussels Sprouts in Your Garden: Learn how to grow the sweetest, most delicious Brussels sprouts.
- 10 Ways to Protect Lettuce from Frost: Keep your salad greens thriving even as temperatures drop.
- Bean There, Done That: How to Save Green Bean Seeds: Master the art of saving green bean seeds for future plantings.
And of course, we have some delicious recipes to help you make the most of your October harvest:
- Brussels Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze: A sweet and tangy way to enjoy your homegrown Brussels sprouts.
- Healthy Green Bean Casserole: A lighter version of the classic dish that lets your fresh green beans shine.
- Roasted Stuffed Acorn Squash: A hearty and satisfying meal that celebrates the flavors of fall.
- Grilled Garden Romaine: A unique way to enjoy your late-season lettuce crop.
- Winter Squash Bread: A comforting quick bread that makes great use of your winter squash harvest.
I’m also thrilled to announce our new 2025 Herb Garden Planning Kit. This comprehensive guide will help you plan, plant, and maintain a thriving herb garden throughout the year. Whether you’re growing herbs indoors or out, this kit is an essential tool for any food gardener looking to add fresh flavors to their meals year-round.
Gold Members can find more on our Gardening Kits tab:
Check them out now, and download your favorites!
As we embrace the heart of autumn, I hope this issue of Food Gardening Magazine inspires you to make the most of your October garden. Whether you’re harvesting pumpkins, planting garlic, or preparing your beds for winter, remember to take a moment to appreciate the unique beauty and bounty of the fall garden.
Happy gardening—and happy harvesting!
Christy Page
Editor & Publisher
P.S. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this issue of Food Gardening Magazine. Please share your feedback in the comments below. Your input is invaluable in helping us continue to improve and provide the content you find most useful!
