Read by Matilda Longbottom
Dear Gardeners,
November is arriving, and for many of us, bringing with it the chill of winter and a time for reflection in the garden. As the days grow shorter, our focus shifts to preparing for the colder months ahead, while also enjoying the last bits of our fall harvest. Whether you’re planning your garden for next year or making sure your current crops are ready for the frost, this issue of Food Gardening Magazine is packed with everything you need.
One of the highlights of this month is planting garlic—a must-have for every food gardener. With our detailed guide, and an accompanying video, you’ll have garlic ready to harvest next summer. And as you wind down your gardening tasks, don’t forget to consider storing root vegetables like potatoes and carrots. We have a guide, complete with a video, to help you store them correctly for winter.
We also have some delightful recipes to share, including a Maple Sage Baked Pear dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings. For those of you already thinking ahead to next season, our feature on planning a garden with the best vegetables for pickling will give you inspiration for preserving the flavors of summer all year long.
This issue is full of advice and inspiration for gardeners of all levels, so grab a cup of tea, settle in, and enjoy!
Featured Articles:
- What to Plant in November in Zones 4-6: Discover the crops that will thrive in cooler northern regions this month.
- What to Plant in November in Zones 7-8: Perfect for those in transitional zones who want to keep their gardens growing.
- What to Plant in November in Zones 9-10: Explore the best plants for warmer southern areas.
- To Clean Your Garden Bed, or Leave it To the Birds? Explore the pros and cons of cleaning up your garden versus letting nature take its course.
- How to Plant Garlic in the Fall (with video): A step-by-step guide to planting garlic now for next summer’s harvest.
- How to Store Potatoes, Carrots & More for Winter (with video): Learn the best techniques for storing root vegetables and extending your harvest.
- November Gardening Tasks and Chores (with video): Get your garden ready for winter with this checklist of must-do tasks.
- Planning a Garden with the Best Vegetables for Pickling and Preservation (with video): Prepare for a summer full of pickling with these vegetable recommendations.
In this edition, our Gardening Guide Close-Ups focuses on cranberries, ginger, cucumbers, peas, and basil. These articles offer in-depth advice to help you master these unique plants:
- Do Cranberries Grow in Water? You Might Be Surprised! Find out the truth behind this common gardening myth.
- How to Use Ginger for a Zestier Life: Discover the health benefits and culinary uses of ginger.
- The Bitter Cucumber Fix: From Foam to Flavor: Learn how to rescue bitter cucumbers and turn them into a delicious dish.
- The Best Peas to Plant for Snacking: Explore pea varieties perfect for fresh snacking and easy growing.
- How to Make Basil Last Longer: Practical tips to keep your basil fresh for weeks longer.
And of course, we have some delicious recipes to share:
- Maple Sage Baked Pear Recipe (with video): A sweet and savory dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
- Garlic Parmesan Sugar Snap Peas: A savory side dish that highlights the crispness of fresh peas.
- Traditional Greek Cucumber Salad: Refresh your meals with this light and tangy Mediterranean classic.
- Cranberry Chutney: A tangy and sweet accompaniment perfect for fall dishes.
- Basil-Lemon Grilled Chicken: A flavorful, herb-infused recipe that’s quick and easy to prepare.
- Pillow-Soft Ginger Cookies: These cookies are perfect for a cozy afternoon snack, with a hint of spice and warmth.
I’m also thrilled to announce our new 2025 Vegetable 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 prepare for winter, remember that the garden is never truly done. There’s always something new to learn, plant, or harvest. Whether you’re working on this year’s last tasks or dreaming of next year’s garden, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Happy gardening—and happy planning!
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!
