Welcome, December! We are always grateful to hear from our readers. A lot of times, you add some wonderfully helpful gardening advice, too! 

“This is my first full gardening season, and I have to say, your fall articles helped me feel less sad about everything dying back. I didn’t realize how much you can still do in autumn—seed saving, garlic planting, even cold frames! I’ve learned a ton, thank you.”

“I’ve been canning apples nonstop, and your recipes came at the perfect time. I especially liked the one about preserving herbs—it made my kitchen smell amazing! Keep them coming.”

“I’ve been gardening for over 50 years, and I still pick up new tricks from your articles. The one on saving heirloom seeds brought back memories of my grandmother drying beans on the porch rail. It’s nice to see those old traditions being shared again.”

Some tips from our community:

“When my basil plants start looking tired toward the end of the season, I make big batches of pesto—but instead of pine nuts, I use roasted sunflower seeds. They’re cheaper, just as tasty, and freeze beautifully in ice cube trays. Pop one out for a quick burst of summer flavor in winter soups or pasta.” – Linda H.

“Don’t toss those last green tomatoes! I slice and dehydrate them, then grind them into powder once they’re crisp. It makes a tangy seasoning that’s great on eggs, fish, and even popcorn. A little goes a long way, and it reminds me of late summer every time I use it.” – Charles W.

“I save my onion and garlic skins in a jar in the freezer all season. When it’s full, I toss them into a big pot with veggie scraps to make broth. It gives the stock a beautiful golden color and rich flavor. Nothing wasted, and everything tastes better!” – Jeanette R.

If you’d like to share your feedback in a future issue, please comment below or email your comments, feedback, and suggestions to submissions@foodgardening.com with “Subscriber Feedback” in the email subject line.