by Valerie Shaw There’s nothing like the blue sky of an autumn day. Now it’s time to bring in the garden statues, take notes on your garden successes and failures, and prepare your garden for winter. Acorns, pumpkins, and beautiful leaves invite children outside for one last romp before the snow comes. The gardening fun doesn’t have to completely end, though! …

by Cathy Monrad Keeping track of one’s glass of wine at holiday parties is always a challenge. These adorable wine charms will help your fellow oenophiles distinguish which glass belongs to them. MATERIALS FOR EACH CHARM 1 wood slice, approximately 1 inch in diameter and 1/2 inch thick 1 screw eye, 4 x 15 mm 1 stemware loop, …

by Liz Magnanti Fall cleanup is an inevitable part of preparing for the winter months ahead. Raking, cleaning out the gutters, and cleaning up plant debris can be tedious. The good news is, sometimes the messier the garden the better it is for wildlife! Many plants will offer seeds to birds like goldfinches, juncos, and pine siskins in the winter. …

What To Do in the Garden in November & December The deciduous trees have lost their leaves, gardens are being put to bed, and winter is not far behind. Adding a few inches of shredded leaves or compost to your garden beds before the ground freezes will aid in your garden’s health providing better soil structure and more nutrients. Incorporate …

Story and photos by Michelle Sutton unless noted Rawlings Nursery: Hostas & Display Gardens in the North Country PLANT FAMILY Generally hardy to Zone 3a, hostas are at home in Zone 4b in Ellisburg, New York, an hour north of Syracuse and just east of Lake Ontario. There, on the former family dairy farm, Kevin Rawlings has grown …