It's Friday, November 11. Today is Veterans Day (U.S.) and Remembrance Day (Canada). Take extra time to let a vet know how much they mean to you—and don't forget to raise the flag.
It's also the start of Indian summer. We have a saying here at The Old Farmer's Almanac: “If All Saints’ brings out winter, St. Martin’s brings out Indian summer."
As we head into the weekend, thoughts lead to the yard and garden; we offer some tips on how to protect your plants. Finally, enjoy a fun new post about that strange fall squash—gourds!
Sincerely,
Your Almanac editors
The hoar-frost gathered, o'er each leaf and spray
Weaving its filmy network; thin and bright.
–Sarah Helen Whitman (1803–78)
What are your final spring frost dates and first fall frost dates? Just punch your zip code or postal code into our Frost Dates Calculator for the United States and Canada to see frost dates for your location (based on the nearest weather station)!
Cold frames are a vital component in the gardener’s toolkit. Use them to start off seedlings earlier in spring, to carry on cropping vegetables well into winter, or to help harden off tender plants such as chilies in early summer. They really are the gardener’s best friend!
Learn how to properly overwinter your garden plants to keep them protected from snow, wind, and freezing temperatures. From herbs to geraniums to roses to tropical plants, we’ll help your plants survive the winter. They’ll thank you in the spring!
Good Gourd! What’s with the bumpy, weird-looking decorative squash? We get many questions about growing and curing our gourds. (Did you know that the luffa sponge is a gourd?) See different types of gourds to plant in the spring—or, find some “gourdgeous” gourds this fall and save their seeds!
Balsam Fir Pillows are traditionally given as a sign of friendship, and it’s easy to see why! The pleasant smell of balsam fir will last for years and there are many designs to choose from that will complement your sofa.
