In this episode we talk about how to tell if winter squash is ripe and how to preserve it. We discuss saving annuals from year to year, and give the pros and cons of fall yard cleanups. Ellen and C.L. also invite you to become inspired by the artist Andy Goldsworthy.

I’m hoping that you’ll try the barbecued chard recipe we talk about in this episode – even non-vegetable eaters and kids often love this dish! We also give you several ways to preserve the bounty from your garden. Whether you dry or can it, as Ellen prefers, or roast and freeze it as C.L. does, you’ll enjoy your garden-grown or foraged harvest through the winter with these methods. We also speak about your firepit plantings, and give our favorite “secret six” tools that will make your outdoor adventures easier. (Link to barbecued chard: http://coffeeforroses.com/barbecued-chard/ )

Ellen and C.L. give you ideas for making the most delicious, fresh pesto on earth…and then move on from great taste to horrible smells! Yes, after talking about garden-grown pesto we discuss stinkhorn fungi…a creepy and spooky fungus that smells like dead meat. After a trip to the all together ooky we move on to the practical: how to water your outdoor containers.

And as always we answer a listener’s emailed question. Art, Science and Dinner: it’s all in your own backyard!