It's getting to be time to order from those alluring seed catalogs. But first things first. Cooperative Extension horticulturist Amy Ivy walks us through what set-up a gardener needs to start those seeds indoors once they arrive. She's got a list of the very basics, for the budget-conscious. [full story]

Too much snow? Not enough? Whatever the details of your winter weather, chances are you're spending more time inside, maybe with a book or two. Horticulturist Amy Ivy has some recommendations on reading and research for gardeners: good advice on good soil, plant mechanics, even advice on all the other advice that's out there. [full story]

Plants really don't like extreme swings from mild to frigid. Cooperative Extension's Amy Ivy explains why a sudden freeze can be so damaging to above-ground foliage. And then there are increasing periods of see-sawing temperatures — they're dangerous for the crowns of garden perennial. What to do? [full story]

The days are short. The sun is low. Surprisingly, it isn't all bad news for houseplants. [full story]

Just days left before Christmas, but that's plenty of time to find something fresh and colorful for holiday giving. Cooperative Extension horticulturist Amy Ivy shares her favorite ideas for gifts of flowers and plants. [full story]

Nicole Caldwell is co-founder of Better Farm, a 60-acre sustainability farm and artists’ colony in Redwood, near the Thousand Islands. Caldwell inherited the farm from her uncle, who organized a commune on the property back in the 1970’s. Left paralyzed after a car accident, Caldwell’s uncle, Steve, moved to the North Country where, with the help of friends and family, he ran a farm, enjoyed the outdoors and taught others about sustainable living. Today, there’s a new generation of residents from around the world. [full story]

The forecast for the next week show warming temperatures, some sunshine, and some showers. While we're waiting for a more seasonal wintry landscape as the holidays approach, there's time to make a last sweep of the perennial garden. On horticulturist Amy Ivy's list: clear out the last of the dead mess. Even do a last weeding. [full story]