hydrangea paniculata pruning and other q&a's; birds' winter strategies, and more  

Dark was one thing -- you know, like dark at 4:34 PM, heaven help us -- but now dark and cold? Oh, my. Goldfinches gobbled seeds in a frenzy for two days as if the end were in sight, and sure enough: a little snow Monday, and 22ish F last night. Best to make like that great horned owl (above) and tuck into your nest!

what do 'our' birds do in winter?  

Birds are impressive in the ways they cope with winter, whether by fleeing or toughing it out. Ever wonder how chickadees find seeds they stashed, or just how far south some species go? The answers, and tips on aiding "our" birds in winter, are all here. (Owl photo, David Stephens.)

Wondering how -- and when -- to prune Hydrangea paniculata, whose blooms are browning off? Or whether you can plant grocery-store-bought garlic? Or how late is too late to plant things still sitting in the driveway in their pots? (Oops! Here too.) Answers to those reader questions and more right here (in audio and a blog post).

in case you missed it...

• Did you see me and Jack on PBS last week?
• Avoid tainted killer compost (hint: animal manures are tricky!)