Q: How do I clean a
terra-cotta pot to
store it for the winter?—Eliza Nance, Boston
A: It’s important to wash this
type of planter every time
you empty and replant, as well
as before it’s stored for the
season. Brush off any loose
soil, then scour the pot with
a stiff-bristled flowerpot
brush (shown) and hot water.
Rinse and let it air-dry before
using or storing.Q: Can I make my own
pumpkin-pie spice at home?
—Emily Belfiore, Westbury, N.Y.A: Yes! The beauty of doing it your-
self is that you can tailor it to your
preferences. Below is our recipe,
but feel free to experiment with addi-
tional ginger or cinnamon for more
warmth, or extra cloves for added
earthiness. Whatever you choose,
store the mix in an airtight container
out of direct sunlight at room
temperature for up to six months.PUMPKIN-PIE-SPICE MIX
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons
ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons ground
ginger, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon
ground allspice, and ½ teaspoon ground
cloves. Makes about ¼ cup.Q: Which persimmons
can I find easily in the fall?—Margaret Austin, Richmond, Va.
A: The two most commonly found
varieties in the United States are
fuyus and hachiyas. Fuyus (far right)
are squat and round; choose them
for ripeness as you would a tomato.
They are mildly sweet and excellent
in salads or on a cheese plate. Hachiyas
(near right) have a long bottom.
Unripened hachiyas are too tannic to
eat, but once ripe, the fruit becomes
very soft and is great in baked goods.73
GOOD LIVING
Ask Martha
For the
Keurig® K-Cup®
Brewing System.
Keurig and K-Cup are trademarks of Keurig, Incorporated.
Used with permission.THE
GOOD
NEWS
JUST
DOESN’T
STOP.
That’s right.
Gevalia also comes in
single serve cups.