Local reading: Deciphering egg cartons; debunking “food miles”; sneaking edibles into your landscaping; plant your winter gardens!

Which is easier: Reading an egg carton? Or actually acquiring and caring for a flock of chickens? Before I read this article, I would have said that it’s easier to buy eggs. Now I’m not so sure. (New York Times)

How far does your food travel? If you guessed an average 1,500 miles, you’re right — but only if you live in Chicago. Jane Black gets to the bottom of it. (Slate)

Way fewer than 1,500 miles: Sneak squash into your parking strip planting or plant corn in the sideyard. (Greenwalks and Fresh Dirt)

Plan for your local harvest this winter. It’s not too late to plant a winter garden! Here’s a free planting plan for mid-week inspiration. (Fresh Dirt and Sunset.com)

by Elizabeth Jardina, Sunset researcher