Around the world, everyone is talking about environmental issues and the concept of “going green.” Natural organic gardening and landscaping are among the most important parts of that movement. Some organic proponents only say to stop using the chemicals. In The Organic Manual, Howard Garrett explains what to do instead. His “what to do” is the organic method. The book opens with the advice to stop the use of toxic chemicals, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers, but Garrett then goes on, in great detail, about the practical alternatives. This is one of the few books effective for use coast to coast and border to border. The organic method has no geographic boundaries.

The best-kept secret (uncovered in this book) is that the organic program is better in every way. Whether it’s growing beautiful landscaping or delicious, healthy food crops, The Organic Manual explains bed preparation, planting, pest control, and compost making. It also covers natural living advice. The organic method is the most efficient, cost-effective, and fun of any approach. It also produces the best trees, shrubs, flowers, fruits, and vegetables you’ll ever grow.

Keeping chickens isn’t just a common practice in homestead settings, it’s also taking the urban community by storm. Whether you’re raising a flock in the suburbs or on a small farm, the articles found in Community Chickens Guide to Backyard Chickens, 1st Edition will help you learn to keep and maintain a flock of your own.

From choosing a type of breed to making new recipes that use collected eggs, this guide is with you from start to finish. The special issue gives you an inside look at all things related to flocks, as well as provides you the opportunity to explore ideas such as: using your chickens to turn the soil in your garden, building a portable coop, discovering what a day in a hatchery looks like, making your own feed specific to your flock’s health needs, and more! No matter what your skill level is in raising chickens, you will want this resource for all your chicken-related questions.

Other articles include:

• Exploring Backyard Chicken Behavior: The pecking order is a natural and healthy form of communication that helps the flock establish and maintain dominance.
• A History of Geese as Guard Animals: Owning a flock of geese is also a great way to control weeds.
• Summer Success for the Flock: Keeping chickens during hot and sticky days can be tricky, but follow these guidelines and your birds will make it just fine when temperatures soar.
• Home on the (Free) Range: To free-range or not to free-range? For folks with a flock, that is the question.
• Hybrid to Heritage: Choosing chicken breeds for quality meat production.
• And more!