MOTHER EARTH NEWS

MOTHER EARTH NEWS magazine is the Original Guide to Living Wisely. Launched in 1970, each bimonthly issue features practical and money-saving information on cutting energy costs; using renewable energy; organic gardening; green home building and remodeling; fun do-it-yourself projects; and conscientious, self-sufficient lifestyles

Roots Reconnected

Mother Earth News • THE ORIGINAL GUIDE TO LIVING WISELY

Dear MOTHER

Breaking Ground

‘Fire Cider’ Ruled Generic • Fire cider is a tonic that’s been used by herbalists for decades, whether to give a kick to prepared dishes or to impart an immunity boost when taken plain. And it’s anything but plain, with a base of apple cider vinegar that’s usually infused with garlic, onion, ginger, horseradish, and hot pepper — and herbs added to the herbalist’s taste.

Energy-Efficient Heating • To keep their dream home cozy, this couple chose a geothermal system that saves them money and energy.

A DIY Sauna Project on the Cheap • Don’t sweat over buying an expensive sauna when you can build a custom, cost-effective one from recycled materials.

Them That’s Doin’ • Welcome to Them That’s Doin’, a department featuring homesteaders discussing what they’ve been up to. We want to know what’s caught your eye, and how you’ve been spending your time. Have you been gifted a good book or discovered an inventive gardening technique? Played an entertaining game or fermented a new brew? Tell us at Letters@MotherEarthNews.com. In the meantime, here’s what we’ve been doin’.

Bringing Everyone to the Table • When ideologies don’t align, our mutual desire for healthy land and good food can bring us together.

Foraging for Wild Foods • Use this guide to identify, harvest, prepare, and preserve edible plants.

Feast on Homemade Corned Beef • Update this St. Patrick’s Day staple with a few modern twists.

Respiratory Relief • Cultivate your own herbal cures for the coughs that plague you in winter.

What to Expect When Your Goat Is Excepting • Know the signs and stages of pregnancy, and learn how to see your does through a successful kidding.

Heatless Habaneros • These peppers pack all the flavor of a habanero — without the painful punch.

Electric Fencing • The pluses clearly outweigh the minuses with this simple and shockingly affordable fencing.

Electric Fencing: A Guide to Basics

Build Your Own Brooder • Nurture your nascent covey in this cozy hand-built box.

What to Consider When Buying • What things factor in to choosing appropriate compact tractors?

Apple Cider Syrup • Preserve your cider bounty with this old-fashioned New England recipe.

What We Can Learn from Livestock • Raising livestock has taught Joel a lot about his own behaviors and interactions.

MOTHER EARTH NEWS • RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS FOR WISER LIVING.

A Popular Tree on the Homestead

Use Trays to Grow Sturdy Seedlings • I’m ready to start seeds for spring! Can I get them going in one big container instead of individual compartments?

Photos from the Field