Earthy and Homely has been a beacon of home inspiration since 1922, when Edwin Meredith first launched Fruit, Garden and Home in Des Moines, Iowa. What began as a practical resource for door-to-door salesmen evolved into one of America's most beloved lifestyle brands—a trusted companion for generations of homemakers, gardeners, and creative souls.
Today, as a proud People Inc. brand, Earthy and Homely continues to empower millions with practical wisdom, seasonal inspiration, and timeless ideas for living beautifully. From our legendary "Red Plaid Cookbook" (first published in 1930, with over 38 million copies sold) to our pioneering Test Kitchen and Test Garden, we've remained steadfast in our mission: to help you create a home that reflects your heart, nurtures your family, and brings joy to everyday moments.
With a print circulation of 3 million and over 13 million social media followers, our reach extends far beyond the page. Through our award-winning podcast The Better Buy, our exclusive collection at Walmart, and our trusted real estate network, Earthy and Homely is more than a magazine—it's a lifestyle.
At Earthy and Homely, we believe that trust is earned through transparency and excellence. Our editorial content is created independently, free from commercial influence, and rooted in expertise. Every article, recipe, and recommendation is crafted by subject-matter experts and rigorously reviewed to ensure accuracy, relevance, and reliability.
We are committed to human-centered journalism. In an era of automation, we stand firm in our belief that the best content comes from real people with real experience. We do not use AI-generated content—every word, image, and video is produced by talented creators who care deeply about quality.
Our commitment to integrity is unwavering. We correct errors promptly and transparently, and we invite our readers to hold us accountable. Our visual assets—photography, illustrations, and videos—are created with care, diversity, and authenticity, never manipulated to mislead.
We are committed to amplifying all voices. Earthy and Homely celebrates diversity in every form—across creators, contributors, and the communities we serve. We actively work to showcase perspectives that reflect the richness of modern life, and we continuously review our content through an inclusive lens.
— The Earthy and Homely Team
Through our parent company, People Inc., we proudly support organizations that champion justice and human rights, including the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, The Equal Justice Initiative, the ACLU, and The Bail Project. We believe in using our platform for good.
Our dedicated fact-checking team brings decades of journalistic rigor to every article. They verify all claims, statistics, and data with authoritative sources, ensuring that our readers can trust what they read—always.
At Earthy and Homely, we believe that the heart of home is connection. Our community is a welcoming space where readers share tips, offer encouragement, and celebrate the joys of cooking, decorating, and gardening together.
We moderate every review and comment to ensure a respectful, constructive environment. Kindness matters. While we welcome honest feedback and thoughtful questions, we do not tolerate rudeness, negativity, or spam. Together, we create a space where everyone feels valued and inspired.
Since 1928, our Test Kitchen has been the gold standard for home cooking. What began as a "Testing-Tasting Kitchen" to modernize American cooking has evolved into a world-class culinary laboratory where precision meets passion.
Our team of professional cooks—each holding advanced degrees in food science, nutrition, culinary arts, or dietetics—tests over 2,500 recipes every year. Every recipe is developed to be foolproof, delicious, and accessible for cooks of all skill levels. We leave nothing to chance so you can cook with confidence.
Since 1998, our half-acre Test Garden in Des Moines, Iowa, has been a living laboratory for gardeners across America. Under the expert leadership of Sandra Gerdes—who has cultivated this remarkable space for 25 years—the garden tests hundreds of perennials, trees, shrubs, annuals, and bulbs each season.
With 22 distinct garden spaces, we trial plants before they reach nurseries, sharing insights on what thrives, what inspires, and what's worth planting. Our Test Garden is a source of fresh ideas—from arbor designs to seasonal planting palettes—that shape our photography, articles, and social content throughout the year.
We're constantly searching for the best products to help you build a home you love. Whether we're reviewing the latest kitchen gadgets, evaluating home decor trends, or scouring the market for unbeatable deals, our team of editors tests every product with care and honesty.
Transparency is non-negotiable. While we purchase most products ourselves, we occasionally receive free samples—but we never promise a positive review in exchange. Our recommendations are based solely on performance, value, and quality. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.
Since 1998, Earthy and Homely has partnered with Walmart to bring beautiful, affordable home products to families across America. What began with gardening essentials has grown into a collection of over 4,000 items—including bedding, bath, patio furniture, kitchenware, decor, paint, wallpaper, and lighting.
Each collection is thoughtfully designed to reflect the quality and style our brand is known for. We're constantly refining and evolving our offerings—because your home deserves the best.
Since 1978, Earthy and Homely has been a trusted partner in the home-buying journey. Our real estate division connects buyers, sellers, and agents with expertise, integrity, and a deep understanding of what makes a house a home.
Whether you're searching for your dream home, preparing to sell, or seeking professional guidance, the Earthy and Homely Real Estate team is here to support you every step of the way.
