Reiman Publications Launches Backyard Living Magazine

Posted on January 30, 2004

Backyard Living is a new outdoor living magazine which debuted in January 2004. Each issue will be packed with advice about gardening, landscaping and outdoor entertaining, as well as projects readers can build in a weekend, a day or even hours. Backyard Living is published by Taste of Home publisher Reiman Publications, part of The Reader's Digest Association, Inc. Introductory subscriptions are $11.98 for one year (six bimonthly issues) or $19.96 for two years.

"Backyard Living is like a neighborly chat across the backyard fence," says Editor Jerry Wiebel. "That's because most of it is written by readers -- real people who share ideas about the ways they've improved their own yards."

Regular content features include "Grounds for Improvement," where readers describe how they have solved problems such as unsightly views or lack of privacy. In the premiere issue, Kim and Joe Tappa of Green Bay, Wisconsin show how they turned a sandy slope into a terraced garden. "Plant Doctor," by horticulturist Melinda Myers, tells how to grow lush lawns, vibrant flowers and a bounty of vegetables. Then there's Spike Carlsen, a contractor with more than 25 years experience. In each issue, he answers questions about backyard projects big and small.

"Spike loves to help beginners, and he knows how great it feels to stand back and admire a project you did all on your own," Wiebel says.

In the premiere issue, readers will also find practical projects like a portable grill table and an easy-to-build garden bench. One article shows how to build a graceful copper wire garden trellis in less than a day, and an attractive stone pathway leading to the garden. As with other Reiman publications, Backyard Living invites readers to submit articles and photos, sharing their success stories.

"A good way to gather ideas for your yard is to walk around the neighborhood and stop to chat with the folks you meet up and down the street," Wiebel says. "That's the way we look at Backyard Living. It's like one big neighborhood, with folks from all across the country sharing friendly advice to help you make the most of your space out back."

Backyard Living also offers outdoor cooking recipes and clever party ideas. In the premiere issue, Mark Morgan from the Taste of Home Test Kitchen shares a menu featuring Lemon Grilled Salmon for an elegant-but-easy patio party.

Backyard Living is published by Reiman Publications, publisher of 10 other consumer lifestyle magazines including Taste of Home. In addition, Reiman publishes books and offers cooking classes, a cooking expo and tours built around the Taste of Home brand. Reiman is part of The Reader's Digest Association, Inc., a global publisher and direct marketer with headquarters located at Pleasantville, New York.