DIY Mother Day Crafts

April 15, 2013, 3:16 am

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Although Mother's day is still pretty far away, why don't we get ready for this wonderful holiday now, when we still have time to consider ideas and try something truly original. DIY Mother's day crafts are the best ideas to celebrate this beautiful Spring-time holiday.

Ideas for Handcrafted Gifts on Mother's Day

Small meaningful handmade gifts for a Mother's day are usually better than the pricy ones. There are a handful of projects that you can make for your dear mother, which she will enjoy. One of the universal themes on this holiday is of course spring-time flowers. A simple spring bouquet will be pleasant, but if you would make a composition of these flowers in a unique way - this will be even better. For example this amazing inspiring idea with daisies in paint dipped bud vases, which was found via Whipperberry. You will need satin paint, pearl paint, glaze, bud vases, a ziplock bag and a small cup. The main idea is to dip the small vases into paint and this way they acquire their pretty color. Pretty simple, but so unique! If you mother enjoys reading, perhaps you could make a planter out of a book. So you will need a book, succulents, moss, an exacto knife, glue, fabric flowers and cling wrap. You will have to cut out the rectangle from the book and seal the space with mod-podge, then place a layer of cling wrap there. Then add some soil and plants, as a last step cover with moss and fabric flowers. Project found via Grenweddingshoes. The mothers who love outdoors would enjoy the following present, found via christinechitnic - the watering can decorated in spring theme for  outdoors. So you will need a metal watering can, waterproof mod podge, a brush and paper flower cut-out. Now cut out the flowers and apply mod podge, then stick it to the can and reapply mod podge. See, how simple and beautiful this crafty idea is! Make your mom feel special on her special day with these easy-to-make crafts!

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Ultimate Spring Planting Guide: Vegetables

April 20, 2013, 8:31 am

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Spring is a perfect time for planting your favorite greens. However, the planting process can be quite complicated due to the differences in planting processes for each greenery type. For example, vegetables vary in their planting preferences, as do flowers and trees. Also, planting procedure varies by different zones, which largely depends on the climate of the zone. To make things easier, we will explore different planting procedures for each type of greenery at a time, starting with vegetable planting. Brocolli

Spring Vegetable Planting Guide

There are certain vegetables that can tolerate cold temperatures, and they can be planted in early spring, while others won't survive the frost, and must be planted only in late spring. Among the first signs that the planting season can be started is the readiness of the soil, which means that the soil is not frosty and can be worked with. The hardy vegetables to plant in spring are: broccoli, onions, lettuce, spinach, peas, cabbage, radishes and turnips, which would be fine in temperatures of 40 degrees or less. The semi-hardy vegetables are potatoes, Swiss chard, beets and cauliflower. The planting season can be divided into early spring and late spring. Corn

Early Spring Planting

The early spring vegetables that should be planted during this period are: lettuce, beets, carrots, radishes, dill, cilantro, cabbage, broccoli, celery, kale and potatoes. Follow the general instructions for vegetable maintenance, for example, both lettuce and celery seeds need light to germinate, so don't cover them with too much soil.

Late Spring Planting

The late spring in terms of planting comes when the last average frost day is over. This day differs by geographical zones and you can check it with the weather forecast of your area. So, once the frost day is over you are safe to plant the following plants: beans, corn, melons, cucumbers, squash (summer and winter), tomatoes, peppers, pumpkins, eggplant.

Limited Space Gardening

April 27, 2013, 5:54 am

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Spring has finally settled in its warm climate and it means that we can finally start our planting projects. However, if you live in an urban area or a house with no large outdoor property, that might be quite puzzling for a starting gardener. Fortunately, there are many other ways to enjoy gardening even in limited space.

Small Garden Ideas

Herbs in Container Gardening by FriendsFoodReview

Container Gardening

Container gardening is a classy solution to the limited space problem. You can still satisfy your desire for gardening, while taking up a little bit of space. Basically container gardening is used with indoor plants, such as orchids, lilies, however the concept can be extended beyond this. Popular kitchen gardening includes container gardening for herbs.

Vertical Gardening

When the space is concerned there is no better way to save it as going upwards. Vertical gardening can be understood in multiple variations, including the mentioned above container gardening, but in the upward position. The bonus of this gardening technique is that it can be used even indoors. Windowsill Strawberry Gardening by Blake Royer

Windowsill Gardening

You have probably seen windowsill gardening numerous times in the country side. This type of gardening is also gaining popularity in the urban areas. When planting in a windowsill box you can make a contrast with different height of plants. Windowsill gardening can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Raised-Bed Gardening

If you do have a little bit of your own land, you can indulge your gardening urges by going with raised-bed gardening. Raised-bed gardening is following the principles of container gardening, except the containers are made from wood and are dug deeply into the soil. With raised-bed gardening you can plant vegetable and fruit. Also particularly popular are the herb gardening as well. Raised-bed gardening is also great if you want to plant greenery for specific meals, such as pizza garden. So now you know that despite limited space, you can still have your own share of gardening experience.

Tips On Growing Carnivorous Plants

May 2, 2013, 6:42 am

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Carnivorous plants are those that actually feed themselves not through photosynthesis but with something more meaty. This kind of plants helps to solve the insect problem, and at some occasions even adds tropical charm to your outdoors. How about some tips on growing carnivorous plants, right in your own garden? Sundew Known As Drosera

Growing Carnivorous Plants

There are many different carnivorous plants out there in the world but all of them share same characteristic eating habits. Usually, this kind of plants is found on the soil that is scarce in nutrients, that way they have adapted by trapping their prey and deriving the nutrients from what they consume. It is essential to learn more about the type of the carnivorous plants and their eating habits beforehand, so you can recreate these conditions in your garden. Water the carnivorous plants with purified water or let the rain water them. Even though the carnivorous plants take nutrients from insects they eat, they also have green leaves which allow them to get energy from photosynthesis, so that means the sunlight is essential for them. However, they have came up with a better solution for eating. There are five major ways of feeding that these plants can be distinguished by:

• Pitfall traps - trap prey in a rolled leaf that contains a pool of digestive enzymes or bacteria;
• Flypaper traps use a sticky mucilage;
• Snap traps utilize rapid leaf movements;
• Bladder traps suck in prey with a bladder that generates an internal vacuum;
• Lobster-pot traps force prey to move towards a digestive organ with inward-pointing hairs.

Dionaea Muscipula Known As Venus Flytrap The common characteristics of the area where these plants grow are bright sun, high humidity, and moist, acidic soil. However, the sunlight should not be direct or it might burn the leaves. It is also essential to check the chosen plants for hardiness zones, so that your plants would feel comfortable in your climate. If you live in a desert climate, grow carnivorous plants in a closed environment, like a greenhouse because this would provide them the needed humidity level. It is essential to buy the carnivorous plants from the nurseries as opposed to just collecting them from the wild, as most of the carnivorous plants are considered endangered species.

Smart Vertical Gardening Ideas

May 3, 2013, 7:11 am

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You may know that when the limited space is concerned, the best way for planting is to choose vertical gardening. It doesn't take as much space as the horizontal one, and brings as much joy as does the regular gardening. There are several smart vertical gardening ideas that we are going to share today.

Unique Vertical Gardening

Trellis Teepee Vertical Gardening

Vertical Gardening: Trellis

If you are thinking of ways to spruce up the vertical garden, why not try trellis? DIY trellis made of sticks can add rustic appeal to the vertical garden, while giving the support to the climbing plants. Trellis can be in a form of an archway (trellis teepee) or it can be in a square composition. They are perfect for growing tomatoes, grapevines, clematis, ivy, climbing roses, and morning glories.

Vertical Gardening: Pergolas & Arbors

Now pergola might be another support system for climbing plants, as it provides it from the "ceiling", so to speak. The main feature of a pergola is that it is square, and big enough to provide shade. There are also other options available for vertical gardening for climbing plants, such structures are known as arbors, but they are generally not that big and serve as doors or symbolic entryways. Pergola Vertical Garden by Laurie March

Vertical Gardening: Raised Beds

While not technically a vertical garden type, the raised bed do provide special conditions for gardening. The raised beds differ from containers in that they still have the same soil, but the soil can be quite different in nutrients and other qualities. A structure for the support, such as a teepee can also be incorporated into a raised bed. The benefits of such gardening involve the sustainable conditions of the soil, slug and snail control (especially if you would secure the walls with copper) and they can also prevent hard-soil compaction.

Natural Insecticides For Gardens

May 8, 2013, 5:19 am

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If you are an avid gardener you should know better that tasty fruit and vegetables attract lots of unwanted attention from the insects. However, dealing with insects often means using chemicals that are harmful to the plants themselves. But don't fret; there are also natural remedies that can help you with the annoying insects: we are presenting to you the natural insecticide remedies for your garden.

Natural Insecticide Remedies

Lady Bug: Natural Aphid Predator

Plant Repellent Method

There are various methods of driving the insects away from your garden, and one of them involves using other plants as insect repellents. Of course each case is individual, so you need to make sure what kind of insects are invading your garden. This is easy, as each pest is eating a specific kind of plant. For instance, basil can ward off flies and mosquitoes, while catnip can act on ants, aphids and cockroaches. Garlic can control aphids, Japanese beetles and spider mites. Plant the companion greenery, such as garlic for strawberries to repel the insects. There is also a general method of dealing with soft-bodied insects, a natural insecticide that is called Pyrethrum made from species of chrysanthemum native to Kenya and Ecuador.

Insect & Bacteria Repellent Method

Well it is not a secret that some bugs and insects are eating other insects. This might help in saving your garden. For example ladybugs and lacewings eat aphids; assassin bugs eat caterpillars and flies; tiger beetles generally feed on other insects. There is also a biological method of controlling the insect problem that involves using micro-organisms, such as Bacillus Thuringiensis, which makes the insects sick. Also frogs are good for decreasing the insect population, but they need special conditions such as a pond, for living.

Homemade Method

Dish soap can be mixed with water and sprayed on the garden leaves: it will act on the soft-bodied insects such as mites and kill them eventually. Red hot sauce with dish soap and water can also be used as insecticide that is relevantly safe for the plants. Compost and mulch are also good in helping to drive the insects away. Add mixture of crushed garlic, onion, hot pepper and ground cloves into compost as it will help in fighting the insects.

Making Of Bog Garden

May 11, 2013, 1:34 am

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If you have an outdoor water feature, such as a garden pond, there is probably a little area adjacent to the pond that is quite soggy. Not to waste any land, you can create a beautiful bog garden in that spot highlighting the natural beauty of the area. Here you will find a tutorial on making a perfect bog garden.

DIY Bog Garden

Bog Garden by Dorling Kindersley The project seems to be quite easy, however, it requires some effort. In order to make a bog garden you need to check the area where the soil is soggy. Then, make sure you have the following:

• garden hose & perforated hose
• pond liner
• bricks & gravel
• topsoil & well-composted organic matter
• garden fork & shovel
• bog plants

Now, using the garden hose make the outline of the future bog garden area. Excavate about 24 inches of the soil and then lay the pond liner inside. In order to keep the liner in place use bricks and lay them on the edge of the lined area. Perforate the liner with garden forks at 3-foot intervals. This is needed to provide the drainage that is still essential for the plants' maintenance. Laying Of Pond Liner The next step is to cover the base of the future bog garden with gravel that is needed for better drainage. Now it is finally the time to fill the area with soil together with the needed nutrients and compost. When you are done with this procedure, make sure to cut off the excessive liner around the edges. To keep the pond wet, place a perforated hose near the bog garden, but make sure it is almost completely in the soil. The last step includes planting the greenery. There is wide variety of plants that enjoy wet soil, but make sure to learn about each type of the plant for better maintenance.

Outdoors Color Drama

May 13, 2013, 1:47 am

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Thinking of how to spruce up your outdoors to add some drama? Well, color is a universal tool of making the outdoors and the indoors dramatic. Let's find out all you need to know about various dramatic colors and how to integrate them into the outdoor area.

Outdoor Colors For More Drama

Fragile Beauty Of Outdoors

Blooms & Colors

Plants are the most common tools of incorporating colors into the outdoors. There are so many plants with various hues that offer diversity to the outdoors. By choosing plants with particular blooms, you can incorporate your favorite colors into the yard. For instance, roses come in many different colors, and there are also hybrid types with unconventional hues. Not only roses bring color into outdoors, they also fill your garden with pleasant scents.

Seasonal Hues

Another way of adding color to your outdoors is to plant seasonal greenery. This way the hues will change with the coming of different seasons. The essential idea here is to pay attention to the blooming periods of each plant. Try to add seasonal touches with pink or purple blooms in spring, red and orange flowers in summer, and ,of course, golden and red foliage in fall. Colorful Focal Point From Houseplants

Timing Colors

It is important to pay attention to the time when you are visiting your outdoors, because if you do so in the nighttime most of the blooms are not visible. If you are most likely to spend the time outdoors during nightfall, plant night-blooms, and also shrubs with silver foliage. The silvery foliage shines in the setting sun giving your yard fragrant illumination. Likewise, if you prefer to spend the mornings in your yard, plant the morning bloomers.

Colorful Focal Point

Use the brightest colors, such as red, pink or yellow to create eye-catching dramatic focal points from various plants. Focal points add a sense of order into your yard, while hiding some objects that you don't want to be seen by diverting the unwanted attention to something beautiful.  

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Silver Plants For Beautiful Gardens

May 24, 2013, 4:37 am

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Do you want to have a unique garden and just love silver color? Why not try to go with just silver? It will make your garden look exotic and amazing, as there are many different plants that are silver in their foliage or blooms. Not sure where to start from? Well, best idea is to start from here.

Best Silver Plant Gardening Ideas

Artemisia ludoviciana By Dorling Kindersley

Valerie Finnis

This one is a perennial plant with outstanding silver foliage that is good for sunny locations. The plants can produce clusters of creamy flowers in July. This plant is perfect for container gardening along with other perennials. It is hardy to zones 5 to 10, and can tolerate dry climates.

Lamb Ear

Stachys Byzantina By Costa Farm This variety of a perennial doesn't produce the flowers, but has dense silver foliage. This plant can be evergreen in mild climates. Most often this perennial is used as a groundcover. Hardy to zones 4 to 8, it needs regular watering and full to partial sun exposure. This plant spreads really fast, so be careful when planting it or it can become invasive.

Salvia Argentea

Salvia Argentia By Missouri Botanical Garden Its other name is silver sage, and it is also a perennial with fuzzy silver green leaves. The leaves are arranged in huge rosettes presenting an interest as a groundcover. In summer the plant produces creamy white flowers, however, if you want to enjoy the silver carpet, it is best to remove the flowers.

Edelweiss

Leontopodium Alpine By Anne Elliot This is an alpine flower with a silver bloom. It grows in cold conditions, preferring high altitudes. This hardy perennial blooms in late spring through summer, and it is perfect in rather harsh conditions of the mountain climate. If you want to plant edelweiss in your garden, the perennial prefers being planted near the rocks or borders, because that is very close to their natural habitat.

Beginner’s Guide To Growing Tomatoes

June 29, 2013, 5:59 am

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Tomato, the delicious red fruit that can be used in many various recipes of course demands some extra attention from the gardeners because it can be quite problematic in growing. Tomatoes are not always red, they can be yellow, green and even purple, as there are over 7500 different species. Since the tomatoes are quite delicate in growing, we are going to share some simple tips on growing healthy tomatoes.

Basics Of Growing Tomatoes

Delicious Red Tomatoes

Location Matters

It is important to select the location where the tomatoes will receive the most sun exposure with a good drainage of the soil. The soil should be rather loose, because heavy clay soil can cause tomatoes to wilt and be sick. You should also be aware that the soil can accommodate the bacteria that cause tomatoes’ disease, so it is a good idea to replant the tomatoes in various places of the garden. If that is not possible, container gardening can become a best option for that. Choose the containers accordingly to their mature size, as some tomato varieties can grow up to 6 feet.

Choosing Varieties

It is essential to choose the tomato variety that are well adapted to the climate where you are going to grow them. If you live in area with humid and hot conditions it is best to choose the ‘Solar Set’ variety, as it is created specifically for this. If you live in an area with short-seasons you should opt for a ‘Northern Delight’ variety. It is best to seek advice from the experts, such as county extension agent to choose the best tomato type. It is also important to plant the varieties that are disease-resistant.

Tomato Care

It is important to attend to tomatoes as they are quite delicate. Water them sufficiently during the hot seasons. It is important to spread some mulch over the area where tomatoes grow, as this helps to retain the moisture in the soil. Mulch also helps to prevent the soil-borne diseases. Use some support for the tomato plants, as the fruit should be off the ground. The support can be a simple wooden stake that can be inserted near the base of the plant. The leaves will find their way up to the stake themselves, but it is best to use a wire or a cloth to secure it.

Easy Houseplants to Grow

August 12, 2013, 10:36 pm

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Indoor gardening may be simple and easy to do. The wonder is in choosing the right durable, easy-to-grow plants. Plants do wonders for a room: they add color, texture, and life to a space in a way that no other decorative item can. More than just improving a room’s look, houseplants actually improve the air quality as well by removing certain indoor pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde.

Peperomia

Peperomia These tropical perennials are grown for their ornamental foliage. They are mostly natives of tropical America. They usually do not exceed 12” in height. They are compact and small and can vary considerably in appearance. The leaves are smooth and fleshy and may be oval with the leafstalk at or near the center of the leaf blade, or they may be heart-shaped. Some have threadlike, trailing stems and some have fleshy, stout stems. Their color may vary, it can be green or striped, marbled or bordered with pale green, red or gray and the petioles of some kind are red. These plants may grow in pans, pots, or hanging baskets indoors in cool climates or outdoors in mild. The container where they grow should have a good drainage. The old crocks and as much of the old soil as possible should be removed without damaging the roots. They should then be set in slightly larger pots, just large enough to hold the roots without cramping them. No water should be given until the soil is almost dry, and then it is thoroughly saturated. They can be separated and removed into smaller pieces that have a few roots attached. Its waxy, colorful foliage adds a splash of color in any room, without taking up a lot of space.

Chinese Evergreen

Chinese Evergreen The Chinese evergreen makes it the ideal house plant for those looking for something very easy to grow. Its leaves are pointed, dark green, leathery leaves that are three to five inches wide and up to one foot long. The leaves often have heavily silvery marbling. Its thick stems can be cut and re-rooted when they grow too tall. The Chinese evergreen is a staple indoor plant, widely used in interior decorating because of its ability to withstand poor conditions. This plant has great foliage, making Chinese evergreen an attractive choice to brighten low-light areas of your home. It is extra tough and has attractive leaves that brighten low light spots.

Norfolk Island Pine

Norfolk Iseland Pine Norfolk Island pine is a tropical evergreen tree that is adaptable to indoor conditions. It is a long lasting houseplant that grows three to six inches annually. Small trees grown indoors are uniform in appearance and have branches that are parallel to the ground. Grown outdoors it can grow up to 220 feet tall with a trunk as large as 10 feet across. They grow well in indirect sunlight. Norfolk Island pines do not require as much water as other common houseplants. You can apply enough water to allow some to drain out of the bottom of the container, and then discard the excess water. During the warm months of the year, you can move them outdoors and place them in partial sunlight. To keep Norfolk Island pine in a healthy condition is to give it ample light and humidity. The tree is perfect for decorating for Christmas or giving as a holiday gift. Outside the holidays, its soft texture adds a cozy feeling to any room.

Grape Ivy

Grape Ivy Grape Ivy is an evergreen, vigorous vine with handsome, glossy compound leaves, each bearing three leaflets. Young leaves are fuzzy, giving them a silvery sheen. It is extremely adaptable to indoor conditions and makes an easy house plant. Its sturdy vines will scramble up any support, climbing and clinging with its curling tendrils. It is a vine with tendrils that readily cling to a trellis or stake. It offers shiny, deep green leaves that create a very nice texture. The plant’ size can be controlled by pruning it every spring. Always cut at a 45 degree angle above a leaf node (the place where a leaf attaches to the stem).

Dracaena

Dracanea Dracaena is grown for its dramatic foliage and carefree nature. It can grow up to six feet tall with long, strap-like leaves, often with red and yellow variegation. It tolerates lowlight and low humidity and it will forgive the occasional missed watering. This beautiful houseplant offers variegated leaves and a single upright stem, so it resembles a decorative corn stalk without the ears. You may want to plant several together in a large container for a fuller appearance.

Appealing Air Plants

August 27, 2013, 6:22 am

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An Apple and a Pear There is such a tremendous variety of appealing plants now. You have a great chance to choose the ones you exactly need in order to make your home look greener and make your entire interior design look different from what you have had so far. It is possible to make it happen with the air plants that you can grow in unique containers. Generally talking, any houseplants can make people happier and more productive. Though we do not know of any studies that have covered the thing that the plants are also good for the soul. Anyhow, if you are a huge fan of air plants, you do need to try to grow them. Their weird and wondrous forms can attract the attention of anyone.

Air Plants

Soiless Wonders If you know the simplicity of air plants, you can be ready to give them a try. They do not need soil; the display options are nearly endless, just use your imagination. They gather their nutrients, not from soil, but from moisture and particles in the air (decaying leaves, insect debris, and dust). Isn’t it amazing! They are easy to care for and incredibly versatile in terms of display. Air plants are the common name for Tellandsias, a type of Bromeliad that grows on rocks, trees shrubs, etc. without soil. Unlike other plants, the roots of tellandsias are not used for absorbing water and nutrients but serve only as anchors to attach to trees or rocks. There are over 650 known species plus many hybrids. They grow in parts of the southern United States, Mexico, Central America and South America on trees as epiphyes, and on rocks. Tellandsias make unique houseplants and can be used in terrariums. They can also be grown outside in certain locations and situations.

Air Plants Containers

Cute Air Plant Container Air plant containers can surely enhance the appearance of the plants as well as the environment it beautifies.

Air Plants Care

Water Spray Bottle After you got and unpacked your new plants and spent enough time marveling at their unique beauty (and may be giving them even names), give them a good soak in a water bath for about 20-30 minutes. After this shake gently to remove any excess water, and set in a spot with bright light and good air circulation to dry off.

Water

Soaking Air Plants Do not think of the air plants as if they do not need water since they feed from the air. While they do not grow in soil, they definitely need to be watered. While the plants can survive for long periods of drought, they will not grow or thrive and will eventually die off if water is too poor. If you water your plants on a regular basis and properly, they will stay alive and well for quite some time. As the best and useful methods of watering your plants, we recommend giving them a thorough rinsing under running water or letting them soak in a bath of water for 20-30 minutes. You may use a bowl, the sink or even the bathtub if you've got a family. After their shower or bath, gently shake the plants to remove any excess water from the base and the leaves, and set out to dry in an area with enough air circulation to dry them out in about 4 hours. If your plants need an in-between watering, misting them with a spray bottle is a great method. A plant in bloom should be rinsed rather than submerged in water, and take care when rinsing the delicate flowers. It is preferred to water them once per week, and 2-3 times is recommended for optimal care. A longer, 2-hour soak is recommended every 2-3 weeks. If you are in a drier, hotter climate, more frequent watering or misting will be needed. You will begin to notice that after watering, your plant's leaves will feel stiffer and full of water and they will be softer and lighter in color when they're in need of water. Wrinkled or rolled leaves can be a sign of dehydration.

Light

Light for Air Plants Air plants should be kept where they will receive bright, indirect sunlight or under fluorescent home lighting. Periods of direct sunlight are just fine, but more than a few hours of hot sun will deplete the plants of their moisture. If your plant will be in a spot with some quite direct light, try misting them every couple of days to keep them hydrated.

Temperature

Warm Temperature Air plants will do best in generally warm conditions.

Fertilizer

Fertilizing your plants is not necessary, but will keep them in top shape and should promote blooming and reproduction. We recommend using a Bromeliad fertilizer (available at most garden shops) once per month during the period of March through October. Other water-soluble fertilizers can be used at 1/4 strength (Rapid Grow, Miracle-Grow, houseplant fertilizer, etc.) if Bromeliad fertilizer is not available.

Blooming

Tillandsias are tropical plants that usually live for several years and will bloom and produce flowers only one time during their lifetime. The flowers are striking and brilliantly colored, and the bloom period will last several days to many months, depending on the species. Different species bloom at different times, also depending on their care and environment. A plant will most likely go into bloom sometime between mid-winter and mid-summer.

Pups

Around a plant's bloom time, they will produce offshoots, or "pups." You will notice the pups have a separate and distinct center of their own, distinguishing them from the other leaves. Once the pup reaches at least one-third the size of the parent plant, the pup can be removed by gently pulling it apart from the parent. Hold both the parent and the pup at their bases and gently twist in a downward motion. You can also cut the plants apart using a clean razor blade, slicing as far down the pup stem as possible. Each pup will follow the lifecycle by growing into a parent plant, blooming and producing pups of its own.

Clumping

Tillandsias can grow into clumps if the pups are left to grow on the parent plant. Clumps can also be created by wiring multiple plants together, as they will begin to grow into and around each other.

Mounting

Since air plants are very unique in that they do not require soil to grow and thrive, they can be mounted to almost any different surface for display. We recommend using the base of the plant as the mounting area. Adhesives like E-6000, Liquid Nails, Goop or a hot glue gun will work great, as well as fishing line or any non-copper wire. When choosing your mounting surface, remember that your plant will still need to be watered, so something waterproof or water-resistant will be the best choice for a long-term display method. [gallery ids="14564,14572,14571,14570,14569,14568,14567,14566,14565"]

Indoor Gardening

November 7, 2013, 7:56 am

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If you love gardening, then you might feel sad when fall comes and winter season is approaching, but you do want to keep up with the gardening, but the question is how. How is it possible to do gardening, if it is cold outside and the seeds will not sprout, the answer is an indoor gardening. Even if you have little experience with plants or very little indoor space to work with, an indoor garden is the perfect way to bring a bit of Mother Nature into your home, no green thumb required! In addition, growing your own herbs is much more convenient, and affordable, than buying them at the local grocery store.

An Herb Garden

An Herb Garden You can keep the growing season going all year by starting an indoor herb garden. Even with little experience with plants and little space to work with, an herb garden is a great choice. An herb garden is oregano, chives, mint, rosemary and thyme are commonly grown indoors, so pick a few of your favorites to begin. If you like to cook, you will love having fresh herbs right readily available, just snip and sprinkle fresh chives on your steaming baked potato or add some pungent oregano to your special homemade spaghetti sauce.

Start an Herb Garden

In the Sun To start your herb garden; you must have a sunny window available that receives at least five hours of sunlight per day. Most herbs hail from Mediterranean locales and need the light to thrive. Keep your home between 60º and 70º to create the ideal growing conditions. While you can start your herbs from seeds, it is easier to buy starter plants from a local nursery or farmers market. There are several types of containers you can use for the plants, but terracotta planters are very popular. Make sure your pots have drainage holes in the bottom so your herbs do not rot. Keep a saucer or another similarly shaped item underneath to catch the excess water as it runs through. Whatever container you select should be deep enough to promote proper root development, ideally from 6-12 inches deep. You can plant multiple herbs in one container or select individual 6-inch pots for each plant.

Selecting Soil

A Good Soil You should take care when selecting the type of soil for your herbs, as plants are very vulnerable to soil-borne diseases. It is a good idea to go with a store-bought potting mix. Your local gardening center can help you select the right one for your needs. Be sure the mix is lightweight and will drain well. Pour a two or three-inch layer of potting soil into the bottom of your container and place your plant gently in the container. Finish filling it with potting mix, pressing it firmly around the plants. Leave about an inch of space at the top to make room for watering. Do not kill your herbs with kindness by watering too often: Excess water is harmful to the roots and causes rotting. Fertilize your herbs once a month with a product labeled safe to use on edibles. Once you start to see new growth, you can begin to use your herbs for cooking.

Planting in a Peat Pot

Peat Pots If you would like to save some money and start your herbs from seed rather than buying seedlings, you will need to babysit your plants a bit more. Many planters are too large to start seeds in, so plant them in a peat pot first. Fill the peat pot with planting mix and then place it in a small bowl of water until the peat pot completely absorbs the water from the bowl. Bury your seeds to a shallow depth (about 3 or 4 times the seed’s diameter), planting a few types of the same seed in one pot. Cover the peat pot with a small plastic bag to simulate a mini greenhouse. Once the seeds have sprouted, you can transplant the entire peat pot into the larger planter. Place your pots in a sunny spot or underneath a grow light if your home does not receive enough natural sunlight. Space out your herbs so that they do not crowd each other and avoid putting your plants near a heating vent to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations. Here are a few herbs that are particularly well suited for indoor growth:

Basil

Basil Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is simple to grow from seed but it needs bright light and warm temperatures.

Chives

Chives This member of the onion family is best used fresh. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) like bright light and cool temperatures.

Dill

Dill Choose a dwarf variety instead of the standard types that typically grow about 4 feet tall. You will need to make successive plantings to ensure a continuous crop since dill (Anethum graveolens) does not grow back after harvesting.

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is easy to grow from seed and its fresh fragrance can be enjoyed in salads and drinks.

Oregano

Oregano Oregano (Origanum vulgare hirtum) has a sharp, pungent flavor and can be grown from seed.

Rosemary

Rosemary Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) does not always germinate well from seed; grow it from cuttings or as a complete plant from the nursery. The soil needs to be well drained, but do not let it dry out completely.

Thyme

Thyme Many varieties of thyme (Thymus vulgaris) are available. Cover the seed only lightly with soil or not at all if you are starting your thyme from scratch. Keep the plants moist until they are flourishing.

Plants for Bedroom

November 11, 2013, 1:37 am

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These green friends, beautiful plants in the flowerpots, cannot only be in the bedroom, but they are also recommended; they are isolated and do not absorb oxygen, as many popular houseplants. One or two slow-growing plants with rounded leaves do not interfere. Your bedroom will look even better with the plants on the windowsills, floor, and shelves. They clean the air of chemical secretions that act on the leaves with a layer of dust. They need to be surely wiped; otherwise, poisonous crystals go back into the air that we breathe. Plants should not stand too close to the bed, no closer than one or two meters. Otherwise, the active energy of their growth will disturb us in a dream. The plants in the bedroom should not be a lot, they absorb oxygen that we need when we sleep.

Chlorophytum

Neutralizes toxins (especially formaldehyde) clears the air of microorganisms. Humidifies the air. Four adults per day plants can clean the air in a room of 10 square meters 70-80 %.

Spathiphyllum

This flower absorbs pollutants from the air that enters into our apartment through the windows. Spathiphyllum causes extreme variations in the rate and is suitable for anyone, it can be put in any room, but we recommend putting it in the bedroom for a peaceful and healthy sleep.

Aloe

Reduces the amount of toxic substances (absorbs up to 90 % formaldehyde, which highlights the furniture made ​​of particleboard),at the nights gives off oxygen and absorbs carbon dioxide.

Kalanchoe

Gives the oxygen at nights and relieves depression.

Begonia (especially the Royal)

Neutralizes harmful substances and germs. It is a symbol of material prosperity. Aroma relieves depression. Especially, recommended in the bedroom of the elderly people in various diseases.

Geranium

Kills germs. Ozonizes air, relieves inner tension, and helps to normalize hormonal balance in women. Especially, useful for insomnia, but it can cause allergies.

Sansevieria

Also known as Teschin language, or snake language is the perfect plant for the bedroom. Despite the fact that most of the plants at night absorb oxygen, sansevieriya vice versa at night it produces. Indoors, to maintain the necessary level of oxygen you need 6-8 Teschin languages ​​up to waist height on one person.

Very Useful Cactus

Better to buy a cactus with long needles. This plant kills harmful germs and reduces the ionization of the air, protecting us from electromagnetic radiation. That is why it is recommended to place the plant in the rooms where there is a computer and a television. For normal growth, they need a lot of heat and light. Indoor plants clean the air well, because of that person inhales less dangerous to his health matter.

Good Plant for the Bedroom: Laurel

A sprig of laurel at the head of a baby bed in some time was considered the best remedy for insomnia in children. Adults sleep well in the presence of lavender and rosemary, which are in the form of potted plants, began to appear on the shelves of flower shops.

Children’s Room Plants

November 13, 2013, 6:25 am

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The plants in the children’s room seem to open up a connection with nature, create a sense of respect for the love of nature. Through plants child learns to enjoy the beauty, opens up a world of harmony. Houseplants are the mascots for the children. There should be not many, not few plants in the children’s room; the plants should be bright and selected by his mother with love. Decorate Children's Room with the Plants

Plants Are a Sensory Universe

Children love exploring and experimenting, and plants stimulate children’s senses in a lovely natural, unspoiled way. Plants appeal to the fantasy and thus to children. Plants have a scent, are exciting to touch and come in different colors. And children love shapes and colors.

Decorate the Children’s Room with Plants

The plant trends of spring are perfect for children so why not get an early start with the trend during the spring half term holiday. The colors appeal to the childish, creative side of our personalities and therefore also to children. Spend a day during the holiday refreshing the children's room using plants in the genuine Happy Home way. The more colorful, funny features you can add to the room, the better; and it does not have to cost a fortune for different types of toys can easily be used as imaginative cachepots. In the winter, when the beach set is stored away, a colorful bucket is ideal as a cachepot. The plant in the children’s room is a responsibility for the child because the plant becomes an object of the study. First, you need to remember about the safety of the child. Children are curious and it is possible that your child will want to consider not only the plant, but also to touch and even taste it, and with some plants, it is not in any case possible to do. Therefore, before you put a flower in the nursery room in the first place you need to be sure that the plant is not poisonous.

Poisonous Plants Include

Anthurium Deffenbahiya Ehmeya Euphorbias Anthurium Oleander Nightshade Primula Croton Ivy Philodendron It is best suited for the children’s room plants that have phyto properties, they form the largest number of biologically active substances that kill or inhibit the growth and development of harmful microorganisms.

Plants That Are Suitable for Nursery Room

Begonia Hlorofitum Arabian Coffee Kalanchoe Jade Sansevera Begonia Aspidistra Tsiperus Clivia All of the above plants are phyto plants. Reflecting on which plants to decorate the nursery, remember that it must be low-maintenance and does not require special care. These plants will not take you long to the same child can independently take care of them. It is enough to put one large plant or two or three smaller ones in the children's room.

About the Benefits of Indoor Plants

Houseplants absorb carbon dioxide during the day and release oxygen, and in an amount significantly higher than the required dose for human breathing. Since the indoor air of carbon dioxide is concentrated 23-fold greater than in the open air, the need for dilution of houseplants needs no proof. Many plants are natural vacuums; they capture dust and smoke.

All Large-leaved Houseplants

Ficus Ficus Japanese Aucuba Aspidistra Crinum Spatifillyum and others attract dust like a magnet. The dust can be just removed with a wet cloth. There is an evidence that a chlorinated hydrocarbon compounds that are abundant in isolated modern plastic products, copes three-wayed sansevieriya, Formaldehyde, secreted products of particleboard, neutralized philodendron, yucca, dracaena. A phalaenopsis orchid absorbs harmful substances for its aerial roots. Saturated with carbon dioxide air kitchen is cleaned by hoya fleshy (waxy ivy) tsissus rombolistny, hlorofitum crested. Moreover, the last plant feels good in the back of the room. Installed in office, it will saturate the air with oxygen and increase efficiency. Has the same properties of hibiscus (Hibiscus).

Plants That Emit Volatile, Improve Health and Mood

Lavender Rosemary Lavender Common Myrtle Laurel Citrus Before buying plants for the nursery you should consult an allergist. Avoid plants with a strong smell (they can be a headache or dizziness), small pollen (jasmine, oleander, Datura), they cause allergies. The same dangerous maple, hydrangea, primula. Do not put in the nursery vines and creepers. Give up mineral fertilizers, their evaporation harmful to the baby. Encourage your child to look after flowers with you in your care. Let the baby help you to water the plants, loosen the ground. Then even the most undemanding houseplants in the room will the baby love and take care for all living things!

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Choosing Home Fragrances

January 17, 2014, 1:13 am

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Each house has its own unique flavor. It reflects the character, mood and energy of the hosts. Fragrances can not only decorate the interior, but also add a special touch to the life of each resident.

How to Choose Home Fragrances

Peppermint essential oil We will explain how to choose the right fragrance to lift your mood, relax and keep a positive aura of the house.

Scents for maintaining mood

If you want to relax quickly after a long day of work or, conversely, to cheer up in the morning, light scented candles with certain components. It can replace the morning coffee and a ritual or meditation. Peppermint, orange, cinnamon, grapefruit, lemongrass are among the bracing and tonic flavors. They help to awaken from sleep and start the day with a cheerful mood. For those who are too lazy to do exercises in the morning, we recommend rosemary. It flair spur to action and at the same time awakens the brain and prepares us for a hard working day. For those who work at home on the computer, we recommend Rhaponticum carthamoides. It neutralizes the negative effects of computer and improves intellectual activity. After a hard day, inhale relaxing fragrances: sandalwood, Peruvian balsam or ylang-ylang. They relieve tension, stress and anxiety. And if you need to tune a romantic mood with your partner, give the preference to mysterious jasmine, vanilla air or queen of flowers - rose. Ylang-Ylang

Fragrances for different parts of the apartment

Selection of flavors depends primarily on the olfactory preferences of the hosts. However, it makes sense to consider territorial criteria. Fragrance for a hall is a sartorial statement of the home. Crossing the threshold, the host and a guest are immediately immersed in the special atmosphere of the home. It's great when the house has its own distinct fragrant portrait. It is better that it was a mixture of flavors. For example, pine, rosewood oil, and lemon. Pine creates a sense of security. Rosewood relieves tension and stress. Lemon is elevating emotions. Choose scents for the living room depending on the activities that will take place there. If you decided just to relax, you can focus on relaxing oils that soothe and improve mood. That can be done with the mixture of mandarin with ylang-ylang and languid benzoic encapsulating resin. If you will be meeting guests, who most of the time will be in the living room, it is better to give preference to the flavors that help in communication. Use a mix of bergamot, which stimulates communication between people and rose, which would smooth conflicts. For the bedroom use relaxing scents that promote good sleep: chamomile, tea tree, calendula, and lavender. Calendula essential oil

7 Plant Décor Ideas in Scandinavian Interior

June 27, 2014, 12:12 pm

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Such a strong thing as floral decor is often ignored in the modern interior design. Despite the fact that it involves a variety of chores, that are often daily, that energy that flowers bring to the home, can not be replaced by any of the iconic plastic lamps.

7 Plant Décor Ideas to Enrich Scandinavian Interior

Small installation on a windowsill We should remember that plants can be used in several ways: as a live ornamental; as cut bouquets or as a home vegetable garden. Each option has its pros and cons in both practical and in the decorative plan.

Small installation on a windowsill

For more decorative effect it is necessary to pick up pots of the same color or similar shades.

Bouquet of wildflowers

You can take the flowers in your own garden or in the yard. Of course, it is preferable not to touch specially planted flowerbeds, so wildflowers are your best assistants in this decor.

Aquarium with flowers

Many people use unpretentious succulents or artificial flowers for this installation. But for a short period, you can use fresh cut flowers of miniature size.

Summer abundance

You can create a real garden on the veranda or balcony, putting all your plants there.

Home garden for herbs

In the kitchen you can adjust the shelves, and even sill rails for growing greens and herbs. First, it can become very fascinating hobby. Secondly, you will have only pure natural herbs.

Single flower

In the kitchen, dining room or living room it is always interesting to look at a single plant, large or bright enough to draw eyes. The main thing is placing it in a prominent place and play on contrasts.

Herbs to increase productivity

In the workplace, where you do creative work, reading inspirational books, or just relaxing, you should especially take care that the room was "live", filled with light energy and oxygen. [gallery ids="16824,16825,16826,16827,16828,16829,16830"]