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Upside Down Garden

An upside down garden is not only a great idea but it works wonders too. Now you don’t need to be an expert in growing a garden, neither will you need to do a lot of hard work to get a decorative and great looking garden. All you need are hanging garden planters and you are on your way.

Some of the advantages that are hanging garden containers have:

-Hanging containers are ready to be used and come with their own instructions for filling the soil and planting the seedling. In other manual planters, you would need to make the planters from the scratch. Moreover, pre made planters have standard holes and standard sizes. You may not find the perfect container sizes right away if you make your own. Also you would need a drill or a utility knife to make a hole. Not many time starved people would want to invest their time and energy in making the containers.

-These containers can be used for growing various types of vegetables, herbs and flowers for a great looking garden that happens to be upside down.

-Since plants growing upside down do not touch the ground, there is less possibility of weeds and insects destroying the blossoms or the fruits. It also reduces the chances of the fruits rotting away.

-Watering the seedlings is quite simple. The plants are often healthier when they are grown in hanging planters.. The nutrients and water flows directly through the plants via gravity making them vibrant and healthy. The pre made planters so readily available are very reasonably priced and can be shipped to any place that you want.

-The planters can be shifted around and this will allow you’re upside down gardening pleasure to be taken with you if you plan to shift your home. Your hanging garden can be created on a terrace, balcony and any open space that you may have. Since these planters can get very heavy, it’s advised that they should be secured according to the instructions. Else your tomato planter has a great chance of falling on the ground and becoming a ground garden.

Inserting the seedling

For growing upside down tomatoes in a hanging planter, all that is required is some good potting soil that should have been mixed with compost and fertilizer. You can get ready made potting soil which has a mixture of all three from your nearest garden shop. Now choose the plant seedlings that you require for your hanging garden.

Before inserting the plants in the containers, all you need to do is remove the holding cup. Slowly ease in the seedling and leave as much of the stem as you can. The stem will sprout more roots giving added advantage to the plant.

Watering the plant

Fill the container with potting soil using a small cup. If you fill the planter directly from a heavy potting soil bag, then your seedling can be damaged.

When it’s filled adequately, replace the top lid of the container (the container comes with its own lid). Add a gallon of water to the container such that the soil is adequately moist. This helps the plant to soak up the nutrients. It will make your upside down garden healthier.

Ensure that you follow these steps for getting the upside down garden that you want.

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Create A Synergistic Vegetable Garden In 10 Easy Steps

Vegetable gardening shouldn’t be hard work. Look at all of the abundance that mother nature grows, do you see her out digging, weeding, pruning, fertilizing? No, of course not! Natural systems do all of the work and synergistic vegetable gardening puts those systems to work in your garden, producing a bountiful harvest the natural way.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UznYVl81dig

So how do you get started building a synergistic vegetable garden?

#1. Build raised beds. You don’t need to build wooden frameworks and fill them with soil. Just create long mounds of soil about 4 feet wide and 10 – 30 inches high. Flatten the top of the mound.

#2. Cover the mound with mulch. This can be a mixture of materials – straw, shredded cardboard, sheeps wool, leaves, sawdust, shredded branches, newspaper etc.

#3. A few days before you are ready to start planting open the mulch on top of the bed to allow the soil to warm up.

#4. Plant seedlings in the bed and close the mulch back up around the plants. Seeds are planted in the same way.

#5. Place beneficial plants – called companion plants – through out your garden. You can plant them into the sides of the beds. Marigolds, will for example protect your plants from nematodes.

#6. Do not use compost on your garden or add fertilizer. It is not necessary and causes harm to the soil.

#7. When it is time to harvest from your garden, cut plants off just above the soil and leave the roots in place. All of the vegetation that is not used should be placed on top of the mulch right where that plant was growing.

#8. Never walk on your beds, till them or dig them.

#9. Weeding is still necessary at first, but due to the mulch the amount of weeds will be greatly reduced. Over time as the mulch builds up, less weed seeds will find there way into the soil.

#10. Water the beds during dry spells. The mulch prevents a hard surface developing on your soil which leads to water run off. The mulch also reduces evaporation. A hummus rich soil holds onto water, making it available to the plants for longer.

So there you have the basics in a nutshell. The idea of synergistic gardening is to mimic a system which builds the soil naturally. It is the bacteria and earthworms in our soil that create this fertility through their life processes. We do not need to interfere with a process that nature has perfected. When we do, we just create more work for ourselves along with reduced soil fertility.

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Organic Gardening – Helpful Tips For Beginner Gardeners

In this age of global warming of our planet, increasing pollution and fast food, many people no longer are confident of fresh products that are offered as many try to exert some control over what they eat.

Similarly, chemicals that have been used for so long within gardens are no longer accepted as the only means of channeling the vicissitudes of nature.

One of the key ways to improve our environment (and our health) is to ‘be organic. “

Why organic gardening?

Organic gardening is one that uses only naturally occurring materials and does not use artificial fertilizers or chemicals.

Try to work with nature rather than against it.

Advantage

Organically grown foods taste better than those grown with artificial fertilizers.

Costs: the organic material can be created by returning all waste back to the land, which is a cheap process compared to Inorganic which tend to be way more expensive in the long run.

Same with chemical sprays, If an orchard where parasites do not prove a problem is created, it saves a lot in the cost of chemicals.

Another advantage is that by adding organic material to Earth, it keeps getting better, pitching chemicals ultimately impoverishes the soil.

The size of the fruits of an organic garden are usually larger and higher quality.

Tips for planning organic garden

The first step to take when planning a garden is to make a list of what you want from it, imagine what you can achieve within the space and time available.

Once you have determined the priorities, then its time to situate or organize space available within that garden.

Some areas will be sunnier, others will have better land or soil, some spots much more humid and so on.

To cultivate a good garden you will have to look for the best position in relation to the sun and air.

If weeds grow better in one part than another, this may mean that the land is better there, Note the areas which have sun all day or only a partial day.

Caring for the Earth

Land is the most important part of your garden, the soil composition varies so keep a watch for this variance.

Sandy soils are very light and friable and easily drain.

The clay is formed consists of fine particles that stick together creating the stickiness characteristic of the clay. Clay drains very slowly, so clay soils create a wet and slippery environment in which few plants feel comfortable. Sticky and dry land is also very difficult to work.

Between these two types, clay and sandy soils can be improved simply by addition of fertile mulch.

A soil may be acidic or alkaline. The relative acidity / alkalinity of the soil pH is measured on a scale of 0 to 14 where 7 is neutral.

For the best organic garden soil it should be on the acid side of neutral point, at point 6.5, Below that the soil is too acidic and will not allow some minerals that plants need.

But clay soils, sandy, alkaline or acid can be modified.

Another consideration of soil structure is its profile. usually in a garden the topsoil contains the best land. The layer beneath it is known as groundwater. And below this is the true underground.
It is essential to keep these layers in their respective places.

Identification of layers of earth

Surface layer: is the darkest and richest part of the garden profile. It is where plants grow mainly and also where the most worms, bacteria and insects reside, many of them beneficial for plant growth.

Finally we must consider the area of hardness which can occur between the different soil layers. This is a correctable problem if it is not known early, If not correct it may compromise ones digging depth.

Soil analysis

To find out if your garden soil is clayey or sandy place a sample of it in a jar with water then shake it up, allow the different components to settle in layers and any organic material will float to the top.

For their ability to retain or lose water, dig a hole depth of a shovel and fill with water. Allow to drain and refill the hole. If that water disappears quickly that means that the soil drains well too. On the other hand if you still there after a few hours or even days it is clear that it is blocked to the opposite extreme.

If it disappears on a regular basis in half an hour or so, then its usage and capacity is correct.

There are several natural indicators of acidity or alkalinity of your soil. For example, if ferns are rowing in your garden or rhododendrons this means the soil is acidic.

Improve the land

Once the soil is analyzed only then will it be possible to see what can be done to improve it.

In light soils, such as gritty, its best to add decomposed organic material, this will help retain moisture and also provide nutrients for plants.

Clay soils are more problematic to treat, especially because they are hard and difficult to work. To improve it, you must add stones (gravel), because it improves drainage, separates the soil and makes it easier to work.

You can also add ash burnt weeds, organic material in the form of manure or poultry manure also help transform the ground into a lighter medium. Worms will constantly break it up and mix with the ground, worms will mulch most of the new layer down so that the original ground becomes fertile and usable again.

Sewer system

Drainage is an important part of improving the your soil. In the waterlogged terrain you can add gravel but if it’s a serious problem with water stagnating after each downpour, you must install a proper drainage system.

This is done by digging ditches in the form of drainage pipes.

Cover with small stones or simply fill trenches with gravel covered rubble.

An alternative is to use water to create a pond then install water drainage pipes.

Gardening is not just about planting seeds and then sit back and wait for the harvest. In between these two events weeds try to colonize the bare soil and crop eating bugs seek these succulent plants.

Gardener job is to prevent this from happening.

For some, hoeing and weeding can be a very relaxing and not to mention therapeutic. When control of weeds or soil balance is lost, the gardening becomes a battle.

The secret is “little and often”. If time permits devote an hour a day.

Another obstacle will be nature, it tends to get in the way of the gardener with occasional bad weather.

You can take steps to minimize their effect:

Wind

Creates several problems. First the wind can easily bring down the whole garden bed.

Windbreaks is something to consider in setting up any garden, although it may not be essential if you live in an urban area where the buildings protect it from the wind, but in rural areas it can be vital.

The best windbreaks are those that allow air to seep through. Although a wall or a fence will have a solid look and seem the best against strong winds, actually they cause much turbulence that can be as devastating as the wind itself.

A row of trees allows the wind to seep through naturally.

A much quicker solution is to build a fence to allow the wind to pass through it, It can be built of wood or bamboo.

A modern alternative is to use screens, sold especially for this. this type of wind shield must be firmly anchored in the ground and need to be renewed or replaced from time to time.

A hedge creates a perfect barrier slowing the wind causing it to seep through at a moderate stream.

Cold

The cold is not bad during the winter. It helps break down and kill the bugs that have surfaced. But when spring starts and you have started plantations, frost can be a killer or at very least a hindrance.

The gaps can be covered with metal or fabric, place a fence or a hedge at an angle across the slope above the frost hole so that the cold air is diverted to one side and go elsewhere. A row of shrubs or curve as V uphill also divert cold air frost.

It is always advisable to have a flower garden near a field of vegetables. In some cases it may even help to mix the two.

An alternative preferred by many organic gardeners is to create a series of raised beds, each with one type or more of vegetables, planted in blocks rather than in rows.

Some plants grow better in containers or trays for planting later.

It is best to plant on cold days, preferably if there is a possibility that a light rain may fall. The damp and cold help the plant survive.

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Home Remedies for Getting Rid of Weeds

Unwanted and nasty weeds can be a nuisance in any garden if they get out of hands. Most of the people use chemicals and other toxic substances to control weeds in their garden. However, there are many other home remedies that can be used for getting rid of unwanted weeds. These home remedies are non-toxic and they are also inexpensive weed killers.

Homemade weed killers are far better than the harmful toxins as they do not contaminate the soil. Excessive usage of chemical based herbicides can harm your plants and turf as well. So, it is advisable to use alternatives for weed control. One of the basic weed control method is to pull them by hand as soon as they appear. But this method is generally not very effective if the weed growth is excessive.

Some of the effective home remedies for weed control that you can try in your home garden are:

Vinegar: Vinegar can be directly sprayed on the weeds. It is advisable not to dilute vinegar as the concentrated liquid will be more effective. The best time to use vinegar is when there is no chance of rainfall as it gives vinegar time to penetrate the roots and kill the weeds. Take care while applying vinegar on the weeds and avoid spraying it on the roots of your plants and seedlings.

Boiling Water: You can pour boiling water directly on the weeds to kill them. This method can potentially harm the turf as well so apply carefully on the weeds. This method is safe for pets, humans and also the environment.

Salt: Salt is another very effective way which can help in getting rid of unwanted weeds. However, excessive use of salt can damage the surrounding soil, as salt can easily seep into the ground. You can apply salt directly over the weeds and diluted salt with water can also be sprayed on the weeds. Make sure to use this method only in places where you do not want any growth.

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is pretty much like kitchen vinegar, you can apply it directly on the weeds to control them.

Newspapers: If you have a large area that has been affected by weeds then you can effectively control them by covering the area with a thick layer of newspaper. The newspapers will not allow sunlight to reach the weeds and it would eventually kill them.

Apart from all these easy homemade remedies you can also try Citrus Oil, Soap Water and Liquid dish detergent to get rid of weeds from your home garden.

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Rare Types of Roses

It is easier and probably much less expensive to buy and plant roses that are common, but when you purchase a few rare roses, it adds immense value to any garden or to any occasion. It makes the experience more authentic. The most popular rose is, of course, the red rose, as it conveys the message of devotion, love and respect, but will it not mean so much more if you give someone or even show someone a unique, rare rose?

Many rare roses can be man-made. For example, black roses are made by intensifying the color of a very deep-red and many times you will find that people, in fact, use dyes on roses to give them different colors. You will not see black ones in nature and usually symbolize bereavement and death. You do find blue roses in nature, but to enhance this color, people usually take white roses and dye them. Blue roses are among the rarest, because the color is difficult to achieve. They are, however, some of the most visually pleasing ones and are seen in pop culture, music, television and theater productions. Purple roses are also extremely rare and symbolize enchantment and charm. They are made by mixing blue and red rose-hues. Taking care of rare roses is also no problem and requires little effort, because they merely need enough water and little exposure to harsh elements of nature.

There are countless types of rare roses that can make your garden unique and add individuality to your surroundings. For example, Oranges ‘n Lemons is a yellow and orange stripes rose with double blooms. It is vivid and gives off a mild fragrance. The Celebrity rose is classified as a hybrid tea rose with a yellow color and fruity fragrance. Another rare hybrid tea rose is the Bride’s Dream. This rose has a delicate pink color, a mild rose fragrance and very large blooms. Some shops will refer to it as either the Marchenkoningin or the Fairy Tale Queen due to its “royal” appearance. Another member of the royal rose family is the Diana, Princess of Wales, a rose with different shades of pink and a sweet tea-rose fragrance. This rose needs protection in winter, just like the Brigadoon, an elegant pink and white rose with a mild and almost spicy scent. This rose is for the adventure spirited.

For the playful heart, there is the Topsy-Turvy, a dark red or white and red floribunda with an eye-popping firecracker shape when it is opened. The fragrance contains elements of apple. More rare and beautiful rose types include Madame Louis LƒÂ©vƒÂªque, which is a deep pink moss rose. This one blooms throughout the season. You can also find the Joseph’s Coat, which, being true to its name, is a colorful red and orange rose equipped with thorns. The mister Lincoln, on the other hand, is a big and bright red hybrid tea with a very strong fragrance.

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5 Acidity Fighting Remedies From Your Kitchen and Herb Garden

5 Acidity (Heartburn) Fighting Remedies From Your Kitchen and Herb Garden

Heartburn feels like a tiny fire climbing up the chest. It can follow a heavy meal, a late snack, or a day of stress. The good news? Your kitchen and herb garden hold simple, gentle tools that help calm that fire. We can brew a cup. We can stir a bowl. We can chew a few seeds and breathe easier. In other words, you already own the first line of defense.

This guide gives you five remedies you can make fast. Each one is easy. Each one uses everyday plants or pantry items. We’ll also add clear steps, small safety notes, and smart habits that make any remedy work better. But most of all, we’ll keep it kind and doable. No fuss. No fear. Just steady relief.

This article is educational and not medical advice. If you have crushing chest pain, pain into the arm or jaw, black stools, vomiting blood, sudden weight loss, trouble swallowing, or heartburn more than twice a week for many weeks, please see a clinician. If you are pregnant, nursing, caring for a child, or take daily medicines, check with your care team before trying new herbs.

Heartburn, Explained in Plain Words

Let’s keep it simple. Your stomach makes acid to break down food. A ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus acts like a door. It should open for food and close again. When that door relaxes at the wrong time—or when the stomach is very full—acid can splash upward. That splash is reflux. It stings the sensitive lining above and feels like burning.

Big, greasy meals can trigger it. So can chocolate, mint, coffee, alcohol, onions, tomatoes, and citrus for many people. Tight belts, lying down too soon after eating, and some medicines can play a part too. Stress matters as well. After more than a few rough days, the whole system can feel tense, slow, and touchy.

So our plan is simple. We calm the stomach. We support that door. We choose food and herbs that soothe, not spark. And we change a few small habits so meals sit easy. Instead of chasing a hard fix, we stack small wins. That approach lasts.

The Five Soothers You Can Make Today

Below are five gentle remedies. They’re quick to prepare. They use what we grow and what we keep on hand. Use one at a time. See how your body feels. Keep the ones that help you most.

1) Ginger & Honey Warm Cup (steady, belly-friendly support)
Ginger is a classic kitchen root. It feels warm but not harsh. Many of us use it for queasy days and heavy meals. It can help foods move along, which means less time for acid to linger.

You’ll need:

  • 1 cup water
  • 4–6 thin slices fresh ginger (about a 1-inch knob), peeled
  • 1–2 teaspoons honey (optional)

Steps:

  1. Simmer the ginger in the water for 8–10 minutes.
  2. Turn off the heat. Cover for 5 minutes.
  3. Strain into a mug. Stir in honey if you like. Sip warm.

Why it helps:
Ginger supports calm movement in the gut. A steady flow means less back-up and less pressure on that “door.”

When to use:
After a rich meal. When you feel a slow, heavy belly. When stress ties your middle in knots.

When to be careful:
If you take blood thinners or have gallstones, talk to your clinician first. Start mild to see how you feel.


2) Fennel Seed Chew or Tea (cool, sweet relief after meals)
Fennel seed tastes like soft licorice and lives in many spice drawers. Chefs use it to finish meals in warm countries for a reason. It’s soothing. It cuts gas. It brings a light, sweet note that signals “meal complete” to the body.

Chew method (fast):

  • Measure 1/2 to 1 teaspoon fennel seeds.
  • Chew slowly after a meal. Swallow or spit the husks as you prefer.
  • Sip warm water afterward.

Tea method (gentle and cozy):

  • Lightly crush 1 teaspoon fennel seeds with the back of a spoon.
  • Steep in 1 cup just-boiled water for 10 minutes, covered.
  • Strain and sip warm.

Why it helps:
Fennel can relax tight belly muscles and ease gas. A calmer belly builds less pressure, so acid is less likely to climb.

When to use:
Right after eating, especially when you feel air in the system or a light burn starting.

When to be careful:
If you are pregnant or have a hormone-sensitive condition, ask a clinician before daily use. Tiny amounts as a spice are usually fine, but routine tea is a different step—go slow.


3) Chamomile + Lemon Balm Calm Cup (soothes both stress and stomach)
Chamomile is a soft, apple-scented flower. Lemon balm brings a lemony, mint-free calm. Together, they settle nerves and belly at the same time. This is a great evening blend because tension often lights the flame of heartburn.

You’ll need:

  • 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
  • 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm leaves (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
  • 1 cup hot water

Steps:

  1. Add herbs to a mug or teapot.
  2. Pour on hot water. Cover to hold the vapors in.
  3. Steep 7–10 minutes. Strain and sip.

Why it helps:
Stress tightens the body. Tightness slows digestion and can push acid upward. This blend eases the mind and the gut. In other words, it helps on both ends of the problem.

When to use:
After a tense day. One hour before bed. With a light snack if late-night hunger triggers your burn.

When to be careful:
If you are allergic to plants in the daisy family, skip chamomile. If you take thyroid medicine, separate lemon balm tea from your pill by several hours, and check in with your clinician.


4) Basil Leaf Digestive Sip (garden-fresh, fast, and simple)
Basil is more than pizza’s best friend. The leaves can feel calming to the stomach for some people. They add a soft, spicy note and a “settled” feeling after a heavy bite.

You’ll need:

  • 4–6 fresh basil leaves (any sweet basil)
  • 1 cup warm water or warm almond milk
  • Honey to taste (optional)

Steps:

  1. Tear the basil leaves to release their oils.
  2. Steep in warm water or warm almond milk for 5–7 minutes.
  3. Strain gently. Sip warm.

Why it helps:
Basil can relax the gut a bit and freshen the palate. Warm fluid thins heavy meals and encourages gentle flow. Instead of a harsh mint, which can relax the stomach “door” too much for some people, basil gives many of us a friendlier middle road.

When to use:
Right after a meal that felt too big. When you want a soothing sip without caffeine.

When to be careful:
If basil upsets you or you notice more burn, stop and switch to chamomile or ginger. Our bodies are different; your notes guide you.


5) Oatmeal + Banana + Almond Milk Calm Bowl (a belly-friendly breakfast or snack)
Food can be a remedy too. Oatmeal is soft, bland, and rich in soluble fiber. Banana adds a gentle sweetness without acid. Almond milk is low in fat and often easier for reflux-prone folks than dairy.

You’ll need:

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened) or water
  • 1 small ripe banana, sliced
  • A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter (optional, for extra staying power)

Steps:

  1. Simmer oats in almond milk for 5 minutes, stirring.
  2. Remove from heat. Fold in banana slices.
  3. Sprinkle a little cinnamon. Add almond butter if you want a heartier bowl.

Why it helps:
Oats form a soothing gel-like layer that can feel calming as food moves along. Banana brings bulk without sharp acids. The whole bowl is light, steady fuel. It fills you without a heavy, greasy load.

When to use:
At breakfast on touchy days. As a small meal when late-night hunger might strike. After spicy foods the night before.

When to be careful:
If you have nut allergies, skip almond milk and almond butter. If oats bloat you, try a smaller serving or choose plain rice porridge for the same gentle effect.


A quick word about “mint.”
Many people reach for peppermint after meals. Peppermint can relax the valve at the top of the stomach. For some of us, that makes reflux worse. If peppermint tea brings more burn, switch to lemon balm or chamomile. Your notes matter more than any rule.

A quick word about baking soda.
A tiny pinch of baking soda in water can neutralize acid fast. But it brings a lot of sodium and can bloat the stomach, which may worsen reflux later. It can also affect some health conditions and medicines. In short, save this for rare, last-resort use only if your clinician says it’s okay.

Gentle Habits, Garden Tips, and Safety That Make Relief Last

Remedies work best when the daily rhythm helps them. Small changes give big wins. You do not need a perfect routine. You just need a steady one.

Eat in calm, simple waves.

  • Go for smaller meals and snacks spread through the day.
  • Chew well. Put the fork down between bites.
  • Stop when you feel “just satisfied,” not stuffed.
  • Keep a little space between dinner and bed—two to three hours, if you can.

Choose friendly foods most of the time.

  • Lean proteins.
  • Oats, rice, quinoa, and potatoes.
  • Ripe bananas, melons, pears, and applesauce.
  • Steamed greens and soft cooked vegetables.
  • Almond milk or oat milk if dairy triggers you.
  • Healthy fats in small amounts: olive oil, avocado, tahini.

Nudge the triggers to the edges.
You do not need to ban everything. Just notice your top sparks and move them to rare treats. Common sparks include:

  • Fried foods and heavy cheeses.
  • Chocolate and coffee.
  • Alcohol.
  • Onions, garlic, tomatoes, and citrus.
  • Hot chilies.
  • Peppermint.
    Your list may look different. That’s okay. Track what you feel for a few weeks, then adjust.

Position and posture help more than we think.

  • Sit tall during and after meals.
  • Avoid tight waistbands and belts.
  • Sleep with the head of the bed slightly raised, or use a wedge pillow.
  • Try to sleep on your left side; it can help keep acid down.

Breathe out stress.
Stress can heat heartburn. A calm body digests better. Two simple tools:

  • Box breathing: Inhale 4 counts, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4. Repeat five rounds before meals.
  • Walk it off: A 10–15 minute gentle walk after dinner supports flow without jarring the tummy.

Hydrate the smart way.

  • Sip water through the day.
  • During meals, drink small amounts instead of big gulps.
  • Skip very fizzy drinks with food; bubbles can increase pressure.

How to grow your remedy herbs (so they’re there when you need them).

  • Ginger in a pot:
    Buy a fresh ginger root with “eyes.” Soak it overnight. Plant in a wide pot with rich, well-drained mix. Place in bright, indirect light. Keep evenly moist. Harvest a piece after more than a few months by lifting an edge, cutting what you need, and replanting the rest.
  • Fennel (bulb or herb):
    Loves sun and well-drained soil. Direct sow after frost or set out starts. Water steady. Let a few plants flower for beautiful, feathery umbels and a steady seed supply. If you want seeds for chewing, allow heads to dry and collect them in a paper bag.
  • Chamomile:
    Plant in sun to part sun with average soil. It likes life a little lean. Pinch for branching. Harvest blooms when they are fully open. Dry on a screen in shade. Store in a jar.
  • Lemon balm:
    Part sun is fine. It spreads, so give it a pot if you want control. Pinch tips often for new growth. Dry leaves gently or use fresh for tea. Its bright scent lifts the mood as you harvest.
  • Basil:
    Full sun, warm days, and regular trims keep it lush. Pinch off blooms to hold flavor. For our digestif sip, tender leaves taste best, so pick frequently.
  • Aloe for extra support (optional):
    Keep a pot in bright, indirect light. Water deep but rarely. If you use aloe juice at all, choose “inner fillet, aloin-free” products. A small 1–2 ounce sip with water may feel soothing for some, but skip it if it bothers you or if your clinician advises against it.

Kitchen staging for success.

  • Keep a small jar of fennel seed by the table.
  • Store ginger in the freezer; it grates easily while frozen.
  • Dry chamomile and lemon balm in little batches and label jars with the date.
  • Pre-mix “Calm Cup” tea bags with chamomile + lemon balm for busy days.
  • Place a wedge pillow where you can see it so you remember to use it.

A tiny heartburn tracker (30 seconds a day).
Make three columns in a notebook: “What I ate,” “What I felt,” “What helped.” Keep notes for two weeks. Patterns will jump out. Maybe coffee is fine with breakfast but not after 2 p.m. Maybe tomatoes are fine if cooked with oats (yes, that trick thickens sauces and can soften the hit). Your data, not guesses, guide your next move.

Remedies recap (so you can pick fast):

  • Need relief now after a heavy lunch? Ginger & Honey Warm Cup.
  • Sweet finish after dinner? Fennel Seed Chew or Tea.
  • Stress day and a tight chest? Chamomile + Lemon Balm Calm Cup.
  • Light, herbal sip without caffeine? Basil Leaf Digestive Sip.
  • Breakfast or late snack that won’t bite back? Oatmeal + Banana + Almond Milk Calm Bowl.

Safety we keep top of mind.

  • Herbs can interact with medicines. If you take daily prescriptions or manage a condition (like high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney or liver disease), check with your clinician.
  • Keep remedies mild at first. More is not better. Your goal is comfort, not a strong “kick.”
  • Skip any herb that makes symptoms worse. Your body’s message is clear and kind—listen.

When to get more help.

  • Heartburn more than twice a week for many weeks.
  • Pain with swallowing, food sticking, or a hoarse voice that lingers.
  • Unexplained weight loss, black stools, or vomiting blood.
  • Chest pressure that does not ease—call emergency care.

Little habits that stack with your remedies (high win, low effort).

  • Put the biggest meal at midday, not late at night.
  • Leave 2–3 fingers of space at your waistband; comfort first.
  • Add a short walk after dinner, even if it’s just around the block.
  • Swap a late dessert for chamomile + lemon balm and a small bowl of unsweetened applesauce.
  • Keep the bed head raised 4–6 inches if nights are your trigger time.

Sample day that keeps acid quiet (copy or tweak):

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal + Banana + Almond Milk Calm Bowl.
  • Mid-morning: Water and a few almonds.
  • Lunch: Baked chicken, rice, steamed green beans, olive oil drizzle.
  • Afternoon: Ginger & Honey Warm Cup if stress rises.
  • Dinner (earlier): Baked potato with yogurt or hummus, roasted squash, a small salad (no raw onions).
  • After dinner: 10–15 minute walk.
  • Evening wind-down: Chamomile + Lemon Balm Calm Cup. Lights down, screens dim.
  • Bed: Left-side sleep on a wedge pillow if nights are tough.

Mindset that makes all of this easier.
We aim for better, not perfect. A few gentle changes, repeated often, beat a big, harsh overhaul. One calm cup. One lighter dinner. One short walk. You’ll feel the shift. And when you do, you’ll want to keep going.

Steady Stomachs, Simple Steps Ahead

We can’t always control what shows up on our plate or in our day. But we can choose how we respond. With these five kitchen-and-garden remedies, relief sits only minutes away. Ginger steadies. Fennel sweetens the finish. Chamomile and lemon balm quiet the churn. Basil offers a warm, herbal lift. And a simple oatmeal bowl keeps hunger from waking up the flame.

Pair them with small, smart habits—earlier dinners, softer belts, slow sips, and a short walk. In other words, let comfort be your routine. After more than a few calm days, you’ll notice less burn and more ease. You’ll trust your tools. You’ll know which cup or bowl to reach for. And you’ll carry those green, friendly helpers from the garden to the table with quiet confidence.

Here’s to meals that sit easy, nights that rest deep, and mornings that begin bright. Your kitchen, your herbs, your rhythm—working together for a cooler, calmer you.

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Decorating and Gardening Converge With Planter Boxes and Pots

Planter boxes and pots do more than hold soil. They shape space. They set a mood. They turn a plain porch into a welcome. They turn a patio into a room. In other words, containers let decorating and gardening meet in one easy move. We get color, texture, and life. We also get control. We choose the style, the size, the plant mix, and the exact spot. That is power in a small package.

This guide shows how to design like a stylist and grow like a gardener at the same time. We keep steps simple. We work with clear rules that always help. We use short, honest tips you can act on today. Most of all, we build confidence. One box. One pot. One corner at a time.

Design First, Plants Second: Turning Containers into Decor

Great containers start with a plan. Style comes from choices made up front. When we know the look we want, plant care gets easier too. Let’s build the plan together.

Choose your purpose.
Ask, “What job will this container do?” It might welcome guests by the door. It might divide a seating area. It might hide a view, soften a wall, or frame a path. A clear job keeps the design tight. It also guides size, height, and color.

Pick a simple palette.
Two colors plus green is plenty. Try black-and-white for crisp style. Try lime-and-purple for drama. Try blush-and-silver for calm. Keep repeating that palette in nearby pots. Repetition looks intentional. It reads as design, not clutter.

Match the style of the space.
Sleek resin or fiberglass fits modern lines. Rustic wood or clay fits cottage charm. Glazed ceramic bridges both, depending on color. The pot is part of the furniture. Treat it like a side table or lamp you’d bring inside. If it clashes, it will bug you all season.

Size up for impact.
One large pot beats three tiny ones. Big containers anchor a space. They also dry out slower and grow stronger roots. As a rule, choose the biggest pot you can lift or roll. On steps, graduate sizes for rhythm. On decks, a row of tall boxes turns empty rails into a garden wall.

Think in layers: thriller, filler, spiller.
This classic rule still works because it’s simple. Pick one plant with height or shape (thriller). Add mid plants to fill the body (filler). Let a few plants trail (spiller). Stop there. You do not need ten kinds. Three to five plants per pot is plenty for most sizes.

Play with contrast.
Glossy leaves beside fuzzy leaves. Fine blades beside big, bold leaves. Deep color beside soft color. Contrast adds energy. It keeps the eye moving. But most of all, it makes each plant look better than it would alone.

Respect sight lines and movement.
High thrillers belong where they won’t block doors or chairs. Spillers should not trip feet. Keep pots off tight turns. Leave room for a broom and a hose. Beauty that’s a bother will not last.

Work with light, shade, and wind.
Containers live in microclimates. A south wall bakes. A breezy balcony dries out fast. A shaded stoop stays cool. Choose plants that match the real conditions, not the label dream. In other words, design with the weather you actually have.

Copy-ready container recipes (drop-in and go).
Use these as-is or as a base you tweak. Keep soil level 1–2 inches below the rim so water stays put.

  • Front-Door Statement (sun to part sun): Tall grass (purple fountain or a compact miscanthus) + white verbena + lime sweet potato vine. Clean, bright, and bold.
  • Modern Monochrome (full sun): Black pot + deep red coleus + dark purple calibrachoa + trailing silver dichondra. One mood. Big impact.
  • Herb & Meal Box (6+ hours sun): Dwarf tomato in a cage + basil + chives + thyme spilling forward. Dinner, right by the door.
  • Shade Serenity (part shade to shade): Hosta with blue leaves + fern + white impatiens + trailing ivy. Quiet, lush, and cool.
  • Pollinator Patio (sun): Compact salvia + lantana + alyssum spilling the edges. Bees and butterflies will find you.

Photo-ready grouping tricks.
Cluster odd numbers of pots. Vary heights. Pull them tight, like a living coffee table set. Add one small stool or lantern to finish the scene. A simple coir doormat under the group ties it together like a rug.

Color and material pairings that rarely miss.
Black pots + lime and white plants = crisp, modern.
Terracotta + silver foliage + lavender = Mediterranean calm.
Cream ceramic + pinks and peaches = soft cottage glow.
Weathered wood + grasses + echinacea = natural prairie mood.

Common design mistakes (and the fix).
Too many kinds in one pot? Thin the mix. Keep three stars and let them shine.
Tiny pots scattered everywhere? Combine into a few strong groups.
No link to the house style? Match one detail—the trim color, the metal tone, or the deck wood—and repeat it in the pots.

Night and event tips.
Add a small, warm solar stake light behind the pot to backlight leaves. Use a pale gravel top-dress to bounce light. On party nights, move one dramatic pot to the photo spot. You’ll get instant “wow” shots with zero extra décor.

Planter Boxes and Pots: Materials, Sizes, and Setups

Good looks are only half the story. Healthy roots make beauty last. The right material, size, soil, and watering plan turn style into success. Let’s set you up to win.

Materials at a glance.

  • Terracotta (unglazed clay): Breathes well. Roots love the air flow. But it dries fast and can crack in hard freezes. Great for herbs and succulents.
  • Glazed ceramic: Holds moisture longer. Heavy, stable, and gorgeous. Less winter risk, but still protect from deep freezes.
  • Fiberglass/composite: Light, tough, often looks like stone or metal. Good in wind if you add weight.
  • Resin/plastic: Light and affordable. Choose thick, UV-stable models so they don’t fade or warp.
  • Wood (cedar, redwood): Warm and natural. Line the inside with landscape fabric to slow rot while letting water pass.
  • Metal (steel, galvanized): Modern edge. Can heat up in sun; line with fabric and leave an air gap from hot walls.
  • Concrete/stone: Ultra-stable. Great for public spots and windy decks. Heavy—place once, then don’t plan to move.
  • Fabric grow bags: Breathable and light. Roots branch well. They dry out faster, so water more often or use a tray.

Size and root depth (simple rules).

  • Herbs and greens: 6–8 inches deep is enough.
  • Peppers and bush beans: 10–12 inches deep.
  • Tomatoes, eggplant, small fruiting shrubs: 12–18 inches deep and wide.
  • Root crops (carrots, beets, radish): Match the root length; short varieties thrive in 8–10 inches.
  • Small trees or bamboos: As large as you can manage. Bigger soil volumes buffer heat and cold.

Think in volume, not just width.
A 5-gallon pot is a happy home for one pepper. Ten to fifteen gallons make tomatoes smile. Large boxes (24–36 inches long) can host “mini gardens”—a thriller, two fillers, and two spillers—without crowding.

Drainage is non-negotiable.
Every container needs holes. Raise pots on feet so water can escape. Place mesh or a shard over each hole to keep mix in. Skip the gravel myth at the bottom—it creates a perched water layer. Use a consistent potting mix from top to bottom so water moves smoothly.

Self-watering (wicking) setups.
These have a water reservoir below the soil. A wick or a soil column pulls water up. They are lifesavers on hot balconies. Look for an overflow port so you can’t drown the roots. Fill from the tube, and still top-water once in a while to wash salts down.

Soil mix that works almost everywhere.
Use a true potting mix, not backyard soil. Backyard soil compacts and smothers roots in pots.

  • All-purpose container mix recipe:
    • Half peat moss or coco coir (holds moisture)
    • A third pine bark fines or perlite (adds air)
    • The rest finished compost (adds life and nutrients)
    • A small pinch of slow-release fertilizer at planting
      Fluff it with your hands. If it clumps, add more perlite. If it drains too fast, add a bit more coir.

Watering made simple.
Water in the morning. Soak until a little runs from the bottom. Lift the pot or stick a finger two inches down: if it’s dry, water; if it’s cool and damp, wait. In heat waves, shade pots from afternoon sun or group them to cut wind. Drip lines with 1–2 gallon-per-hour emitters keep boxes steady with almost no effort.

Feeding without fuss.
At planting, mix in a slow-release fertilizer. Mid-season, give a light liquid feed every two to four weeks. If you see lots of leaves but few blooms, you may have too much nitrogen. Ease up. Flowers and fruit like a balanced plan.

Mulch the top.
A one-inch layer of fine bark, cocoa hulls, or even clean pea gravel cuts water loss and keeps soil splash off leaves. It also makes the pot look finished.

Mobility and safety.
Add locking casters or a low dolly under heavy pots. Water weighs about 8.3 pounds per gallon. Plan before you plant. Protect decks with saucers or risers. For railing boxes, use rated brackets and don’t overload. Safety comes first, always.

Wind and heat hacks.
Tuck tall pots behind benches or screens. On blazing patios, wrap the inside of dark metal planters with a sheet of cardboard or foam to buffer roots from heat. On bright walls, leave a two-inch gap behind pots so air can move.

Seasonal swaps without waste.
Use evergreen bones (boxwood balls, dwarf conifers, rosemary standards) and swap seasonal bloomers around them. Spring pansies out, summer calibrachoa in, fall mums or asters next, winter twigs and cones after that. The container stays “dressed” all year.

Edible-meets-ornamental combos (pretty and practical).

  • Blue kale + purple pansies + trailing thyme.
  • Lemon grass (thriller) + marigolds (filler) + sweet basil (filler) + oregano (spiller).
  • Dwarf pepper + coleus + creeping jenny.
    These taste good and look designed. Instead of separate veggie pots and flower pots, we mingle them.

Pollinator and bird-friendly choices.
Single flowers feed more insects than super-double forms. Add a shallow water dish with stones. Keep sprays off blooms. You will see bees, butterflies, and tiny friendly wasps at work. That’s life, right on the patio.

Pet and kid notes.
Some plants are toxic if nibbled. Keep lilies, oleander, and certain bulbs out of reach. Place thorny roses away from play paths. If little hands are curious, choose safe herbs at the edge: mint, chives, and parsley invite touch and scent.

Pest and disease basics for containers.
Wipe leaves and check undersides weekly. A firm water spray removes aphids and mites. Use a mild soap spray if needed, then rinse. Water the soil, not the leaves, early in the day. Good air and clean tools prevent most issues. If fungus gnats show up, let the top inch of mix dry and use sticky traps until the cycle breaks.

Winter care by climate.
In cold zones, group pots close to the house, off windy edges. Wrap boxes with burlap or bubble wrap if deep cold arrives. Many perennials want a pot at least two sizes larger than their root ball to survive winter. In warm zones, watch summer heat stress instead. Afternoon shade saves roots.

Budget and sustainability wins.
Repurpose food-safe buckets with added drain holes. Seal thrifted wood boxes with a plant-safe finish and line with fabric. Choose coco coir over peat if you prefer a renewable base. Collect rainwater for a soft, gentle soak. After more than one season, you’ll see how each small habit saves money and time.

Accessibility and ease.
Tired knees? Choose tall boxes so you reach without bending. Add a slim tool caddy next to your pot group. Keep pruners, a scoop, slow-release fertilizer, and gloves inside. When tools are close, care happens fast.

Stain and surface care.
Use saucers or feet to protect stone and wood. If clay blooms with white mineral salts, scrub gently with a brush and water. For glazed pots, a dab of mild soap and a soft cloth keeps the shine.

Simple troubleshooting (fast fixes).

  • Wilting at noon but fine at night: Heat wilt. Shade in afternoons and water deeply in the morning.
  • Yellow leaves with wet soil: You’re overwatering. Let it dry to the second knuckle. Check drainage holes.
  • Leggy plants reaching: Not enough light. Move to more sun or switch to shade stars.
  • Few flowers: Too much nitrogen or not enough sun. Ease fertilizer. Find brighter hours.
  • Soil pulling from sides: Hydrophobic mix. Soak slowly in a tub or water in small rounds until it re-wets.

A mini layout you can copy this weekend.

  • The Welcome Row (10–12 feet of railing or wall): Three long cedar boxes. Repeat the same mix in each: upright rosemary (one per box), white petunias across the front, and lime sweet potato vine at the corners. Tie the look with black metal brackets and a coir doormat at the entry.
  • The Conversation Corner: Two tall charcoal fiberglass pots flanking a loveseat. Each holds a compact ornamental grass, a ring of pink calibrachoa, and a single trailing silver dichondra. A small round table with a candle sits between. That’s a room, not just a patio.

Water plan for busy weeks.
Install a simple battery timer and a drip line that snakes from box to box. Add one emitter per medium plant or two for big drinkers like tomatoes. Set it for early morning. Check once a week and adjust with the weather. Instead of stress, you get steady care.

Soil refresh cycle.
At season’s end, pull roots and shake off soil. If the mix is clean and airy, keep half. Blend in fresh mix and compost. If it’s tired or full of roots, dump it into the garden bed or compost and start fresh in the pot. Your plants feel the difference.

Top-dress that “designer finish.”
Sprinkle fine bark, pea gravel, or polished stones after planting. It hides the soil, slows splash, and makes colors pop. It also says “finished” to the eye, just like a throw pillow on a sofa.

Lightweight hacks for upstairs living.
Choose resin or fiberglass over stone. Use coir-based mixes that weigh less than garden soil. Pick compact plant forms that still read big: dwarf grasses, mini conifers, and tight-blooming annuals. A big look does not need big weight.

Privacy without walls.
Line three tall boxes in a row with clumping bamboo (non-running types), tall ornamental grasses, or trellised star jasmine. You get a green screen that moves with the breeze and smells amazing on summer nights. Instead of a fence, you grow a view.

Year-round rhythm (easy prompts).

  • Spring: Plant cool lovers; switch to heat lovers before summer hits.
  • Summer: Deadhead weekly. Deep water. Pinch back fast growers once a month.
  • Fall: Swap tired bloomers for asters, pansies, and ornamental kale. Add pumpkins or lanterns.
  • Winter: Evergreens hold shape. Add twigs, cones, or lights. Check pots after freezes and brush off snow.

Mindset that keeps it joyful.
Start with one hero pot and one helper pot. Learn the sun, wind, and water rhythm in that spot. Add more after a few weeks. This slow build makes the whole space feel curated. It also saves money and reduces waste. But most of all, it keeps your energy high. You see wins fast, and wins fuel more wins.

Five-minute weekly checklist.
Water check. Snip dead blooms. Spin pots a quarter turn for even growth. Wipe the rims. Sweep the floor. That tiny ritual makes your container “room” feel cared for and ready.

Tiny space, big story.
Even a single window box can carry a theme. Soft blush begonias, trailing silver helichrysum, and a center dwarf grass read like a complete sentence. Add a small brass hook with a watering can. Now it’s a chapter.

Hosting and holidays.
For a party, push two big pots close to the entry and add a small banner or ribbon that matches your napkins. For winter, thread a warm white string light low and around the base of evergreens. Keep it subtle. Plants do the talking; lights just whisper.

Your starter kit (keep it near the door).
Light scoop, hand pruners, watering can or hose wand, slow-release fertilizer, liquid feed, finger moisture meter (or just your finger), top-dress bag, and a soft cloth for pot wipe-downs. When tools are close, tasks take minutes, not a morning.

What to grow when you “forget to water.”
Choose thick leaves and tough souls: rosemary, lavender, sedum, lantana, dwarf grasses, and sun coleus. Use larger pots, mulch, and morning shade. Add a self-watering insert to buy more time between fills.

What to grow when you want “instant lush.”
Petunias, calibrachoa, bacopa, impatiens (for shade), and coleus fill fast. Start with bigger starter plants. Pinch tips early so they branch. Feed lightly. In two weeks, you’ll see the swell.

What to grow for scent.
Night-scented stock by the bench. Star jasmine on a trellis. Lemon verbena near the kitchen door. Mint in its own pot (it roams). Let scent guide where you sit and how you move.

What to grow for kids.
Strawberries at the edge. Snapdragons to pinch and “make dragons talk.” Cherry tomatoes in a cage. Chocolate mint to smell. Put a small watering can within reach and watch care turn to joy.

What to grow for photos.
Dark foliage beside pale blooms. High contrast sells the shot. Place one pot where morning light hits at an angle. That’s your golden-hour stage.

Porch to Patio Alchemy: Living Rooms Made of Leaves and Light

This is how decorating and gardening truly converge. We set a purpose. We choose a pot that fits the style. We build simple layers. We honor light, wind, and water. Then we enjoy. In other words, we create rooms outdoors with living things—rooms that change, grow, and welcome us home.

After more than a season, you’ll notice the rhythm. You’ll water on feel, not fear. You’ll prune with calm hands. You’ll swap plants like pillows and keep the bones steady. Friends will ask what changed, and you will smile because the answer is simple: you grew your décor.

So let’s begin. Pick one corner that needs a lift. Choose one big pot or one long box. Set your palette—two colors plus green. Add a thriller, a filler, and a spiller. Water deep. Turn the pot next week. Snip a bloom for the table. And keep going, step by small step.

Soon the porch becomes a lounge. The steps become a story. The patio becomes a living room with birds, bees, and laughter. Your planters will lead the way—quietly, steadily, beautifully—every single day.

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Birria Recipe

birria recipe

Birria is authentic and addicting and will be leaving you asking for more. It is traditionally made with lamb meat, but it is common for people to use beef today since it is more affordable and easier to find throughout Mexico and the United States. Birria has gained international fame, not only because of its exquisite taste, but also because it is known for its ability to help people recover after a long night of partying. Another way to eat birria is to shred the meat and make tacos with it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8oQCk4jmfc

Mexican Birria

Serving Size:
8
Time:
2 hours
Difficulty:
Simple

Adobo Sauce Ingredients:

  • 3 dried ancho chiles
  • 3 dried guajillo chiles
  • 1 to 3 dried chiles de ƒÂ¡rbol
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 small white onion, peeled and diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large roma tomatoes, roughly chopped*
  • 4 cups beef stock, divided
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • pinch of ground cloves

Beef Stew Ingredients:

  • 3 to 3 1/2 pound beef chuck roast, roughly cut into 3-inch chunks
  • fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • warm corn tortillas, for serving
  • recommended toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, chopped white or red onion, diced or sliced avocado, lime wedges and/or sliced jalapeƒÂ±os

Directions

  1. Core and toast the chiles. Slice the stems off of the dried chiles, then remove and discard the seeds inside. Press the ¢â‚¬Å“SautƒÂ©¢â‚¬Â button on the Instant Pot. Add the chiles and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, flipping once, until the chiles are fragrant and lightly toasted. Transfer them to a blender (or food processor) and set aside.
  2. SautƒÂ© the veggies. Add the oil and onion to the hot Instant Pot. SautƒÂ© the onion for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the garlic and tomatoes and sautƒÂ© for 3 more minutes, stirring occasionally. Then turn off the Instant Pot, and transfer the entire mixture to the blender.
  3. Blend the marinade. Add 2 cups of the beef stock, the apple cider vinegar, cumin, oregano, ginger, cinnamon and cloves to the blender. Cover and carefully* blend for 1 minute, until the mixture is completely smooth. Set aside.
  4. Sear the meat (optional). (You can skip this step if you¢â‚¬â„¢d like to save time.) Briefly rinse out and dry off the Instant Pot insert. Season the beef with a few generous pinches of salt and black pepper. Press the ¢â‚¬Å“SautƒÂ©¢â‚¬Â button on the Instant Pot and add in 1 tablespoon of the oil. Add half of the beef and briefly sear it in the oil, turning the chunks occasionally so that they can sear on all sides. Transfer the first batch of beef to a clean plate, then sear the remaining beef likewise in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Turn off the Instant Pot.
  5. Pressure cook. Add all of the seared beef to the Instant Pot, along with the blended marinade, bay leaves and remaining 2 cups of beef stock, and give the mixture a quick toss. Cover and set the lid to ¢â‚¬Å“Sealing.¢â‚¬Â Pressure cook on ¢â‚¬Å“Manual¢â‚¬Â for 45 minutes, followed by a quick release.
  6. Shred the beef (optional). Carefully remove the lid once all of the pressure has released. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Then you can either choose to just leave the beef in larger chunks for serving. Or you can use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, and then toss the shredded beef in the marinade so that it is evenly coated.
  7. Season. Taste and season the birria with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
  8. Serve. Serve the birria in bowls (the beef along with its broth) garnished with lots of your favorite toppings, with a side of warm tortillas, and enjoy!

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Natural Home Remedies For Controlling Pest Insects & Bugs

Natural Home Remedies For Controlling Pest Insects & Bugs

Pests happen. Ants find the sugar. Aphids find your roses. Fruit flies circle the bowl. It can feel endless. But here’s the good news: we can take control in simple, safe ways. We can protect our homes, our plants, and our peace of mind without harsh chemicals or big costs. In other words, we can use everyday tools, kitchen staples, and smart habits to cut pest pressure fast.

This guide gives you a clear plan. We’ll set prevention first. We’ll observe with sharp eyes. Then we’ll act with proven home remedies. The steps are gentle and practical. The recipes are easy and repeatable. And the tone is calm, because calm wins. Let’s work together—one room, one bed, one leaf at a time.

The Simple Plan: Prevent, Observe, Act

If we stop pests from settling in, we win before we even mix a spray. Think of this as a rhythm you can keep all year. It’s light, steady, and powerful.

Block the entry points.

  • Seal tiny gaps with caulk around pipes, baseboards, and window frames.
  • Add door sweeps and fix torn screens.
  • Close weep holes with mesh that still lets walls breathe.
  • Sweep crumbs, wipe spills, and take out trash before bed. Tiny food bits fuel big pest trails.

Manage water and air.

  • Fix drips under sinks. Dry the sink and counters at night.
  • Run fans in kitchens and baths to cut damp air.
  • Store pet bowls, birdseed, and compost with lids.
  • In the garden, water in the morning so leaves dry by dusk. Wet leaves invite trouble.

Store it tight.

  • Keep grains, flour, and snacks in glass or sturdy plastic containers with tight lids.
  • Rotate pantry goods. Freeze bulk grains for three days before storing to stop hitchhikers.
  • Wipe shelves. Vacuum crumbs in corners. Pests love the bits you can’t see.

Clean smart, not hard.

  • Vacuum edges, under appliances, and along windowsills weekly.
  • Use a damp cloth for dust. Dust hides tiny eggs.
  • Wash recycling before binning. Sticky residues attract ants and flying pests.

Create garden balance.

  • Space plants for airflow. Good air keeps leaves dry and strong.
  • Add compost for steady growth, but don’t overfeed. Too much nitrogen makes soft, tasty leaves.
  • Mulch to reduce splash and weeds, and to keep soil moisture even.
  • Rotate crops in veggie beds and containers. Don’t plant the same family in the same spot every time.

Invite the helpers.

  • Plant nectar-rich flowers like sweet alyssum, dill, and yarrow. These feed beneficial insects such as lady beetles, lacewings, hoverflies, and tiny parasitic wasps.
  • Leave a shallow water dish with pebbles for beneficials to drink safely.
  • Avoid broad, harsh sprays that knock down the good with the bad.

Use light traps and barriers.

  • Yellow sticky cards catch fungus gnats, whiteflies, and aphids. Blue cards attract thrips. Place them at plant height and replace when full.
  • Row covers keep moths from laying eggs on veggies. Pin edges well so intruders can’t crawl in. Lift covers when flowers need pollinators, or hand-pollinate.

Observe with purpose.

  • Check the undersides of leaves once a week. Look for clusters, specks, webbing, or sticky honeydew.
  • Note “thresholds.” A few aphids? Rinse and watch. A colony building? Time to treat.
  • Track what you see in a small notebook. After more than a month, patterns appear. That makes action faster and smarter.

Act in layers.

  • Start gentle: water blasts, hand-picking, vacuuming.
  • Move to soap sprays and oils when needed.
  • Use baits and barriers next.
  • Keep rare, stronger options as a last step. Instead of jumping to extremes, we step up only when needed.

This simple plan works because it fits daily life. It uses what we already do—clean, store, water, and prune—and adds a few focused moves. The result is fewer pests, less waste, and more calm.

DIY Remedies, Recipes, and Use Cases

Here are the home solutions that earn their spot on the shelf. The recipes are small on purpose. Make fresh. Label the jar. Patch-test on one leaf or a hidden spot first. If a plant shows stress, dilute more or switch methods. And remember—keep kids and pets safe. Store mixes out of reach.

Strong blast of water (first response).

  • Use a hose nozzle or a sink sprayer to knock aphids, mites, and whiteflies from leaves. Support the plant. Aim under leaves.
  • Repeat every couple of days for a week. Many pests can’t climb back.

Soapy water spray (for soft-bodied pests).

  • Mix 1 teaspoon of mild liquid soap (like castile) in 1 quart (1 liter) of water.
  • Spray leaves—tops and undersides—until they glisten.
  • Wait 15–20 minutes. Rinse with clear water.
  • Use in the evening or early morning to avoid leaf burn.
  • Targets: aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, young thrips.
  • Tip: Test first on a small area. Some plants are sensitive.

Vegetable oil + soap spray (smothers eggs and tiny pests).

  • In a jar, mix 2 teaspoons vegetable oil with 1 teaspoon mild soap per quart of warm water. Shake well.
  • Spray where eggs and pests hide (leaf undersides, stems, bark crevices).
  • Apply in cool hours. Don’t use during heat waves.
  • Reapply after rain.
  • Targets: scale crawlers, mites, aphids, whiteflies.
  • Note: Oils can mark delicate blooms. Aim for leaves.

Spot treatment with alcohol (mealybugs and scale).

  • Dip a cotton swab in 70% isopropyl alcohol.
  • Dot directly onto the pest. You’ll see mealybugs shrivel.
  • Wipe off and discard the swab.
  • Repeat every few days until new growth is clean.
  • Do not drench the whole plant with alcohol. Spot treat only.

Diatomaceous earth (DE) for crawling pests.

  • Use food-grade DE only. Wear a dust mask to avoid breathing the powder.
  • Dust a fine layer along baseboards, behind appliances, under sinks, and around plant pots.
  • Outside, dust the soil surface around stems and bed edges.
  • DE cuts soft-bodied insects and dries them out.
  • Targets: fleas, ants, earwigs, sowbugs, roaches, and some beetle larvae.
  • Reapply after rain or if it clumps from humidity. Keep away from blooms so bees aren’t exposed.

Ant bait with sugar and borax (for indoor ant trails).

  • In a small jar or lid, mix 1/2 cup warm water, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1½ teaspoons borax until dissolved.
  • Soak cotton balls in the mix. Place them in a vented container (a jar with small holes) along ant trails but out of reach of kids and pets.
  • Ants carry the bait home and share it. Trails fade in days.
  • Refresh as needed.
  • Important: Label “ANT BAIT—DO NOT TOUCH.” Keep away from food prep areas. Borax is low but real toxicity—use with care.

Vinegar traps for fruit flies.

  • Pour 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar into a small jar. Add two drops of liquid soap.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and poke a few small holes, or make a paper funnel.
  • Place near the fruit bowl or compost caddy.
  • Empty and refresh daily until the cycle breaks.
  • Pair with prevention: rinse fruit, empty bins, and wipe sticky spots.

Yeast-and-sugar bottle trap for gnats and flies (optional helper).

  • Mix 1 cup warm water, 2 teaspoons sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon dry yeast in a tall bottle.
  • Tape a paper funnel in the mouth.
  • The mix makes gentle CO₂ that lures some flies.
  • Works best as a backup while you remove breeding sites.

Fungus gnat control for houseplants.

  • Let the top inch of soil dry between waterings.
  • Bottom-water so the surface stays drier.
  • Add yellow sticky stakes to catch adults.
  • Option A: Steep “mosquito control bits” (with BTi) in water to make a tea, then water plants; this targets larvae.
  • Option B: Mix 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide with 4 parts water and drench the soil once. It fizzes as it works, then breaks down to water and oxygen.
  • Repeat weekly until traps are mostly empty.

Beer traps for slugs and snails (garden beds and pots).

  • Bury a shallow container so the rim is level with the soil.
  • Fill with beer or a yeast-sugar solution.
  • Empty daily. Refill as needed.
  • Add copper tape to pot rims as a barrier.
  • Evening hand-picking with a flashlight works wonders too. Drop slugs into soapy water.

Sticky traps (color-coded).

  • Yellow traps catch whiteflies, aphids, and fungus gnats.
  • Blue traps attract thrips.
  • Place at plant height; one small card per pot indoors, or one larger card per 100 square feet outdoors.
  • Replace when covered and keep out of reach of curious pets.

Garlic-chili spray (repels some leaf chewers).

  • Blend 2 cups water with 2 peeled garlic cloves and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Strain.
  • Add 1/2 teaspoon mild soap to help it stick.
  • Spray in the evening, especially leaf undersides.
  • Test first and avoid eyes and skin.
  • Works best as a short-term repellent. Reapply after rain.

Peppermint or clove oil on cotton (trail interrupter for ants and a few flying pests).

  • Place a drop or two of essential oil on a cotton ball.
  • Tuck it along ant entry points, windowsills, or under the sink.
  • Replace every few days.
  • Caution: Essential oils can bother pets, especially cats. Use sparingly and out of reach.

Kaolin clay film (leaf shield in the garden).

  • Mix fine clay powder with water to make a thin milk-like spray.
  • Coat leaves and stems lightly. The white film confuses some leaf chewers and sun-stresses fewer leaves.
  • Reapply after rain.
  • Expect a pale cast on foliage; it washes off later.

Hand-picking into soapy water (simple and effective).

  • For beetles, hornworms, large caterpillars, and leaf-footed bugs, drop them into a bowl of water with a little soap.
  • Morning is best. Pests move slower in cool air.
  • Wear gloves if you prefer.

Vacuum strategy (for home invaders like stink bugs).

  • Use a handheld vacuum to remove clusters from windows and walls.
  • Empty into a bucket of soapy water before they crawl back out.
  • Patch entry points after.

Reflective mulch and shiny strips (aphid and whitefly confusion).

  • Lay reflective mulch or tuck strips of clean, crinkled foil around the base of vulnerable plants.
  • The light messes with pest navigation during early growth.
  • Remove once plants are tall and sturdy.

Row covers and collars (physical armor).

  • Floating row covers stop egg-laying by moths on cabbage, broccoli, and squash.
  • Cardboard collars around stems can deter cutworms.
  • Seal edges with soil. Lift covers for harvest and pollination windows.

Beneficials you can buy or invite.

  • Lady beetles, lacewings, and predatory mites can help in greenhouses and gardens.
  • Release at dusk near water and nectar plants.
  • More often, just plant flowers they love and let locals do the work.

Room-by-room quick wins (because we live everywhere).

  • Kitchen: Wipe counters at night. Empty the drain trap. Clean the toaster tray. Store fruit in the fridge during fruit fly season. Use vinegar traps on the sideboard, not right on food prep zones.
  • Bath & laundry: Fix drips. Run the fan. Clean under the washer. Silverfish hate dry, bright spaces.
  • Bedroom: If you see bites and suspect bed bugs, skip home sprays. Wash and heat-dry bedding on high. Encase mattress and box spring. Use interceptor cups under bed legs. Call a pro early; fast action matters here.
  • Living room: Vacuum rugs, edges, and under couches. For fleas, wash pet bedding weekly. Use a flea comb. Sprinkle a light dusting of food-grade DE under sofa cushions and along baseboards, then vacuum in a day or two. Keep pets away from loose dust.
  • Houseplants: Quarantine new plants for two weeks. Shower leaves monthly. Add sticky stakes. Treat fungus gnats at the soil, not just in the air.

Garden playbook (by pest type).

  • Aphids: Blast with water. Follow with soap spray. Add lady beetle flowers (alyssum, dill).
  • Spider mites: Increase humidity around plants, rinse leaves, then oil or soap spray. Shade during extreme heat.
  • Whiteflies: Yellow traps plus soap or oil. Keep weeds down near beds.
  • Caterpillars on brassicas: Row covers early. Hand-pick. If heavy, consider a biological spray labeled for caterpillars and follow directions.
  • Japanese beetles: Shake into soapy water in the morning. Cover prized plants with mesh during peak weeks.
  • Leaf miners: Remove and discard mined leaves. Use row covers on susceptible crops next round.
  • Squash bugs: Search for bronze egg clusters under leaves and crush. Use boards as night shelters, then remove bugs in the morning.

Safety notes we always keep.

  • Label every mix. Note the date and recipe.
  • Store away from kids, pets, and food.
  • Never mix chlorine bleach with vinegar or ammonia.
  • Keep sprays off blooms to protect pollinators. Aim for leaves.
  • Treat in the evening when helpers are resting and sun is mild.
  • Wash hands after any application. Rinse produce before eating.

Troubleshooting (fast answers).

  • Spray burned leaves? You may have sprayed in sun or mixed too strong. Rinse, prune damaged tips, and dilute next time.
  • Ants keep returning? You killed scouts but not the colony. Use bait so workers carry it home. Seal the entry point after trails fade.
  • Fungus gnats won’t stop? You’re watering too often. Let soil dry on top. Treat larvae, not just adults.
  • Still seeing pests after a week? Layer methods. For example, water blast + soap spray + sticky traps. Stay steady for 10–14 days.

Make a tidy “pest kit.”

  • Spray bottle with soap mix label.
  • Small jar of oil spray (shake before use).
  • Cotton swabs and 70% alcohol.
  • Food-grade diatomaceous earth and a small duster.
  • Sticky cards (yellow and blue).
  • A small notebook and marker for dates, mixes, and wins.
  • Gloves, a hand lens, and a soft brush for leaf cleanup.

This kit turns stress into action. You see a problem, you reach for the right tool, and you fix it in minutes.

What about mosquitoes?

  • Dump standing water weekly—buckets, saucers, toys, gutters.
  • Add fine mesh or covers to rain barrels.
  • Use a patio fan in seating areas. Mosquitoes are weak fliers.
  • Wear light sleeves at dusk.
  • For ponds, a biological larvicide labeled for water features can help; follow directions.
  • Citronella candles add vibe, but airflow and water control do more.

What about “miracle” hacks?
Coffee grounds, coins in water, and random internet tricks sound fun. But most do little. Instead of chasing fads, we stick to what works: clean spaces, sealed food, dry sinks, steady airflow, and the recipes above. But most of all, we stay consistent. That beats any one-time spray.

When to call a pro.

  • Fast-spreading bed bugs or termites.
  • Large roach or rodent infestations.
  • Structural wasp nests you can’t reach safely.
    There is no shame in help. A quick, targeted service can save months of struggle.

Set a gentle calendar (so it sticks).

  • Weekly: Vacuum edges, wipe sinks dry, check leaf undersides. Refresh traps.
  • Monthly: Deep clean the fridge seals and under appliances. Shower houseplants.
  • Seasonal: Seal gaps, swap door sweeps, wash screens, prune for airflow, rotate crops, and mulch.
    Tiny habits add up. After more than one season, pests will feel like the visitor, not the owner.

Calm Control, Everyday Tools

We don’t need to outgun nature. We just need to outsmart it. A sealed sugar jar, a dry sink, and a quick blast of water do more than a harsh spray most days. A few drops of soap change the surface tension on a leaf and stop a colony. A dusting of diatomaceous earth turns a hiding place into a dead end. In other words, small, smart moves shift the whole story.

Let’s keep our plan simple. We prevent first. We observe next. We act with gentle power. We lean on fans, screens, traps, soaps, oils, and clean habits. We protect pollinators and pets. We guard our time and budget. And we remember that pests are a part of life—but they don’t get to run the house or the garden.

You’ve got this. We’ve got this. Together, we’ll keep the good life rolling: fresh food, healthy plants, and rooms that feel light and clean. One wipe. One rinse. One calm spray. That is how we win, day after day.

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Designing a Formal Garden

In this article we will discuss how to design a strictly formal garden on a large, rectangular area. Designing formal garden needs a little bit of hard work on your behalf. You have to keep all the main points and area in mind while designing a layout. It is said that formality and symmetry go hand in hand, therefore it is vital for you to set up a central axis around which borders and features would be arranged. It is often observed that the main viewing position in the house rarely central to the lawn. Usually a good deal of work is done on the left side of the axis and the right hand boundary is at an odd angle.

The patio should be set up in a symmetrical layout as far as it reaches to a curved step down onto a garden. There are so many things and factors which hinder your way to build a perfectly symmetrical patio. You can make use of two narrow raised beds along the edge of the patio to get a formal layout of the patio, but remember they may not be firmly symmetrical. The width of the beds along with other things around them should be around 400 mm (16 inches).

The steps like all other layouts are flush with the lawn along its entire length and this would extend to a path running out to a fountain and circular pool. To achieve the formality, the either side of the path is set with lavender hedge. The path can be extended to the farthest end up to the seat or you can end it at the pond, all depends on your design and choices. Two beds approaches the house long the paving area from the end of the garden. They are idea for herbaceous flowers or bush roses. To achieve the formality, you need to plan your planting such a way that they will present and image of each other.

For winter season, you can maintain the formal spirit of your garden by introducing some evergreen shrubs in your garden. It is a great idea to include an evergreen shrub in the center of the bed; a tall, narrow conifer will certainly look more effective. The best place to plant the shrubs is on the back of the seat. Herbaceous flowers and roses on either side of the seat will emphasize the colorful scheme and provide scent for those sitting nearby.

What you need to do is to emphasize the clever selection of the plants for your garden to give it a formal touch. The left hand side of the house contains a significant pergola underneath which is a passage to garden. The paving under the pergola leads you to the utility area and further extended towards a small kitchen garden. Soft fruits and vegetables should be grown in this small kitchen garden, and the two sections of the garden are separated by a formal hedge. Though, both the sections of the garden have an easy access.

The left and the right hand corners of the garden can be used for storing compost and garden rubbish.