3/29/10

Before mowing down a patch of wildflowers to plant a perfectly manicured bed of roses, think about leaving it alone. A patch of wildflowers and grasses can be tamed easily by mowing neatly around the edges to frame it in or by mowing pathways through the field in a crisscross pattern. Use natural trellises, arches and edging to tame the wild, flowery beast, too.

3/27/10

When storing sweaters away for the winter, make sure they are completely clean so they repel moths. Any organic materials -- food residue, grease (yuk!) -- is nourishment for moths. Place the clean sweaters in a storage box and add sachets full of dried lavender to naturally drive away the hungry insects.

3/26/10

Visit your local landscaping store and stock up on all your spring shrubs, flowers and other ground-cover plantings. Look for native species -- these are plant varieties that are indigenous to your growing region and will thrive better. Also, ask the nursery if you can return the plastic pots after you've finished planting; many will take them back to use again.