Someone rightly said: “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” A garden is a gateway to your home in several unique ways — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Gardening is associated with better air quality, enhanced home aesthetics, and reduced stress and anxiety. However, it is a long-term activity that requires considerable planning and patience. So, if you have a spacious courtyard, here are some quick tips for facilitating a beautiful garden at your gateway: Enrich your soil The primary step to creating a beautiful garden is to replenish your soil with the essential nutrients. This means investing in good-quality compost, preferably vermicompost containing wigglers, redworms, and other soil products like coco peat and soil manure. Plan color themes It helps to plan the colors you would like in your garden and how these should be organized. For example, you could alternate between contrasting shades of light and dark or grow flowers of the same shades together. Planning the color themes in advance can help you set up a subtle yet vibrant garden. Weeding out is the way Weeds eat into your garden space and compete with other plants for food and nutrition. Moreover, they can ruin your garden’s aesthetics. Monitor your garden for the growth of weeds and eliminate them regularly to ensure that your garden is healthy and appealing. Make your garden appear bigger Some tricks can deceive your visitors into believing that your garden is huge. You can blur the boundaries between your garden and the surrounding areas, such as your patio. Consider growing plants of different, uneven sizes at your garden perimeters or growing rows of plants of different heights across your garden. Ensure proper drainage An aesthetic garden requires a proper drainage system to prevent stench and maintain hygiene. A well-planned gutter system is also essential to ensure a good harvest and adequate soil aeration.

Renovating a garden is a time-consuming yet rewarding task. Planning the task and timeline and researching are important to ensure the space looks beautiful. A DIY garden renovation project can be fun; however, being aware of all the limitations or rookie mistakes that can be avoided is necessary since certain factors can seem minor but significantly affect the look and feel of the garden. So, here are some garden renovation mistakes to avoid. Using complicated patterns while planting the garden Planting plants and flowers in an intricate pattern and shapes is a mistake that can easily be avoided. While these shapes may look aesthetically pleasing, it may get challenging to maintain these patterns over time. In fact, when not maintained properly, the plants will look messy and haphazard, which will become an eyesore over time. Using only small solar-powered lights While it may seem eco-friendly to highlight the trees and the garden in the evening using solar-powered lights, there may be better options. In most cases, these small lights are not powerful enough to light up the area, and one may have to use extra lights to achieve the desired look. If the lights don’t function properly, they will eventually end up in the landfill, which negates their whole purpose of being environmentally friendly. Paving the front garden space Paving the front of the garden can provide a convenient parking spot for your vehicle. While this could mean not crowding the street with your car, it requires special permission from the authorities and is not an environmentally friendly choice. Instead, you can design a combination of paving and planting for the space. Keeping a mix of paving and planting means that any excess rainwater goes directly into the ground, helping prevent any local flooding. Neglecting practical and decorative elements A garden full of greenery and blooming flowers looks stunning, but you can enjoy it more if you use the space.

As the warmer months approach, many pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for more time spent outdoors. However, with the great outdoors come unwanted pests like fleas and ticks, which can be a nuisance for humans and their furry companions. While chemical-based repellents are commonly used, there are natural alternatives that can help keep these pests at bay. One such alternative is using plants that naturally repel fleas and ticks. 1. Lavender Lavender is a natural flea and tick repellent. These insects are repelled by the strong fragrance of lavender, making them an excellent choice for gardens or indoor pots. Planting lavender in one’s garden or outdoor sitting areas can deter fleas and ticks from bothering inhabitants and their pets. 2. Rosemary This versatile herb acts as a natural pest repellent; its aromatic scent acts as a deterrent to fleas and ticks. One can plant rosemary in their garden or create a natural spray by boiling rosemary leaves and using the infused water as a pet-friendly flea and tick repellent. 3. Mint Like peppermint and spearmint, mint plants emit a strong scent that fleas and ticks find unpleasant. Planting mint around one’s garden or patio can help keep these pesky insects away. 4. Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemums contain a natural insect repellent called pyrethrin, commonly used in commercial flea and tick products. Planting chrysanthemums in one’s garden can help keep these pests away from outdoor spaces. 5. Lemongrass Lemongrass is another natural plant that repels fleas and ticks effectively. Its lemony scent is pleasant for humans but not for these insects. Planting lemongrass around the yard or patio can create a natural barrier against fleas and ticks. 6. Eucalyptus Eucalyptus trees and plants contain essential oils known to repel fleas and ticks. One can plant eucalyptus trees or shrubs in one’s yard to help keep these pests away.

Safety and security are the topmost priorities for every homeowner. Today, technology has considerably transformed the functioning of security systems; however, effectively utilizing such technology is essential for enhanced security and vigilance. Security cameras play a crucial role in ensuring safety and security by recording the occurrences on the premises. Installing security cameras at the right places allows one to identify such activities efficiently. Here are some of the worst places to install security cameras: Behind camera obstructions Sometimes, certain obstructions to the security camera may not be very evident until the cameras are installed. However, it is essential to thoroughly examine the space to ensure that there are no obstructions that may block the camera’s lens. Any object may pose as an obstruction to the camera’s range of view, from barks of trees in the garden to furniture indoors. Inside private spaces While security cameras are intended to ensure safety, installing cameras in private spaces actually implies violating the safety of inhabitants and visitors. Such private spaces include washrooms, changing rooms, and bedrooms. A better idea to ensure safety is to place security cameras in all the common areas leading to these spaces, so that the occupants’ privacy is not compromised even while their safety is ensured. Pointed at neighbors While one can place security cameras anywhere inside their premises, cameras faced at one’s neighbor’s homes or gardens can infringe upon their privacy. It is important to place security cameras such that they record only the activities taking place within one’s home or premises. Pointed at unlikely entrances and spots The fact is that most burglars enter homes and other private areas through regular front and back entrances, as opposed to unlikely spots. Studies have shown that 34% of burglars sneak into homes through front doors, while 22% enter through the first-floor window.

Choosing a garden fence sounds like the easiest thing to do. But it is more complex than what may seem on the surface. Individuals need to consider certain crucial factors while picking a garden fence. Otherwise, one may face a range of issues regarding their garden in the long term. To avoid any commonly faced issues, take a look at some key things to consider when choosing a new garden fence. Privacy and security Privacy and security are closely related, and one must select a fence to fulfill both these criteria. If an individual has their garden in a relatively quiet street with a few passers-by, then they may prefer an open and breezy style of fence, such as an arched top paling fence panel. On the other hand, if a garden is on a busy street or a zone in which traffic is excessive and passers-by more than a handful, then a traditional close board fencing panel or a strong and opaque fence is an ideal option. Ultimately, one’s prime goal should be choosing a fence that makes their garden as safe and private as possible. Durability Garden fences must be made from durable and high-grade materials only. Moreover, while selecting fencing materials, one must choose options that provide UV protection and anti-rusting features. Durable and hard-wearing fences that fulfill these two aspects are critical and useful for garden owners. Weather conditions Choosing fences that can withstand various elements is necessary to make them as reliable for the long term as possible. For instance, in areas that are prone to receiving heavy rainfall, using fences made out of wood or materials that may rust is not the right choice. Therefore, one should pick garden fences that come with “all-weather” guarantees to ensure that they last long and provide adequate safety, privacy, and protection under any weather-related circumstances.

Gardening isn’t something you get right on the first try. It requires some trial and error to perfect. Sometimes, you might find a plant doing poorly in one spot of your yard but thriving in another. While you might need more than a couple of tries to get things right, you must first learn about the common gardening mistakes to avoid. Luckily, most of these are easy to step over. Skipping compost Plants need nutrients while growing, and the best way to supply them is by adding compost. By skipping compost, you’re falling prey to one of the most common gardening mistakes that should be avoided. Compost not only provides plants with nutrients but also adds moisture and improves the soil’s drainage. Ignoring pest control Pests are always waiting for a chance to make quick work of your garden. So, you must find a way to stop them without using poisonous chemicals. One solution is to grow disease and pest-resistant plants that attract birds and insects that eat destructive pests. You can use some non-toxic traps and sprays occasionally. Poor watering habits It’s impossible to ignore how many of us water our plants and gardens at the wrong time. If you want the lawn to retain moisture, water it last thing at night or first thing in the morning. Watering the yard when the sun is out at its highest will result in the evaporation of water. The water droplets will also increase the sun’s intensity by acting as a magnifying glass. Poor weeding Simply chopping off the heads of weeds is not enough, as the roots continue to spread under the surface. Weeds like thistles and dandelions have strong root structures, so dig deep into the soil to get the roots out completely. If that isn’t an option, use a herbicide that can make its way to the roots and kill them.

Flowers make for lovely gifts, presuming, of course, that they’re fresh from the nursery or garden. The vibrant colors and cheery blossoms can light up anyone’s day, making them perfect gifts for every occasion. A fresh bouquet is an excellent pick if you forgot a friend’s birthday or your own anniversary—we’re only human, it happens! Here are a few same-day flower delivery services you can rely on at such times: 1-800-Flowers.com 1-800-Flowers.com offers flower bouquets and arrangements for any occasion or holiday and is one of the country’s best online flower delivery services. The company has a tremendous selection set featuring blossoms and bouquets of every kind. Their easy-to-use website allows you to search by event, occasion, flower type, signature collections, and more. They also have other types of gifts you can choose from, and their gift baskets can give competitors a run for their money. Roses, orchids, and tulips are always in demand, so give this flower delivery service a call if you want same-day delivery and the nursery or flower shop near you is out of the type of flowers you need. Lula’s Garden® There’s no better place to buy succulents than Lula’s Garden®. You can gift a single plant or pick from various combinations of succulent gardens for prices ranging from $28 to $135, and each one comes in a beautiful and sturdy planter box. All plants are sourced from locally-grown, family-owned nurseries. With options ranging from petite gardens to premium ones, you’ll surely find something that fits your budget and suits the occasion. This delivery service is a great choice to save time, effort, and the embarrassment of gifting your loved one a dead plant. ProFlowers Owned by parent company Florists’ Transworld Delivery (FTD), ProFlowers is a leading name in the same-day flower delivery services list.

Rain gutters are systems that safeguard a home from various water-related damages. They collect the rainwater and channel it to the ground away from the walls, garden, and overall foundation of a given property. Installing a gutter generally demands professional assistance. Nevertheless, many homeowners insist on taking the DIY route, which may lead to problems like wrong positioning and damage. To avoid such issues, here are certain mistakes to avoid while installing rain gutters. Choosing the wrong type of gutter Rain gutters are available in various sizes, prices, and materials and for multiple kinds of specific requirements. Choosing the wrong type of gutter can mean homeowners can’t make the most out of them. Ideally, one must choose a gutter made of aluminum, one with a thick gauge such as 0.032, a gutter that has at least 0.019 thickness for all elbows and downspouts, a system that comes with strong and hidden hangers, a gutter that matches the color of one’s home, and a gutter that is adequately sized for the amount of water flow for a specific kind of home. Overlooking improper hanger spacing Gutter hangers connect it to one’s house. The spacing between these hangers is critical to the functioning of a gutter. Even when the gutter is installed at a proper slope, is made from the suitable material for a given house, and is made by a reputed manufacturer, improper hanger spacing can undermine all those positive elements of gutters. Improper spacing causes the gutters to sag, leading to water pooling in specific areas around one’s house. It can cause the gutters to detach from the space. Ideally, hangers must be spaced no more than 2 feet apart. In colder climates, the space can be kept at less than 2 feet apart to counter the weight of snow and ice, which puts extra strain on the gutters.

Every aspect of a home requires attention and care from time to time. This involves not just keeping the home and its fixtures and furniture clean but also ensuring that no issues affect the home’s functionality. For instance, doors and windows are used extensively and can undergo considerable wear and tear. If one notices any issues in their functionality, one should see if they can be fixed with repairs. If not, one should consider replacement. Warning signs 1. Jammed hinges When the doors and windows take on excessive wear and tear, the hinges may get rusty, and the frames can be hard to move. So, whenever one goes to open or close doors and windows, they may have to use a lot of strength to make them move. While this could be fixed with repairs and maintenance, sometimes, the hardware can be beyond repair and needs to be replaced. 2. Draft If the door or window can no longer keep cold air out, then it could be a sign it needs some repairs. While it may not seem like an urgent problem, drafty homes can mean higher energy bills. Good windows and doors ensure energy efficiency by keeping harsh weather at bay and regulating indoor temperature. 3. Excessive outdoor noise If the noise outside the home keeps getting in and disturbing one, the doors and windows should be checked to see if any gaps or cracks are responsible for the issue. If the door or window cannot be locked or sealed correctly, all kinds of sounds outside the home, like traffic, conversations, garbage trucks, and pets, can enter the house. Here, getting windows and doors made of thick materials can keep the noise at bay. 4. Damage This sign is easy to spot, of course. If the windows show signs of damage, like broken glass, hinges, or frames, they are not functional anymore and must be fixed or replaced.

When it comes to home improvement, many find the task challenging. But there are several ways one can cut down on the extra effort. There is a wide range of tips and tricks that can make things easier for you to carry out your remodeling projects without hassle. Check out a few home improvement hacks that will save you time and money without causing any mess around your home space. Stretch a rubber band over a paint container When you take up a painting project for your home, you may not think about the extra paint spillage that can happen from your brush. It can make the painting uneven when applied over any surface, such as walls, floors, or furniture. To tackle this, pop an elastic band over the paint can. After each dip of the brush, just gently glide it over the band to remove any extra paint and reduce wastage. Use a balloon to remove stripped screws It is tough to remove screws with heads worn out since a drill cannot reach them. An incredible hack that you can use to remove such stripped screws is by using a balloon. You should place the balloon right on top of the stripped screw. Now drill into the screw through the balloon. The friction caused by the balloon will help you pull the screw out successfully. Fix a pencil to your tape measure If you are doing a job alone, it can be hard to measure and mark simultaneously. You can make things easier by attaching a pencil using a binder clip to your tape measure. This quick hack will help you measure and make markings without any hassles. Moreover, your hammering and drilling will now be more precise. Create a DIY squeegee instantly You don’t have to rush to the hardware store when you need a squeegee urgently while working on a home improvement project.

All homes require water as long as it flows through pipes and the drainage system. However, if there are hidden water leaks, they might result in severe damage if not repaired on time. While obvious signs such as water stains make it easy to spot the leak, it is sometimes insidious, making it challenging to find and fix. Here are 4 ways to find hidden water leaks and take remedial action in time. Check the water bill Most households get a water bill that is fairly consistent every month. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a household of four persons will generally use 12,000 gallons per month. Exceptions are warmer weather or when lawns and gardens have to be watered regularly. However, if the water bill suddenly becomes unusually high, it may be a sign of water leakage. Even a small leak, like a faucet dripping steadily, can cause about 10,000 gallons of water to be wasted per year. Thus, monitoring the water bill is a useful practice to keep a check on water leaks. Conduct a water meter test Another effective way to find hidden water leaks is a water meter test. To do this, turn off all the faucets, showers, and water sources around the house. Once this is done, check the readings in the water meter. If there is a water leak, the meter will keep on running. The change in readings may not be obvious immediately, especially if it is a slow-running leak. So, it is recommended to check the meter after a couple of hours. Look for patches of greener grass For homes with lawns and yards, checking for grass patches that are greener than the rest is a helpful hack to look for hidden leaks. If a part of the lawn is more lush and green than the rest, it may be because of leakage in one of the buried water lines.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition where the body does not generate enough insulin or cannot use it efficiently to control sugar levels. The condition affects about 37 million people in the country and is also a leading cause of kidney failure and adult blindness and a reason for lower-limb amputations. Some remedies help manage this condition; however, one can also curb symptoms by regularly following exercises. Check out some of such helpful activities below. Daily walks Walking is an ideal way of managing diabetes. Try brisk strolls for half an hour three to four times a week, or take your pet dog for a walk. You can also track your walking progress through fitness apps to make exercising fun. Swimming Swimming enhances the muscles in the upper and lower body. Strong muscle movements while swimming helps burn calories, lower cholesterol, and improve heart health. Swimming also does not strain the joints as other exercise routines would. Trying dance routines Dancing helps lower stress levels, burn calories, curb blood sugar, and benefit the heat. Dancing for around half an hour every day for three days a week will help improve symptoms of diabetes. Cycling Those experiencing diabetes symptoms should consider cycling for about 30 minutes daily, three to five times a week. The activity will help burn excess blood sugar and improve heart rate. Cycling is also known to help one get in shape without affecting the knees and other joints. Climbing stairs Climbing stairs helps the heart and lungs work faster, which benefits people with type 2 diabetes. Going up and down stairs for three minutes after an hour or two following a meal will help burn blood sugar. Gardening Gardening works as a strength training exercise and an aerobic activity. An individual may kneel, walk, and bend while digging, lifting, and raking the garden.