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10 Plants that Are Known For Keeping Pests Away

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No matter what artillery is unleashed upon pests, they’ll keep returning time and time again. Water-spraying is not completely effective, and pesticides tend to have negative effects when used either indoors or outdoors, so more and more people are resorting to planting strategies.

Today we’ll talk about the 10 plants that are known for keeping pests away, including basil, sunflower, petunia, hyssop, chive, dahlia, dill, artemisia, and more, so let’s start from the top:

1.  Basil

Although it may not be as elegant as Dahlia or Lavender, Basil is one of the most effective pest-repelling plants on the list. Its oil is known to repel a wide range of insects, as well as flies, and even mosquitos.

These plants are ideally planted next to tomatoes, as it will help the latter grow larger and substantially tastier.

Basil is also great for people who are struggling with stomach problems like a weaker appetite, diarrhea, or intestinal gas, so having one in your garden will be advantageous on several levels.

2.  Sunflower

Sunflowers are fairly robust physically, and they can endure entire colonies of smaller insects nibbling on their leaves. This particular plant is a companion plant, in the sense that it doesn’t naturally repel pests, but it attracts predators that won’t harm the flower but will hunt garden pests instead.

When planted next to weaker plants, sunflowers would attract the pests towards themselves, most notably aphids. Their sturdy exterior will be able to handle dozens of aphids, but at the same time, sunflowers also attract ants who prey on these tiny nuisances.

In addition to being an excellent companion to almost any plant they’re set next to, Sunflowers are remarkably rich in magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, selenium, and a variety of vitamins (E, B1, and B6 most notably).

3.  Petunia

Planting a couple of petunias in your garden equates to having a constantly dispersing all-natural pesticide repelling all kinds of pests, such would be asparagus beetles, tomato worms, as well as leafhoppers.

Most pests that petunias are able to repel are otherwise pretty resistant to manual elimination approaches. They are also among the most beautiful flowers on the list, although they have limited uses in terms of culinary options.

4.  Hyssop

Often used as a scenting ingredient for soaps and various cosmetics, hyssops both look and smell great, at least to humans. Many pests, on another hand, would do their best to avoid it in large circles. It’s also a companion plant by nature that mainly lures honeybees.

Hyssop plants are great when used as natural remedies for infections of the urinary tract, menstrual cramps, and poor circulation. Furthermore, like Basil, Hyssop’s properties can have wondrously positive effects on digestive and respiratory issues. It’s a versatile plant that has tremendous pest control and healing value.

5.  Chive

Chives are amazing on so many levels that most professional gardeners have at least a couple in their yard. Although Japanese beetles aren’t too common in most regions, the areas where they sometimes migrate to are known to suffer from infestations sooner or later.

Chives can also do a good job at repelling carrot-rust flies and many smaller insects, but they’re also capable of preventing scab if planted between apple trees.

They also boast a variety of health-related benefits and are actually said to prevent cancer due to the high concentration of alliums. Chives are brimming with Vitamin K, choline, as well as folate, which basically means that they can improve memory as well.

6.  Dahlia

Widely recognized as one of the most gorgeous flowers in the world, Dahlia is as elegant as it is beautiful. Numerous people plant dahlias in their garden not knowing that this plant actually boasts potent pest-repelling properties.

Namely, Dahlia plants can repel nematodes, but their large leaves can sometimes provide good hiding spots for earwigs, slugs, as well as snails. Additionally, some of the most notable health-based benefits dahlia plants offer include anti-inflammatory properties, it can help with weight loss, and tends to promote the gain of muscle mass in a completely natural way.

7.  Dill

Another companion plant that is arguably even more efficient at attracting ‘good’ predators to one’s garden is Dill. This plant attracts predatory wasps, which can pick your garden clean of most pests, although there is a chance that you may become their target as well due to their aggressive nature.

On a more positive note, dill plants repel most pests that feed on cabbage, such as cabbage loopers, cabbage moths, and cabbage worms.

8.  Artemisia

The wonderful scent of artemisia is beloved by humans and found as repulsive by many insects. When planted in drifts, artemisia plants are sometimes capable of deterring certain smaller animals (such as rabbits, for instance).

Be very careful when deciding where to plant artemisia, as it produces a special kind of natural botanical ‘poison’. Ideally, place it as further away from your weakest plants as possible.

The main problem with planting artemisia in your garden is that it is super-strong scent may deter helpful insects as well. However, you may not need ‘good’ predators if you don’t have any pests in your garden, to begin with.

9.  Lavender

The plant of choice for thousands of gardeners, lavender is one of the most popular flowers in the world due to its exquisite scent and delicate aesthetic. It is known to attract a broad range of helpful insects while repelling fleas, moths, flies, as well as mosquitos and fleas.

10. Nasturtium

Aphids won’t ever show in your garden if you have a few nasturtium plants in them. When planted next to tomatoes, these plants can repel whiteflies and most species of squash bugs. In addition to that, nasturtium plants can also be used in a salad, as they can be quite tasty.

One of the most notable health benefits of nasturtium is the drastic boost to our immune system. It packs a decent nutrition value and an abundance of several types of vitamins.

We hope that this brief rundown was useful to you and that you’ve learned something new today on how to keep the pests away. Make sure you are staying safe in these times we are all going through and have a good one, guys!

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Home Improvement

More Isn’t Always Better: How to Create a Minimalist Bedroom Design

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Getting your bedroom design right is essential since it is the space you’ll spend at least one-third of your day in. A minimalist bedroom isn’t as challenging to achieve as you might think and has some promising benefits that will improve your well-being and make your life easier.

What Is Minimalism?

First, let’s briefly discuss what is considered minimalism. Minimalism uses an open floor plan with lots of light, focusing on fewer furniture pieces that promote functionality. In addition, it combines a monochromatic color scheme with pops of color throughout the space that highlight the shape, color, and texture of very few decorative elements.

5 Tips to Create a Minimalist Bedroom Design

Before you start, you should know essential tips and tricks for creating a minimalist bedroom design. Below are five of the most noteworthy tips for achieving a minimalist bedroom design.

Invest in High-Quality Furniture

Since a minimalist design requires using as little furniture as possible, investing in high-quality furniture like an Essentia mattress is necessary.

Remove Unnecessary Knickknacks

Just because they may not be necessary doesn’t mean you need to throw them out. For example, you can safely store trinkets with sentimental value away. However, if it serves no functional purpose or holds no sentimental worth, then getting rid of it is essential.

Keep Your Bedframe Simple

Use a simple platform bed to achieve a genuinely minimalistic appearance. A simple bed gives your room a minimalist impression, which is especially true since the bed is both the focal point and the most prominent element in the room.

Opt for a Mostly Neutral Color Scheme

A minimalist design is all about simplicity, so keep most of the color scheme in your minimalist bedroom neutral and incorporate only two to three colors. A green plant and a couple of decorative pieces that bring a pop of color to the room are ideal.

Use One Shelf

Incorporate one shelf that can hold essential knickknacks, books, or photos you must have in your bedroom.

5 Benefits of a Minimalist Bedroom

Before committing to a minimalist look, you should delve into the benefits of a minimalist bedroom design. Below are five of the most significant benefits a minimalist bedroom can achieve.

Ideal for Small Spaces

A minimalist bedroom design is especially beneficial when dealing with a small bedroom space. Incorporating only the most functional pieces of furniture helps you get the most out of limited space.

Less to Clean

Since a minimalist design means minimum decorations and furniture, there will be less to clean and dust. There will also be fewer places for allergens that can make you feel sick.

Calmer Environment

Less clutter can promote a calmer environment, which is extremely important. Your bedroom should be as peaceful as possible to encourage a restful night’s sleep.

A Bolder Statement

A minimalist design is a great way to highlight an incredibly significant art piece or statement piece in your room. For example, with fewer distractions, hanging wall art above your bed will bring focus to the room’s central point.

Easy to Alter

Because a minimalist bedroom design incorporates fewer pieces of furniture and decorative elements, it’s much easier for those who frequently change their bedroom layout to do so.

Main Takeaways

Creating a minimalist bedroom doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With five helpful tips and tricks to freshen up your bedroom and knowledge of the benefits of minimalist bedroom design, achieving the simple, functional bedroom you desire is possible.

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Home Improvement

Revolutionize Your Home with New Windows

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No matter if you want to add more style or function to your home, new windows can make a dramatic impact.

Replacement windows not only enhance your home’s aesthetics, they can also increase comfort levels. Selecting the appropriate windows will have a major influence on the interior design and even increase its value. It can be a challenging process to find the right windows for your home, particularly in Toronto. To make the process easier, you may want to look into frequently asked questions about replacement windows in Toronto. Doing so can help you make an informed decision about the windows that are best for your home.

1. Increased Energy Efficiency

Window replacement may not be the first project that comes to mind when considering home improvements, but new windows can be an integral part of cutting down your energy costs and increasing your home’s value and equity. As such, window replacement should definitely be taken into consideration when making any upgrades.

According to the Department of Energy, 25%-30% of your home’s heating and cooling energy is lost through windows. Upgrading old single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR certified ones can save you anywhere from $101-$583 annually on utility bills.

Your energy savings will vary based on several factors, including climate and the type of windows installed. But if you’re thinking about replacing old ones with new ones, make sure they carry either an ENERGY STAR label or a ratings label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).

2. Increased Home Value

Home renovations can greatly increase your property’s resale value. Some, such as kitchen remodels or landscaping improvements, provide the greatest return on investment.

However, few people consider the increased home value that replacement windows can provide. In reality, new windows don’t need to involve major construction work for your property value to go up; simply adding them will do wonders!

Are you searching for an easy and budget-friendly way to raise your home’s resale value? New windows are definitely worth considering. Not only will they make your house more energy efficient, but they’ll also enhance the aesthetic appeal.

3. Increased Comfort

Home improvements such as replacing outdated windows and doors with new ones can have a major effect on the resale value of your house. Not only do they improve the aesthetic appeal of your residence, but they also have the power to boost energy efficiency and lower utility bills.

Upgrades for your home don’t have to break the bank – replacing old windows and doors with high-tech products is one of the smartest decisions you can make. In fact, government programs offer homeowners rebates and grants in exchange for choosing the right product – that means finding a reputable window company that knows exactly what you need and within budget.

4. Increased Privacy

When homeowners consider replacing their windows, energy efficiency and style are usually the first things that come to mind. But privacy should also be taken into account when making this decision.

Window options that offer enhanced privacy without sacrificing aesthetics or performance can provide the ideal solution. Fractured or tinted glass is one option, providing you with the security you need while also blocking out passersby’s prying eyes.

In addition to improving privacy, replacement windows in Toronto can also increase the value of your home. This is because modern, stylish windows and doors are highly appealing to potential buyers and add significant curb appeal.

5. Increased Value

In a housing market as hot as Toronto’s, homeowners across the GTA are searching for ways to boost their home value when selling. Common renovation projects include exterior upgrades, kitchen remodels and bathroom makeovers.

However, an often-overlooked renovation project that can add significant value to your home is replacing windows.

Not only do new windows add a stylish and energy-saving element to your home, they can also increase its resale value when it’s time for sale. This is especially true if your house isn’t up to par with other properties in the neighborhood.

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Home Improvement

From Clogs to Leaks: How an Experienced Local Plumber Can Save the Day

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Plumbing issues are some of the most frustrating and inconvenient problems homeowners or commercial property managers can encounter. From clogged drains to leaky pipes, these problems can cause significant damage if not addressed quickly and efficiently. Also, they may lead to severe issues if left unchecked.

Consequently, it is vital to have skilled and experienced local plumbers on speed dial. Besides regular plumbing system maintenance, you can contact these experts during emergencies such as gas leaks or pipe bursts, preventing further issues.

The following explores crucial ways an experienced plumbing specialist can save the day regarding major or minor plumbing issues.

Clearing Clogs

One of the most typical plumbing troubles homeowners face is clogged drains. Clogs can be a major headache, whether a slow-moving sink or a completely blocked toilet. While there are plenty of DIY methods for clearing them, such as using a plunger or drain snake, these methods may not always be effective.

Thankfully, an experienced local expert can use specialized tools and techniques to quickly and effectively clear even the toughest clogs.

Repairing Leaks

Leaky pipes are another standard problem that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Not only do leaks waste a lot of water and drive up your water bill, but they can also cause water damage to your home’s structure and lead to mold growth. An experienced specialist can quickly identify the source of the leak and promptly make the essential repairs before the problem worsens.

Installing Fixtures

Installing new plumbing fixtures like toilets, faucets, and showerheads may seem simple, but more complicated. Improper installations can result in leaks and other troubles down the line.

An experienced plumbing contractor has the knowledge and expertise to install new fixtures correctly, ensuring they work properly and do not cause future issues. Also, they can install complex water heaters and other equipment safely.

Upgrading Plumbing Systems

You could waste water and money if your home’s plumbing system is outdated or inefficient. Upgrading your system can help you save on your water bill and mitigate your environmental impact. An experienced professional can assess your system and recommend upgrades to improve its efficiency and functionality.

Handling Emergencies

Plumbing emergencies can happen anytime, and when they do, you need an expert who can respond quickly and provide prompt service. Whether a burst pipe or a sewage backup, an experienced contractor can handle even the most urgent plumbing problems.

They have the tools, knowledge, and expertise to quickly identify the problem and make the necessary repairs, minimizing the damage to your home.

Providing Maintenance Services

Regular maintenance is crucial to the proper functioning of your plumbing system and preventing costly repairs. A reliable expert can provide routine maintenance services, including drain cleaning and pipe inspections, to keep your system in shape.

Final Thoughts

Admittedly, plumbing problems can be a major headache for homeowners, but with the help of experienced and reliable local plumbers, you can quickly and efficiently address these issues. From clearing clogs to repairing leaks and handling emergencies, a skilled specialist has the knowledge, tools, and expertise to save the day for various plumbing troubles.

So, whether you are dealing with a minor issue or a major emergency, do not hesitate to call the professionals to get the job done right. Find an expert who can do all the above, ensuring your plumbing system is in competent hands.

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