Spring is in full swing, which means that there are many spring cleaning jobs that need to be done! Most of us don’t give much thought to our houseplants except to water them, but did you know that they need cleaning, too? All plants benefit from a good clean every once in a while, and it’s incredibly easy to do and only takes a few minutes! By not cleaning your plants you run the risk of bugs and disease, which can lead to dead plants. Check out our tips to find out how to deep-clean your houseplants!

Remove Old Leaves

Get rid of old and dead leaves often to keep them from suffocating your plant. If you see any lifeless stems, cut those off as well. For plants such as ferns, you need to cut the stem right at the soil line. Don’t forget to also remove any dead flowers to encourage new ones to grow.

Cleaning Small Plants

To give your small houseplants a good clean, flip them upside down, holding them in place to keep the soil from falling out. Dip them in lukewarm water and move them around a bit, making sure all the leaves have been rinsed properly. Place them outside to drip dry before bringing them back inside.

Cleaning Large Plants

You can clean your large plants such as palms in the shower. Always use lukewarm water to prevent the leaves from spotting. When you’re finished, place them outside to dry. You can also give the leaves a good clean by wiping them down with a damp cloth. Support the leaves with your hand while you’re cleaning them to prevent them from cracking.

Cleaning Fuzzy Plants

If you’ve got plants with fuzzy leaves, you can easily clean them using a soft toothbrush. Clean from the base of the leaf to the tip to get rid of dust and dirt.

Photos: Bliss Tree, Install IT Direct, The Self Sufficient Living.

Summer is coming up fast, which means lots of fun in the sun and nighttime campfires. The one thing that always sends people packing back inside are mosquitoes! Keep these pests at bay by planting these 8 plants in your garden! Growing plants such as rosemary and lavender is a great and all-natural way to keep mosquitoes away. If you’re worried about harsh chemicals from sprays, going all-natural is the way to go! Take a look at our list of 8 plants below and pick out your favorite!

1. Rosemary

Not only is rosemary a great herb to use in the kitchen, it also keeps nasty mosquitoes away! Rosemary is a hardy plant that requires little water and lots of sun.

2. Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal flowers look great as a groundcover and they can also be used in the kitchen! It works well in many fish dishes if you’re looking for a special boost of flavor. Butterflies love Pennyroyal – they just can’t seem to stay away!

3. Lavender

Lavender is also an all-natural mosquito repellant! Lavender is an easy plant to grow, and requires well-draining soil and lots of sun. It also makes a great tea!

4. Basil

We all know that basil is the star in every tomato sauce, but did you know that it repels mosquitoes, too? Basil will thrive if you live in a hot and dry climate, and it needs well-draining soil and lots of sunlight.

5. Peppermint

Many bugs hate the smell of peppermint, which is great news for us since peppermint is an herb that is a must-have in any garden and kitchen! Use it to make tea, soothe mosquito bites, or add it to your lemonade!

6. Citronella

Citronella is a common ingredient in most store-bought mosquito repellants. It’s a tall grass that can grow up to 6 feet tall and works great in a climate without frost. If you live in an area with frost, you can simply plant it in a pot and bring it inside during cold weather.

7. Horsemint

Horsemint grows quickly and loves the shade. It loves sandy soil and its leaves can be used to make a delicious tea.

8. Catnip

For the cat lovers out there, planting catnip is a must! Catnip is a member of the mint family and is super easy to grow. It’s drought tolerant and not only keeps mosquitoes away, but also flies, termites, and cockroaches!

Photos: Deux Dilettantes, Wikipedia, Parfait Image, Everything Lavender, My Everyday Oils, Rawyaelgammal, Garden Guides, Img Arcade, My Medicine Woman.

Who can resist sipping ice cold lemonade and sunbathing, while listening to a waterfall? We love garden ponds and waterfalls, but the price isn’t always something to smile about. There’s a way for anyone to make their own pond on the cheap, just check out this easy tutorial!

Step 1:

Take your pond form and lay it where you would like your pond to be. Mark the area with spray paint and begin digging.

Step 2:

Once the hole has been dug, test it to see if the form will fit properly. Once you’re happy with the fit, place sand at the bottom to help level the form.

Step 3:

Choose stone that fits with your garden and arrange it to create your waterfall.

Step 4:

Purchase a pump that matches the gallon size of your pond. Larger tubing for the pump means more water flow, and smaller means less. Choose what fits with your pond.

Step 5:

The final step is to purchase and plant plants. Choose plants that are appropriate for the location of your pond, and take into consideration how much (or how little) sunlight they will be getting.

Photos and idea: Oh My Creative.

Terrariums are great if you want low-maintenance plants in your home. Plant them in any container you like, and when it comes to terrarium decor, let your imagination run wild! Add gnomes, ceramic mushrooms, or sea shells. First, learn how to make your very own terrarium then check out these super cute terrariums that you can easily replicate at home!

Instructions:

1. Pick an open or closed glass container.

2. Cover the bottom of the container with a 1 inch layer of pebbles or rocks to create drainage for your plants.

3. Add a thin layer of activated charcoal to keep the water fresh. It also prevents mold and bacteria from building up in your terrarium.

4. Add potting soil to your container.

5. Place your plants in your container along with any other decorations you like.

Now that you know how to make your own, check out these adorable terrariums:

1. Vintage Mini Greenhouse

We love this mossy vintage greenhouse! The mini mushrooms are so cute, and we love the oversized succulents. Check your local thrift store for these glass boxes/mini greenhouses.

2. Pickle Jar Terrarium

If you can’t find the perfect glass jar, why not try a pickle jar? Pick some moss from outside and place them inside your jar. Put it on a windowsill and watch your mini plants grow!

3. Light Bulb Terrarium

If you like recycling, try your hand at making a mini terrarium inside a light bulb. Make more than one and arrange them in a group using different plants and decor for each one.

4. Fish Bowl Terrarium

If you want a large terrarium, try using a fish bowl. They come in many different sizes and shapes for any kind of terrarium you want to make.

5. Cake Stand Terrarium

Take that cake stand you have lying around and turn it into a terrarium! What’s great about cake stands is that the lid acts like a greenhouse, holding in moisture and allowing your plants to thrive!

6. Spice Jar Terrarium

If you want an extra tiny terrarium, use a spice jar. It’s perfect for mini plants and little pieces of moss.

7. Cactus Terrarium

Bring a piece of the desert into your home with a cactus terrarium. Arrange mini cactuses, stones, and sand to create your very own desert utopia.

Photos: Covet Garden, Home Edit, Air-Plants, BGSTROITEL, Chicky Pea, Cup Cakes Clothes, Etsy, Lions Tigers and Fashion Oh My.

Sometimes there isn’t enough time in the day to do everything, and we’ve all been guilty of forgetting to water our plants. With these self-watering planters dead plants are a thing of the past! Place these cute planters on your windowsill and enjoy your new fresh herbs!

Supplies You Will Need:

– herbs

– cut bottles (you can find glass cutting kits at your local craft store)

– string

– water glasses

– thin mesh screen

– potting soil

Step 1:

Make sure your cut bottle necks are shorter than your glass so they can rest inside them without touching the bottom. Once you’ve cut your bottles, sand down the edges so they’re not sharp. Take a 2″ by 2″ square of screen and cut a small hole in the center so your string can pass through. The string acts as a wick for the water and draws it up to the plant. The soil will be wet enough to keep your herbs growing.

Step 2:

Pass the string through the screen and tie a knot that’s large enough to keep it from slipping through the screen’s holes.

Step 3:

Take the string and run it down the neck of the bottle top with the screen resting at the top. The top of your bottle neck is now your planter, and the bottom is your water reservoir.

Step 4:

Transplant your herbs in the bottle top. Check to make sure your string reaches the bottom of the glass. Keep your water at a level that the string is always submerged, and you’re done!

Photos and idea: Design Sponge.

This tiered hanging planter can be made in a day, and with basic woodworking tools. What’s great about this planter is when you water the top plant, the runoff from the previous pot drips into the plants below. All you need to do is place a little dish or bucket underneath to catch any excess water, and it makes watering all 4 plants a breeze!

What you will need:

– scrap wood

– jigsaw

– terracotta pots

– rope

– 3/8″ boring bit

– paintbrush and paint

– drill

– plants

– metal ring

Step 1:

Measure the plank of wood and mark it to create a square with 3/4″ to 1″ of space around your pot.

Step 2:

Trace the lip of the pot onto the wood. Trace a circle within the circumference of the one you drew but spaced 1/4″ from the outer circle. You can also use a circular template that’s 1/4″ inches smaller that the radius of the pot to do the same thing. You’ll end up with 2 concentric circles. One has a radius of 1/4″ smaller than the first. Repeat with all 4 squares.

Step 3:

Clamp the first piece of wood to a stable surface. Drill a hole into the center of the circles with the 3/8″ boring bit. This will provide space for the jigsaw blade to enter the wood so you can begin cutting. Work slowly and in sections. Use the jigsaw to cut out the shape of the inner circle. Repeat with all 4 squares.

Step 4:

When you’ve cut out the inner circles, clamp a single square down to a piece of scrap wood. Using a ruler, make a dot in the 4 corners of the squares, 1/2″ in from each side. Use the 3/8″ boring bit to drill holes through the wood at the 4 corner marks. Repeat with all 4 squares.

Step 5:

If you like, you can paint the sides of your squares. You can also paint your rope if you want a different color. Only paint the 2 cut edges on each square, and position the squares on the ropes so that the unpainted and painted edges alternate when it’s hanging.

Step 6:

It’s now time to hang your squares! Space your plants 12″ apart (choose more or less depending on the size of your plants). Cut 4 lengths of rope and tie them together in a knot 6″ from the top. Use the 6″ rope strands to secure the ropes to the metal ring.

Step 7:

Hang the ring and slide the first wood square onto all 4 strands, about 12″ from the top knot. Tie a knot directly underneath the wood square on all 4 ropes. Place the plant into the opening, making sure it’s level.

Step 8:

Repeat step 7 with the remaining 3 squares. After the last square is on and the knots are tied underneath, cut off any extra rope.

Finished! Find a sunny spot for your new planter and fill the squares with your plants.

Photos and idea: Design Sponge.

There are so many little things that are needed for a party, BBQ, or any special occasion, and sometimes it can be overwhelming. Setting that perfect table is one of the things many people have trouble with, but don’t fret! We’ve got 10 tips on how to set the perfect table for that special occasion, stress not included!

1. Table Runner

You don’t have to use a conventional table runner to decorate your table. Try using a pretty scarf, or you can stitch doilies together for a vintage look. Use your imagination, and the sky is the limit!

2. Napkin Rings

If you would like your silverware to look a little more organized, try using some napkin rings. You can buy your own, or get creative and make your own! We’re loving these simple print-out napkin rings that can be assembled in minutes.

3. Centerpiece

A gorgeous centerpiece is the highlight of any beautifully set table. Be it flowers, succulents, or candles. These lanterns and pink flowers look gorgeous on this table. Look for simple lanterns at the dollar store that can be spray painted, and decorated any way you wish!

4. Place Cards

If you have a seating arrangement, placing the names of your guests on cute place cards can help everyone stay organized. An easy way to keep your seating plan organized is printing out names in a fancy font on card stock and placing it with your silverware. If you’re feeling creative, these message in a bottle place cards are just too cute to pass up!

5. Lighting

For lighting, there are many options to choose from. For a rustic look, hang mason jars with tea candles inside. For a more casual party, paper lanterns are a popular choice, and they come in any color. What we’re loving these days is outdoor chandeliers that add a touch of elegance and romance to any party or get-together. Scour thrift shops for chandeliers and give them a new coat of paint to freshen them up. Hang the chandelier above the center of your table, or add two or three in a row for even more light.

6. Chair Covers

To save money, you can rent chairs and cover them with a unique slipcover to fit your party or get-together theme. Once you’ve outfitted the chair with a slipcover, decorate it by wrapping the back of the chair with a large bow, or even a small bouquet of flowers.

7. Charger Plates

Charger plates are a great way to dress up your table and they act as a base for food-bearing bowls and dishes. Since they’re not meant to be eaten off of, you can decorate them any way you wish to fit the theme of your table. These faux mercury glass charger plates would fit any elegant or winter-themed party.

8. Party Favors

Although optional, party favors add a little extra surprise for your guests. Place them in the middle of each plate, as a little thank you to your guests for coming. You can place candy inside cute packaging, or even a small succulent in a mini pot can be a delightful gift. We love the small paper bags at this western-themed party. Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best ones!

9. Glassware

From fancy wineglasses to simple mason jars, your glassware reflects the theme and feel of your party. If you’re looking for a more elegant look with your glassware, large frosted wineglasses will do the trick. For a casual party, try mason jars and straws in the color of your theme.

10. Elevate Your Food and Drinks

To add interest to your table, place your drinks and food on cake stands and tiers. For extra serving space, place them on a bar cart or small table close to your main dining table. This is also a great way to store extra napkins and silverware within reach of your guests, and without crowding your dining table.

Photos: The Graphics Fairy, My Big Day Company, Ashley Ann, Etsy, Sheila Zeller, Style Me Pretty, Tip Junkie, Rustic Wedding Chic, Tidbits and Twine, Mid West Living.

We love spending time with our pets outside. Whether it’s chasing a ball or lounging around in the sun, it’s great for bonding with your pets and giving them the exercise they need. Although we think our yards are a safe place, there could be hidden dangers that can affect your pets. Keep reading to find out about these 6 deadly hazards that could be lurking in your yard.

1. Snail and Slug Baits

Snail and slug baits contain metaldehyde can result in toxicity. Make sure to follow label directions before around any pets. Even better, try going for a natural solution like laying around copper wires, or salt.

2. Cocoa Mulch

Just like chocolate, cocoa mulch contains the methylxanthines that cause problems with the heart in animals, and eating it can be fatal in high doses.

3. Poisonous Plants

Make sure you know the names of all the plants in your yard and if they are toxic to your pets. Common poisonous plants include yews, azaleas, poison hemlock, and castor. Make sure you remove or block off any plants that may be toxic.

4. Fruit Trees

If you have fruit trees in your yard, usually there will be fallen fruit around the tree. If not cleared away, mold will start to grow on the fruit and if ingested by your pets, it can cause seizures and tremor.

5. Fencing

Dogs and cats are experts in the art of escaping enclosures. Make sure you inspect your fence for any holes that will allow your pets to flee, and can allow wild creatures in. Check for any holes underneath the fence as well.

6. Water

Backyard pools can pose dangers to your pets. Aside from drowning, the water in your pool contains toxic chemicals, and is not intended for drinking. In the cold months, a covered pool can pose dangers when if your pet walks across it. The animal can slip beneath the cover and get caught in the straps and ties.

Photos: Veseys, The Obsessed Gardener, The Self Sufficient Living, Reddit, Professional Pet Shampoo, Home Interior Image.

Succulents are beautiful plants that are very hardy and super easy to take care of. With their fat leaves and many different shapes, sizes, and colors, they look like they came straight out of a sci-fi movie! Here are our 10 favorite succulent varieties!

1. Kalanchoe ‘Pink Butterflies’

This gorgeous succulent is actually a hybrid of K. daigremontiana and K. delagoensis. It’s very drought tolerant and it produces hundreds of tiny plantlets on its leaves. Requires full sun to partial sun and water when the soil begins to feel dry.

2. Orostachys iwarenge ‘Dunce Caps’ 

Dunce caps is an unusual succulent that comes from China, and it’s definitely one of our favorites! Its leaves come in purple, blue, and green tones. This succulent needs full sun and produces orange and white flowers in the fall.

3. Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ 

This is a succulent that’ll look great in a hanging basket. It has small leaves that trail from the pot as the plant matures. This plant loves full sun, and when watering, make sure you let the soil dry out completely before watering again.

4. Spiral Aloe 

This plant is very hardy, and it is native to Africa. Give it full sun or light shade and water it only once in a while. Make sure it has well-draining soil, too.

5. Pachyphytum oviferum ‘Moonstone’

Moonstones have round, pale-lavender-grey leaves and they produce flowers in spring. It thrives in cool temperatures and dry conditions. Place it in a sunny spot and only water it when the soil feels dry to the touch.

6. Echeveria ‘Afterglow’ 

This beautiful plant needs full sun and regular watering. Make sure it has well-draining potting soil, as the roots can rot if kept too wet.

7. Lithops ‘Living Stones’

No, they’re not rocks, but succulents! These plants resemble stones, and come in many varieties and colors. Some even produce beautiful flowers. To care for these out-of-this-world plants, they need very little water and a partly-sunny spot to thrive in.

8. Sedum morganium ‘Burrow’s Tail’ 

Burrow’s tail looks best in a hanging planter. Its branches can grow up to two feet long, and in the summer it produces red, yellow, or white flowers. It needs full sun and regular watering in summer. In the winter, water only once a month.

9. Moraea tortilis ‘Spiral Grass’ 

We’re sure you’ve never seen this succulent before! A great and unusual addition to any garden or home, Spiral Grass is native to South Africa. The leaves can grow up to 15 cm tall and it has white or purple-blue flowers in spring to late summer. It needs plenty of sunlight and moderate water.

10. Sempervivum ‘Virgil’ 

This purple beauty is a fast grower, and it thrives in full sun and little water.

Photos: Debra Lee Baldwin, Garden Share, Livin SD, Pernell Gerver, Flickr, The Palm Room, Ali Express, NS Succulents.

Aside from starting my own homestead and learning how to propagate hens and chicks, I have also taken an interest in growing succulents! Succulents are plants that have fat, fleshy leaves. They don’t need to be watered that often, since they store water in their leaves. Many succulent varieties come from dry areas of the tropics and deserts. Some succulents even have health benefits, such as aloe vera and the common houseleek.

(Common Houseleek)

Since all succulent varieties have similar needs, here’s how to take care of them:

1. Succulents need bright light. To figure out whether your plant is receiving enough sunlight, check the leaves. Some succulents will scorch if suddenly exposed to direct light. The leaves will usually turn brown or white as the plant dies out. A succulent that is not receiving enough sunlight will also start to stretch. It will have an elongated stem and widely spaced leaves. To fix this, you can prune the plant and provide it with adequate sunlight.

2. Succulents are actually pretty good at handling the cold. Since desert nights are cold, succulents thrive when nights are colder.

(Succulent cuttings)

3. Water your succulents regularly in summer, but in the winter, limit watering to every other month. Succulent plants are dormant in the winter. When your plant is over-watered, they are soft and discolored. To save it, you can check the roots. If they’re brown and rotted, cut away the dead parts and repot the plant into drier potting soil. You can also take a cutting and propagate the plant. To do this, take a sharp knife and cut away the part of the plant you would like to propagate. This could be a stem, or a leaf. Allow the cutting to dry for 24 hours until it forms a scab. Then, simply plant the cutting cut side down. You should see roots start to form in a few weeks. If you are under-watering the plant, it will stop growing and start to shed its leaves.

(Succulents in vintage teacup)

4. Succulents should be potted in a fast-draining potting soil designed for cacti and succulents. If you can’t find that type of potting soil, you can create your own by mixing a normal potting mix with perlite to increase drainage.

5. As for fertilizing, you can fertilize your succulents like any normal plants, but limit it only to summertime. Do not fertilize succulents in the winter.

(Purple Echeveria)

Photos: Cactus Jungle, Succulents and Sunshine, Hirondelles Blog, Etsy.