Chrysanthemums are not only beautiful but also effective at repelling pests. They can repel insects like roaches, ants, ticks, fleas, and more. However, while they can be good companions for vegetables, their insect-repelling compound, Pyrethrum, can be harmful to humans. Planting flowers in the vegetable garden encourages beneficial insects and supports a thriving ecosystem.
Category Archives: Earthen Passions
Angelica Plant: Growing Tips, Culinary Uses, and Medicinal Benefits
Angelica, also known as ‘wild celery,’ is a low-maintenance herb that thrives in shaded, moist, and well-drained soil. It belongs to the parsley family and is used in alcoholic drinks, cooking, baking, and for medicinal purposes. With a beautiful scent and wildlife appeal, it is a valuable addition to gardens. Angelica is best harvested in spring for its tender stalks, and it can be grown alongside sage, mint, and marjoram.
Efficient Meat and Fish Waste Composting: Tips for Odor and Pest Control
Meat, fish, and dairy products can be composted, especially through hot composting, which reaches temperatures between 130°-180° F for at least two weeks. Hot composting kills pathogens and ensures effective decomposition. However, challenges like attracting pests and slow breakdown exist. Proper burying, limited quantities, and alternative methods like vermiculture and Bokashi fermenting can help.
Red Campion (Silene Dioica): A Valuable Perennial for Wildlife Gardens
Red Campion, also known as Adder’s Flower, is a perennial or biennial plant with dusky pink five-petalled flowers blooming from May to September. It thrives in well-drained soils and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. This attractive flower can be found in hedgerows, shaded woodlands, and open fields, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens and meadows.
The Beauty and Benefits of Common Mallow: A Wildlife Garden Essential
Mallow, or Malva sylvestris, is a beautiful and versatile plant found in gardens and the countryside. While some may consider it a weed, it is a valuable addition to wildlife gardens, attracting various pollinators. This plant has historical and current uses in cooking, herbal medicine, and even dental hygiene, making it a multifaceted natural resource.
Earthly Comforts 