Marigolds are wonderful flowers for your garden, acting as natural pest repellents and adding vibrant colors. They release chemicals to keep pests like nematodes, beetles, mosquitoes, and aphids at bay. You can even make your own insect spray from the petals. Marigolds also attract pollinators and benefit bug life, making them a charming and beneficial addition to your garden.
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Discovering Horseradish: From Wild Weed to Multipurpose Vegetable
Horseradish, also known as Armoracia rusticana, is a versatile vegetable with a spicy kick. Native to the Brassica family, it can be used as a spice or condiment. Apart from culinary uses, it has various benefits in gardening, such as deterring pests and producing abundant harvests. Its leaves and roots offer multiple culinary and medicinal applications.
Comfrey: Versatile Uses, Growing Techniques, and Composting Tips
Common Comfrey, or Symphytum officinale, is a versatile and beneficial plant in the garden. With over thirty varieties available, it offers nitrogen-rich leaves for plant feeding, shade for companions, and benefits for composting and mulching. Its historical use in herbalism adds to its allure, but caution is advised due to its potential toxicity. With proper care and harvesting, comfrey can thrive and enhance your garden.
Alexanders/Black Lovage: Historical Significance and Cultural Legacy
Black Lovage, also known as Smyrnium olusatrum, has a rich history and versatile uses. It was brought to England by the Romans and once an esteemed garden herb. Its celery-like taste and texture have won over many foragers. Although foraging for Alexanders can be rewarding, it closely resembles toxic hemlock varieties, posing risks to foragers. Despite its decline in British gardens, it remains a valuable perennial addition to wildlife and cottage gardens, supporting biodiversity.
Fascinating Earthworm Facts: Mouth, Prostomium, and Sensory Adaptations
Earthworms have a mouth, but no eyes or teeth. The prostomium, the first section of a worm, contains the mouth and sensory receptors that detect the environment. Worms suck their food into a muscular mouth, then digest it into nutrients and waste. They breathe through their skin and have five hearts.
Earthly Comforts 