Forest gardens replicate woodland ecosystems that provide food, fuel, and medicine, support wildlife, and could boom in popularity as the climate changes. Toby Hemenway, a permaculture expert and the author of 'Gaia's Garden' -- a highly rated book featured to the right - explains how gardens can function as ecosystems, describing the basic parts of an ecological garden (soil, water, plants, and animals), and shows how to create backyard ecosystems through guilds. Guilds are groups of plants that function as an ecosystem to provide produce for humans, create cover and food for wildlife,…
Simple Steps for Cutting Your Monthly Bills and Reducing Your Carbon Footprint. A combination of reducing your environmental impact, decreasing your dependence on outside resources, living healthier and saving money! Other tips to conserve and save ... The Easiest Vegetables To Grow In Your Own Garden. Tips on Saving Money on Gas. Conserving Water. Make your own Cleaning Supplies. Nobody expects you to implement all of the below measures in your home. Following only a few of those steps will save you money, and you can integrate more over time. Of…
Pothos, also known as Golden Pothos, Devil's Ivy or Variegated Philodendron. Plants that Detoxify the Air. The pothos are tough, adaptable plants. Their climbing/trailing habit makes them extremely decorative and useful in a variety of settings, and their variegated forms add a type of interest not available with true philodendron. Since pothos aren't very demanding, they set the standard for tolerance of neglect. This makes them one of the best plants for public places and those new to indoor gardening. Pothos are incredibly versatile. They can be planted as: Single stand alone…
West Nile Virus. Index of Human Diseases / Health Conditions ... Bird Diseases ... Medicinal Foods, Herbs, Spices & Household Items. The West Nile Virus (WNV) is a disease transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquitoes. Outbreaks appear to coincide with rainy seasons and the proliferation of mosquitoes. Click here for information on controlling mosquitoes. Since it was first diagnosed in 1999 in New York City, the West Nile Virus has spread throughout most of the United States and into Canada and Mexico. Symptoms: In birds, the virus can cause acute death, clinical signs…
Lady Palms aka Broadleaf Lady Palm. Plants that Detoxify the Air. The Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa) originated from Southern China. This graceful plant, with richly patterned leaves, can be found in homes and gardens throughout the world, as they adapt to a wide range of climates, soils, and environments. This is a slow-growing, extremely versatile, undemanding and long-lived plant. In fact, these are amongst the easiest palms to grow. It is also one of the best plants for improving indoor air quality. This large palm has fans 6 - 12 inch wide that consist of between four and ten thick,…
Reed Palms. Plants that Detoxify the Air. Potted palms can lend a touch of the tropics to almost any interior landscape.. Planting / Care: Light: Palm trees will not do well in dimly lit corners. Without adequate light your plant will lose all its lower fronds. Compared to the other palm trees, the Reed Palm Tree tolerates relatively low light, but may grow several feet taller in a brighter location. Watering: Keep palms relatively moist. In spring and summer, or when temperatures are warm and days are longer, water them as soon as their soil feels dry a little below the…
Safe Alternatives for Weed Control, Pesticides / Insecticides. Pesticides have been proven to have negative impacts on health and our environment. The risk for leukemia increases by four to seven times for children, ages 10 and under, whose parents use home or garden pesticides. Many herbs and essential oils are effective alternative solutions. Please refer to the below for non-toxic alternatives. Tips on Preventing Infestations. Solutions to specific house & garden pest infestations. To get rid of garden pests or insects on house plants. Getting Rid of Insects & Weeds -…
Zamioculcas. Plants that Detoxify the Air. The Zamioculcas is an ornamental plant, appreciated mainly for its attractive glossy foliage and air-purifying qualities. This is an easy and impressive plant for semi shady rooms. Important Considerations: Toxicity: All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested. Not recommended. One of Best Plants For Cleaner, Fresher Air: This plant distinguishes itself for its ability to help purify indoor air. Description: The Zamioculcas grows to 45-60 cm tall, from a stout underground, succulent rhizome. It is normally evergreen, but becomes…
Bamboo Plants. Plants that Detoxify the Air. The Bamboo has become quite a popular houseplant in recent years, where they are valued for their interesting, sculptural shapes as well as for their symbolism, as they have been considered a symbol of good fortune in Asian cultures for at least 4000 years. Safety Around Pets: Bamboos are usually listed as non-toxic for pets; however - with the exception of the Chinese Sacred or Heavenly Bamboo (featured to the right), which is listed as TOXIC for birds. Care is to be taken when deciding which bamboo plant to introduce into your home.…
Corn Plants - Dracaena Warnecki. Plants that Detoxify the Air. The Warnecki is an easy-care houseplant that thrives in medium to bright light areas of our homes.The leaves are sword-shaped with fine white stripes. The leaves are 1 to 2 feet long and 2 inches wide. This Dracaena will grow 2 to 5 feet tall. Care: Soil: Dracaenas thrive in an organic, moderately moist, well-drained soil. Light: They thrive in indirect or bright-diffused light. Watering: Water thoroughly just when the soil surface is dry. Do not allow the plant to stand in water as overwatering may…