At the beginning of every spring season, thousands of avid gardeners start reviving and renewing their landscapes with gusto. When the temperatures soar in the summer months however – those avid green thumb enthusiasts tend to lose most of their gumption and are nowhere to be seen.

That is totally understandable; no one likes to sweat outside with the sun beating down on the top of your head until it eventually starts to feel like it’s poaching your brain. But by following these expert tips from a panel of seasoned gardening pros, your summer garden can look even better than your spring version!

• Embrace Sunflowers

Not only are sunflowers a beautiful symbol of summer, but they also promote happiness and create balance in your backyard. These plucky plants serve as protectors of the environment by attracting beneficial insects like bees.

Sunflowers begin producing nectar when they are under ten inches tall and continue to do so throughout their bloom season. Plant them within rows of vegetables or fruit trees as they attract the insects that damage would otherwise damage your crops.

• Plant Vegetables

Ensuring you have to go outside to your garden will help you better maintain and care for it. Call it a guilt trip or not wanting to fail; whatever it is – it works! Planting vegetables and fruit can give you a reason to check on them during the hotter months.

Whether you live in a rural or urban area, you can easily grow your own produce. The result is deliciously organic food at a fraction of the cost at the store.

• Equipment Matters

When you’re toiling away in the garden on a hot day, the last thing you want is for your old and outdated tools to make your job harder. Invest in new summer gardening equipment, like sprinklers, sprayers, and shears.

When choosing new gardening equipment, always prioritize quality over price and choose tools that are comfortable and easy to use.

• Magical Mulch

No list of summer gardening tips would be complete without mentioning the magic of mulch. Mulching your flower beds is an effective way to control unwanted weeds and help your garden look its best.

If you live in an area that experiences dry, hot summers, mulch will help to soften the soil and keep it moisturized. Choose a natural mulch like shredded leaves or bark for a more organic look. Mulch provides valuable nutrients to soil when it needs them the most.

• Water Wise

Water is one of our planet’s most precious resources, so to be more responsible we need to look for better ways to preserve the water we have and ensure that it doesn’t get wasted. Watering your garden during the day is a total waste – that is when the sun is at its hottest, and the heat is guaranteed to evaporate most of the water.

Water your garden in the early morning or late evening during the summer – that way your plants and flowers will get what they need without having to fight for it.

Gardening in the summer doesn’t have to feel like a chore; you just need to use these creative and clever ways above to make your job easier.

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Summer is a splendid season to appreciate the richness of nature’s offerings. It brings a diverse array of fresh ingredients that are ideal for summer recipes, such as luscious berries, ripe melons, crisp vegetables, and energizing drinks. 

These elements create a harmony of flavor, nutrition, and comfort. Preparing a scrumptious summer dish or snack can transform the season into a culinary journey. The recipes in this article are colorful and simple to prepare, promising not only to help you cope with the summer heat but to enjoy it fully. 

The aim is to showcase a variety of tempting dishes that can improve your summer dining experience with style and color. These are designed to stimulate your palate and feed your body while embracing the sunny season in the most pleasant way.

• Raspberry Sorbet

The first dish we will discuss in our summer food adventure is raspberry sorbet. Savor the exquisite balance of tartness and sweetness as you bite into this delightful treat. It’s crafted from fresh raspberries, a sprinkling of sugar, and a splash of water, offering a cooling respite from the heat. 

The true beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity, effortlessly allowing the fruit’s natural flavor to shine. For those interested in trying this recipe at home, you can find an easy-to-follow raspberry sorbet recipe online. 

• Quinoa Salad with Fresh Veggies

Let’s delve into the steps needed to prepare a delightful quinoa salad brimming with summer’s fresh produce. To start, you need to rinse and cook quinoa in boiling water. As the quinoa simmers, chop a variety of summer vegetables—crunchy cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and ripe tomatoes are some common favorites.

Once the quinoa is cooked and has a fluffy texture, transfer it to a large salad bowl. Next, mix your chopped vegetables into the bowl of quinoa. Now, for the dressing: whisk together olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. 

Add herbs like fresh parsley or basil for an extra punch of flavor. Pour this dressing over your quinoa and vegetable mixture, tossing well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Voila! Your quinoa salad is ready to be enjoyed.

• Grilled Corn with Herb Butter

To prepare this delectable summer delight, start with fresh, husked corn. Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring it’s clean and oiled to prevent sticking. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until it’s tender and charred in spots. This process typically takes about 10 minutes.

While the corn is grilling, you can prepare the herb butter. In a bowl, combine softened butter with finely chopped herbs of your choice. Parsley, thyme, and chives are excellent options. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the flavors.

Once the corn is grilled to your liking, take it off the heat. While it’s still warm, apply a generous layer of your homemade herb butter over each ear. The butter will melt, seeping into the kernels and imparting a rich, aromatic flavor. 

• Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Start by selecting fresh shrimp since its natural flavor contributes greatly to the dish’s success. Then, create the marinade by combining freshly squeezed lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, and olive oil. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.

Next, place your shrimp in a bowl, and pour the marinade over it, ensuring each shrimp is well coated. Allow it to sit for about an hour in the refrigerator. This marinating process infuses the shrimp with the tangy, savory flavors of lemon and garlic.

While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. After marinating, thread the shrimp onto skewers and place them onto the grill. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn a vibrant pink color. Your lemon garlic grilled shrimp is now ready.

• Watermelon Feta Salad

The process of creating a watermelon feta salad is a delightful adventure in the kitchen. Start with a ripe, juicy watermelon. Cut it into bite-sized chunks and place them in a large bowl. Next, take a cucumber. 

After washing it thoroughly, chop it into similar-sized pieces and add it to the bowl. Then, it’s time for the feta cheese. Crumble a generous portion over the watermelon and cucumber. This cheese, known for its tangy flavor, introduces a hint of saltiness that balances the sweet watermelon perfectly. 

Finally, add a handful of freshly plucked mint leaves. Mint offers a refreshing counterpoint to the salad’s sweetness and saltiness, elevating its flavor profile. Gently toss the ingredients to combine, and your salad is ready.

• Chilled Gazpacho

Gazpacho, a Spanish delight, stands out as a classic summer dish. It’s a cold soup filled with the goodness of vegetables and a zesty touch of olive oil. So, how can you make this refreshing dish in your kitchen? Go ahead and collect your ingredients. 

You’ll need ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers. Choosing fresh, quality ingredients is essential to capturing the flavor of this dish. Grab your knife and chop these vegetables finely. Put them in a blender with a liberal dash of olive oil. The oil not only enhances the taste but also helps in the digestion of nutrients. 

Blend this mixture until it’s smooth, and then put it in the refrigerator. After a few hours, your gazpacho will be cold and ready to serve. The result? A cool, creamy soup that’s both nourishing and satisfying. 

• Peach Ice Tea

Creating peach iced tea is a breeze. Begin with brewing your choice of black tea and letting it cool. In the meantime, boil peaches with some sugar and water in a saucepan until they become soft. This process will form a rich peach syrup. After the syrup cools down, strain it to remove the solids. 

Now, it’s time to mix. Combine the cooled black tea and peach syrup in a large pitcher. Add a lot of ice cubes, and you have a pitcher of peach iced tea ready to serve. Savor the refreshing sweetness with a hint of tea’s subtle bitterness.

Conclusion

Savoring these recipes will allow you to embrace the sun-filled, vibrant season of summer. By translating the season’s bounty into dishes that sing with flavor and freshness, you can make your culinary experiences an integral part of your summer enjoyment. After all, food is not merely sustenance; it’s a celebration of the season. 

Can you believe it’s already that time of year? Summer break is ending, and the school bells are about to start ringing. It’s time to get back into the swing of the school routine. 

And as parents, the back-to-school season brings a mix of emotions. There’s the excitement of seeing your children grow and learn. 

From shopping for school supplies to filling out endless forms, there’s a lot to do. But with all the preparations that need to be made for your child, it can also be a bit overwhelming, right? 

So, to keep you stress-free and prepared, we have compiled a list of all the essential items your child needs. Let’s dive in!

School Clothes

It’s amazing how quickly kids seem to outgrow their clothes, isn’t it? One moment, their pants fit perfectly, and the next, they’re halfway up their knees. That’s why it’s essential to go through their current wardrobe before the school year begins. 

Check if your kids school uniforms, including shirts, pants, skirts, and even shoes, fit properly and if any items are worn out or damaged. Once you have a list of clothing items they need, you can shop them online or visit a store near you. 

By doing this inventory, you can shop with intention and avoid unnecessary spending on clothes they don’t actually need. 

Note – Check your child’s school’s policy for uniform requirements and restrictions on clothing choices. 

School Bag

Another essential item that every student needs is a functional school bag to carry books, notebooks, and other school supplies. 

Therefore, when choosing a school bag, prioritize durability and waterproof features. This ensures that the bag can withstand bumps, scrapes, and unexpected rain showers, keeping your child’s belongings safe and dry.

Moreover, look for a bag with different compartments for a designated space for books, notebooks, and smaller items like pens and pencils. This can make a big difference in keeping things tidy. 

Stationery Items

While some stationery items may be provided at school, it’s always a good idea to list all the essentials they may need. 

Start by shopping for the basics, including pens, pencils, a pencil sharpener, an eraser, and a pencil case to keep everything organized. Additionally, they’ll likely need a ruler and a set of coloring pencils for various tasks and assignments. 

Further, depending on their school year, it might be mandatory for them to shop for a maths set. This typically includes a protractor, compass, and scientific calculator.

Lunch Time Essentials

The lunchtime essentials include a water bottle and a lunch box. They are vital in ensuring your child stays nourished and hydrated throughout the day. 

So, when choosing a lunch box, look for one that is durable and big enough to fulfill your child’s meals. Nowadays, you also have the option of choosing an insulated lunch box to keep food fresh and at the right temperature. 

As for the water bottle, opt for a leak-proof and BPA-free option that is easy for your child to open and close. To make it more appealing, choose one with designs featuring their favorite characters. 

Final Words

As the new school year approaches, being prepared and organized is important. By following this essential back-to-school checklist, you can ensure that you have all the necessary items in place for a smooth start.

If there’s any day of the year that you can spoil one of your loved ones, it’s on their birthday! You can do many different things to make sure your friend or relative has an unforgettable birthday and celebrates their special day in style.

Whether you want to focus on purchasing contemporary gifts, planning a day full of activities, or doing something subtler, like serving breakfast in bed, there’s no shortage of birthday surprises. Finding something that suits your loved one’s desires and preferences won’t be difficult!

Below, we’ve covered some of the key steps to take when you’re trying to make your loved one feel special on their birthday, whether it’s your girlfriend, wife, boyfriend, husband, parent, sibling, or best friend.

Serve Them Breakfast in Bed

Does your friend or relative adore fluffy pancakes drizzled with syrup? Do they prefer a cooked breakfast with sausages, eggs, beans, toast, and tomatoes? Do they enjoy smashed avocado on toast or sweet pastries, like croissants or pain au chocolate?

Consider your loved one’s dream breakfast and plan to serve them their favourite dish on their birthday. There’s no better way to wake them up than with a tray of delicious breakfast food for them to enjoy from the comfort of their bed. They won’t need to do any cooking or cleaning, and instead, they can sit back and relax as they tuck into their breakfast.

Plan a Surprise for Them

Planning a surprise for somebody’s birthday can be an exciting and heart-warming way to spoil them. Consider your loved one’s interests and preferences. What are their favorite things to do? What brings them joy?

Decide on an activity that you and your loved one can enjoy together on their special day. Maybe you’ll book a surprise meal at their favorite restaurant, throw a surprise birthday party at your home, or present them with an on-the-cuff spa day ticket.

If you’re throwing a party, coordinate the best time with all of the surprise guests that you’re inviting. Consider asking them to bring their own little gifts or food items to the party so they can join in on the celebrations and make your loved one feel special and valued.

Host a Dinner Gathering with Their Friends

If parties aren’t your loved one’s thing, host a more relaxing and chilled dinner event. You can invite all of their friends along for the fun and surprise them with a delicious three-course meal.

Cook their favorite dishes as a starter, main, and dessert, or elicit the help of somebody else if you’re not savvy in the kitchen. You could even decorate your dinner table with confetti, party hats, and glitter to spice up your home décor for the special event. If you want to add a sweet surprise, Take advantage of nationwide ice cream delivery services to enjoy a sweet treat without leaving your home.

If your loved one has a particular interest or passion, see if you can theme the dinner gathering around this subject. Ask your guests if they’re happy to wear fancy dress or wear formal clothes, depending on what theme you decide to choose.

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If you’re a sustainable mamma, then you are probably always looking for ways you can live a greener life than you are right now. If that is the case, you might want to take a closer look at your bathroom, and specifically how you clean it.

So many people think that the bathroom cannot be truly cleaned without harsh and abrasive chemicals, but this is actually not the case. There are a lot of green hacks you can use to keep your bathroom just as sparkling and functional. As you will see below.

Baking soda and vinegar will unclog that bathtub

Sometimes, the bathtub drainage system will get so clogged that you will absolutely need to call in the best drain cleaning company in your area. However, quite often, you can unclog that bathtub drain quickly by pouring a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda down there. As the two ingredients combine they will start to fizz and agitate any oil, hair, and gunk blocking up the drain, unclogging it faster than you might think possible, and with not a harsh chemical in sight.

Lemon will take those stubborn stains away

The bathroom is one place where stubborn stains tend to take hold. Most bathrooms have a lot of porcelain and many of them are pristine white, so even the smallest minerals stain or shampoo smudge can look pretty unsightly. The good news is, you will probably have one of the best stain removers there is right there in your kitchen – lemons!

Lemon juice can be applied directly to most bathroom materials, and the acidic nature of the fruit will quickly dissolve everything from limescale to iron stains faster than you can shake a stick. Not only that but it will leave your bathroom smelling amazing too.

Tea tree oil will wipe out mildew

If you are struggling to keep mold and mildew at bay in your bathroom, you won’t have to result to harsh, less-than-green, chemicals to get on top of the problem. The cleaning wonder that is tea tree oil, a simple and affordable essential oil, can solve the problem for you in no time at all.

Simply mix two teaspoons of tea tree oil with two cups of water and decant it into a spray bottle. You can then liberally spray any areas of mold and mildew with the mixture, and leave it to do its thing. The naturally fungicidal nature of the tea tree oil will work its magic, and you can sit back and enjoy the fresh, plat-baed aroma of your bathroom. Bliss!

Salt and grapefruit will get rid of tiel grime

If your tiles are looking less than their best, then you are going to want to cut a grapefruit in half, sprinkle some salt on it, and use it as a scrubber. The citric acid in the fruit will break down the grime, while the salt, due to its abrasiveness, will help to break it away.

Keeping your bathroom clean, while also being green, as you can see, is totally possible, so why not make the change today?