Doing the Right Thing

These trees are tall and pretty,
but they have an abundance of
berries that attract the wrong birds

 I don't mean to offend anyone.  I do hope you will understand our dilemma. I love nature, and I love birds.  We personally have six of them we care for.  Trees are vital to the balance of harmony in our environment.  You can never have too many.

We purchased our current home six year ago.  One of the most inviting parts of the property was the line of trees that stood tall among the back yard fence.  They were so majestic and beautiful swaying in the spring breeze.  They blanketed the back yard in a cool layer of shade.

The Benifits of Plants on Your Environment

Most of us by now have probably moved the plants back indoors for the for the colder months.  I'll admit I do get a little over enthusiastic with my plants.  When I last took count there are a total of 36 plants filling every bare spot of my home.  My collection includes a ficus tree that has been with me for fourteen years and stands 9 feet tall (thank goodness for vaulted ceilings).

Have you ever stopped to consider the benefits of having houseplants?  Of course there is the obvious.  They add a wonderful touch of ambiance to any room.  During the winter months an atmosphere of healthy, thriving green plants has proven to stave off those "winter blues".  You know, that feeling we get of wanting to be out in the fresh open air tearing into the spring garden again.  Feeling somewhat denied the pleasure of basking in the warm sunshine with a cool glass of fresh ice tea.  Wishing it was warm enough to fire up the grill and invite the neighbors over.  All that foliage we drag back indoors has proven to calm that feeling of loss.

Just like outdoor plants are know to help fight pollution and unhealthy air indoor plants will do the same.  Our homes are full of dangerous toxins that can lead to unwanted health issues.  The oxygen omitted by indoor plants will reduce carbon dioxide and even benzene and  formaldehyde.  The more vigorous and healthy the plant the better your results so be sure and follow the proper guide lines for the foliage's needs.  In order for any plant to be an environmental benefit the foliage and soil must both be kept as healthy as possible.

Studies have been conducted by many institutions to help determine exactly how extensive the benefits of plants can be on the environment.  It's very interesting to see the extent of experimenting conducted.  Research has shown that some plants tend to omit a higher volume of oxygen and are able to absorb a greater amount of toxins.  Just a few of these that are easy to grow and very sustainable are the Ficus, the Rubber Plant, The Lilly and many varieties of the Palm.  The Palm is a particular favorite.  Not only does it have a tropical feel with beautiful leaves, but it also happens to be particularly hardy.

I've always kept a plant in my work area.  It comes as not surprise to me that studies have shown those companies that allow plants in the work place have a lower rate of stress, and improved production.  Employees who spend the day working in those cramped little cubicles showed less anxiety when they were allowed to place plants in there surroundings.  What I find even more fascinating is the increase in focus and reaction time reported from employees with plants growing nearby.  What could possibly be the biggest benefit of plants in the workplace is a reported drop in sick time reported.


The benefits of house plants on the indoor environment is a continued research and one well worth looking into farther.  I'm pretty certain of one thing though.  With thirty six plants in every room of my home I hope I've got some pretty healthy air to breath.

Industry Landfill Instigators

One Of America's Overworked Landfills

It is estimated by the EPA that landfills around the world are 17% consumed by food waste.  It seems there are more and more "going green" remedies popping up every day.  So why isn't there a logical solution to one of the largest garbage contributors?  Over polluted landfills supply dangerous levels of methane and other gases to the universe.  The results on our environment effect each of us.  These gases cause what is referred to as the greenhouse effect by holding heat into the atmosphere.  This is similar to the effect of heat retained by a glass object on a hot day.  Methane gases also displace oxygen which may be contributed to the increase in respiratory conditions in society today.

Top 10 Most Useful Items to Stock

I will admit that I have more than one reason for using safer products for everything from cleaning to gardening.  Not only is it better on the environment, it is also beneficial to my pocketbook.  Previously I've covered several items and their constructive uses.  Your cupboards and fridge carry potential solutions to many every day challenges.  Several are so versatile they are useful in vast areas of everyday household chores.  I've picked some items that in my opinion are the most valuable staples you can keep on hand.  I've chosen these ten based on their effectiveness, as well as their variety of use.

The Advantages of Rain Barrel Water

Catching Rain Water on my Patio

It doesn't really matter what you use to catch rainwater. Don't be fooled into thinking you need to spend hundreds of dollars on a expensive barrel. You can find several items in your own home that will work as well, if not better. The three main requirements for harvesting showers are that your chosen receptacale is sturdy; preferably plastic, have a tight storage lid and be clean. Rain water is typically trapped using a container placed beneath a gutters down spout. Place what ever utensil you plan to use beneath any area where rainwater over pours. Balconies are good for gathering rainwater pour off, as well as a steply slanted roof with no gutter.
The EPA estimates that the average household utilizing natural resources could save 1,300 gallons of water during the summer months alone. The warmer months tend to optimize water usage for lawn and garden irrigation. Many states are experiencing drought like conditions. Cities are opting to place homeowners on watering restrictions which place vegitation in danger of dehydration. Not only does rainwater help economically, but imagine how much it can help the environment. Rainwater can even be more beneficial to gardens and lawns since it does not contain tap waters required chlorine, fluoride and other minerals. Chemicals and minerals which can possibly reduce a harvests production. Don't neglect the indoor plants. They enjoy a healthy does of rainwater too.

Harvesting rainwater doesn't have to be a major chore or expensive task.  I simply use 5 gallon buckets that are placed in spots I know will fill have a rush of water during rain.  If you don't have any buckets no problem.  Check the bakery counter at you local grocer.  Many of the items such as icing and lard come in these buckets.  Since they have no use for them and typically throw them out they will be glad to donate them to you.  You can also check any donuts shop.

If your gutter system is clean and your gatherings clear enough there are even more uses for rainwater. Use rainwater to wash a vehicle and the typical residue left behind by tap water disappears. Another beneficial use of rainwater is to wash your dog. Rainwater tends to be less harsh than tap water so you are more likely to see a shinier coat. Grab a bucket of water and your mop. Those leftover streaks on your tile won't be a problem any more. You may even want to try adding rainwater to your washing machine for more savings. It has been recommended that rainwater be used for drinking and cooking. However you would need to spend money on a specialized filter for cleaning the trappings. To me contradicts the purpose of saving money so I stay away from this in favor of more practical uses.

Avoid trapping more rainwater than is necessary. Place your filled container in a fairly dark place. Direct sunlight attracts unwanted toxins. Kept over a long period of time rainwater tends to become stagnate and can appeal to mold. Take advantage of your rainwater as often as possible and clean the container between uses. Once the water is contaminated it becomes ineffective. Always keep the waters container tightly sealed. Any standing pool of water attracts an enormous amount of bugs which can be difficult to get rid of. Mosquitos tend to breed aggressively and are harmful around pets.

Another point to keep in mind is the environmental impact of harvesting rainwater. The rain you trap is not flooding your yard and damaging plants. When needed the most the nourishment your garden needs will be available using your own resources. If we all found the benefits of rainwater it would make a great impact. Once you see the savings and realize the environmental vale of harvesting rainwater I think you will find it a habit that is hard to break. For more information on this and other "green" topics visit http://epa.gov/.


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A More Natural Way To Color Easter Eggs

I always looked forward to Easter growing up.  Anytime the family could get together was something to celebrate.  My grandma, mom and aunts can cook dishes that will always make you come back for more.  Years later I would pack up my own girls up loaded down with colored eggs and pumpkin rolls.  We'd head off  to someones house knowing it would be a fun Sunday. 

Isn't It Time To Go Green?

Is it too late to save our environment?  I don't think it is, but we all need to get involved.  It is estimated that the average American contributes 1600 pounds of trash to the environment every year.  It is up to all of us to take control of the amount of debris we add to overcrowded dumping grounds.  There are so many simple, conscious efforts we can all work toward every day to reduce the amount of waste that pollutes our cities landfills. 

Easy Cleaning Tips From The Cupboard

In a lot of cases it isn't necessary to spend big dollars on expensive cleaning products.  There are many items right out of the kitchen cupboard that work well.  Not only will using these products benefit your pocket book, it will also help reduce the effects of harsh chemicals added to some detergents.

Vinegar is one of the most useful alternatives.  Diluted with water
and a squeeze of lemon it works very well on windows and