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Organic Vegan Bath & Body Essentials

natural vegan bath and body products

Embrace the Natural Revolution:

Vegan Bath and Body Products for a Greener Tomorrow

In today's world, the shift towards sustainability and ethical consumption is more than just a trend—it's a lifestyle. As consumers, we have a growing responsibility to choose products that are not only good for us but also kind to our planet. This is where natural vegan bath and body products come into play, offering a perfect blend of luxury, effectiveness, and environmental consciousness.

Vegan | Plastic Free | Handmade in the UK


Why Choose Natural Vegan Products?

1. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

One of the most significant benefits of natural vegan bath and body products is their minimal environmental impact. These products often come in plastic-free, compostable packaging, which means less waste ending up in our oceans and landfills. By choosing sustainable options, you’re directly contributing to the health of our planet.

2. Cruelty-Free and Ethical

Natural vegan products are free from animal-derived ingredients and are not tested on animals. This means you can indulge in your bath time rituals guilt-free, knowing no animals were harmed in the making of your favorite bath soak or shampoo bar.

3. Gentle and Nourishing

Made from plant-based ingredients, natural vegan bath products are gentle on the skin. They are free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and artificial colorants, reducing the risk of skin irritation and allergies. Ingredients like essential oils and natural extracts provide nourishment and hydration, leaving your skin feeling soft and rejuvenated.

Must-Try Vegan Bath and Body Products


1. Plastic-Free Bath Bombs

Imagine soaking in a tub filled with the soothing scents of essential oils, without worrying about synthetic colorants or chemicals. Plastic-free, vegan bath bombs are the perfect addition to your relaxation routine. They provide a fizzing, aromatic experience that leaves your skin feeling pampered and your mind at ease.

2. Eucalyptus Bath Soak

For those days when you need an invigorating pick-me-up, a eucalyptus bath soak is a must-try. Packaged in a compostable pouch, this bath soak offers a refreshing, spa-like experience right in your home. Eucalyptus is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great choice for soothing sore muscles and relieving stress.

3. Lemon and Calendula Bath Soak

If you're looking for something uplifting, the lemon and calendula bath soak is an excellent choice. This blend combines the bright, citrusy scent of lemon with the soothing, anti-inflammatory properties of calendula, providing a revitalizing bath experience. Plus, the compostable packaging ensures you're making an environmentally friendly choice.

4. Lime and Coconut Bath Soak

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with a lime and coconut bath soak. This delightful blend is perfect for moisturizing and nourishing your skin, thanks to the hydrating properties of coconut. The zesty lime adds a refreshing twist, making it a fantastic way to unwind after a long day.



Switching to natural vegan bath and body products is a step towards a more sustainable and ethical lifestyle. These products offer numerous benefits for both your body and the environment, proving that you don't have to compromise luxury for responsibility. So why not make the change today and embrace a greener, kinder approach to your bath and body care routine?

Remember, every small step counts. By choosing natural, vegan, and eco-friendly products, you are contributing to a healthier planet and a brighter future. So go ahead, indulge in the goodness of nature, and feel good about the choices you make for yourself and the Earth.

Effortless Gardening with Seedballs: Transform Today

Seedball

Discover the Magic of Seedballs: The Perfect Addition to Your Garden

Gardening enthusiasts and eco-warriors alike, we have a game-changer for you! Imagine a product that simplifies gardening, promotes biodiversity, and contributes to a healthier environment—all while requiring minimal effort on your part. Enter Seedballs, the revolutionary way to bring a splash of life and color to your garden with ease and efficiency.

 

What Are Seedballs?

Seedballs are small, nutrient-packed balls that contain a mixture of seeds, clay, and compost. This ingenious combination protects the seeds from being eaten by birds and insects and provides them with a nutrient-rich environment to thrive. Once you scatter these little gems onto the soil, nature takes its course, and you’re rewarded with a lush, blooming garden.


Why Choose Seedballs?

1. **Effortless Gardening**:

If you love the idea of gardening but find the process overwhelming, Seedballs are your perfect solution. There’s no need for digging, planting, or back-breaking labor. Simply scatter the Seedballs on the soil and let nature do the rest.

2. **Promotes Biodiversity**:

Seedballs are available in various blends that support local wildlife, including bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. By planting Seedballs, you’re not just beautifying your garden; you’re also creating a thriving ecosystem that supports vital species.

3. **Eco-Friendly**:

Made from natural materials, Seedballs are an environmentally friendly option. The clay and compost protect the seeds, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Plus, you’re contributing to a greener planet by encouraging plant growth.

4. **Versatility**:

Whether you have a sprawling garden, a modest backyard, or even just a few pots on your balcony, Seedballs can adapt to any space. They’re perfect for urban gardening and can transform even the smallest area into a vibrant green space.

5. **Wide Variety**:

From wildflowers to herbs and vegetables, Seedballs come in an array of options to suit your gardening goals. Want a fragrant herb garden? There’s a Seedball for that. Looking to create a butterfly haven? There’s a blend for that too!

How to Use Seedballs

Using Seedballs couldn’t be easier:

1. **Choose Your Spot**:

Select an area with good sunlight and minimal foot traffic. This could be your garden bed, a flower pot, or even an unassuming patch of soil.

 

2. **Scatter the Seedballs**:

Gently toss the Seedballs onto the soil. There’s no need to plant them deep; simply let them rest on the surface.

 

3. **Water and Wait**:

Water the Seedballs lightly after scattering them. With the right amount of sunlight and occasional watering, you’ll start to see sprouts in no time!

 

4. **Enjoy the Blooms**:

Sit back and enjoy the colorful transformation of your space. Watch as butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects flock to your garden, creating a lively and dynamic environment.

Why Wait? Transform Your Garden Today!

Seedballs are more than just a gardening product; they’re a movement towards sustainable and effortless gardening. They make it easy for anyone, regardless of gardening experience, to contribute to the environment and enjoy the beauty of nature.

 

Ready to transform your garden with minimal effort and maximum impact? Explore the diverse range of Seedballs and take the first step towards creating your eco-friendly oasis. Your garden will thank you, and so will the planet!

 

Visit our Seedball collection to discover more and start your gardening adventure today. Happy planting!

Ai-powered Robots can do your landscaping | Verdie

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Can an Ai robot do your garden landscaping?

Verdie uses artificial intelligence to automate landscaping by Electric Sheep Robotics


Electric sheep is an Ai and robotics company specialising in landscaping operations. With multiple adaptations and attachments, the landscaping robots can scale from small to large projects.

The robotics company initially focussed on their electric mowing robots called RAMs. These utilitarian machines focussed on one job to map out a location and maintain the grass autonomously. 

What does the Electric Sheep do?

Each robot uses Ai processing to develop a map of an area, highlight the operational zones, and predict when and for how long to operate on certain areas both short and long term. Mowing, trimming, edging, blowing leaves etc. 

Does the Electric Sheep play well with others?

RAMs integrate symbiotically with the system. On a large-scale plot you could send out multiple RAMs to cover the mowing of a large plot whilst the Electric Sheep manages the trimming and edging of the same area dynamically. 

Continuously learning, adapting and developing the system can optimise its operations to your land.

The company currently operates 40 RAM mowers in the US and is looking to launch Verdie early 2024 to both commercial and residential users. Yes, the future is here and it's working for you, not terminating your existence (Skynet). 

You can view the Verdie in action here...


Sadly we don't stock the Verdie, yet. But for all your garden maintenence needs we are still here to help.

 

How To Get Rid of Flies from Compost Bin

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How to fight flies from infesting your compost bin

How do I get rid of flies in compost bin? 

Hot composting reaches higher temperatures, making it less hospitable for flies. Add some Spice! Flies find these irritants repellent like cayenne pepper. Then increase the sun and ventilation. 


Quick Fixes for Fly-Free Composting:

Flies in your Compost Bin? Buzz Off with these Easy Fixes!


Ugh, flies buzzing around my compost bin! How do I get rid of them?

Answer: Don't let pesky flies sabotage your composting efforts! We've got you covered with simple, effective solutions to banish those buzzing bothers.

  • Balance is Key: Maintain a 2:1 ratio of brown (dry) materials like shredded leaves or cardboard to green (wet) kitchen scraps. This keeps things dry and discourages fly breeding.
  • Bury Your Treasures: Hide juicy food scraps deep within the pile and cover them with brown materials. Flies like easy access to their feast.
  • Turn Up the Heat: Hot composting reaches higher temperatures, making it less hospitable for flies and speeding up decomposition. If your bin isn't insulated, consider adding straw or leaves for temperature control.
  • Spice Up the Scene: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or diatomaceous earth (natural, safe for pets) on top of your pile. Flies find these irritants repellent.
  • Sweet Trap Surprise: DIY a fly trap with apple cider vinegar and a drop of dish soap in a jar. The flies are lured in by the vinegar but get trapped in the soapy film.

Long-Term Solutions for Happy Composting:

  • Location, Location, Location: Position your bin in a sunny, well-ventilated area away from your house. Flies prefer shade and moisture.
  • Lid it Up: Keep your bin covered with a tight-fitting lid to block entry points. Aeration holes are still important, so choose mesh or fabric-covered lids.
  • Water Wisely: Overwatering attracts flies and slows down decomposition. Only add water when the pile seems dry and crumbly.
  • Keep it Clean: Regularly remove finished compost from the bottom of your bin to avoid excess moisture and fly breeding grounds.
  • Friendly Fauna: Introduce soldier flies or composting worms to your bin. These natural predators munch on fly larvae and contribute to faster decomposition.

Bonus Tip: Freeze your kitchen scraps before adding them to the bin. This kills any fly eggs lurking within and reduces initial odors that attract flies.

Go Forth and Compost with Confidence!

By following these tips and maintaining proper composting practices, you can keep those pesky flies at bay and create rich, healthy compost for your garden. Remember, a balanced, well-maintained compost bin is a happy, fly-free bin!

Low Maintenance Gardening 2024

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Low Maintenance Gardening in 2024

Hey there, garden warriors! Tired of wrestling with weeds and begging your lawn to cooperate?

Let's ditch the drama and build a low-maintenance garden that's as chill as a hammock in the shade.


Think of it like this: you want a garden that sings, not screams. Lush and lovely, but without the constant chorus of "water me!" or "prune me, you fiend!" So, grab your trowel and a cuppa, because we're about to create an oasis that thrives on neglect (in the best way possible).


Step One - Right Place, Right Time:

Right plant, right place. Ditch the one-size-fits-all approach. Shade-loving ferns won't bake in a sun-drenched corner, and your thirsty succulents will sulk in a boggy patch. Know your soil, your sun exposure, and choose plants that'll high-five you, not need constant hand-holding.


Step Two - Mulch is your Friend:

Mulch is your BFF. This glorious stuff smothers weeds, keeps moisture in, and adds a pop of colour. Bark chips, gravel, even shredded leaves – choose your weapon and watch your weeding time vanish like magic.


Step Three: Embrace the "wild-ish" look:

Let the grass grow a little longer (bees love it!), skip the manicured edges, and let some wildflowers take root. Nature knows what it's doing, and a relaxed garden is a happy garden (and easier on your back, too).


Step Four: Think outside the lawn box:

Shrubs and ornamental grasses are low-maintenance heroes. They add structure, color, and even drama without the constant mowing and watering. Plus, they provide homes for happy critters like birds and butterflies.


Step Five: Water wisely:

Deep soak instead of daily sprinkles. Rainwater barrels are your friends, and a timed irrigation system can be a lifesaver (especially for forgetful folks).

Reducing water consumption is more important than ever as we enter a long-term drought. You can learn top tips on reducing water here too.


Bonus Tip:

Don't be afraid to experiment! Try container gardens, vertical walls, or even a mini-pond. Low maintenance doesn't have to mean boring.

Remember, your garden should be a place of joy, not a chore. So, ditch the guilt, embrace the chill, and watch your low-maintenance oasis flourish!

Share your low-maintenance garden tips and inspire others to create beautiful, effortless spaces.

P.S. Don't forget to share this article with your fellow garden lovers! Let's spread the low-maintenance love.


What does the Garden of the Future look like?

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What does the garden of the future look like?

So You Think You've Got a Fancy Garden? Prepare for the Future!

Gardening is a timeless act. Sun-kissed tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and vibrant blooms have brought joy for generations. But what if your green haven is about to get a serious tech upgrade? Buckle up, dirt lovers, because the garden of the future is coming fast, and it's packed with mind-blowing innovations.

Think beyond sprinklers and shears. We're talking:

  • AI-powered plant pals: Imagine robots gently tending your seedlings, whispering sweet nothings to your sunflowers, and even diagnosing those pesky leaf spots before you even blink. These robotic gardeners, loaded with sensors and smarts, will analyze your soil, adjust watering schedules, and even fend off pests with eco-friendly precision.
  • Vertical jungles: Picture balconies bursting with verdant towers, city walls draped in cascading greenery, and tiny houses with built-in sky gardens. Urban spaces will transform into mini-ecosystems, producing fresh food, filtering air, and creating natural havens for busy city dwellers.
    vertical-forest-tower-by-stefano-boeri-huanggang-chinaPhoto: RAW Vision Studio. Bosco-Verticale-by-Boeri-Studio-vertical-jungle-flatsPhoto: Daniele Zacchi. Caixa-Forum-Museum-vertical-junglePhoto: @47marco
  • Hyper-personalised plots: No more one-size-fits-all gardening! Thanks to advanced data analysis, your future garden will be custom-designed for your local climate, soil composition, and, yes, even your personal preferences. Craving exotic mangoes in Montana? Your AI overlord will tweak the microclimate and suggest specialized cultivars to make your mango dreams a reality.
  • Augmented reality overlays: Ditch the guesswork! AR glasses will let you see hidden wonders beneath the soil, visualize root systems, and even track the microscopic dance of beneficial microbes in your compost heap. It's like gardening with superpowers!

But is this high-tech future just for gadget-loving millennials? Absolutely not! The garden of the future will be inclusive, accessible, and designed to reconnect everyone with the magic of nature. Think:

  • Community gardens with robotic helpers: Imagine senior citizens teaming up with tech-savvy youngsters to manage a thriving community garden, robots taking care of the heavy lifting, and everyone reaping the benefits of fresh, local produce and shared green spaces.
  • Therapeutic gardens for healing: Hospitals and wellness centres will embrace biophilic design, incorporating calming green spaces and interactive gardening experiences to promote mental and physical well-being.
  • Educational gardens for sprouting minds: Schools will transform into living laboratories, with children learning about food systems, sustainability, and the wonders of the natural world, trowel in hand.

So, are you ready to step into the future of gardening? Don't worry, your trusty trowel and watering can aren't going extinct. The garden of the future is about human-technology partnerships, amplifying our love for nature with a sprinkle of AI magic. It's about creating healthier, happier communities, one biodiverse backyard at a time.

Here are some keywords for the future:

  • Smart Gardening
  • AI gardening robots
  • Urban gardening trends
  • Sustainable gardening practices
  • Future of food production
  • Therapeutic gardens
  • Community gardening initiatives

Top 5 Mother's Day Gifts for Gardeners | March 2024

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Forget the flowers, Mother's Day gifts for gardeners who dig it

Alright, all you Mother's Day gift-givers, let's get real. Chocolates and carnations are lovely, but let's be honest, they'll be gone in a flash (or wilted in a vase). This year, let's show Mum we understand her. Let's celebrate the dirt under her fingernails and the green thumb that makes her garden an Eden. Let's shower her with gifts that speak to her soul, the soul of a gardener.

When is Mother's Day?

  • Sunday 10th March 2024, 4th Sunday of the Christian festival of lent. 

 What are Mother's Day symbols?

  • Carnations are the official Mother's Day flower, representing motherhood. They also symbolise love and gratitude.

Why is Mother's Day Pink?

  • Pink represents compassion and nurture. However, Green is also used to represent protection (mother nature) and yellow for an optimistic outlook. 

When is Mother's Day US?

  • Sunday 14th May 2024, the second Sunday.

What day is Mother's Day?

It always falls on a Sunday for most countries that celebrate the event.

 

Gifts that make life in the garden a breeze:

Tool time delight:

Garden tools are like kitchen gadgets for the green-fingered. A spiffy new trowel, a comfy kneeler that's kind to her knees, or maybe a sleek pair of pruners that snip with the satisfying precision of a samurai sword (minus the whole, y'know, beheading thing). These are the everyday heroes that make Mum's garden life easier and more enjoyable. 

Storage solutions that sing:

Does Mum's shed look like a gnome exploded in there? Help her wrangle the chaos with stylish and functional storage. Think woven baskets for bulbs, hanging shelves for tools, or a cute wheelbarrow for hauling mulch in style. Bonus points if you personalize it with her name or a gardening pun (we're all about "Lettuce celebrate Mum!" here). Fancy a more practical touch? Try are large organisational storage trunk, easily wheeled and manoeuvred. 

For indoors, try a discrete solution like a novelty hidden compartment in a footstool.

Tech that talks to the tomatoes:

Mum's a gardening goddess, but even goddesses need a little help sometimes. Smart gardening gadgets like soil moisture sensors, weather stations, or even robotic weeders can take her plant parenthood to the next level. Imagine the face-palm moment when she realizes she can water her garden from her phone while sipping margaritas on the beach. Priceless. But not everyone wants that, and that's why a top-up of plant food can still be a great gift.

Remember, the best gifts are the ones that come from the heart (and maybe the local nursery). Spend some time listening to Mum, pay attention to what she needs and loves in her garden, and choose a gift that shows you care about her passion. And hey, if you're feeling extra generous, offer to help her plant something new. Just be prepared to get your hands dirty – that's the price of admission to the awesome world of gardening moms!

Tired of Trashy Compost? Pickle Your Kitchen Scraps with a Bokashi Bin

bokashi-bin-explained

Tired of Trashy Compost? Pickle Your Kitchen Scraps with a Bokashi Bin!

Are fruit peels piling up, coffee grounds clogging your sink, and banana bread woes breeding bin-bugs? Fear not, composting comrades! There's a revolutionary weapon in the waste wars that doesn't smell like sour milk: the mighty bokashi bin!

Forget the soggy stench of traditional heaps – bokashi bin composting is like pickling for your leftovers. This indoor, odour-neutralising wonder lets you turn any kitchen scraps, from meat and cheese to veggies and eggs, into a potent fertiliser faster than you can say "allotment abundance."

But how does this magic work? It all boils down to friendly bacteria called bokashi bran. This sprinkle of sorcery ferments your food waste, not composts it, creating a rich, concentrated fertiliser in just 2-3 weeks. And unlike regular composting, you can do it all indoors, year-round, without attracting vermin or offending delicate nostrils.

What is a Bokashi Bin?

The bokashi bin is a Japanese system that pickles your waste (bokashi means fermentation) and is perfectly suited to small spaces. You need two bins (they can be kept indoors) and special bran inoculated with good bacteria.

What can you not put in a Bokashi Bin?

Avoid putting in bulky, non-food items such as cut flowers, compostable plastics, used tissues and food-contaminated paper. They take up space and won't add much value to your soil.

Can you put mouldy bread in a Bokashi Bin?

While rotten and mouldy foods will ferment in a Bokashi bucket, the spores can be bad for your health. So leave them out your indoor composter. 

Can you put tea bags in a Bokashi?

Tea bags don't tend to fully degrade due to the small plastic content. 

How often should you drain a BoKashi Bin?

Every 2 to 3 days. And add some sugar to feed to microbes (4 tablespoons).

Here's why UK gardeners are raving about bokashi bins:

  • Indoor Alchemy: Keep your composting undercover, even in a flat! Ideal for cities and chilly climes.
  • Speedy Success: Fertilise your soil in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
  • Waste Warrior: Divert food scraps from landfill, reducing your carbon footprint and enriching your patch.
  • Odourless Oasis: No more nose-wrinkling odours – just a tangy, pickled aroma like fermented cabbage.
  • Nutrient Ninja: Bokashi compost is teeming with beneficial microbes, boosting plant growth and soil health.
  • Versatility Unleashed: Use it in soil mixes, top-dress your lawn, or brew tea for thirsty houseplants.

Ready to unleash the pickling power of bokashi? Here's what you need:

  • A handy bokashi bin: Choose from airtight buckets, sleek countertop caddies, or even DIY contraptions.
  • Bokashi bran: This magical mix of bran inoculated with friendly bacteria gets the party started.
  • Scrappy enthusiasm: Collect all your kitchen scraps, from fruit peels to coffee grounds, and toss them in!

It's that simple! Start reaping the benefits of bokashi composting today and watch your garden thrive with turbocharged, odour-free fertiliser. So ditch the smelly heaps and say hello to the future of composting!

 

Bonus Tip: Check out UK-based bokashi suppliers and online communities for more tips, tricks, and bokashi bin bargains!

Wormery vs. Compost Bin: Which is best for Gardeners?

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Wormery vs. Compost Bin: Unraveling the Debate for Eco-Conscious Gardeners


In the realm of eco-friendly gardening practices, composting stands as a beacon of sustainability. But amidst the array of composting methods, two stand out as the frontrunners: wormeries and traditional compost bins. While both aim to transform organic waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments, they differ in their processes, outcomes, and suitability for various gardening scenarios.


Is a hot composter faster than worms?

Due to the increased heat allowed in a hot composter and without the need to keep worms alive at lower temperatures, a hot composter can be faster to decompose waste. 

What composter is best for dog poo?

Both will give you liquid you can dilute and feed to pot plants. Compost bins are good for creating soil you can use in the garden; worm farms can be used for cat and dog poo.

Is worm composting smelly?

Expect a good, earthy smell. It shouldn't smell much different than rich garden soil. You might expect worm waste to smell, but it simply isn't the case.

What are the top mistakes of having a worm farm?

  1. Mistake #1: Overfeeding
  2. Mistake #2: Too Wet or Too Dry Composting Bedding
  3. Mistake #3: Wrong Food
  4. Mistake #4: Too Hot or Too Cold
  5. Mistake #5: Forget to Harvest Worm Castings

How often do worms breed?

27 days from mating to laying eggs. Worms can double in population every 60 days.

Key differences of hot composters and wormeries?

  • Due to worms’ highly specialized digestive process, their waste contains bacteria and enzymes not present in compost. This is a more concentrated product of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
  • Worms can specialise in nutrients: 
    • Bacterial-dominant castings and compost are best-suited for annuals and grasses
    • Fungal-dominated castings and compost provide the most value to perennials and woody plants (e.g., trees and vines).

 


Wormeries: A Microcosm of Nature's Recycling Magic

At the heart of a wormery lies an army of tiny red wiggler worms, tirelessly devouring food scraps and other organic matter. These tireless workers break down organic matter into a rich, fertile compost called vermicompost. Unlike traditional compost bins that rely on heat and oxygen, wormeries thrive in a moist, neutral pH environment, making them ideal for indoor use or for those with limited space.

 

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Build Your Own Tiger Wormery Kit

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Tiger Wormery Kit - Green

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Tiger Wormeries

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4 Tier Grey Wormery


Benefits and Drawback of Wormeries.

Pros of Wormeries:

  • Compact and Space-Efficient: Wormeries are typically smaller and more manageable than traditional compost bins, making them suitable for apartment dwellers or those with limited outdoor space.
  • Faster Composting Cycle: Wormeries produce compost much quicker than traditional compost bins, often within a few months.
  • High-Quality Vermicompost: Vermicompost is considered to be of superior quality compared to traditional compost, containing higher levels of nutrients and beneficial microorganisms.
  • Less Odor: Wormeries generate minimal odor due to their controlled environment and the absence of odorous decomposition processes.

Cons of Wormeries:

  • More Demanding Maintenance: Wormeries require more frequent monitoring and adjustments to ensure optimal conditions for the worms.
  • Limited Waste Input: Wormeries can only process a certain amount of organic matter, making them unsuitable for large amounts of food scraps or yard waste.
  • More Sensitive to Environmental Factors: Wormeries are more susceptible to disruptions in temperature, moisture, and pH balance, which can affect worm activity and compost quality.

Traditional Compost Bins: A Versatile Composting Option

Traditional compost bins provide a larger and more versatile option for composting organic waste. They typically consist of open bins or tumblers, allowing for air circulation and natural decomposition by microorganisms. These bins can handle a wider range of organic materials, including yard waste, food scraps, and even some non-organic items like shredded paper.

 

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200 Litre Aerobin Hot Composter With Leachate Hose

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400 Litre Blackdown Range Single Leaf Mould Wooden Composter

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Gardening Naturally Compost Accelerator 500ml

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Easy  Tumbleweed 220L Compost Tumbler 


Benefits and Drawback of Composters

Pros of Traditional Compost Bins:

  • Handles Larger Volumes: Traditional compost bins can accommodate larger volumes of organic waste, making them suitable for households with more food scraps or yard waste.
  • Versatile Material Breakdown: Traditional compost bins can break down a wider range of organic materials, including yard waste, food scraps, and some non-organic items.
  • Less Maintenance: Traditional compost bins require less frequent monitoring and adjustments than wormeries.
  • Nourishes Beneficial Microorganisms: Traditional compost bins provide a habitat for beneficial microorganisms that play a crucial role in nutrient cycling.

Cons of Traditional Compost Bins:

  • Slower Composting Cycle: Traditional compost bins typically take longer to produce finished compost, often around 1-2 years.
  • Odour Emissions: During the composting process, traditional compost bins may emit some odor, especially in the initial stages.
  • Larger Footprint: Traditional compost bins occupy more space, making them less suitable for small gardens or limited outdoor areas.

Choosing what's best for you, worms or no worms?

The choice between a wormery and a traditional compost bin depends on individual needs and preferences. For those seeking a compact and space-saving solution with faster compost production and high-quality vermicompost, a wormery is an excellent choice. However, for those with larger quantities of organic waste, a traditional compost bin offers a more versatile and robust composting option. Ultimately, the best choice aligns with the individual's composting goals, available space, and lifestyle factors.

Whether you opt for a wormery or a traditional compost bin, both methods contribute to sustainable gardening practices, reducing household waste, and enriching soil health. By embracing these eco-friendly techniques, gardeners can foster a harmonious relationship with nature while cultivating thriving gardens.


Do Birds Really Need Your Help in Winter? Yes, and Here's Why

winter birds care

Do Birds Really Need Your Help in Winter? Yes, and Here's Why


As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, many of us start to worry about the well-being of our feathered friends. But do birds really need our help during the winter months? The answer is yes, and here's why. While birds have evolved to survive in colder temperatures, the harsh conditions of winter can still pose a threat to their health and survival. As natural food sources become scarce and water sources freeze over, birds often struggle to find enough nourishment to keep them going. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons why birds need our help in winter and how we can provide for them during this challenging season.

 

During winter, birds expend more energy to keep warm, and finding enough food can become a real challenge. Many insects and plants go dormant during this time, leaving birds with limited options. Additionally, the cold weather can freeze water sources, making it difficult for birds to drink or bathe. This lack of hydration can lead to dehydration and health problems.

But we can make a difference by providing them with the care they need. By setting up bird feeders and providing a freshwater source, we can help birds stay nourished and hydrated throughout the winter. Not only does this help them survive, but it also brings joy to our lives as we observe these beautiful creatures visiting our gardens. So, let's dive in and explore the different ways we can support birds during the winter season.

 

Understanding the challenges birds face in winter

Winter can be a challenging time for birds, as they face numerous obstacles to their survival. The cold temperatures require birds to use more energy to stay warm, which means they need to find additional sources of food. However, many insects and plants go dormant during the winter months, leaving birds with limited options for sustenance. This scarcity of food can lead to malnutrition and even death for some species.

Additionally, water sources often freeze over during winter, making it difficult for birds to find hydration. Without access to water, birds can become dehydrated and suffer from health problems.

Furthermore, extreme weather conditions, such as storms and heavy snowfall, can disrupt the birds' natural habitats and make it harder for them to find shelter.

Understanding these challenges is crucial in order to provide the necessary care for birds during winter. By setting up bird feeders filled with high-energy foods like seeds and nuts, we can help supplement their diet and ensure they receive the nutrition they need to survive. Additionally, providing a source of fresh water, such as a heated birdbath, can help birds stay hydrated during the freezing temperatures.

By being aware of the challenges birds face in winter and taking steps to provide them with the necessary care, we can play a vital role in their survival during this difficult season.

 

Providing shelter and food for birds during winter

During the cold winter months, it's essential to provide shelter and food for our feathered friends. Setting up bird feeders is a simple and effective way to offer them a reliable source of nourishment. Fill the feeders with high-energy foods like seeds and nuts, which will provide birds with the necessary nutrients to keep them healthy and warm. Consider placing different types of feeders at varying heights to accommodate a variety of bird species. Additionally, providing a sheltered area, such as a birdhouse or dense shrubs, can give birds a safe place to roost and seek protection from the harsh weather conditions. Remember to regularly clean and refill the feeders to ensure birds always have access to fresh food. By providing shelter and food, we can make a significant difference in supporting birds during the winter season and help them thrive during this challenging time. 

TOP TIP: Make sure feed is easy to eat, every little helps when it comes to conserving energy. Husk and Hull free food is faster to eat and cleaner. 

Transform your feeder into a shelter

With a few simple adaptations, you can provide extra support to your garden birds during the colder months. 

  • Turn nest boxes upside down. This keeps it warmer and seal and cracks to create an insulated house leaving the bottom entrance.
  • Use celotex or kingspan or whatever bedding materials you can find to warm the inner walls.
  • Wedge large twigs in for a perch to stand on.
  • Cover the base with sawdust, dry leaves or moss. General alternatives to sawdust also work such as horse bedding paper or absorbant hamster bedding.
  • Try to position the box for drainage, slightly tilted forward to allow rain runoff to to flow away. 

 

The infamous winter bird, the Robin

70% of Robins will die within their first year. Their first winter is the hardest and they are incredibly teritorial.

As great pest eaters, singers of beautiful songs and a gardener's companion during the colder months, Robins are value assets to any garden and great to have around. 

By supplementing their diet with insect rich food you can help to keep them and their chicks supported. Robins are ground feeders but will often feed from tables and when comfortable in a garden become quite tame and feed from anywhere their favourite grub is found. 

 

Additional tips for caring for birds in winter

As we continue to support our feathered friends during the winter season, there are a few additional tips we can keep in mind to ensure their well-being. First, it's important to clean the bird feeders regularly to prevent the spread of disease. Use a mild solution of water and bleach to clean the feeders, making sure to rinse them thoroughly before refilling. Additionally, consider providing a variety of foods to attract different bird species. Some birds prefer seeds, whilst others may be more drawn to suet or fruit. By offering a diverse range of food options, we can cater to the different dietary needs of birds and attract a wider variety of species to our gardens. Finally, it's crucial to create a safe environment for birds by reducing window collisions. You can apply window decals or use blinds to make windows more visible to birds, preventing unnecessary injuries or fatalities. By implementing these additional tips, we can go above and beyond in caring for birds during the winter season.

 

bird nest boxbird nest box

New England Bird Nest Box

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Barrel Bird Nester Box

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Barrel Bird Nester Box


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