Published on: 21 March 2018
Last Updated on: 29 July 2024
It may be a challenging task to remove fleas from your lawn. This can drive somebody crazy, sick and tired of spending a huge sum of money to buy chemicals with a view to expelling fleas for good. All efforts go up in smoke due to wrong methods. Is there any right, natural way to make their dream come true? Yes, here is the answer that is proven for green pest control in Minnetonka.
Natural ways to kill fleas in your lawn :
source
Spray thoroughly your whole lawn with natural ingredients: Nowadays, many industrial products are available for your choice, yet they can be harmful to your health. Why don’t you make use of fewer but multifunctional things right in your kitchen? Vinegar or lemon is accepted. As for vinegar, mix ½ vinegar with ½ fresh water. As for lemon, slice them and boil in at least 20 minutes. Either vinegar or lemon, you also end up pouring the combined water into a spray bottle in order to sprinkle your lawn. This handmade flea killer is friendly to the environment, hence you can utilize it day in and day out.
Flood your lawn: After spraying, don’t rush to flood right away. Take some time, about at least 2 hours, to kill the adults. So, what about larvae and eggs? Just flood your lawn slightly to soak up and eradicate them. Maintain the flood in a couple of minutes, and drain your lawn as fast as possible.
Natural ways to prevent fleas re-infesting :
Source
Rake your lawn to get rid of all shrubs, littered pots, trash and leaves: In fact, this step is indispensable in the whole process of getting rid of tenacious pests. Many people are wondering why they treat flea inside their home and in their pets already, but flea infestation does not decrease or boom just after a short period. Simply it is because of your uncompleted treatment, and you have skipped one of the most potential areas, your lawn. Fleas can live outdoors until they find a good chance to jump into your house or your pets, and their favorite environment is a moist, dark place. They can find it easier to escape from your “checking-radar” if hiding under a bottle or rotten leaves. After raking all useless items, don’t pile them up. Instead, clear up and throw away as soon as possible. The cleaner your lawn is, the lower the percentage of being infestation is.
Mow your lawn: Mowing is one of the most useful methods to remove flea in the lawn. It can be understandable because to let your lawn long also means to create “an ideal shield” for fleas’ larvae and eggs. In addition, short lawn also allows sunlight to deeply penetrate into while fleas really hate daylight. Nonetheless, don’t try to cut your lawn as short as possible as the too-short, on the contrary, can make your lawn weaker and more attractive to fleas and even other animals like ants.
Don’t overwater: As aforementioned, fleas prefer moist, as a result, you should prepare for an appropriate watering schedule and leave your lawn to dry. Moreover, a good drainage system is enormously useful.
Minimize other animals’ contact to your lawn: Outside your fence may be a huge potential to be infested by fleas, coming from wildlife animals. Build up a fence around your lawn to protect your lawn and your house as well.
Sound simple, right? In fact, it really is. All the mentioned methods are so cost-effective and practical. They are really worth a try.
Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.
The decision to pursue further education is a significant milestone for young adults, signaling a transition toward independence and self-exploration. Among the various accommodation options available, student apartments have gained popularity due to their appeal.
They share a mix of freedom, convenience, and community, enhancing the academic journey in diverse ways compared to traditional dorms or off-campus housing.
Benefits of Staying in a Student Apartment
As a student, you probably have two places to live — on-campus and off-campus. Now, most people tend to choose the first option due to the security it offers. However, if you ask me, I’d always choose the latter for five specific reasons.
Here’s what you need to know about them.
1: A Haven of Independence
Student apartments serve as sanctuaries of independence.
Unlike traditional dorms, these living spaces offer a heightened sense of autonomy, providing students with the freedom to curate their environment according to their preferences.
From choosing roommates to decorating the space, the core ability to personalize their living quarters fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility. Besides, it will also help you nurture essential life skills that transcend the academic sphere.
2: Communal Dynamics
Living in a student apartment is more than just securing a roof overhead; it's about building a vibrant community. Most of these spaces often house a diverse mix of individuals, fostering an environment ripe for cultural exchange and forging lifelong friendships.
The shared experiences, collaborative study sessions, and impromptu gatherings create an enriching social tapestry that contributes significantly to a student's holistic growth.
3: Enhanced Amenities and Facilities
Student apartments frequently come equipped with an array of amenities designed to cater to the modern student's needs.
From well-appointed study lounges and fitness centers to recreational areas and communal kitchens, these facilities are tailored to support students —
Academically,
Physically, and
Socially
Such conveniences augment the overall living experience, promoting both productivity and relaxation within arm's reach.
4: Proximity to Campus
Location plays a pivotal role in a student's life, and student apartments often boast strategic proximity to campus grounds. The convenience of being just a stone's throw away from lecture halls, libraries, and other academic facilities —
Not only save precious commuting time
But also fosters a stronger sense of connection to the university community.
5: Financial Prudence
While the prospect of independent living might seem financially daunting, student apartments often offer cost-effective solutions compared to other housing options.
Shared living arrangements and split rental expenses among roommates can also significantly alleviate the financial burden.
Moreover, some apartment complexes provide inclusive utilities or amenities, streamlining expenses and offering a more predictable budget for students.
How to Choose the Right Student Apartment?
Picking the right type of student accommodation as a new college student can greatly impact your university experience. Unlike standard rentals, student housing offers access to a lot of student-focused amenities, support systems, and opportunities to connect with peers.
Additionally, it tends to be a more budget-friendly choice. But, the question is — how do you choose the best option amongst everything that’s available out there? Let’s find out.
1. Location Matters
Location is paramount when selecting a student apartment. So, be sure to consider its proximity to your campus, amenities, and other essential facilities.
Living closer to campus can save time and money on commuting, allowing you to attend classes, access resources, and engage in campus activities more conveniently.
Additionally, a location with easy access to grocery stores, restaurants, and public transportation can enhance your overall convenience and comfort.
2. Budget Wisely
Establish a realistic budget before apartment hunting. Consider not only the monthly rent but also additional expenses like utilities, internet, and groceries.
Ensure your budget allows for these costs while also leaving room for unexpected expenses. It's advisable to prioritize affordability without compromising on safety and comfort.
3. Roommates and Space
Choosing the right roommates can significantly impact your living experience.
Discuss preferences, habits, and responsibilities beforehand to ensure compatibility. Additionally, consider the space offered by the apartment.
Ensure it provides enough room for privacy, studying, and relaxation.
4. Safety and Security
Prioritize safety and security when selecting a student apartment.
Look for various well-lit areas, and secure locks, and consider the neighborhood's safety track record. Research the building's security measures, like CCTV cameras, secure entrances, and emergency protocols, to ensure your peace of mind.
5. Amenities and Facilities
Evaluate the amenities and facilities offered by the apartment complex.
Look for features that align with your needs and preferences, such as laundry facilities, gym access, study rooms, and communal spaces. These can enhance your living experience and provide opportunities for socializing and relaxation.
6. Lease Terms and Flexibility
Review the lease terms thoroughly before signing any agreements.
Understand the duration of the lease, policies on subletting, maintenance responsibilities, and any additional fees. Ensure the lease terms are flexible enough to accommodate any changes in your academic or personal circumstances.
7. Visit and Inspect
Schedule visits to potential apartments before making a decision. Inspect the condition of the apartment, checking for any damages or maintenance issues.
Also, do pay attention to details like water pressure, heating, and cooling systems, as these can significantly impact your comfort.
8. Research the Landlord or Management Company
Gather information about the landlord or management company managing the property.
Read reviews and seek opinions from current or previous tenants to understand their reputation regarding responsiveness to maintenance requests, fairness in dealing with tenants, and overall professionalism.
9. Transportation and Parking
If you own a vehicle or rely on transportation, consider parking availability and transportation options near the apartment. Evaluate parking fees, accessibility to public transportation, and bicycle storage if relevant to your needs.
10. Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a student apartment. If something doesn't feel right or if you have lingering doubts, explore other options. Your living space should feel comfortable, safe, and conducive to your academic success and well-being.
Final Thoughts
The allure of student apartment living lies not just in the physical space but in the myriad of experiences and opportunities it affords.
Beyond mere accommodation, these spaces serve as incubators for personal growth, fostering independence, community, and responsibility.
By offering a mix of convenience, affordability, and flexibility, student apartments seamlessly complement the academic journey Embracing this specific lifestyle choice can prove to be a transformative and rewarding chapter in a student's educational odyssey.
Read Also:
Wooden Modern Desk: A Complete Guide
Brunswick Apartments For Sale: 4 Inspection Tips For Buyers
Real Estate Agents In Dubai: Your Gateway To The Luxurious Property Market
Storage space is essential for any home. This is particularly true if your house is on the small side – you need enough space for all your things and belongings, and it could quickly become an issue if you don't have enough space for everything you have.
Where will you store items such as sports equipment, tools, and so on? While you may be able to hire a self-storage facility, do you really want to? If you put your things in a self-storage facility, you will not have access to it at any time. There is a solution, however: your very own garden shed.
Check out the Shed Prices from different providers and compare them to find the most suitable one for your garden.
Here are the top reasons why you could certainly benefit from a garden shed:
1. More storage
As already mentioned, you could benefit from more storage space if you have a garden shed. If you have a garden shed, you can easily fill it with various items and equipment, from sports equipment to garden tools to bikes to barbecues and everything in between – stuff you don’t need all the time, but which would be nice to have handy. With a garden shed, you can have all these things stored and protected from the elements.
2. Enhanced value for your property
If you have extra storage because of a garden shed, your home's value can also increase. If you ever think of selling your property in the future, your garden shed could be a unique and invaluable selling point. Everyone loves extra storage, after all.
3. Free up space in your home
By having a garden shed, you can free up space in your home. You can place whatever oddly- or awkwardly-shaped items or belongings you have in the garden shed, therefore making your home more spacious. Your living space will be much more pleasant without all the clutter.
4. Extra space for hobbies and activities
Your garden shed can also have a dual purpose: you can make use of your garden shed not just as a storage area but also as a place where you can engage in various hobbies. You can also make your shed look more aesthetically pleasing by adding windows. These can be made using polycarbonate by Simply Plastics. You can make your garden shed a place where you can do arts and crafts, you can convert it into a gym, or you can make it your very own ‘man (or woman) cave’. There are endless possibilities when you have a garden shed, especially when it’s well-built. To make sure your garden shed is well-built, you should rely on a good builder and manufacturer of garden sheds, such as AB Fencing, who have been specialists in garden sheds and fences for years – just have a look at their website. But if you're a do-it-yourself type of guy, then you could build one yourself and buildeazy.com has a perfect guide for you.
You have yet another option when it comes to your garden shed – you can use it as a summerhouse where guests can stay and where you can do some entertaining. A garden shed can be a very useful addition to any property, and it can even transform your home and property's look and make it a more pleasant place for everyone.
Read Also :
4 Essential Tools Needed To Maintain Your Garden In The Winter
5 Tips To Keeping Animals Away From Your Garden
5 Summer Garden Maintenance Tips And Tactics You Have To Know
Basil is one of the most popular and versatile herbs you can grow in your garden or indoors. It has a fresh and aromatic flavor that can enhance any dish, from salads and soups to pizzas and pastas. Basil is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants just like cilantro. It can benefit your health and well-being. But how do you harvest basil properly so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves?
If these are some of the things you want to know, I have you covered! In this article, I will answer all these questions and more and give you everything you need to know about harvesting basil! So, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more…
How to Harvest Basil Leaves?
The first thing you need to know about harvesting basil is when to do it. The best time to harvest basil leaves is in the morning when the plant is still fresh and moist. Avoid harvesting basil in the afternoon or evening when the plant is dry and wilted. Also, avoid harvesting basil when it is raining or wet, as this can cause the leaves to rot or mold.
Steps to Harvest Basil Leaves
To harvest basil leaves, you will need a pair of scissors or a sharp knife and a basket or a bowl to collect the leaves. You can also use your fingers to pinch off the leaves, but be careful not to damage the stem or the plant. Here are the steps to follow:
Start from the top of the plant, and look for the stems with leaf clusters. These are called the terminal buds, and they are where the basil flowers will grow. You want to remove these buds, as they will make the plant stop producing new leaves and focus on flowering and seeding. This will reduce the flavor and quality of the basil leaves.
Cut or pinch off the stem just below the terminal bud, leaving about a quarter of an inch of stem above the next pair of leaves. This will encourage the plant to grow two new stems from the leaf nodes and produce more leaves. You can also cut or pinch off any other stems that are too long or leggy and leave about four to six pairs of leaves on each stem.
Repeat this process for all the stems that have terminal buds, and collect the leaves in your basket or bowl. You can also harvest some of the lower leaves but leave enough leaves on the plant to allow it to photosynthesize and grow. You should not harvest more than a third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and reduce its growth and health.
After harvesting, rinse the leaves with water and pat them dry with a paper towel. You can use them fresh or store them for later use.
How to Harvest Basil So It Keeps Growing
One of the benefits of harvesting basil is that it stimulates the plant to grow more leaves and branches and prevents it from flowering and seeding.
However, you need to harvest basil regularly and correctly, so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves.
Here are some tips to follow. For instance, you must harvest basil:
At least once every two weeks, or more often if you see the terminal buds forming. This will keep the plant bushy and compact and prevent it from becoming woody and bitter.
From different parts of the plant, and not always from the same spot. This will ensure that the plant grows evenly and does not become lopsided or uneven.
Before it flowers. This is because the flowers will reduce the flavor and quality of the leaves. If you see any flowers forming, remove them as soon as possible. You can also pinch off the flowers and use them as edible garnishes or decorations, as they have a mild and sweet flavor.
Before the frost, as the cold weather will kill the plant. You can either harvest the whole plant and store it for later use, or bring it indoors and keep it in a sunny and warm spot. You can also propagate the plant by taking cuttings and rooting them in water or soil and grow new plants for the next season.
How to Harvest Basil Without Killing The Plant?
Harvesting basil is different from harvesting lettuce or other plants. The process is good for the plant and you, as you can enjoy the fresh and aromatic leaves in your dishes.
However, you need to be careful not to harvest too much or too often, as this can harm and kill the plant.
Here are some dos and don'ts of harvesting basil without killing it:
Do harvest basil from the top of the plant, not the bottom or the middle. This will allow the plant to grow stems and leaves from the lower nodes and maintain its shape and structure.
Don't harvest basil from the main stem or cut it too close to the ground. This will damage the plant and prevent it from growing new stems and leaves. Leave at least four to six pairs of leaves on each stem and about an inch of stem above the ground.
Do harvest basil gently and carefully, and not roughly or forcefully. This will avoid injuring the plant and exposing it to diseases or pests. Use a sharp and clean tool, such as scissors or a knife, and make clean and smooth cuts. You can also use your fingers to pinch off the leaves but be gentle and precise.
Don't harvest basil when it is stressed or unhealthy, such as when it is wilting, yellowing, or diseased. This will weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to further damage. Wait until the plant recovers and looks healthy and green before harvesting. You can also water and fertilize the plant to help it grow and thrive.
Do harvest basil when it is young and tender, not old and tough. This will ensure the leaves are fresh, flavorful, and not bitter or woody. Harvest basil when the leaves are about two to three inches long before they curl or turn brown.
How to Pick Basil Leaves?
Picking basil leaves is another way to harvest and use the leaves in your dishes. You can pick basil leaves with your fingers or with a pair of tweezers, depending on your preference and convenience. Here are some tips on how to pick basil leaves. For instance, you can pick it:
From the top of the plant, not the bottom or the middle. This will allow the plant to grow stems and leaves from the lower nodes and maintain its shape and structure.
From the stems that have terminal buds, not from those that have none. This will prevent the plant from flowering and seeding and producing more leaves. You can also pick some of the lower leaves but leave enough leaves on the plant to allow it to photosynthesize and grow.
Gently and carefully, and not roughly or forcefully. This will avoid injuring the plant and exposing it to diseases or pests. Use your fingers to pinch off the leaves or a pair of tweezers to pluck them off. Be gentle and precise, and do not pull or tug on the leaves or the stems.
When they are young and tender and not when they are old and tough, this will ensure the leaves are fresh, flavorful, and not bitter or woody. Pick basil when the leaves are about two to three inches long before they curl or turn brown.
How to Store Basil Leaves?
Storing basil leaves is a great way to preserve and enjoy them for later use. You can store basil leaves in different ways, depending on how long you want to keep them and how you want to use them. Here are some of the best ways to store basil leaves:
Refrigerate Them
You can refrigerate basil leaves for up to a week, by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and placing them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. This will keep them moist and fresh, and prevent them from wilting or drying out. However, you should not wash them.
Freeze Them
You can freeze basil leaves for up to six months, by blanching them in boiling water for a few seconds, and then plunging them in ice water to stop the cooking process. This will preserve their color and flavor, and prevent them from browning or oxidizing. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel, and place them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. You can also chop them and mix them with some olive oil, and freeze them in ice cube trays. This will make it easier to use them in soups, sauces, or dressings.
Dry Them
You can dry basil leaves for up to a year, by hanging them upside down in a warm and dry place, such as a closet or a pantry. This will dehydrate them and concentrate their flavor, and make them last longer. However, you should avoid drying them in direct sunlight, as this can bleach them and reduce their quality. You can also dry them in an oven or a microwave, but be careful not to burn them or overcook them. Once they are dry, you can store them in a glass jar or a spice container, and crush them or grind them before using them.
Make Pesto
You can make pesto with basil leaves, by blending them with some garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This will create a delicious and versatile sauce that you can use for pasta, sandwiches, salads, or dips. You can store pesto in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to six months. You can also customize pesto by adding other herbs, nuts, cheeses, or spices, according to your taste and preference.
How to Cut Basil?
Cutting basil is a simple and easy way to harvest and use the leaves in your dishes. You can cut basil with scissors, a knife, or your fingers, depending on your preference and convenience.
Here are some tips on how to cut basil:
Wash and dry the basil leaves before cutting them to remove any dirt or insects. You can rinse them under running water or soak them in a water bowl with a few drops of vinegar. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel or spin them in a salad spinner.
Cut the basil leaves just before using them, to preserve their flavor and aroma. If you cut them too early, they will lose their freshness and wilt. You can also bruise or damage the leaves if you cut them too roughly or with a dull tool.
Cut the basil leaves according to the size and shape that you need for your recipe. You can either leave them whole or chop them finely or coarsely. You can also cut them into ribbons or strips, by stacking several leaves together, rolling them up, and slicing them thinly. This is called the chiffonade technique, and it creates a beautiful and elegant garnish.
Cut the basil leaves with a sharp and clean tool, such as scissors or a knife, and not with a blender or a food processor. This will avoid bruising or crushing the leaves and releasing their oils and juices. You can also use your fingers to tear or pinch off the leaves but be gentle and careful.
How to Use Basil Leaves?
Using basil leaves is a fun and easy way to add flavor and aroma to your dishes. You can use basil leaves in different ways, depending on your mood and occasion. Here are some of the best ways to use basil leaves:
Fresh
You can use fresh basil leaves to garnish and enhance your dishes, such as salads, soups, pizzas, and pastas. Also you can use fresh basil leaves to make salads, such as caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, or Greek salad with cucumbers, feta cheese, and basil. You can also use fresh basil leaves to make drinks, such as lemonade, tea, or cocktails, with basil, lemon, sugar, and water.
Cooked
You can use cooked basil leaves to flavor and season your dishes, such as sauces, stews, curries, and casseroles. Also you can use cooked basil leaves to make dishes, such as tomato sauce with basil, garlic, and onion, or chicken with basil, cream, and mushrooms. You can also use cooked basil leaves to make breads, such as focaccia with basil, olive oil, and salt, or muffins with basil, cheese, and eggs.
Preserved
You can use preserved basil leaves to store and enjoy them for later use, such as freezing, drying, or making pesto. Also you can use preserved basil leaves to make dishes, such as pesto pasta with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese, or roasted vegetables with basil, olive oil, and salt. You can also use preserved basil leaves to make snacks, such as crackers with basil, cheese, and honey, or popcorn with basil, butter, and salt.
Wrapping It Up!
Basil is a wonderful herb that you can grow and harvest in your garden or indoors. It has a fresh and aromatic flavor that can enhance any dish, and a rich and nutritious profile that can benefit your health and well-being. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can learn how to harvest basil properly, so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves, how to cut basil, pick basil leaves, and store them for later use, and how to use basil leaves in different and delicious ways.
Read Also:
Some Facts You Need to Know About Rainwater Harvesting
Asparagus 101: When, How, And How Often To Harvest?
Exploring Ideas For A Biophilic Home Design
