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  • How I Maintain My Eco-Friendly, Natural Hot Tub – Garden Therapy

    How I Maintain My Eco-Friendly, Natural Hot Tub – Garden Therapy

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    When I first started researching getting a hot tub, I was quickly overwhelmed. What do you put under a hot tub? How do you move it? Do you really need all those chemicals? Here’s what I learned along the way and how I made a natural hot tub using second-hand materials.

    If you read The Regenerative Garden, you know I have a whole chapter dedicated to the ethics of reducing waste and energy. So, it may come as a surprise that one of the first projects I worked on for my new garden was a hot tub!

    With all the energy and chemicals a hot tub requires, I hesitated with the choice. But I knew it would be a game changer for me for me as someone who struggles with chronic pain.

    I considered a wood-fired hot tub. As beautiful as they look, it’s not a practical solution for me to use daily to help with the pain associated with my disability.

    Instead, I found an older hot tub that needs some TLC but works really well. I’m excited to show you how I installed my hot tub, renovated it, and changed things up to make it as eco-friendly as possible.

    Here’s what I’ll be covering today…

    hot tub shelves and planthot tub shelves and plant
    I decorated my hot tub wall with shelves complete with houseplants.

    The Hot Tub Before

    I got my hot tub second-hand off of Facebook Marketplace. It included not only the hot tub, but also the surrounding privacy gazebo and an outdoor shower. The previous owner was a man who worked in the film industry as a carpenter, so everything was made from recycled materials, which I assume came from the leftovers from set.

    Moving a hot tub wasn’t easy. I paid specialty movers to move it from his house to mine, which ended up costing just as much as the hot tub itself.

    I moved everything to my place, and now I am repurposing and rebuilding instead of sending all these materials to the landfill.

    The best part is that I had instant privacy and a backdrop. Since then, I’ve made some upgrades and repairs and added my own touch.

    decorating a small patiodecorating a small patio
    The finished patio and hot tub.

    Step 1: The Hot Tub Base

    My first task was to prepare the base before the hot tub arrived. Previously, the area had an old shed that I removed and recycled.

    I dug into the soil, making it as even as possible. I set down a layer of landscape fabric and then a layer of crush gravel about 3 inches deep. This will provide some drainage for any water that splashes out.

    On top of the crush layer, I added some 2 ft. x 2 ft. cement paving slabs that I bought at the hardware store.

    I considered pouring concrete, but I wanted to ensure there was drainage, and the paving stones would provide a really stable base.

    Step 2: The Privacy Wall

    Next to the base, I set up some concrete footers that would hold the privacy wall posts. Rather than dig a footer into the ground, I bought these holders that can fit a 4×4 post right in it. This means the screen isn’t set directly in the ground and can be moved if I wish.

    The posts are pressure treated lumber and the walls are cedar, treated with Shou Sugi Ban. This is a Japanese wood burning technique where the wood isn’t stained but burned and then coated with a natural oil.

    This helps to preserve the wood, making it resistant to sunlight and water. If you touch it, you can get the char on your hands, but it really creates a beautiful charcoal finish that highlights the wood grain.

    The roof is open above the hot tub and has decorative beams, which are also pressure-treated and recycled.

    hot tub privacy wall with shelves and houseplantshot tub privacy wall with shelves and houseplants
    Here, you can see the beautiful charring of the Shou Sugi Ban.

    Step 3: Insulating the Hot Tub

    Since my hot tub is second-hand, I had to do some work on the insulation inside the panels. Once I opened the panels, I noticed lots of animal damage. Critters had gone inside to nest and nibble.

    We removed any old, bad insulation and replaced it with hard foam. This spray foam is resistant to mice, rats, and other rodents who might sneak in. When you spray it, it expands and hardens and should be long-lasting.

    Overall, this will improve the hot tub’s energy efficiency, allowing it to retain heat better and use fewer resources.

    hot tub at nighthot tub at night
    After insulating, I put the panels back on, and it looks as good as new.

    Step 4: Finding the Right Electrical

    When looking for an eco-friendly hot tub, I had to ask what power source I would need. I could go with a 110V or a 220 V hot tub.

    110V hot tubs are considered plug-and-play. They don’t require any kind of special outlet. They tend to be lighter hot tubs and can have both jets and heat…but you can’t use them at the same time. You still need to ensure there is enough power for this kind of hot tub and that it has its own breaker.

    220V hot tubs are heavier to move and require special hot tub movers. 220V requires a special outlet, which fridges, ovens, and washing machines also use. They’re more efficient in the long run, despite their initial challenges.

    I had an electrician come over and install a special outlet for my hot tub. With a 220V, I don’t have to worry about putting everything at max power to do everything.

    I will say that I did have to move my hot tub later after the movers had come and gone, and it took three people to move it 90 degrees. It was really difficult, and we ended up prying it up with a piece of wood and putting metal bars underneath to swing it into position.

    natural hot tub at nightnatural hot tub at night
    The hot tub I ended up purchasing secondhand was a 220V.

    Step 5: Outdoor Shower

    When I bought the outdoor shower, it also came with an outdoor shower. I put this beside the hot tub, adding a French drain underneath and digging down so it could properly drain.

    It is a propane shower, and it was all built into what I had purchased. Unfortunately, the pipe had burst and I needed new pipes to make the shower work at my house.

    I’m going to make an entire post about my outdoor shower, but let me just say, I use it ALL the time. I’ve already gone an entire week not using my shower inside since I’m using my outdoor shower so much.

    Step 6: Hot Tub Cover

    The hot tub cover that came with the hot tub was no longer good. Which is to be expected! They last for around five years.

    Mine was filled with water, so I recycled it and got a new one.

    I also put in a bar lifter. It allows me to fold half and then use the bar to lift the cover onto the bench I have behind the hot tub. This makes it super easy to lift and use even when I’m in pain and my mobility is restricted.

    outdoor patio at nightoutdoor patio at night
    The patio looks especially lovely during dusk.

    Step 7: The Chemical Dilemma

    As I mentioned, I was a little hesitant about the chemicals I would need to use for my natural hot tub. So, I did a lot of research before deciding what to do with my hot tub.

    I’ll start off by saying that I am not an expert, and this is just what has worked for me. I have not had my water tested.

    I use very little chemicals for my natural hot tub. I start off by filling my hot tub with an RV water filter attached to the hose. I fill it over the hot tub filter, so there are no heavy metals in my hot tub water. The cleaner the water that goes in, the better.

    I clean my hot tub filter very often. To do this, I just remove it and hose it down. You also should replace your hot tub filter every year.

    I also do my best to prevent any additional bacteria from getting in. Every time someone comes into the hot tub, they use the outdoor shower. I also shock it after people who don’t belong to my household have been in it.

    Hot Tub Chemical Alternatives

    For my bacteria cleaner, I opted for bromine instead of chlorine. Here are some other non-chlorine hot tub options I considered but didn’t go with:

    • Salt water also sounded good, but they were quite expensive. I also found that the salt turns into chlorine in the water anyway so it would do the same thing as just putting in chlorine.
    • Ionizers neutralize the bacteria and sterilize it, but they also add more heavy metals to the water. These metals can be absorbed through the skin and can also affect other parts of the hot tub.
    • UV lighting can sterilize the bacteria in the plumbing so it can’t grow. However, you still need some chlorine or bromine to get rid of the pathogenic bacteria that still exists. I might install this down the road, but right now, I’m doing okay!

    I also need to increase the pH of the water. To do this, I sprinkle in baking soda. This is exactly what I do with my bath bombs when I have a bath!

    Overall, that’s all I have added to my water: bromine and baking soda. By showering and cleaning the filter often, my water is crystal clear and beautiful.

    The whole process has reminded me of soap making, and I approach it with the same process. I ask  myself, how can I make it as natural as possible, test it out, and see how my skin reacts.

    eco-friendly hot tub and patioeco-friendly hot tub and patio
    After using the hot tub, I sit for a bit on my sectional with a towel and water-resistant blanket.

    The Benefits of My Natural Hot Tub

    A little while back, I hurt my back. To help alleviate the pain, I soaked in my hot tub twice a day. It was precisely why I wanted to include a hot tub in my backyard design, as I knew I would need to rely on it during times like these.

    While I initially struggled with the idea of the hot tub due to its energy and chemical requirements, I’ve already proven to myself how great of a choice it has been, especially since it’s second-hand and gets so much use.

    The pain relief is giving me back my life, so it’s worth every penny for someone with chronic pain.

    My dermatologist said it was bad for my skin and my rosacea, but I said I don’t care since I’ve seen such an improvement in my pain and mobility.

    Not long ago, I got sick. I did circuits in the hot tub, spending 15 minutes in the heat, then an ice-cold shower, followed by ten minutes of rest. Then, I would repeat it, doing it a total of three times.

    Afterward, I felt like a million bucks. Yes, I was still showing sick symptoms, but I could still go about my day this way.

    Hot Tub Water Usage

    My other concern was the water usage. Yes, this is a 1,000-litre hot tub and it does consume quite a bit of water.

    But in the end, I’m actually reducing my water usage. Normally, I will take baths to combat my chronic pain. With the average bath consuming about 94.6 litres, it would take me 11 dips in the hot tub to already be saving water.

    And considering I go in every day, sometimes twice a day, it’s making a big difference!

    My Natural Hot Tub Today

    As you can see, I’ve made my natural hot tub one of the most relaxing spaces in my home. The walls give me all the privacy I need, and I’ve decorated them with shelves to feel extra homey.

    I added in some fun lights for ambience, which are all controlled with a remote. I love using all kinds of colours at night, and it instantly sets the mood.

    Next to my hot tub is my patio, which you can see more of here. All together, I have one large entertaining space, and I can easily lounge and cool off when I’m done in the hot tub.

    natural hot tub at nightnatural hot tub at night
    Private, relaxing, and functional! The perfect backyard space.

    I’m just at the start of my eco-friendly hot tub journey, and I’m always trying to improve and tweak as I go. If you have any ideas or suggestions for me, leave them in the comments below!

    See More of My New House Updates

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    Stephanie Rose

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  • Herbal Guide to St. John’s Wort: How to Grow, Harvest, and Use St. Johns

    Herbal Guide to St. John’s Wort: How to Grow, Harvest, and Use St. Johns

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    St. John’s wort is a cheerful, useful plant that any herbalist can easily add to her medicine cabinet. Here is the history of the plant and how to grow it (or forage it). Plus, learn the benefits of St. John’s wort, plus three different ways you can use it. 

    Recently, I was out for a walk with my herbalist friend, Lori Snyder, and we started talking about St. John’s Wort. I met Lori a few years ago when she left a comment here on Garden Therapy, and I immediately recognized her name as a local herbal teacher in Vancouver who offers many herb walks and plant talks. I messaged her directly to say hello, and a friendship was born!

    Over the years, I have attended many of Lori’s herb walks, and plant medicine talks both in-person and online. On the day we chatted about St. John’s Wort, it was blooming all around us and Lori mentioned that with the worldwide uncertainly and stress, folks could really use some of its wonderful benefits.

    I invited Lori to share her wisdom with us today. I will hand it over to her now so you can get to know my dear friend and this timely healing herb.

    Wooden bowl with St. John's wort flowers inside. Wooden bowl with St. John's wort flowers inside.
    While no longer popular, St. John’s wort has a long history of herbal use.

    Herbal Guide to St. John’s Wort

    Written by Lori Snyder

    St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) is often labeled a weed which is not really her true identity nor a representation of her true gifts. After all, “wort” is an old English word for “herb”.

    The History of St John’s Wort

    Like so many ‘weeds,’ there can be a lot of conflicting information. Sometimes, we forget how long these medicinal healing plants have been growing with us and helping us stay balanced and healthy.

    Back in the 1800s, if your neighbour was sad, overwhelmed, and anxious (like many of us are today), you would have thought they were possessed! The village herbalist would recommend they drink St. John’s wort flower tea and after 6-8 weeks the neighbour would have reported that they felt like a light inside them had turned back on. That’s because this magical healing plant is said to help with mild to moderate depression.

    This has been proven true in modern times as well. In fact, research in Germany has recognized St. John’s wort to be helpful for depression officially since 1984.

    Close up of blooming yellow flowers on the St. John's wort plantClose up of blooming yellow flowers on the St. John's wort plant
    St. John’s wort flowers from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September.

    Growing the St. John’s Wort Plant

    St. John’s wort is described as a mid-size perennial with yellow flowers which differs from other Hypericums by the “perforations” in the leaf, filled with red resinous glands of hypericin and other active compounds.

    Planting: St John’s Wort spreads by seed and well as an active vegetative root.

    Height and Spread: It will grow to 0.9 m (3ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in).

    Zone: USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 10.

    Soil: St John’s Wort grows well in sand, clay, rocky soil or loam, and tolerates acidic to slightly alkaline pH.

    Light requirements:  St. John’s wort can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

    Watering: St. John’s wort prefers moist soil.

    Flowering: St. John’s wort is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by bees and flies. The plant is self-fertile.

    Invasive Species Alert

    In the US and Canada, St. John’s wort is often considered a noxious weed, also referred to as Klamath weed. The BC Invasive Species Council warns that St. John’s Wort can cause injury to light-skinned cattle and has a protective covering on the seeds that allows it to survive for up to 10 years. Additionally, a single plant can produce up to 100,000 seeds.

    Keep in mind that what is a weed to some is a wildflower to others. St. John’s Wort is full of wonderful properties beneficial for people, the land, and our pollinators.

    foraging st. john's wort by a chain link fenceforaging st. john's wort by a chain link fence
    St. John’s wort is a perennial, and self-fertile.

    Foraging the St. John’s Wort Plant

    You might find the St. John’s Wort plant growing anywhere soil has been disturbed. This includes open woods, grasslands, in dry sunny places, along roadways, in the cracks of sidewalks, alongside pastures, or even in your garden. I know Stephanie has some growing in her garden because I harvested some to infuse in oil on her windowsill during my last visit.

    You can identify St. John’s Wort by holding the leaf up to the light to look for the small glands that look like holes. The flower has ten times more glands than the leaf or stem, which is why it is so often used in herbalism.

    Harvesting St John’s Wort

    Its prevalence means that planting it in your garden is unnecessary; you can very likely find wild plants with plenty of flowers to share.

    I have harvested from late June into late August.

    The best time to harvest is in the mid-day when the medicinal properties are at its height.  Harvest the flower tops, leaf, and stem. The stems are quite stiff so best to use scissors.

    Harvesting st. john's wort in a basketHarvesting st. john's wort in a basket
    Never harvest more than 1/3 of the plant.

    St John’s Wort Benefits

    Now that you know how to identify and harvest this fascinating plant, let’s talk about why you should do so. The benefits of St. John’s wort are well-worth your efforts—here are just a few.

    St. John’s Wort for Depression and SAD

    The chemical component of ‘hypericin’ is known to interfere with monoamine oxidase (MOA), which contributes to depression.  Pharmaceutical products also act as MOA inhibitors; however, St. John’s Wort is slower-acting and has few side effects.

    Here in the Pacific Northwest, we can have long cloudy winters with little sun so I use this daily on my face as my moisturizer which is very effective for SAD.  Some people who are fair-skinned report that they are more sensitive to the sun when using St. John’s wort oil; however, the sun is not as strong in the winter so anyone applying it then should be fine.

    St. John's wort flowers in a wooden bowlSt. John's wort flowers in a wooden bowl
    Those with fair skin should be cautious about using St. John’s wort oil on their skin when the sun is strong.

    Digestive and Nervous System Benefits

    St John’s Wort is also used for the digestive and nervous system. It improves the absorption of nutrients and normalizes stomach acid levels which fluctuate as we age.  Helpful for ulcers, heartburn and bloating.

    It is also helpful with bedwetting, menstrual challenges, menopause, liver tension as it gently decongests and strengthens both liver and the gallbladder.

    St. John’s Wort as a Pain Reliever

    St. John’s Wort is said to be very helpful as a pain reliever and repairs skin tissue. I use it for my sciatica, applying the infused oil on my lower back and down my leg where the pain is.

    St. John’s Wort Side Effects and Warnings

    Please do not take St. John’s Wort with antidepressants without the supervision of an herbalist or medical practitioner. Like any herb, it is important that you research it and check with your health care professional before using it, as it might have any interactions with drug medications.

    A research paper in 2000 was published, which raised a new concern. St John’s Wort extract was shown to improve liver function. Although this would normally be considered to be a good thing, this paper raised the concern that improved liver function might cause pharmaceutical drugs to be broken down more quickly and could mean that people who needed to have a drug active in their system 24 hours per day, could now, in theory, have a gap where the drug was not active.

    This could potentially be a problem.

    For example, if a woman was taking the contraceptive pill and St. John’s Wort, then there could now be a time during 24 hours when her pill would not be actively working in her body, and she could, in theory, become pregnant.

    How to Use St. John’s Wort

    There are three ways I’d recommend to use this helpful plant: an oil, as a tincture, and as a dream pillow.

    How to Make St. John’s Wort Oil

    Infusing fresh flowers and leaves into vegetable oil makes a soothing facial oil that has many uses. Only fresh flowers can be used for infusions, not dried plant material.

    Infuse it into vegetable oil and place it in a sunny window to infuse in the sun for one month.

    The infused oil will turn a beautiful red. Then, strain out the plant material, bottle it, and label it.

    How to Use St. John’s Wort Oil

    There are many ways you can use this oil. A few ideas include:

    • as a facial oil
    • for back pain
    • sciatica
    • neuralgia
    • arthritic joints and arthritis
    • help heal wounds
    • heal surgical scars
    • assist with bruises and sprains

    Make a Tincture

    You can also make it into an alcohol tincture for seasonal affective disorder, liver congestion, shingles, nervous exhaustion, menopausal moods, viral infections, and jet lag.

    Alcohol tinctures are used to extract different chemical components that are alcohol soluble. Some folks are very precise in preparing weight and volume, but I prefer the simple folklore method of 1 part plant to 2 parts alcohol.

    Make sure the plant material is completely covered, shake daily for four weeks, then strain out the plant and label your bottle with the date.

    Tinctures can last up to 10 years.

    Dose 1-4 ml 3x daily.  I suggest noticing how you react to any type of stimulus as to the best dosage for your body type.

    DIY Dream Pillow

    Make a dream pillow with flowers and leaves and place it into a small cloth bag or a square piece of fabric and gather to tie up.

    Place under your pillow for nightmares, bad dreams, and fear of the dark.

    Final Thoughts About St. John’s Wort

    Friends helping friends is a good motto and I am grateful to Stephanie Rose for inviting me to write for Garden Therapy. We met a few years ago and over time have been growing our friendship.

    There is a lot of information and research on this bright little yellow flower that offers so much healing for us emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically. I am so grateful for her teachings and now we can harvest her medicine vs. spraying her with poisons that eventually poison us as we are all part of the same web.

    Chief Seattle once shared….The earth does not belong to man; man belongs to the earth.  All things are connected like the blood that unites us all.  Man did not weave the web of life; he was merely a strand in it.  Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself.

    Blessings, dear friends,

    All our relations,

    ~ Lori

    flowering bush of st. johns wortflowering bush of st. johns wort

    More Herbal Guides to Enjoy:

    3 Ways to Use St. John’s Wort

    St John’s wort is a fascinating plant filled with helpful medicinal properties. Learn three different methods for utilizing it, and enjoy the benefits.

    St. John’s Wort Oil

    • 1 cup vegetable oil
    • 1 handful St. John’s wort flowers must be fresh, not dried

    St. John’s Wort Tincture

    • 1 part St. Johns wort
    • 2 parts alcohol

    DIY Dream Pillow

    • 1 cloth bag or square piece of fabric
    • 1 handful of flowers and leaves

    To Make the Oil

    • Pour the oil into a glass jar, and add the flowers.

    • Let it sit on a sunny windowsill.

    • Infuse for one month.

    • Strain the flowers out and re-bottle the oil.

    To Make the Tincture

    • Combine the alcohol and plant, making sure that the plant material is completely covered.

    • Let it sit for four weeks, but make sure to shake it daily.

    • Strain out the plants and rebottle, then label.

    About the Author

    author and herbalist Lori Snyderauthor and herbalist Lori Snyder

    Lori Snyder is a Métis herbalist and educator sharing stories and teachings with children and adults in Vancouver, BC, for the last seven years. She has studied horticulture, aromatherapy, herbalism and permaculture and has a deep love for nature. Tsuu T’ina, Anishinaabe, Cree, Nakoda, and Nipissing Nations are mixed with her Scottish, French, and Celtic ancestry. She loves honouring the plants and their medicines which are growing all around us.

    You can find Lori on her website, on Instagram, on Facebook and at the Artists in residence at Hastings Community Centre.

    You can also take a fascinating online course with Swallowtail tours featuring Lori’s teachings, or join her at the Earthgleaners community guild where her teachings are being featured in July-Sept. If you are in (or will be in) the Vancouver area, you can even join her for an Airbnb experiences plant walk!

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    Stephanie Rose

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  • How to Attract Ladybugs to Your Garden + Why You Should

    How to Attract Ladybugs to Your Garden + Why You Should

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    Ladybugs can be a very helpful ally in the fight against plant-damaging pests. Thankfully, it’s fairly easy to get these cheery bugs into your garden, with these tips and tricks. Here’s what you need to know about how to attract ladybugs to your garden—and why you should.

    Organic gardening is wonderful. It ensures that everything you grow is completely safe and natural, which is especially important when growing food.

    The only problem is that aphids like to eat organic veggies, too! Having a squad of ladybugs on patrol in the garden can do wonders to get rid of common garden pests.

    This guide will tell you everything you need to attract and keep ladybugs in your garden and why you need to. Here’s what I’ll be covering today…

    ladybugs mating on a stemladybugs mating on a stem
    Ladybugs typically mate multiple times in the spring and early summer.

    Why You Need to Know How to Attract Ladybugs

    Not only are ladybugs absolutely beautiful with their cheery signature red and polka-dotted shells, but they are one of the good bugs you want in your garden. Wondering why? It’s all about what ladybugs eat!

    Ladybugs are pest-eating superheroes! They eat all the annoying little pests that you don’t want in your garden such as:

    • aphids
    • mealybugs
    • mites
    • scale
    • and lots of other bad bugs!

    Not only do ladybugs eat pests, but they eat a lot of them. In fact, one ladybug can eat 5,000 aphids over the course of its life! See why you should learn how to attract ladybugs?

    aphids on a stem - the perfect ladybug food!aphids on a stem - the perfect ladybug food!

    Ladybug Life Cycle

    To best attract ladybugs to your garden, it’s important to understand the ladybug life cycle and what they need in each stage of it. Here is a brief overview of how ladybugs hatch and mature.

    Eggs

    Female ladybugs will lay a clutch of 10-50 bright yellow eggs on the underside of a leaf. They are careful to choose a location for their eggs that is near a large amount of food for the larvae to eat when they hatch.

    Often, ladybugs will choose areas close to large aphid populations to lay their eggs, as the aphids are a good source of food. A female ladybug will lay several egg clutches per season and can lay up to 1,000 eggs in one year!

    Larvae

    A few days after the eggs are laid, they hatch into larvae. Ladybug larvae are not quite as cute looking as the mature beetles. They have oblong bodies with spiny bumps all over them. Their bodies are mostly dark gray or black, with some bright orange or red spots or bands.

    Familiarize yourself with the way ladybug larvae look so that you can recognize them when you see them in the garden. See one pictured below!

    Larvae need to eat a lot as they go through four different larval stages to reach maturity. Lucky for us, most of what they feed on is aphids, scale, mites, and other common garden pests, so if you see a ladybug larva in your garden, be happy! They are already doing good work for you at an early age.

    ladybug larva on a leafladybug larva on a leaf
    Ladybug larvae have oblong bodies, spiny bumps, and some red or orange bands on them.

    Pupae

    When a larva is big enough (see: has eaten enough pests), it is ready to pupate. At this time, the larva attaches itself to a leaf somewhere safe, and its body undergoes a massive transformation over the course of 3-12 days. By the end of this process, the pupae’s body has formed into a mature ladybug.

    ladybug pupa on a leafladybug pupa on a leaf
    Pupae look like a ladybug molting.

    Maturity

    You can recognize a newly mature ladybug by the colour of its body. They are usually yellow or orange when they have recently finished the pupa stage and will turn bright red as they age.

    How to Attract Ladybugs

    Now that you know why you should learn how to attract ladybugs, as well as what the ladybug life cycle is, let’s talk about how to actually attract these helpful insects.

    Plant Things that Ladybugs Like to Eat

    Calendula, dill, marigold, cilantro, chives, cosmos, and yarrow are all attractive to ladybugs, so pick your favourites and plant them around the garden this year.

    Let Weeds Stay

    Ladybugs love dandelions! Embrace these golden-flowered “weeds” and let a few grow. Bonus: dandelions are edible and have a ton of health benefits.

    Give Ladybugs Water

    Leave a shallow dish of water near some of your ladybug-attracting plants so they can drink when needed. Add a few river stones or marbles to the dish to give ladybugs a place to sit as they drink. Refresh the water regularly so it doesn’t run out or become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

    Try making this bee bath, which can help any small insects get the water they need.

    ladybug on a leafladybug on a leaf
    Ladybugs like to hang out under leaves since this is where their food also hangs out!

    Keep it Organic

    Pesticides are not ladybug friendly. Stick to natural growing techniques and everyone will be happier. If you have a bad infestation, instead of using harmful chemicals, I recommend you try this natural pest control spray made with herbs.

    Grow Groundcovers

    Low-growing groundcovers protect ladybugs by sheltering them from predators such as birds and insects. Oregano and thyme are both good options.

    a ladybug hunting aphidsa ladybug hunting aphids
    Can you spot the aphids the ladybug is hunting down?

    Encourage Aphids

    A simple way to learn how to attract ladybugs is to plant some nasturtiums specifically for aphids. It will distract aphids from munching on your vegetables, and the aphids on the nasturtiums will, in turn, attract ladybugs, which will eat them up along with all sorts of other pests in your garden.

    Ladybugs will lay their eggs in an area with lots of aphids because they know their young will have a food source, so allowing a few aphids in your garden can bring you a lot more ladybugs who will grow up to patrol your whole garden and keep it safe.

    how to attract ladybugs by attracting aphidshow to attract ladybugs by attracting aphids
    Where there are aphids, there are ladybugs.

    FAQ About Ladybugs

    Why ladybugs are called ladybugs?

    Known as ladybugs in North America, “lady” originally refers to Mother Mary. European farmers would pray to the Virgin Mary whenever pests ate their crops. Since ladybugs come and eat all the bad pests, the farmers named them “beetle of Our Lady,” which was eventually shortened to “lady beetle” in the UK and “ladybug” in North America.

    What is the difference between a good ladybug and a bad ladybug?

    Ladybugs are beloved due to their cute and vibrant appearance and their habit of eating all the bad bugs in the garden. Asian lady beetles, on the other hand, are commonly mistaken for ladybugs but will actually “bite” when threatened and excrete a smelly yellow liquid from their legs. Asian lady beetles are highly invasive.

    Ladybugs tend to be more round, have black spots, are bright red when mature, and are slightly smaller. Asian lady beetles are slightly larger, come in red and orange tones, sometimes don’t have any spots, tend to be more oval, and will have a distinctive “M” shaped black marking on their white heads.

    Should I get rid of ladybugs in my house?

    Ladybugs will come into the home to stay warm and hibernate when temperatures drop. While they won’t damage your home or cause any harm, they can become annoying once inside the home. Your best bet to get rid of them is to vacuum them up and prevent them from entering in the first place by fixing any cracks and seals in the home.

    Asian lady beetle, which is commonly confused with ladybugs.

    More Beneficial Wildlife

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    Stephanie Rose

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  • After Sun Lotion Recipe

    After Sun Lotion Recipe

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    Even if you don’t have a sunburn, this after-sun care salve recipe is a summer necessity to rehydrate and soothe sun-kissed skin. Apply it after a good scrub in the shower to remove sunscreen residue. Slather on this balm, and your skin will drink in the oils and butter, dealing with sun-damaged skin while you sleep.

    The sun just keeps getting hotter, doesn’t it? Years ago, my nephews were caught out at an event longer than they expected to be, and as a result of embracing the fun outdoor activities, they brought home an unwelcome souvenir: sunburns.

    The heat radiated off their pink cheeks, shoulders, and noses, and I could see how it was taking a toll on their energy. The next day, they were heading off on vacation, so I whipped up a batch of the after-sun salve that I use on my own skin all summer long.

    Now, my own Kiddo uses the after-sun salve all the time whenever we head out camping, or he spends more than his fair share in the afternoon sun. It’s a staple in my herbal cabinet, so easy to make, and very effective at treating burns.

    Today, we’re covering…

    After-sun balm recipe and instructions
    This recipe uses natural butter and oils to rehydrate the skin.

    Homemade After Sun Care Salve Recipe

    Seriously, this after sun care salve is pure magic. Keep a batch handy all summer long. Be sure to store it in the fridge so it keeps longer, but also so that it’s nice and cool when you use it on your skin.

    Ingredients

    See recipe card below for exact measurements

    Jump to Recipe

    Ingredients for aloe vera soap including lily of the valley aloe vera gel
    I use pre-bought aloe vera gel but you can also use fresh aloe vera for this recipe.

    Make It!

    Melt the oils, butters, and beeswax in a double boiler or Turkish coffee pot. Use a medium heat and stir as the oils melt.

    Remove from heat just as all ingredients are liquid. Stir in essential oil.

    Allow to cool slightly and then add the aloe gel. Mix the gel in well with the rest and pour into a 2 oz container.

    Apply the after sun salve generously to sunburned skin and rub it in as well as you can (which I know can be difficult with a sunburn!).

    Apply again after waking in the morning or showering, until the sunburn has settled down. If you don’t have a sunburn but have spent a day in the sun, this lotion works well to keep exposed skin soft. Shower to remove any sunscreen and use the lotion each evening after a day of sun exposure.

    Soothing after-sun balm for sunburned skin
    Store your salve in the fridge so it feels cool and nice on your hot skin.

    FAQ About After Sun Care Salves

    Can I use fresh aloe vera for this recipe?

    You absolutely can! I typically use aloe vera gel (this brand) just to extend the shelf life. But if you use fresh aloe vera, you’ll actually find it has stronger healing properties.

    For fresh aloe vera, harvest it using these instructions, and then blend it with a hand blender to make it smooth for the recipe. You won’t need any preservatives if you use it right away. Store it in the fridge, and toss out any remaining salve after a week or if you notice any funky colouring or odours.

    How long will this aloe vera salve be good for?

    If you’re using pre-bought aloe vera gel, it will last as long as the soonest expiry date on the ingredients (read more about that here). I typically try to use my mixture within a month, however, and store it in the fridge so it lasts.

    Help! My mixture is lumpy.

    Temperature is key. Once I’ve melted all the oils, butter, and beeswax, I remove it from the heat as soon as possible so it doesn’t overheat. Meanwhile, I’m stirring constantly. I add in the gel and the essential oils once removed. You also want to make sure that the aloe gel isn’t too cool and setting the oils and butters before it’s properly mixed.

    To try and save a lumpy batch, try gently heating the mixture to melt it again and stir it all together, using an immersion blender if necessary, being cautious of the hot oils.

    Also, ensure that you’re using pure aloe vera gel, and not one that has additives that could be reacting poorly.

    Aloe Vera Gel
    Fresh aloe vera will have stronger healing properties but won’t last as long.

    Aloe Vera After Sun Care Salve

    This salve is the perfect addition to your after sun care routine, helping to soothe, cool, and heal sunburns.

    • Over medium heat, melt the oils, butters, and beeswax in a Turkish coffee pot or double boiler. Stir constantly.

    • Just as the ingredients are fully melted, remove from heat. Add in essential oil and stir.

    • Let the mixture cool slightly before adding in the aloe vera gel. Mix in the gel well, and pour into a 2 oz container.

    • Apply generously to sunburned skin, rubbing it gently in.

    Store in the fridge when not in use. Lasts approximately one month.

    More Ways to Beat the Heat

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    Stephanie Rose

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  • DIY Lavender Wreath That Dries Beautifully! – Garden Therapy

    DIY Lavender Wreath That Dries Beautifully! – Garden Therapy

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    Hanging a lavender wreath around the garden could be just the aromatherapy needed to help decompress after a long day, or perhaps it will just make you smile. Regardless, this lavender wreath is a quick weekend project that will leave you calm enough for an afternoon read or a good night’s sleep.

    In order to keep your lavender plants neat and tidy, it’s important to prune them. Two prunes per season works best—once at the beginning of summer and then once again in August.

    The great thing about pruning back your lavender plants is that you can harvest lavender to use in a myriad of ways! One of my faves is to make it into pretty, fragrant wreaths. The fresh flowers dry on the wreath, and it looks so decorative.

    Be sure to read my Essential Guide to Growing Lavender for information on caring for, pruning, and harvesting lavender.

    This year, I made a miniature 6″ wreath using  “Thumbelina Leigh” English Lavender plants, which are planted in my kitchen garden. The plants are quite small, but they produce more than enough flowers to keep me in lavender all summer long (and then some).

    Here’s what you need to know about making your own dried lavender wreath!

    Thumbelina lavenderThumbelina lavender
    One mature lavender plant should be enough to make one small 6-inch wreath.

    Harvesting Lavender for Your Wreath

    When harvesting lavender, it’s best to pick it at the budding stage, after the flower bugs turn purple but before they open into flowers. The stems will hold the colour for the longest if they are harvested in the bud.

    The image below shows the three stages of lavender flowers: budding, flowering, and after flowering. In reality, I try and cut the flowers when they are budding, but in practice, I usually get a mixture of buds and flowers, and a few early bloomers that are starting to die back.

    It’s hard to perfect the timing, but it’s even harder to take all that lovely lavender away from the bees! I like to let my lavender flower a bit for the bees to enjoy and then add it to a wreath when it has some buds and some open flowers.

    It looks lovely and gives me (and the pollinators) more time to relish it in the garden. The open flowers will eventually fall off, but what’s left behind is still attractive and aromatic.

    If you are crafting with lavender at home for personal use, don’t worry too much. Leave that to the lavender farms. No matter when you harvest it, it will make a lovely wreath with a heavenly perfume.

    the budding stages of lavenderthe budding stages of lavender
    The lavender on the left is at budding stage, the middle blooming, and the right is after blooming.

    How to Make a Lavender Wreath

    The process for making this lavender wreath is very similar to my other wreaths. Perhaps even simpler because it’s entirely one kind of flower!

    Materials

    materials for a lavender wreathmaterials for a lavender wreath
    I used a grapevine wreath base, but you can also use a wire or straw base as well.

    Make It!

    Gather lavender into small bunches and snip the ends to get a nice, neat edge.

    lavender bundles for wreath makinglavender bundles for wreath making
    I left the leaves on, but you can strip them for a neater look.

    Wrap your wire or twine around the stems of one bunch several times tightly.

    making lavender bundlesmaking lavender bundles
    Secure your bundles individually before attaching them to the wreath form.

    Secure the bunch to the form by winding the twine or wire around it a few times and pulling tight (or tying a knot if you’re using twine).

    Pro tip: I personally prefer to use wire rather than twine, as it is easier to tighten it later once the lavender bunches have dried and shrunk down a bit. To tighten a dried wreath made with wire, use needle-nose pliers to twist knots in the wire at the back of the wreath and hold the stems in snugly.

    adding lavender bundles to wreathadding lavender bundles to wreath
    Keep your wire on the roll as you attach your bundles to the wreath form.

    Leaving the wire on the roll, wind each new bunch onto the form as they are added. Continue adding bunches until you complete the circle.

    Making a lavender wreathMaking a lavender wreath
    Alternate which directions your bundles face to get a fuller-looking wreath.

    Tuck a final bunch under the first bunch, then cut and secure the wire. Hang the wreath up and enjoy!

    a beautiful DIY lavender wreatha beautiful DIY lavender wreath
    While it’s drying, flowers will fall off but NOT the buds.

    I’ve also made a dried lavender wreath using this same basic technique on a wire coat hanger bent into a circle for the wreath form.

    Coat Hanger Wire Wreath Form In a Japanese MapleCoat Hanger Wire Wreath Form In a Japanese Maple
    Make your own wire wreath form out of an old wire coat hanger.

    Here is how that looks with dried buds after many years! It will hold its colour for quite a while. As you can see, this one has seen a few seasons and still looks beautiful.

    FAQ About Lavender Wreaths

    What is the most fragrant lavender?

    English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is typically revered for its scent, as well as hybrids.

    What is the best way to dry lavender?

    For this lavender wreath, I recommend using fresh lavender and letting it dry directly on the wreath form. When you work with dried lavender, it will be more brittle and you’re more likely to lose buds while you make the wreath.

    For other lavender projects, I like to hang my lavender upside down in bunches in a cool, dry place. See more tips on harvesting and drying lavender.

    How long will dried lavender’s smell last?

    The smell of your dried lavender wreath should last you for a few months. If you squeeze the buds, you should release the oils that contain the fragrance.

    bunches of dried lavenderbunches of dried lavender
    Commercially grown lavender is dried upside down in large bunches.

    More Lavender Crafts!

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    Stephanie Rose

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