Essentials: Food & Water

If things are looking a little tired in the garden, it’s likely because they are. Are your plants getting enough water and nutrients? For thirsty plants, some tips: First, water in the morning before the heat takes over. Mid-day watering stresses plants out, and evening watering leaves them vulnerable to disease.Second, know how to water ... aim for the plant base. Watering the base encourages deeper roots and stronger leaves. The easiest way to water is with a garden or soaker hose, both of which are ideal for narrower gardens and attach directly to your hose system. If you have a wider area needing more coverage, a sprinkler system is the way to go. (Consider donning your bathing suit and running through it a few times for nostalgia’s sake!)

If it’s nutrients the plants are craving, dose them with Monty’s Joy Juice, an environmentally friendly, broad-spectrum plant food. Monty’s products are not only concentrated (more economical!), but can be applied directly to plant leaves or the soil without worry of harm to plant, animal or human. Monty’s products are used throughout California’s wine country and by the New York Botanical Society, and what’s good for the goose ... well, you know. Check out the full line of products and find local retailers at montysjoyjuice.com.

Bird is the Word

Hummingbird feeders can take a beating in the summer heat. Use a baby bottle brush and some vinegar to clean; rinse well. To remove mold, soak in a half-cup of bleach to every two quarts of water. Once the feeders are clean, fill them up with homemade hummer food. Boil four cups of water for two minutes (to reduce fermentation), and add one cup of sugar. Let cool, then fill the feeders. Remember to change out the nectar at least every three to four days to prevent build up. Hang suctioned feeders in your favorite windows, and enjoy watching the hummers up close.

How Fair is Your Air?

Nashvillians are familiar with outdoor air quality index reports, but what’s the air quality like inside your home? Interestingly enough, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found levels of about a dozen common pollutants like carbon monoxide, lead and radon to be two to five times higher inside than out. Household products like aerosols, air fresheners and disinfectants can release volatile organic compounds (VOC) not only while being used, but also while in storage. While “organic” has a positive, earth-friendly connotation, VOCs are bad news and can cause headaches; irritation to the throat, eyes and nose; and nausea.

Reducing the usage of strong cleaners is one way to minimize exposure to VOCs, hence the movement toward “green” products. One affordable, effective option for green housecleaning is Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day line, which offers a variety of aromatherapeutic household cleaners that are made of plant-derived ingredients and essential oils. The products have no phosphates, chlorine or other harsh solvents that can upset indoor air quality, and they’re biodegradable. While subtly scented, the products are tough on their targets. A basic selection is available at Target, while a wider selection can be found at Whole Foods in Green Hills. Get the full story on the real Mrs. Meyer, and explore the entire product line at mrsmeyers.com.

Finish Line

Graham & Brown is bringing sexy (wallpaper) back! Find paper that looks like pressed tin for your ceiling, or put beadboard or wainscoting wallpaper below a chair rail to create that “Cape Cod” look for a fraction of the cost — a double roll goes for $25. Find the basic line at Lowe’s or Home Depot. For a more extensive selection, go to grahambrown.com.