Latest news with #DavidDenyer
The Sun
05-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
Four ways you can use your kitchen scraps to help your plants grow
DON'T bin you kitchen scraps – use them to get your garden blooming. From tea leaves to egg shells, your waste items can give your plants a boost. Here's how . . . BANANA PEEL: Skin from bananas can be give plants a natural potassium boost which helps when flowers are forming, according to David Denyer, from He said: 'Bake your banana peels at a low temperature for a few hours, then either blend or grind them into a fine powder. 'Mix the powder into your soil to provide a slow, steady release of nutrients that can really make a difference to plants such as dahlias, calendula or cosmos.' EGGSHELLS: You can support repeat bloomers such as petunias and geraniums with old eggshells. Grind them into a fine powder and soak in vinegar for 24 hours, says David. Once the solution has cooled, you can pour it around the base of your flowering plants. RINSE WATER: When washing dried pulses such as lentils and chickpeas, save the water rather than pouring it down the drain. Then use it to tip on plants to give soil a gentle drink. David says: 'It contains natural starches and minerals from the legumes, which feed the helpful microbes in your soil. "These help unlock nutrients like phosphorus and potassium that plants need to stay healthy and flower well.' TEA LEAVES: Acid-loving plants such as roses, hydrangeas and azaleas will appreciate used tea leaves for a health boost. They contain small amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which lightly lower the soil pH. This makes it easier for certain plants to absorb nutrients that help deepen petal colour. David adds: 'Sprinkle the damp tea leaves directly on to the soil around your plants and gently water them in. "Just make sure there's no milk or sugar, as that can attract pests or lead to mould in your soil.' 7 Aldi is selling a cheap $2.19 item in the 'finds aisle' that will transform your garden into a colorful summer paradise All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability Deal of the day KEEP it cool when temp-eratures rise with the 29in Neo tower fan, down from £89.99 to £23.43 at Debenhams. Cheap treat GIVE your pout some shine with this lip gloss duo, £4.99, from H&M. Top swap COMFORT is all in the sole with these Birkenstock clogs, £130, from Office. Or trot to Primark and pick up a similar style for £10. Shop & save 7 KICK back with help from this mushroom footstool, down from £49.99 to £29.99 at Wilko. Hot right now BAG three for two on Co-Op's newly launched picnic range which includes pork pies, salads and more. PLAY NOW TO WIN £200 7 JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle. Every month we're giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers - whether you're saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered. Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket.
Scottish Sun
05-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Four ways you can use your kitchen scraps to help your plants grow
Plus scroll down to find out how you can save on a fan for the summer SUN SAVERS Four ways you can use your kitchen scraps to help your plants grow DON'T bin you kitchen scraps – use them to get your garden blooming. From tea leaves to egg shells, your waste items can give your plants a boost. Here's how . . . BANANA PEEL: Skin from bananas can be give plants a natural potassium boost which helps when flowers are forming, according to David Denyer, from He said: 'Bake your banana peels at a low temperature for a few hours, then either blend or grind them into a fine powder. 'Mix the powder into your soil to provide a slow, steady release of nutrients that can really make a difference to plants such as dahlias, calendula or cosmos.' EGGSHELLS: You can support repeat bloomers such as petunias and geraniums with old eggshells. Grind them into a fine powder and soak in vinegar for 24 hours, says David. Once the solution has cooled, you can pour it around the base of your flowering plants. RINSE WATER: When washing dried pulses such as lentils and chickpeas, save the water rather than pouring it down the drain. Then use it to tip on plants to give soil a gentle drink. David says: 'It contains natural starches and minerals from the legumes, which feed the helpful microbes in your soil. "These help unlock nutrients like phosphorus and potassium that plants need to stay healthy and flower well.' TEA LEAVES: Acid-loving plants such as roses, hydrangeas and azaleas will appreciate used tea leaves for a health boost. They contain small amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which lightly lower the soil pH. This makes it easier for certain plants to absorb nutrients that help deepen petal colour. David adds: 'Sprinkle the damp tea leaves directly on to the soil around your plants and gently water them in. "Just make sure there's no milk or sugar, as that can attract pests or lead to mould in your soil.' 7 We have four ways you can use your kitchen scraps to help your plants grow Credit: Getty Aldi is selling a cheap $2.19 item in the 'finds aisle' that will transform your garden into a colorful summer paradise All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability Deal of the day 7 This 29in Neo tower fan is now £23.43 at Debenhams Credit: Debenhams KEEP it cool when temp-eratures rise with the 29in Neo tower fan, down from £89.99 to £23.43 at Debenhams. SAVE: £66.56 Cheap treat 7 This lip gloss duo is £4.99 from H&M Credit: H&M GIVE your pout some shine with this lip gloss duo, £4.99, from H&M. What's new? AHEAD of Father's Day, Morrisons cafes have brought back the Big Daddy Breakfast. The 23-piece meal is £10 and available until June 15. Top swap 7 These Birkenstock clogs are £130 from Office Credit: Office 7 This similar style is just £10 from Primark Credit: Primark COMFORT is all in the sole with these Birkenstock clogs, £130, from Office. Or trot to Primark and pick up a similar style for £10. SAVE: £120 Little helper PACK for a trip away with this bargain-priced four-wheel suitcase, £29.99, in Lidl stores this week. Shop & save 7 This mushroom footstool is down to £29.99 at Wilko Credit: Wilko KICK back with help from this mushroom footstool, down from £49.99 to £29.99 at Wilko. SAVE: £20 Hot right now BAG three for two on Co-Op's newly launched picnic range which includes pork pies, salads and more. PLAY NOW TO WIN £200 7 Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle. Every month we're giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers - whether you're saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered. Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket. The more codes you enter, the more tickets you'll earn and the more chance you will have of winning!
Daily Mirror
13-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mirror
Households urged to stop making huge mistake with peonies in summer
You might be looking forward to seeing your pretty pink peonies bloom in time for summer, but experts caution gardeners to avoid making this mistake when growing these flowers As temperatures across the UK soar, gardeners have been warned to look out for their peonies as these delicate flowers don't love the heat. Luckily, there is one effective way to cool them down that many gardeners aren't aware of. Most of us are gearing up for a warm summer. The UK saw the hottest start to May on record this year, with millions of Brits enjoying the blast of sun. It also means more of us are spending time in our gardens, from hosting barbecues to cultivating plants. Unfortunately, there are some flowers, like peonies, that aren't enjoying the heat. Peonies are popular garden plants that typically flower between April and June. They are known for their delicate petals which range from a soft blush to a deep pink colour. They're also famous for being able to withstand the cool British climate. In fact, peonies actually prefer cold temperatures and require a chilling period while dormant to flower properly. Therefore, the increased temperature means that conditions may not be as optimal for them to grow. If peonies are in an environment that is too humid or warm, they may not blossom reliably. So, how do you create a chilling period for peonies in warmer weather? Fortunately, according to flower expert David Denyer from Eflorist, all you need is ice. David says: 'This method applies specifically to garden-grown, non-cut peonies — the kind planted in borders or beds. Peonies require winter chill to reset and set buds for the following year.' Ice can be a quick and reliable way to cool plants down. He continues: 'In areas of the UK where winter temperatures no longer reliably drop low enough, placing ice around the base of the plant during dormancy can help trigger that necessary cold response.' Ice should be applied during the plant's dormant phase, which typically between late November and February. David says: 'Place a few ice cubes directly onto the soil above the roots, avoiding the crown and stems." He adds that this should be repeated every few days for several weeks during mild winters. Although, he warns: 'Ensure your planting area has excellent drainage to avoid waterlogging from meltwater, which can cause rot.' Other tips for keeping your peonies lush and healthy include planting them in spots where they will receive morning sun and afternoon shade. This will help keep them cool. Equally, using compost or natural mulch will help the plants retain moisture during hotter periods. In event of dry spells, you should also water the base of the plant deeply. Another option is to buy heat-tolerant peonies, like Bowl of Beauty or Coral Charm. These are much better adapted to withstand fluctuating temperatures.
Scottish Sun
09-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
Florist reveals free secrets to ensure peonies ‘thrive' this spring – and changing the water daily is the start if you want beautiful flowers
PEONY season is finally here (hurrah!) - and so if you want to ensure your flowers bloom, you've come to the right place. Peonies are a favourite amongst many flower enthusiasts, known for their gorgeous blooms and fragrant aroma. Advertisement 3 A florist has revealed some super simple and free secrets to ensure your peonies 'thrive' this spring Credit: Getty 3 There's a daily task you must do if you want beautiful flowers, and a cutting technique you'll need to try Credit: Getty 3 Using cold water is a must as peonies "love the cool side of life" Credit: Getty However, their beauty can often be short-lived if they are not properly cared for. So if you want to get your money's worth, then you'll need to listen up and take notes. And don't worry, you won't need to break the bank on expensive flower food - in fact, here are some handy and totally free hacks that will ensure your peonies 'thrive' this spring. According to florist David Denyer, from Eflorist, there's one simple task you can do every day to extend their display for as long as possible. Advertisement Change the water It won't take you a minute and according to David, the secret lies in simply changing the water daily, as he explained: "Fresh water is crucial for keeping them happy and healthy.' Changing the water of your peonies on a daily basis helps to prevent the water from becoming stagnant, which can lead to wilting and premature drooping. Get cutting As well as this, David recommended trimming the stems at a 45-degree angle under running water each time you change the water. He shared: "This practice is crucial because it helps prevent air bubbles from blocking water uptake.' Advertisement With a clean, angled cut, the peony stems will be able to absorb water more efficiently, which will keep your peonies hydrated and looking fresh for longer. Without this step, your blooms may struggle to stay upright and vibrant. How to identify plants: Google's new way to search Cold water only As well as this, David shared the importance of using cold water when refreshing your vase, as he added: "Peonies just love the cool side of life.' The temperature of the water helps to slow the bloom process, meaning your flowers will last longer. Advertisement The 5 best flowers to help bees to thrive Nature experts at Faith In Nature have shared the 5 best flowers Brits can plant in their gardens to help bees thrive. Rebecca Miller, Fabulous' Associate Editor and keen gardener explains why "bees are brilliant". "They are vital. They pollinate our food and play a crucial role in our ecosystem. But climate change, the increasing use of pesticides and loss of habitat means bees are endangered. No matter how big your garden or outside space is, you can plant a flower or two to help bees." Lavender Lavender can thrive in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. It's fragrant and flowers all-summer-long meaning it's a big hit with bees - especially bumble bees. Sunflowers This cheery flower giant are bee-magnets. And if you look closely at a sunflower head, the big 'flowers' are actually a cluster of small flowers, called an inflorescence which attract pollinators. Ideally, grow sunflowers in groups to provide nectar and pollen for as many bees as possible. At the end of summer, collect the dried seeds from the sunflower heads to feed the birds or plant next year. Heather These abundant, bell-shaped blooms are brimming with nectar and pollen – which is good news for bees. Cornflowers A vivid blue wildflower, cornflowers are often planted alongside other meadow blooms, like ox-eye daisies and poppies. They grow on tall stems and are packed with nectar, making them particularly attractive to bees. Cornflowers bloom for a long time and are simple to grow, so they're perfect for first-time gardeners and experienced alike. Crocuses (and snowdrops) Later this summer, when you're starting to plan for your Spring displays, consider crocuses and snowdrops. They provide bees, such as the queen buff-tailed bumblebee and male hairy-footed flower bees, with vital early pollen as they emerge from their winter hibernation. It's also vital to keep the leaves above the waterline to avoid rotting, which can not only cloud the water but also cause harm to the plant. This daily attention to their care not only ensures a longer lifespan but helps maintain the vibrant look of your peonies for days on end. Put them in the right place But that's not all, as lastly, David advised displaying your peonies in a cool, shaded area in your home. Peonies just love the cool side of life David Denyer He revealed that 'peonies thrive best in cooler conditions," and claimed that direct sunlight and heat from appliances can speed up the blooming process and cause your flowers to wilt prematurely. Advertisement Therefore, for the best results, stop putting them next to your microwave or by a windowsill that gets a lot of sunlight and instead place your peonies in a room with indirect light and steady airflow. By following these small but essential tasks, you'll be able to enjoy the beauty of your pretty peonies for much longer - and it won't cost you a penny extra. Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club
The Sun
09-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
Florist reveals free secrets to ensure peonies ‘thrive' this spring – and changing the water daily is the start if you want beautiful flowers
PEONY season is finally here (hurrah!) - and so if you want to ensure your flowers bloom, you've come to the right place. Peonies are a favourite amongst many flower enthusiasts, known for their gorgeous blooms and fragrant aroma. 3 3 3 However, their beauty can often be short-lived if they are not properly cared for. So if you want to get your money 's worth, then you'll need to listen up and take notes. And don't worry, you won't need to break the bank on expensive flower food - in fact, here are some handy and totally free hacks that will ensure your peonies 'thrive' this spring. According to florist David Denyer, from Eflorist, there's one simple task you can do every day to extend their display for as long as possible. Change the water It won't take you a minute and according to David, the secret lies in simply changing the water daily, as he explained: "Fresh water is crucial for keeping them happy and healthy.' Changing the water of your peonies on a daily basis helps to prevent the water from becoming stagnant, which can lead to wilting and premature drooping. Get cutting As well as this, David recommended trimming the stems at a 45-degree angle under running water each time you change the water. He shared: "This practice is crucial because it helps prevent air bubbles from blocking water uptake.' With a clean, angled cut, the peony stems will be able to absorb water more efficiently, which will keep your peonies hydrated and looking fresh for longer. Without this step, your blooms may struggle to stay upright and vibrant. How to identify plants: Google's new way to search Cold water only As well as this, David shared the importance of using cold water when refreshing your vase, as he added: "Peonies just love the cool side of life.' The temperature of the water helps to slow the bloom process, meaning your flowers will last longer. The 5 best flowers to help bees to thrive Nature experts at Faith In Nature have shared the 5 best flowers Brits can plant in their gardens to help bees thrive. Rebecca Miller, Fabulous' Associate Editor and keen gardener explains why "bees are brilliant". "They are vital. They pollinate our food and play a crucial role in our ecosystem. But climate change, the increasing use of pesticides and loss of habitat means bees are endangered. No matter how big your garden or outside space is, you can plant a flower or two to help bees." Lavender Lavender can thrive in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. It's fragrant and flowers all-summer-long meaning it's a big hit with bees - especially bumble bees. Sunflowers This cheery flower giant are bee-magnets. And if you look closely at a sunflower head, the big 'flowers' are actually a cluster of small flowers, called an inflorescence which attract pollinators. Ideally, grow sunflowers in groups to provide nectar and pollen for as many bees as possible. At the end of summer, collect the dried seeds from the sunflower heads to feed the birds or plant next year. Heather These abundant, bell-shaped blooms are brimming with nectar and pollen – which is good news for bees. Cornflowers A vivid blue wildflower, cornflowers are often planted alongside other meadow blooms, like ox-eye daisies and poppies. They grow on tall stems and are packed with nectar, making them particularly attractive to bees. Cornflowers bloom for a long time and are simple to grow, so they're perfect for first-time gardeners and experienced alike. Crocuses (and snowdrops) Later this summer, when you're starting to plan for your Spring displays, consider crocuses and snowdrops. They provide bees, such as the queen buff-tailed bumblebee and male hairy-footed flower bees, with vital early pollen as they emerge from their winter hibernation. It's also vital to keep the leaves above the waterline to avoid rotting, which can not only cloud the water but also cause harm to the plant. This daily attention to their care not only ensures a longer lifespan but helps maintain the vibrant look of your peonies for days on end. Put them in the right place But that's not all, as lastly, David advised displaying your peonies in a cool, shaded area in your home. He revealed that 'peonies thrive best in cooler conditions," and claimed that direct sunlight and heat from appliances can speed up the blooming process and cause your flowers to wilt prematurely. Therefore, for the best results, stop putting them next to your microwave or by a windowsill that gets a lot of sunlight and instead place your peonies in a room with indirect light and steady airflow. By following these small but essential tasks, you'll be able to enjoy the beauty of your pretty peonies for much longer - and it won't cost you a penny extra.
