Latest news with #gardens
The Sun
2 hours ago
- General
- The Sun
The 60p hack that will slug-proof your garden and stop your plants being eaten
A GARDEN expert has shared a simple 60p hack that will slug-proof your garden and protect your plants this summer. With the warmer weather upon us, you may have noticed the pesky critters wreaking havoc on your garden. 2 2 If you're wondering how to stop slugs nibbling at your veg gardens and flower beds, you will likely have tried a number of hacks. This could range from using fresh coffee grounds to slug repellent plants and there are endless pest control methods online. But, according to Homes & Garden writer, Thomas Rutter, the cucumber hack is the simplest and kindest. Stopping slugs and snails using the cucumber hack is surprisingly simple. While it may not eradicate these pests, it can help gardeners control their numbers. Rutter said: "First, raid your fridge drawer and retrieve a cucumber, before slicing it thinly. "Don't worry about the quality of the cucumber here, in fact, it is best to use those that are past their best." Rutter then advises to place the slices near your more vulnerable plants in the evening. Slugs and snails will be lured to the scent and moisture of the cucumber. Then, after a few hours or the following morning, you can collect the pests and dispose of them. It's not too dissimilar from companion planting or trap plants for pest control. But what's better is that it's a chemical-free approach, safe for pets and requires almost no effort. Rutter added: "Personally, I think this hack works best when deployed as part of a broader pest management battle plan. "So, why not learn how to keep ducks, which feed on these pests, while also using some copper tape around the rim of your pots, as well as encouraging natural predators such as frogs to keep the slug population down?" If you don't want to kill your garden pests, you can easily move them. Rutter advises to move them at least 50 or more feet away from your garden. This will overcome the pest's "homing instinct". You can also place them near a bird feeder and let nature take its course. But despite the gardener's frustration that slugs and snails have destroyed their veg crop, they play an important role in the biodiversity and ecosystem of our gardens. They're natural prey to many common backyard mammals and bird species and are also an invaluable part of your garden's composting process. IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here's what you need to know. Hornets and wasps - hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay. Moths - acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent. Flying ants - herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents. Mosquitoes - plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
Telegraph
a day ago
- General
- Telegraph
Squawking peacocks ‘terrorising' village
Villagers have claimed they are being terrorised by a flock of peacocks that are destroying their gardens and keeping them awake past 2am. The noisy birds, in Tutbury, Staffordshire, have become such a problem that council bosses have issued a warning urging people not to feed them. Locals say the peacocks trample their plants, leave droppings on driveways and vehicles, and can be heard 'squawking' in the early hours of the morning. Marion West, a 71-year-old retired dinner lady, said: 'They're up half the night squawking and keep you awake. I squirt them with a water pistol if they come near me. 'If you're not careful, they poo everywhere, and it's such a mess. They eat your flowers too. They're a pain in the backside. And when they walk on your roof, it sounds like you've got burglars.' Another resident, who did not wish to be named, added: 'They're such a nuisance, getting all on your plants and making a mess everywhere. 'I mean, they're lovely birds, but when they're up at 5.30am squawking you don't need it. 'The other night they were noisy until 2am and then back here at 5.30am the next day. As to who owns them, I don't think anyone really knows.' But Heather Hunter-Harris, 63, who has been living in the area for more than 16 years, claimed the peacocks were part of Tutbury's charm. She said: 'They're alright – they are loud, and they're up early. But most birds are. They're cheeky, and if they can get food out of you they will, but I just don't feed them. 'The peacocks have always been in Tutbury. I feel like if you take those out, you're taking Tutbury away. 'People come here to see the peacocks, and when they put their tails up, it looks lovely. You've just got to be tolerant, keep out their way, and let them get on with it.' Tutbury parish council, which described the birds as a 'serious problem', has urged villagers not to feed them as it makes them harder to deter. Francis Crossley, who chairs the council, said he believed there were 26 peacocks during the authority's last count but there could now be up to 40. He added: 'Some people love them, but some people can't bear them. It's a Marmite situation. They're nice to hear in the background, but not outside your house. 'They wouldn't attack anyone, but when they see their reflection, they do peck – like if they see a reflection in a car. They roam around and eat vegetables growing if they aren't covered up, and they are up as soon as it's daylight. 'We just ask that people don't feed them, as neighbours are being disturbed by them. I can understand people's frustration if they end up on your roof because your neighbour is feeding them.'
The Guardian
2 days ago
- General
- The Guardian
Should back gardens be sacrosanct, or are loud phones and speakers OK?
It's common these days for people to play music in their gardens on smart speakers or smartphones. But is it fair on the neighbours? Should gardens be quiet spaces without these kinds of sounds? Graham French, Sutton Coldfield Post your answers (and new questions) below or send them to nq@ A selection will be published next Sunday.
BBC News
3 days ago
- General
- BBC News
Allington Castle to open gardens to help Heart of Kent Hospice
A castle is opening its gardens to help a local hospice raise 20 July and 3 August, Allington Castle, near Maidstone in Kent, is hosting events for Heart of Kent Hospice in Bass, event manager at the hospice, said: "By supporting events, including the Allington Castle gardens open days, we can help our hospice to continue providing free end of life care and support to those living with a terminal illness."The hospice says it costs £6.6m a year to deliver its services and it depends on donations to raise 80% of this. At the events, people will be able to explore the grounds and there will be a children's treasure Castle is a medieval 12th Century castle, set in 42 acres of woodland on the banks of the River Medway.
Daily Mail
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Ultimate guide to Europe's 12 best theme parks: From incredible rides to gorgeous gardens, world-leading experts tell which to pick, how much it'll cost... and exactly what to do when you get there
Roll up, roll up! Theme parks have flung open their doors for the summer season. And even if you're not a rollercoaster fan, these mini metropolises of fun have plenty to entertain every generation, including spectacular shows, more leisurely rides and beautiful gardens. And often there are big discounts available for pre-schoolers and over-65s, too. Tips? Pack a poncho in case it rains and wear your comfiest shoes...
