Fear not, for the world of indoor plants is diverse and generous, offering a plethora of options that are not just beautiful but also forgiving and low-maintenance. Perfect for beginners or those with a less-than-green thumb, these easy-care plants require minimal attention, yet provide maximum reward. Here's a roundup of my top 10 most easy-care houseplants that are sure to thrive in your home.
The Snake Plant, with its upright leaves and architectural form, can adapt to a wide range of light conditions and prefers to be watered only once the soil has completely dried out. It's the ideal low-fuss roommate.
The Spider Plant is as easy-going as they come. Thriving in bright to moderate indirect sunlight, this plant asks for water only when the topsoil feels dry. With its bushy foliage, it's perfect for a lively touch on any table or as a charming hanging plant.
The Philodendron Green Princess is a luscious addition to any plant collection. Its sturdy and robust foliage stands out, making it a perfect statement piece for homes or offices. This variety is particularly forgiving, enduring periods of neglect without fuss, especially during the cooler months. To keep it thriving, simply ensure it is not over-watered or left to sit in water, as this could harm its roots.
A tropical wonder, the ZZ Plant sports shiny, waxy leaves and is about as low-maintenance as they come. Whether in bright or low light, it only asks for water when its soil has dried out.
This variegated version of Pothos is just as hardy, tolerating a variety of light and moisture conditions. Allow its soil to dry between waterings, and it will be a happy addition to any room.
With stunning colourful spathes, Anthuriums are surprisingly low-maintenance. They can go weeks without water and thrive in bright light, making them a striking yet easy choice for plant lovers.
Nicknamed the 'happy plant', this Dracaena variety is known for its resilience and minimal water needs. It's an ideal choice for office spaces or homes with varying temperatures.
A fan favourite, the Monstera Deliciosa is an easy-going plant that tolerates a range of light conditions. It needs water only when the topsoil is dry and can be easily pruned and propagated.
This Philodendron variety boasts robust foliage and requires less watering than its relatives. It's forgiving if you forget to water it now and then, making it a hassle-free choice for any indoor setting.
Rounding out our list, Aloe Vera is not just beneficial for its medicinal properties but also as an undemanding houseplant. It thrives in bright light and only needs water when the soil is completely dry, which makes it perfect for sunny indoor spots.
The beauty of these easy-care houseplants lies in their remarkable resilience and adaptability, flourishing even in less-than-ideal conditions. They are the perfect companions for those dipping their toes into the world of plant parenthood or for busy individuals seeking a stress-free touch of green. By introducing one or several of these plants into your space, you're not just enhancing your living environment but embarking on a rewarding journey of easy plant care.
Welcome to the effortless world of indoor gardening, where lush greenery is within everyone's reach, and the rewards are always in bloom. Each of these ten plants brings its own unique beauty and character, requiring only the simplest care to thrive. They are the ideal botanical choice for today's busy lifestyle, sure to infuse life and tranquillity into your home. Whether you possess a naturally green thumb or are just beginning, these houseplants promise to transform your indoor spaces into an oasis of calm and beauty.
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Choose the Right Location
The first step in successfully growing herbs indoors is selecting the perfect spot. Your kitchen windowsill is an excellent choice because it provides the necessary natural light. Most herbs require at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, so make sure your windowsill receives adequate sunlight. South or west-facing windows are typically ideal, but if natural light is limited, you can use a grow light.
Select Your Herb Varieties
When it comes to choosing herbs, consider your culinary preferences. Some popular choices for a kitchen windowsill herb garden include basil, cilantro (coriander), rosemary (dwarf variety), thyme, chives, arugula, oregano, dill, parsley, and mint. These herbs are not only versatile in the kitchen but also relatively easy to grow indoors. Start with a few varieties that you love and expand from there.
Gather Your Supplies
You won't need an extensive list of gardening tools for your indoor herb garden. Here are the essentials:
Pots or Containers: Select small to medium-sized pots with good drainage to prevent overwatering. Consider pots with dimensions that provide each plant with around 16 square inches of space.
Potting Mix: Use a high-quality potting mix designed for herbs or vegetables. Pre-soak the soil to ensure its well-moistened before planting.
Seeds or Seedlings: You have the option to start your herb garden from seeds or purchase young plants from a nursery. If you choose to begin from seeds, you can use a planting tray or plant directly into individual pots. Follow the packet instructions for planting depth and spacing. It's also a good practice to consider the final container size based on the plant's requirements.
Watering Can: Opt for one with a narrow spout for precise watering. Grace & August Watering Can is ideal for this job.
Indoor Gardening Tools: While not absolutely necessary, having a set of small indoor houseplant tools can make your herb garden even more enjoyable. These tools are designed to help you prepare your pots efficiently. Look out for handy accessories like a soil scoop, which simplifies the process of transferring soil. Consider checking out our Pot Plant House Tool Sets at Grace and August, as they can be a valuable addition to your indoor gardening kit.
Plant Labels: Use these to keep track of the herbs you're growing.
Plant Your Herbs
Fill your pots with potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top. If you're starting from seeds, follow the packet instructions for planting depth and spacing. If using seedlings, transplant them gently into the pots. Water the herbs thoroughly after planting, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Care for Your Herbs
Here are some essential care tips to keep your windowsill herb garden thriving:
Watering: Herbs like consistent moisture but don't like to sit in water. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and allow excess water to drain.
Pruning: Regularly trim your herbs to encourage bushy growth and prevent them from becoming too leggy. This also helps prevent flowering.
Fertilizing: Herbs in containers may need extra nutrients. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, especially after each harvest.
Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests, as indoor plants can still be vulnerable. If you spot any, address the issue promptly.
Harvest and Enjoy
Once your herbs are mature enough, you can start harvesting. Be sure to trim leaves regularly, but avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time to ensure continued growth. Freshly harvested herbs will elevate your culinary creations, providing a burst of flavour and aroma that dried herbs simply can't match.
Starting a herb garden on your kitchen windowsill is a fantastic way to bring the essence of your garden into your cooking. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh herbs that will enhance your dishes and brighten your kitchen. So, get started and savour the joy of growing and using your very own indoor herb garden!
Wait 2-3 weeks after planting before harvesting. Harvest once they have had a third set of true leaves. Start gently with only a few leaves at a time to ensure continued growth.
Regular pruning can increase the plant life and prevent flowering. When harvesting mature plants, try not to cut more than one-third of the leaves and stems at a time.
Indoor herbs require feeding due to their container size. A low-dose liquid organic feed after every harvest is best.
We've found a video that provides in-depth information on growing indoor herbs, which can be a helpful visual guide in your herb gardening journey.
By following these steps, you can have a flourishing kitchen windowsill herb garden that will not only enhance your cooking but also add a touch of greenery to your home.
Happy herb gardening!
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Investing in these ten essential gardening tools will set you up for success and help you enjoy the gardening process even more. As you gain experience, you can expand your tool collection to suit your specific gardening needs. Remember to clean and maintain your tools regularly to ensure they last for years and continue to serve you well.
Happy gardening, and may your green thumb thrive!
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Are you a gardening enthusiast in New Zealand looking for exceptional and exclusive products to elevate your gardening experience? Look no further! Grace and August is proud to introduce a captivating range of products that are not commonly found in New Zealand. Sourced and imported with care, our product lines are tailored to cater to your gardening needs, promising superior quality and competitive prices.
Unearth Unmatched Products: At Grace and August, we have scoured the globe to bring you an assortment of unique and one-of-a-kind gardening essentials. Our selection features carefully curated items that are unlikely to be found elsewhere in New Zealand. We prioritise quality and have researched extensively to ensure that our products stand out from the rest, offering you an unparalleled gardening experience.
A World of Possibilities: Our product range encompasses an array of items designed specifically for gardeners, both indoor and outdoor. For indoor plant enthusiasts, we have captivating interior items such as the ceramic handbag vase, adding a touch of elegance to your beloved houseplants. If you're looking for a funky twist, keep an eye out for our constantly evolving selection, as we strive to bring you the latest and most unique gardening finds.
Beyond the Essentials: Grace and August is not just about practicality; we embrace the fun side of gardening too! Discover our collection of funny gardening t-shirts, cups, and other items along with beautiful floral delights such as tote bags, which make perfect gifts for yourself or the green thumbs in your life. These delightful additions will bring joy and laughter to your gardening journey.
Stay Informed, Shop with Ease: To stay up-to-date with our latest product releases, exciting offers, and gardening tips, sign up for our newsletter. Be the first to explore new arrivals and ensure you never miss out on the perfect addition to your gardening collection. With new products being added regularly, you can always expect fresh surprises whenever you visit Grace and August.
Unleash the Power of Choice:If you're overwhelmed by the plethora of options, we've got you covered! Consider selecting a gift voucher from our store, allowing your loved ones to handpick their own gardening treasures. Give them the gift of choice and watch their gardening dreams blossom.
Grace and August welcomes you to a world of exclusive gardening products, thoughtfully selected to cater to your discerning taste. Explore our store, indulge in the finest gardening essentials, and make your green oasis truly extraordinary.
]]>Grace and August self-watering globes offer an ingenious solution for keeping your plants hydrated, especially when you're on holiday. By mimicking natural watering cycles, these globes ensure a consistent water supply, promoting healthy plant growth and reducing the risk of dehydration. They are convenient, versatile, and they look great also.
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Are you tired of returning from your holiday only to find your plants withered and in need of immediate attention? Look no further! Grace and August self-watering globes are here to save the day. These innovative devices provide a hassle-free way to keep your plants hydrated while you're away. In this blog post, we will explore how these self-watering globes work and highlight their usefulness, particularly when you're on holiday.
The Science Behind Self-Watering Globes: We regularly get asked ‘How do glass plat watering bulbs work’ so let us explain. The watering globes offered by Grace and August are designed to mimic natural watering cycles. The process is simple yet effective. By making a small hole in the soil using a chopstick or a similar tool, you create a channel for water to reach the roots of your plants. The self-watering globe acts as a reservoir, gradually releasing water as the soil dries out.
How Grace and August Plant Watering Globes Keep Plants Hydrated: Once you have prepared the soil and made a hole, it's time to fill the self-watering globe with water. The globe is equipped with a narrow neck that fits securely into the soil, ensuring a steady and controlled release of water. As the soil dries out, it creates a slight vacuum within the globe, prompting water to be slowly drawn into the soil through the hole. This process ensures that your plants receive a consistent and adequate water supply, preventing dehydration.
The Benefits of Grace and August Plant Self-Watering Globes:
Tips for Optimal Usage: To ensure the best results with your Grace and August self-watering globes, consider the following tips:
Conclusion:
Grace and August self-watering globes offer an ingenious solution for keeping your plants hydrated, especially when you're on holiday. By mimicking natural watering cycles, these globes ensure a consistent water supply, promoting healthy plant growth and reducing the risk of dehydration. They are convenient, versatile, and they look great also.
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When shopping for a gardening apron, it’s important to look for one that is made from a thick and durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. The apron should also be functional and have plenty of large, deep pockets to hold your gardening tools, water bottles, and other items you may need. Additionally, the apron should fit well and be adjustable in multiple places to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
One gardening apron that meets all of these requirements is ‘the Pocket’ apron from Grace and August. This apron features a deep kangaroo-style pouch that can hold anything you harvest or collect with easy-release clips to empty items out of the bottom. The large pouch enables a number of versatile uses in the garden and indoors, making it a multi-purpose tool for any task.
The top bib pocket on the Pocket apron is deep to prevent items from falling out when bending over, and it can hold your gardening hand tools, mobile phone, keys, cleaning products and materials, and anything else you may need while working. The contents of the Pocket apron are easily emptied by simply releasing the bottom clips, making it easy to use and maintain.
Not only is 'the Pocket' gardening apron functional and durable, but it also looks great and fits well. It comes in a range of stylish colours and designs, so you can choose one that matches your personal style and aesthetic. And because it is washable, you can easily clean it between uses and keep it looking like new.
Overall, wearing a garden apron is a smart and practical choice for any gardener. When looking for the perfect gardening apron, consider the material, functionality, fit, and style. And if you’re looking for a top-quality apron that meets all of these criteria, the Pocket apron from Grace and August is an excellent choice.
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These 3-ply medical grade face masks are designed to offer protection against respiratory droplets, as well as splashes of blood and bodily fluids. They feature a splash-resistant layer of fabric, which makes them ideal for use in hospitals, clinics, dental surgeries, and other healthcare institutions. They are also certified for medical use, ensuring they meet the highest standards for quality and safety.
One of the key features of these face masks is the Fog-Resistant Design, which helps to minimise fogging when the wearer is wearing glasses. This feature ensures that the mask remains comfortable and easy to wear, even for extended periods.
The face masks are designed with ear loops, making them easy to put on and take off, and ensuring a secure fit throughout the day. They also have an integrated nose clip, which helps to ensure a close fit and prevents air from escaping through gaps in the mask.
These face masks are constructed with three filtration layers, and pleat style with foam strip. The 3-Layer Hypoallergenic Non-Woven Material Construction helps to filter out particles and bacteria, with a bacterial filtration efficiency of >95% (BFE). They also comply with European Standard EN 14683:2019 Type IIR Requirements, which ensures that they meet the highest standards for safety and effectiveness.
Type IIR disposable surgical masks are designed for single-use only, and should be disposed of after use. They provide a general physical barrier to protect the wearer from the environment, and the environment from the wearer.
The manufacturer of these face masks is verified by Intertek, a global leader in Medical Device testing, certification, inspection, and assurance solutions. This ensures that the face masks meet the highest standards for quality and safety, giving you peace of mind that you are using a reliable and effective product.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a reliable and effective face mask to protect yourself and others from the spread of respiratory droplets and bodily fluids, the Type IIR disposable surgical mask is an excellent choice. It offers 2-way protection and meets the highest standards for safety and effectiveness. Order your Type IIR disposable Medical masks today and stay safe and protected.
]]>In this article, we will explore why KN95 face masks can still help protect you from contracting COVID-19, especially if you are elderly or have underlying health issues.
Firstly, it is important to understand how the KN95 mask works. The KN95 mask is made up of multiple layers of material that filter out particles in the air. The mask has a tight-fitting seal around the nose and mouth, which helps to prevent the entry of airborne particles. The KN95 mask is designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including viruses and bacteria.
KN95 masks are particularly useful for elderly people and those with underlying health issues because they are more susceptible to severe COVID-19 illness. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults and people with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes, are at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Wearing a KN95 mask can provide an additional layer of protection for these vulnerable individuals.
Another advantage of KN95 masks is that they are more widely available than N95 masks, which are reserved for healthcare workers. KN95 masks can be purchased online or at local stores, and they are generally more affordable than N95 masks.
It is important to note that no mask provides 100% protection against COVID-19. However, wearing a mask, including a KN95 mask, can significantly reduce the risk of contracting the virus. It is also important to follow other preventive measures, such as washing your hands regularly, practicing social distancing, and avoiding large gatherings.
In conclusion, KN95 face masks are an effective tool in preventing the spread of COVID-19. They are particularly useful for elderly people and those with underlying health issues who are more susceptible to severe illness from the virus. By wearing a KN95 mask, you can provide an additional layer of protection for yourself and those around you.
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Made from high-quality stainless steel, this watering can is built to last. The powder-coated finish not only looks beautiful but also provides an extra layer of protection against rust and corrosion. The can is easy to clean and will remain looking beautiful for years to come.
The 1.5L capacity is perfect for small to medium-sized indoor plants, and the long spout ensures that you can easily reach those tricky spots without spilling any water. The spout also has a removable cap, making it easy to clean and ensuring that you can keep your watering can in pristine condition.
The bird designs on the can are truly beautiful, adding a touch of elegance and nature to your indoor gardening space. The designs are created by Grace and August, a company that specializes in creating beautiful home and garden products inspired by nature. With this watering can, you'll have a piece of art in addition to a functional tool.
Overall, the Grace and August indoor stainless steel powder coated watering can with beautiful bird designs is a fantastic addition to any indoor gardener's toolkit. It's practical, durable, and beautiful, making it the perfect gift for yourself or any plant lover in your life. With this watering can, you'll enjoy your indoor gardening routine even more and your plants will thank you for the extra care and attention.
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The major nutrients in sprouted beans and seeds are B group vitamins, especially thiamine, and some contain small amounts of minerals including iron and potassium. Sprouts provide a range of phytonutrients, varying depending on the type of sprout.
Cruciferous vegetables such as radish and broccoli sprouts are good sources of the body's most important antioxidant, glutathione, which is produced by the liver and can neutralize free radicals. Broccoli sprouts have also been used in studies to demonstrate the potential anti-viral properties of the sulforaphane compound they contain.
The sprouts of mung beans, chickpeas, and lentils have a high protein content (21-28%) and are a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and certain vitamins such as vitamin C, which increases during the sprouting process. Sprouted pulses are more easily digested without the common side effects of bloating and gas.
Soaking and sprouting seeds is shown to reduce the levels of both tannins and phytates, which is why it is also beneficial to soak other plant foods such as nuts, beans, and grains. Sprouted seeds have a fantastic nutrient profile, high in vitamins, minerals, protein, and fibre while being low in fat and carbohydrate.
Overall, adding sprouted plant foods to our diet is a simple, inexpensive, and delicious way to boost our nutrient levels. They are best eaten raw in salads, wraps, and smoothies but may also be lightly steamed, added to stir-fries, soups, and stews. Sprouts are widely available in supermarkets, but the sprouting process only takes a few days and is simple and cheaper to do at home. If you are new to the process of sprouting, try alfalfa seeds as they are very easy to sprout and are a lovely, mild addition to salads and other dishes
Information in this blog post is taken from other published articles and re-written for this informative blog.
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Now, my family and I enjoy yummy fresh sprouts all the time.
Not only are sprouts a cheap and easy way to pack a lot of nutrients into your meals, but they also take less than a week to grow from the moment you pour the seeds into the jar. The toughest decision you'll need to make is which type of sprout you want to try first. Personally, I love blended sprout mixes for the flavour, but alfalfa or good old mung beans are just as great! mung beans and radishes are the fastest to grow, taking just three days before they're ready to eat, while less commonly sprouted seeds like broccoli, fenugreek, and amaranth can take considerably longer.
Starting your own sprouts in our sprouting jars is incredibly easy. Simply add around 2 tablespoons of seeds into the sprout jar and fill it with water. Let it soak for eight hours or overnight. Then drain off the water, rinse the seeds with more cold water, and drain again. Place the jar in a warm spot to start the germination process, and rinse and drain it twice daily, once in the morning and again at night. Soon enough, your sprouts will be big enough to eat. Once they're ready, remove the sprouts from the jar and keep them in an airtight container in the vegetable bin or compartment of your fridge for up to a week.
One thing to keep in mind when sprouting is to avoid direct sunlight, as the jar can act like a magnifying glass and dry out your sprouts really fast With a Grace and August Sprouting Set, you can grow your own healthy sprouts with ease and enjoy them as part of your daily meals.
]]>DISPOSABLE & FABRIC FACE MASKS
Looking to purchase from a trusted online store offering a range of quality disposable face masks, reusable face masks, and face mask filters at competitive prices?
Well, search no more, you have come to the right place. Welcome to Grace and August. We have face masks for adults and children.
Grace and August's original reusable face mask comes with protective and convenient features such as a moulded nose bridge, adjustable ear loops, two filters with filter pockets with two layers consisting of cotton and polyester/spandex blend. These unisex masks are available in various colours, sizes, and prints. No matter what field of profession you are in or your sense of style, you will easily find a mask that suits your needs and meets your requirements.
See what everyone is talking about and check out our collection featuring adult original masks, adult premium mask set, child original and premium masks, adult limited editions, child limited editions – it is easy and fast to place orders for your favourite masks.
CERTIFIED FILTERS
We also sell approved tested and certified PM2.5 replaceable face mask filters. Our approved mask filters come in a child and adult size. Our face mask filters are composed of two layers of non-woven fabric, two layers of melt-blown cloth and one layer of activated carbon cloth. These filters provide improved filtration and protection so you can wear them with confidence.
ACCESSORIES
Lanyards - we stock mask lanyards which are super easy to ensure that your mask is always at the ready. Read more.
Mask bags – the perfect accessory to keep your mask clean and fresh by placing your mask in its own carry bag with pull string when not in use. These come in a variety of colours and styles. Read more.
WHERE FUNCTION MEETS STYLE
GRACE & AUGUST
Here at Grace and August we have a comprehensive range of quality masks and mask accessories to suit any occasion and profession. Our fashion mask range is designed in New Zealand and manufactured overseas.
]]>Face masks, sanitisers, vaccines and boosters have become common words in our daily life. Something new seems to come along almost weekly now as we are all trying to get on with daily life living with the new ‘normal’. A PM2.5 filter is one of them.
A PM2.5 is a disposable insert that fits inside your reusable masks that can increase the effectiveness of mask filtration. A PM2.5 filter can protect you better than no filter against the smallest particles. A certified pm2.5 filter can block the majority of airborne particulates, including fine aerosols. A pm2.5 filter and mask are one of the most protective options that are available for our everyday use.
Why? Let us explain the reasons to you so you’ll know why the PM2.5 filter has become the favourite choice for so many consumers…
How does a PM 2.5 filter work?
A PM2.5 filter works by creating an electrostatic barrier. Yes, it can capture the microscopic particles that usual mask fabrics like cotton and polyester cannot. The melt-blown material provides superior sub-micron filtration compared to other cloth masks.
Properties of a PM2.5 filter
1) Static attraction
A certified PM2.5 filter comes with two layers of non-woven fibres. This "melt-blown" material attracts microscopic particles via electrostatic attraction. Yes, you will find that same technology in N95 masks. In other words, PM2.5 filters use "static cling" to seize particles capable of carrying virions and bacteria.
2) Efficient filtration
For effective use PM2.5 filters need be used inside a fitted fabric mask. This system is laboratory-tested. It can block airborne particles, including up to 90% of particulates.
Being able to block tiny particles is considered the most crucial factor in using PM2.5 filters in your daily life. It can effectively reduce the transmission of airborne viruses when physical distancing is impossible.
3) Proven standard
The Asian market have utilised these filters for more than 15 years. To make sure US masks and filters meet the same high standards
Order your quality PM2.5 filters through Grace and August
To purchase your supply of PM2.5 filters, you can trust Grace and August. They offer a wide range of quality, stylish reusable face masks, PM2.5 filters and accessories. Grace and August strive to develop ‘functional’ products with style. To secure your order today visit graceandaugust.co.nz
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