The Gendarme: Meet the Least Harmful Red and Black Insect Everyone is familiar with the gendarme, especially children who often observe them in the garden or in primary school classrooms to study their fascinating behavior. It is important to note that this small species of bug is harmless – it doesn’t sting, doesn’t emit any bad odor, and doesn’t cause…
Jennifer NILEIST
I'm Jennifer. My hands are often covered in soil, and my heart is full of passion for nature. Through my writings, I share my personal gardening journeys, tips, and the joy of cultivating both plants and a community of fellow garden lovers. Every plant I grow adds a story to my life, and I love sharing those tales with my readers.
Origins of Oyas Oyas are irrigation jars with lids. The word “oya” comes from the Spanish word “olla,” which means “pot.” However, the use of oyas for watering small arid gardens dates back at least two millennia, with origins in China, North Africa, or even the Roman Empire not precisely determined. After World War II, intensive agriculture in the Western…
Why Install a Rainwater Harvesting System? As the effects of climate change intensify, water is becoming an increasingly precious resource. This is why many gardens are transforming to include plants that are adapted to warmer climates and drier soils, reducing their water needs. By installing a rainwater harvesting system, you can both preserve the water resource and save money, as…
The slowworm, also known as the Anguis fragilis, is a fascinating reptile that is often mistaken for a snake. However, it is in fact a legless lizard. Despite its snake-like appearance, the slowworm is harmless and has many unique characteristics that set it apart from snakes. In this article, we will explore the distinguishing features of the slowworm and shed…
Capucines: The Perfect Ally Against Aphids Capucines are truly the gardener’s best friend, especially when it comes to combating aphids. These vibrant orange flowers serve as traps for these pests, luring them away from your vegetables. For optimal results, I recommend planting them along the edges of your garden or directly in the middle of your crops. Cultivating capucines is…
Why Are There Ant Colonies in Your Home or Garden? Ants are attracted to food sources, whether it be in the garden or in our homes. They are omnivorous insects that enjoy a variety of foods, including honeydew produced by aphids and scale insects, nectar from flowers, dead or alive insects, insect eggs, and fruits. In our homes, they are…
The Wall Lizard: A Fascinating Creature The wall lizard, scientifically known as Podarcis muralis, is one of the most commonly found lizard species in France and Europe. Belonging to the Lacertidae family, this climbing reptile finds solace around houses where it enjoys basking in the sun on tall piles of stones. Depending on the region in France, it is known…
Discover the Tropical Cucurbitaceae: Chayote or Christophine The chayote, also known as christophine in the French Antilles and in Guyana, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the tropical zone around Mexico. The Aztecs were already cultivating it a long time ago. It belongs to the large family of Cucurbitaceae. The chayote goes by different names depending on the country…
Can Coffee Grounds Enhance the Blooming of Hydrangeas? Hydrangeas, with their majestic silhouette and stunning inflorescences, are a favorite among gardeners. But did you know that these plants thrive in acidic soil? This acidity allows for the possibility of changing the color of hydrangeas as well. One popular idea that has gained attention is the use of coffee grounds to…
Salamander: A Nocturnal Black and Yellow Amphibian The common or spotted salamander (Salamandra salamandra) is a small animal that belongs to the amphibian family and is sometimes found in our gardens. It is also often depicted on historical monuments, as King Francis I made it a royal emblem! Recognizable by its shiny black skin dotted with yellow or orange spots…