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Garden

The Gendarme: Meet the Least Harmful Red and Black Insect

GardenBy Jul 12, 2024

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…

Oyas: The Smart and Efficient Way to Water Your Plants

GardenBy Jul 11, 2024

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…

A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Rainwater Harvesting System for Garden Irrigation

GardenBy Jul 10, 2024

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…

Slowworm: Not to be Confused with a Snake

GardenBy Jul 09, 2024

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…

Discover 5 Miraculous Flowers that Protect Your Garden from Pests!

GardenBy Jul 08, 2024

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…

Natural Ways to Eliminate or Repel Ants in an Eco-Friendly Manner

GardenBy Jul 08, 2024

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…

Basking in the Sun: The Wall Lizard’s Simple Pleasure

GardenBy Jul 07, 2024

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

GardenBy Jul 06, 2024

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…

Enhancing Hydrangea Blooming with Coffee Grounds: Is It a Good Idea?

GardenBy Jul 05, 2024

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

GardenBy Jul 05, 2024

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…