Environmentally Grown Christmas Trees

When shopping for a Christmas tree choose locally grown trees.

Trees grown in an area are acclimated to the climate and will more easily take root and survive should the decision to plant the tree after it's served it's purpose as a Christmas tree be planned.

A locally grown tree will not harbor pests from another area that might not be living in a locale. By purchasing a locally grown tree no new harmful pests will be introduced into the yard, garden, city and surrounding areas.

Artificial trees of course pose no problems and can be reused year after year.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Be A Green Santa

Be a green Santa this year and help save the environment all year.

For gardening friends you can't go wrong in giving tools for working in the garden, seeds, plants, and organically related products that are safe for children, pets and the environment.

In light of the fact that many cities are now banning plastic shopping bags many stores are starting to charge extra for sacks and promoting the use of reusable canvas shopping bags. A canvas shopping tote, or two, makes a perfect gift for an environmentally conscious friend.

One of the most beautiful gifts that will be cherished by anyone is a living tree planted in memory of a birthday, a beloved pet, or other special occasion.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Money From Unsold Garage Sale Items

If, after a garage sale is over, and there are still unsold valuables left over, money can still be made from them.

Pawn shops are seeing an increase in carpentry tools, TVs, jewelry, household decor such as lamps, furniture, kitchen appliances, and CD, DVD, and MP3 players being brought in to sell.

While it doesn't really matter whether the items sold at the garage sale or at a pawn shop the result is the same. More money for unwanted items.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Santa Letters Reflect Economy

Most children ask for dolls, games, toy trains, stuffed animals, or even computers for Christmas. But this year, the poor economy is reflected in the items children are asking Santa for.

Many store santas are reporting that children are asking for jobs for their parents, money, and even for their mortgaged homes to be returned to them.

Writing to Santa has always been fun for children. Hopefully, some of the letters that these children are writing, will be answered.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sales For The Holiday

Unused items, almost new clothing, gifts that you never used. All these would make excellent low priced gifts for just the right person looking for a bargain.

Many people, who swore they would never have, or attend, a garage sale, are now having sales and buying at them because of the sluggish economy.

If you have never had a garage sale now is a great time to have one and sell items that you no longer need. It will be just the thing someone out there is looking for.

The items you don't sell can also be donated as Christmas gifts to those in need as well.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sale Environmentalist

While shopping at garage sales it is very easy to help save the environment.

Bring your own reusable canvas shopping bags to take home small item purchases. Or if buying lots of items keep a cardboard box in the car in which you can empty the bags from one garage sale to the next sale. Cardboard boxes can always be recycled by saving and using it for the next garage sale.

Plastic shopping bags take 20 to 1000 years to deteriorate and paper bags only 30 days in the open environment but neither will ever deteriorate in an airtight landfill.

Over 100,000 birds, whales, seals, turtles and other wildlife worldwide are killed by plastic garbage every year.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
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Safe Home Heating

Because the home heating costs of electricity, gas and fuel oil are expensive many homeowners use short cuts to reduce costs. Be sure they are safe and not a fire hazard.

Many homeowners resort to kerosene heaters. These are highly combustible and are outlawed in some cities.

Using turned on kitchen stovetop burners and open ovens as well as barbecue grills are other unsafe practices.

Small electrical space heaters can do wonders to warm up a room or a small area of a room in order to prevent the need of raising the thermostat on the primary heat source. But keep blankets, clothing, toys and other flammable items away from the heater.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sale Fees

Before having a garage sale be sure to check whether your city or town requires a fee.

Some communities charge fees to raise extra money for the city. Others do it in order to ensure that only homeowners hold garage sales selling personal items and not conducting businesses in their backyards.

But because the process of filing the applications costs more than the fees and with no way to be sure a homeowner having a garage sale actually has a permit, some communities are eliminating the need for permits.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Electricity Improves Gas Mileage

Electric cars are in the future but electricity can actually be used to improve gas mileage by up to 18 percent in almost any car on the road right now.

According to tests at the Department of Physics at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Electrorheology, a process invented in 1947, is the key, and it could save 300 million barrels of gasoline, or 150 million barrels of diesel annually in the U.S.

Simply stated, a tiny bit of electricity is given to the gasoline before it's injected into the engine's cylinders and lowers the viscosity of the fuel making the droplets more efficient.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sales For Children

Garage sales can be a great teaching aid for parents to help children learn math and other sales skills.

When planning a garage sale have children from about age 7 or 8 help plan the garage sale and work at the garage sale. The child can receive all profits from items they sell, a set amount of prearranged salary, or any other agreed upon payment.

By taking money from customers and counting back change the child will learn a valuable lesson in managing simple money exchange in a business.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Tax Deductions From Garage Sales

Donate unsold garage sale items for a tax deduction.

When having a garage sale it is a good idea to have a charity in mind that one can donate any unsold items to. Never bring the unsold items back into the house or garage.

Determine how much each item is worth. Statistics show that most garage sale donors do not put a high enough value on the items they donate. Do not value the item at the price it would have sold for at the garage sale. In some cases, the value may be as much as 10 times more than the garage sale price.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Christmas Shopping At Garage Sales

'Tis the Season for Christmas shopping and garage sales can be some of the best places to get low cost Christmas presents.

While summer garage sales may be the most lucrative with the most customers, the slow economy has caused many homeowners to sell lots of household belongings in order to make a few needed extra dollars to pay bills. Many of the items sold are brand new which were received as gifts or just purchased and never used. These items are sold at a fraction of the original purchase price. What better way to buy Christmas gifts for friends and relatives?

Garage sales are excellent for making money or inexpensive gift buying.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Selling Furniture At Garage Sales

If you're selling a cabinet, desk, cupboard or other type of furniture that can hold valuables at a garage sale, be careful.

Check every nook and cranny and before placing the piece of furniture out for sale.

In one instance, a cabinet with important personal and business files was accidentally sold at a garage sale. With personal identity theft becoming more and more common every ounce of prevention is worth a pound, or dollars, of cure.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Halloween In Malaysia

In the U.S. everyone expects Halloween on October 31. Even if one doesn't celebrate the holiday, it's still a holiday observed by most.

In some countries, Malaysia for one, Halloween isn't even observed. But this year, Malaysians are going to enjoy Halloween festivities. Candy and costumes are being made available for sale through local stores.

Malaysians won't celebrate Halloween for the same reason Americans or other countries do. For Malaysians the festivities are sort of an appetizer for the Christmas holiday coming in December. It serves as an introduction to getting natives in the mood for holiday celebrations!

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Plant Garlic For Cabbage Protection

Garlic and tomato plants protect cabbage from serious garden pests.

Fall is the time to plant garlic so if planning on planting cabbage next year, plant garlic now around cabbage beds.

According to studies at Mariano Marcos State University in Ilocos Norte, Phillipines, garlic and tomato are great plants to use as companion plants for cabbage.

Tomato plants protect cabbage plants from Hellula and Diamondback Moth while the garlic plants protect cabbage from cutworms.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Drivers Pay Extra For Wasted Gas

As a driver of a car or other vehicle, you are in control of the vehicle and, the price you pay for gas.

While there isn't anything a driver can do to actually lower the price spent on gas, there are ways of driving that can increase the price you pay without even realizing it.

Speeding and rapid slowing down can lower gas mileage as much as 33 percent!

Keeping the engine tuned, tires inflated properly, and removing any excess weight helps to get the best mileage the vehicle as to offer.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sales Bring Extra Income

With the slowing economy many homeowners are using garage sales as a way to pay bills.

Many homeowners are also losing their jobs.

The current high prices for gas, rising food costs, medicine, etc. are forcing these homeowners to look for other means of income. Selling items that they no longer use at a garage sale can help fill the need for at least one month.

If planning to use garage sales as a means of support, be sure to check with local authorities first. Many cities are allowing only two or three sales a year, while others are allowing as many as one garage sale a month.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Adults Celebrate Halloween

Halloween is no longer just for children. Adults are enjoying dressing in costumes, decorating yard and home, and even indulging their pets in the festivities.

Money spent for Halloween is rivaled only by Christmas decorations. Every year since the 1980's adults have increased their interest in celebrating Halloween.

Stores report selling twice as many adult costumes as children's costumes. There has been an increase in pet costumes as well.

The emphasis on taking care of the environment has many people thinking about Mother Earth and Nature. That's one important reason that many adults are beginning to take a more serious look at the real reason for Halloween.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Australians Choose Garlic For Health

Garlic is one of the most favored of all medicinal herbs in Australia.

Garlic is well known for it's many health benefits and healing qualities. That's why it's been called the "poor man's penicillin". But one doesn't have to be poor to reap the benefits of garlic, a plant that is easily grown almost anywhere.

In Victoria, Australia, a new study revealed that well educated and high income individuals are choosing to use garlic and other herbs in favor over harsh and sometimes dangerous drugs.

Green tea and aloe vera were the other two of the top three herbs used as medicine.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Pets Celebrate Halloween

Celebrate Halloween with your pet.

More and more pets are beginning to be included in Halloween festivities. In Carmel, Indiana, a costume party for dogs and their owners is being held.

Despite the slowing economy people are going to celebrate Halloween and have fun! Statistics show that more money will be spent on Halloween costumes and decorations this year than in 2007 which had an increase over 2006.

As many pets are frightened and lost on Halloween, read these tips to keep your pet safe on Halloween.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Toxic Sports Fields Harm Environment

If you, or your children, play sports, be aware of the chemicals used on the field before you play.

In New Zealand, there is a golf course in which Endosulfan is used to kill earthworms, which are beneficial to the environment, but interfere with the game.

Endosulfan, is banned in the European Union and in 50 other countries. Apparently New Zealand is the only country still using the extremely toxic pesticide which remains in the soil for up to six years. It is known to cause hormonal health problems in both men and women.

Earthworms can be controlled simply by making the soil more acidic.

The Stockholm Convention is considering a global ban on the pesticide.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Photograph Garage Sale Items

Photograph items that you don't sell at your next garage sale.

One of the best ways to get monetary credit for items that don't sell at a garage sale is to donate them to an organization, charity, school, church, or give to Good Will.

Make a list of the items you donate along with a photograph of each as proof that you actually owned and donated the items.

That's just one tip to making money with a garage sale.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Movie Costumes For Halloween

Movie costumes are favorites for Halloween lovers.

Whether going to a costume party, dance, contest, hayride, or trick or treating, costumes of movie characters are the best selling favorites.

Batman and the Joker are the number one costumes of choice. Batgirl costumes are also in high demand.

There is even a Batman costume for your favorite pet! But be careful with including pets on Halloween festivities. Make sure they are safe and secure.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Peru Grows World's Asparagus

Ever wonder where the asparagus that is for sale in U.S. supermarkets comes from? Try Peru.

Peru's climate is perfect for growing the nutritious vegetable. The climate is dry thus lowering risk of disease and the dry sandy soil is easily irrigated.

Peru is the first country to export asparagus worldwide because it can produce the crop all twelve months of the year.

According to the Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association the United States imported over 270 million pounds of asparagus of which 56 percent came from Peru.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Earthworms Doctor Trees

Sick and ailing trees can sometimes be made healthy again by earthworms.

Earthworm casts are full of nutrition for plants. In southern, California, George Hahn, with Tree and Plant Rescue, is saving trees that have been attacked by bark beetles.

The trees are not receiving the nutrition they need from the soil, so by adding earthworm casts and compost, the trees are being nursed back to health.


*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Slugs Love Bananas

Garden slugs can do a lot of damage to food and flower gardens. There are many natural controls for slugs that aren't harmful to children and pets.

Banana peels are loved by garden slugs. Simply place banana peels in the garden and the slugs will crawl under them overnight. In the morning, pick up the peels, drop them in some water to kill the slugs, and then pour the water, banana peels and drowned slugs onto your compost pile.

Or, alternatively, just kill the slugs and bury the peels and slugs in the garden. The banana peels will add potassium to the soil for the growing plants.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Coffee Deters Fleas

Expensive drugs, chemicals, and flea dips can kill fleas but do you really what to be exposing your dog to a bath in insecticide?

There are many natural remedies for fleas. Some people swear by coffee grounds.

Either save your own coffee grounds, take them home from work, or ask at the local coffee shop if you can take theirs off their hands. Most coffee shops are only too happy to have someone take the spent coffee grounds off their hands.

Rub the coffee grounds into the coat of your dog. This is best done outside as the dog will shake itself to remove the grounds and loosen up it's hair after being massaged with the coffee grounds.

While some people have had luck with coffee grounds others haven't. But either way, after a treatment with the coffee grounds, the dog's hair will be extra soft and shiny.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garlic Imports Banned

Garlic farmers complaining about lowered prices for their produce brings an end to imported garlic.

Could this happen in the United States? Hardly. The United States only produces five percent of the world's supply of garlic while at the same time imports over 138 million pounds of fresh garlic from China in just one year. But in Thailand, farmers complaints were listened to.

Garlic has many health benefits from curing infections that are resistant to antibiotics to preventing cancer.

Garlic is easy to grow in a home garden without dangerous chemicals and is a delicious, healthful addition to any diet.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sale Honesty

Be honest when advertising garage sales. You will reap more repeat customers for future garage sales.

Don't advertise your sale as a "huge" garage sale if you're selling only a few household items.

Don't advertise the garage sale as a "multi-family" garage sale if you are having a garage sale with one or two other families. Advertise the sale as a two- or three-family garage sale.

Honestly is always the best policy, and that goes for garage sales too.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Back To School Garage Sales

With the high price of gas and groceries, a slowing economy means everyone is looking for a bargain. Garage sales may be the answer.

More and more people are having garage sales trying to earn a few dollars to pay bills and necessities. Bargains are to be had.

For back to school backpacks, books, calculators, and even used computers, garage sales can't be beat.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Deter Slugs With Spice

Slugs are a nuisance in vegetable and flower gardens. Keep them out with a common spice from the kitchen spice rack.

If beer traps, diatomaceous earth and copper barriers have failed to keep the slugs away from your plants try some spice. Don't resort to dangerous chemicals.

Sprinkle powdered ginger around plants that you want to protect.

There are many simple, inexpensive, organic methods that can be used to keep your flowers and veggies safe from slugs.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Hummingbird Gardens

To attract hummingbirds to your garden plant the flowers that they love. Plant easy to grow annuals for hummingbirds.

Hummingbirds love red flowers. While these aren't all annuals they are all excellent for hummingbirds. Plant bee balm, butterfly weed, columbine, cardinal Flower, coral bells, cosmos, dahlias, four-o'-clock's, fuchsias, morning glory, petunias, zinnias, trumpet vine, or honeysuckle.

Deadhead the spent blooms so that the plants continue to produce more flowers instead of going to seed.

Keep the garden free of weeds. Burdock, commonly called cockle burr, is one plant that deadly to hummingbirds.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

National Garage Sale Day

With the popularity of garage sales rapidly increasing, it's only natural that there would be a day proclaimed as National Garage Sale Day. That day is August 10.

While some sources say the day is August 9, and others say August 11, it would seem that the general consensus is that August 10 is the National Garage Sale Day in 2008.

No matter which day it is in your city, be sure to celebrate the day and visit some garage sales in your neighborhood and save some money. Or, on the other hand, have a garage sale and make some money from the things you no longer need.


*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Fuel Additives And Mileage

Do fuel additives help vehicles get better mileage? Here are some facts.

A test conducted by a television news station found that by using a particular additive that claims anywhere from 2.3 to 10 percent gas mileage improvement, their vehicle actually lost mileage. The mileage without the additive was 20.195 but with the additive added, the mileage after adding the additive was actually one-fourth gallon less with 19.93 miles to the gallon!

Many gas additives and other products being touted as gas mileage extenders can be dangerous for your car.


*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Yard Sales With A Theme

Garage sales can be specialized sales. Make them a family sale or a neighborhood sale.

Whether selling on your own or as a family or group sale, specialized sales can be fun and profitable. Only people who are interested in what your theme is will come to the garage sale but will be more likely to buy because they will be especially drawn to your sale.

Theme sales can be holiday, season, or product oriented. Sale themes include items such as clothing, music, furniture, garden and yard decor items, crafts, books, toys and hobbies, etc.

No matter what kind of garage sale you have, here are some tips on making it profitable.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Use Garage Sale Signs Wisely

The best way to get customers to your garage sale is to use free advertising with signs. But use them wisely.

Signs advertising garage sales are the best way to get your sale noticed. Just be careful and considerate of others when placing them.

Most importantly, be aware of the laws in your local city or town. Most communities do not allow personal signs on telephone, electric, and other utility poles. They pose a hazard to any worker who needs to climb the pole for maintenance or repairs.

Also, remove any signs at the end of your sale. Signs advertising a sale that is over is a traffic hazard as drivers slow down to read them.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Slugs In The Kitchen

Slugs in the garden is one thing, but slugs in the kitchen?

One unfortunate home owner woke one morning to find slugs in the sink and kitchen. Professional advice was to use a dehumidifier because slugs love damp and wet conditions.

Other than that, the usual methods of slug control in gardens was given. Beer traps, ground egg shells, cocoa bean hulls, and copper sheets were advised.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sales Go Big Time

With the price of gas and groceries, and almost everything else as well, garage sales aren't just for small priced items anymore.

At one garage sale, a $249,000 RV was put up for sale at $40,000 because the owner needed the money for medical bills.

While most people don't have that expensive of items to sell, whatever items are put out for sale should bring as much money as possible. Price your items, display the items attractively, advertise your sale, and the garage sale will be a success.


*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Miracle Spray Deters Slugs

For years gardeners have tried every trick in the book to keep slugs off of plants. Everything from eggshells, to diatomaceous earth, to copper rings and beer.

But for plants in pots............... one seemingly innocuous product does the job. It's WD-40. Just spray the WD-40 around the pots!

There are many other organic tricks to keep slugs away and off plants.


*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Yard Sale Bulletin Boards

With the increased popularity of garage sales, some communities are starting to put up bulletin boards solely for garage or yard sale advertisements.

Many cities are starting to restrict how many signs that a household having a garage sale may post. They are also restricting where the signs may be posted, the size of signs, and how many days the signs may remain for public viewing.

Anyone desiring more exposure of garage sales in their area would do well to start a bulletin board somewhere in their city.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Slow Economy Increases Garage Sales

Garage sale permits are increasing by anywhere from ten percent to fifty percent in 2008 than in 2007.

Many people are having garage, or yard sales, to sell a few unused items in order to make a quick buck. Making enough to simply fill the gas tank or a week of groceries is the goal of many home owners.

Make the most money from your garage sale as possible but be willing to lower prices to what customers will pay to be sure to sell everything and not be left with items to give away. $1.00 for a full sack is better than not selling it at all.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Coffee As Pain Reliever

Coffee provides as much relief from muscle pain as aspirin or ibuprofen.

According to researcher Patrick O'Connor of the department of kinesiology at the University of Georgia, Athens caffeine works better than either of the two drugs.

According to the studies, just two cups of coffee will provide post workout muscle pain by 50 percent. The coffee remedy also seems to work better for people who don't regularly drink coffee but can be helpful to those who do as well.

The studies proved so impressive that the British Coffee Association validated the results by saying that coffee can be used to aid in sports training. Coffee also has many more health benefits.

And for gardening enthusiasts, coffee is very useful in the garden as well.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Fireflies Love Slugs

Considering the misery and constant vigilance needed by gardeners to keep slugs at bay, seeing the light of fireflies at night is cause for celebration.

If you have pesky slugs, be glad if you have fireflies, also known as lightning bugs. The larvae of fireflies are known as glowworms.

Fireflies are not flies. They are actually beetles. The female firefly deposits her eggs in the ground or in rotting wood or dead leaves on the ground.

When the firefly larvae hatch they catch the scent of the slime trail made by a slug and find the slug. The larvae inject the slug with a numbing fluid and then eat them.

In addition to nature's own predators, here are some tips on controlling slugs.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Limits On Yard Sales

Some cities are starting to limit the amount of yard sales any one household may hold in a year.

If you are having a garage sale to get rid of unused items, an estate sale, a sale to sell crafts etc. be sure to check the laws of your city first.

Many cities are also starting to enforce the amount of signs that can be posted and when they need to come down as well.

With the popularity of garage sales increasing the best way to make money from a garage sale is to be well prepared. It takes time to prepare well for a garage sale so if your city or town only allows two or three sales a year, plan well during the months between sales.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Downy Mildew Attacking Cucumbers

The rainy weather in many parts of the US this spring has caused an epidemic of downy mildew on cucumbers and other cucurbits.

Cucumbers are easy to grow and have few problems except for cucumber beetles which can be a serious pest. But in extremely moist environments downy mildew can be a problem.

Downy mildew is caused by a fungal organism Pseudoperonospora cubensis. It's not easy to control because the spores are carried by wind, or by infected garden tools and on the clothing of the gardener.

Downy mildew loves humidity so hot, dry days can be helpful. Downy mildew loves heavy dews, fog, and frequent rains.

Fungicide is the only known means of controlling downy mildew. Fortunately there are organic fungicides. One such fungicide is made from neem oil which is produced from a tree.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Control Slugs With Coffee

Coffee kills slugs better than the most commonly sold poison bait for slugs.

Placing coffee grounds around plants will deter slugs but liquid coffee is even more beneficial.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service in Hilo, Hawaii, concentrations of as los as 0.01 percent caffeine repel slugs. A cup of instant coffee contains 0.05 percent caffeine. In studies a solution of one to two percent caffeine kills most slugs within two days.

The studies show that caffeine is more effective than metaldehyde which is the most commonly used poison for slugs. Metaldehyde is fatal to pets and wildlife.

Slugs can be easily controlled without endangering animals and small inquisitive children.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Slug Eats Earthworms

A new slug seen in England, which previously was found in only Turkey and Georgia, eats beneficial earthworms.

The slug is called the Ghost Slug because it most likely evolved in a cave in darkness. It is white, has razor sharp teeth and is carnivorous.

An ecologist at Cardiff University says the places to search for the slug is under plant pots, paving slabs or stones on soil. Be on the lookout while digging in gardens as well because these slugs like the soft soil in which earthworms live. Check out compost heaps too.

While scientists search for a cure for the ghost slug, there are simple ways to control common garden slugs in the garden.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Yard Sale Reveals Treasure

As the economy slows and more homeowners are having garage sales to earn a few extra dollars valuable items may inadvertently be put up for sale for just a few dollars.

Know the value of what you have before you place your possessions on a garage sale.

In one instance, a bond worth $1,000 was sold for a mere $25.00.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Control Flea Beetles With Soap

Flea beetles are an early season pest that can be easily controlled without poisons.

Flea beetles chew tiny holes in the leaves of plants. When they attack seedlings they can destroy the plants before they have a chance to grow. On older plants the damage is minimal.

Mixing a small amount of liquid soap in water is one of several methods of organic control of flea beetles.


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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Slugs Love Potatoes

Potatoes can be used as a trap for slugs.

Potato blight is the most serious disease that potato growers worry about. But slugs can cause as much damage to potato plants as does the blight.

Slugs love to live under the leaves of potatoes and then munch on the tubers causing much damage. Just one little hole in a tuber causes the entire potato to rot.

Slugs tend to chomp on already damaged tubers in preference to undamaged tubers. In fact, flat pieces of potato or potato skins laid out in the garden make excellent traps for slugs.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Chamomile Eases Diaper Rash

Commercial diaper rash products can contain ingredients which cause allergies, irritation and may even be carcinogenic. Natural products containing herbs are best.

Baby powders can contain formaldehyde, and other cancer causing ingredients.

Petroleum jelly keeps the area moist which only worsens diaper rash already caused by wetness.

Talc can cause allergic reactions from perfumes and other artificial ingredients.

One common herb is chamomile. It eases inflammation, kills pain, and disinfects the area from bacteria.

A drop or two of chamomile oil can be mixed with a vegetable oil and applied to the rash. Chamomile tea can also be added to bath water for a soothing bath to ease rashes. Chamomile helps to heal skin too.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Tobacco Use Aggravates Colic

An infant in the house with colic? A smoker in the house? The two may be related.

According to scientists second hand smoke causes infants to have a higher incidence of colic than in households without smokers.

The smoke causes a hormone called motilin to increase which raises the probability of an infant to suffer from colic.

Chamomile is a natural soothing herb which can help relieve a baby of colic without drugs.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Honeybees And Gardens

Honeybees are disappearing at an alarming rate. Experts say that by 2035 honeybees, which are necessary for pollinating food crops, will be extinct.

Widepsread use of pesticides and insecticides, plus adverse weather conditions, the growing of genetically modified crops, and Colony Collapse Disorder have all reduced the number of honeybees necessary to pollinate one-third of all food crops. Wild bees have also been affected.

By using natural and organic insecticides the lives of honeybees can be saved in gardens and fields.

Plant a variety of flowers to attract bees to a garden. Allowing clover and dandelions to grow and bloom are very attractive to bees.

Many home gardeners and orchardists are also putting out nests for native mason bees.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Slugs Good For The Garden

The last thing a gardener wants to see in the garden, or on a plant, is a slug. But while a lot of slugs aren't good for a garden, some slugs are actually helpful.

Slugs help to break down old debris and plants and help to create compost right in the garden.

Slugs are also excellent prey for other beneficials in the garden. Toads, frogs, lizards and garter snakes all eat slugs, and their cousin, the snail.

You can control slugs but you will never completely eradicate them from your garden.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Exercise Prevents Alzheimer's

To avoid getting Alzheimer's Disease get plenty of exercise.

Overweight people are eighty percent more likely to get Alzheimer's than are people of normal weight according to studies conducted by scientists at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore.

The scientists found that obesity has a higher influence on people who develop the disease before the age of 60 than those who develop it later. Women are also more inclined toward Alzheimer's if they are obese than are men.

The studies were conducted on people aged 40 to 80 and were followed up every 3 to 36 years.

The studies also revealed that people who are underweight are 36 percent more likely to develop the disease than are those who are of normal weight.

Alzheimer's, a progressive brain disease, affects about 5 million people in the United States according to the Alzheimer's Association.

Here are some diet and exercise tips.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sale Money

When having a garage sale be sure the money you receive isn't counterfeit.

Criminals are getting bolder in using fake bills in places where they don't expect the person receiving the bill to be expecting fake money.

When having a garage sale never accept anything larger than a $20.00. Make a sign saying that and place it on the cashier's table. Never accept a $50 or $100 bill. These are most often fakes.

If one does a lot of business with garage sales get a detector pens from a business supply store.

When suspecting a bill tell the customer you don't have the change and tell them you'll be glad to hold the item while they go get smaller bills at a store or bank.

Accepting coinage is the only other recourse.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Improve Gas Mileage Safely

With the high cost of gas consumers are looking for ways to get better gas mileage. The savvy consumer needs to research the methods which are safe for their vehicles.

Experts warn that using unproven additives may not give the mileage promised and may be dangerous for vehicles.

Baking soda and acetone, are the two most common additives currently being used by car owners hoping to save money at the pump. Baking soda is inefficient and actually wastes more energy. Acetone, being a corrosive, can erode rubber gaskets and O-rings in the engines causing more money to be spent on engine repairs.

There are many safe ways to improve gas mileage.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garage Sale Sign Tips

With the increase of garage and yard sales, many communities are unleashing new ordinances.

Some cities require an official fluorescent sticker issued by the Public Works Department to make all garage sale signs legal.

Most cities do not allow signs on public utility poles, traffic or street signs, or trees. Signs should be taken down within 48 hours of the garage sale ending or even on the same day. A new version of this law is that only four signs may be placed for public view and must be removed within 12 hours after the sale.

Times of sales are also being regulated. In one city a time frame of 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. is the law while in still another U.S. city, the time frame is 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Fines for those who don't comply can be as high as $150.00.

There are many more tips for selling your items at garage sales.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Slugs Love Strawberries

Dampness and slugs are the worst enemies of strawberries.

Strawberries are easy to grow.

Root rot, fruit rot, and fungus are the most serious problems with strawberries. Keep them dry with good air circulation.

Mulch between plants to keep the soil cool and moist. But do not keep the leaves wet. Straw is a perfect mulch for strawberries.

Here are some tips on keeping slugs away from strawberries and other plants.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Orange Tomatoes Healthier

Orange tomatoes are more nutritious than their red skinned cousins.

Studies done at Ohio State University have found that the lycopene in orange tomatoes is more like the lycopene in the human body.

Lycopenes are cancer fighting substances. Absorbption of lycopene from tangerine tomatoes is two and a half times higher than from red tomatoes.

Red tomatoes contain trans-lycopene and orange tangerine tomatoes contain cis-lycopene. Human blood contains cis-lycopene.

Cooked tomato products are best for lycopene absorption. Scientists from the Liverpool John Moores University Nutraceutical Research group have discovered that tomatoes must be cooked, with some form of oil, in order for the lycopene to become available to the human body for use.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Four Garden Friends

There are four essential friends that every gardener wants and needs in the garden.

Earthworms are the number one friend to have in the garden. They till the soil. They make burrows for water drainage. Earthworm castings are the best fertilizer nature can provide.

Ladybugs eat aphids by the thousands. Both the larvae and adult ladybeetles eat numerous insect pests such as spider mites, thrips, and eggs of the Colorado Potato Beetle, European Corn Borer, and many other insects.

Honeybees are necessary for pollination of cucumbers, squash, fruits, flowers, nuts, and many, many other plants and food crops. Over ninety percent of the honeybees in the U.S. have simply disappeared. Many theories abound as to why. Studies are ongoing. Attract honeybees with flowering herbs and flowers.

Lastly, comfrey. Comfrey is a plant that grows fast. It can be chopped and mixed in the soil, placed on the surface as a mulch, or soaked in water and fed as compost tea to plants. It's especially good for tomatoes and other plants that need a lot of potassium.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Onions Control Carrot Fly

The carrot rust fly is a serious pest for gardeners growing carrots. The carrot fly larva hatches in the soil and feeds on the carrot root, rendering the carrots useless.

Companion gardening is an old method of controlling pest insects before pesticides and insecticides were developed. Because no poisonous chemicals are used, companion planting is a healthier way to control garden pests. Rowcovers are another helpful aid.

Onions, in any form, including chives and leeks, can be planted between the carrot rows to keep carrot flies away. The scent of the onion confuses the carrot fly. Likewise, the carrots confuse the onion fly thus protecting the onion plants.

Additionally, when thinning carrot seedlings do so in the evening when carrot flies aren't around. Remove the thinnings and put them in the compost pile. The scent of the carrot plant attracts the fly.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Celebrate Manure Day

Manure and earthworms are the best fertilizer for a garden. Whether it be a lawn, a flower, vegetable, or herb garden natural fertilizer can't be beat.

On March 15, 2008 Little Creek Farm Conservancy in DeKalb County, Georgia, held it's first of two "Manure Days" of the year. For a small fee visitors can buy a bag full or a pickup full of nature's best fertilizer. March is also the perfect month for the celebration since March is the Earthworm Moon month.

The fertilizer is composted horse manure and is ready to be spread directly onto garden beds and fields. Earthworms will love the additional food and be attracted to the garden. Earthworms help revitalize dead soils and help reduce weeds in addition to adding food for growing plants.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Caffeine Awareness Month

March is caffeine awareness month.

According to a survey of 6000 adults conducted by the National Coffee Association of USA in January and February of this year 17 percent of adults drink gourmet coffee daily. This is up three percent from 2007.

Caffeine is consumed daily by 80% of Americans. Besides coffee caffeine is found is found tea, soft drinks and chocolate.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Chamomile For Allergies

While many people are allergic to chamomile, for others, it serves as a useful remedy for the same type of allergic symptoms.

Chamomile is an excellent home remedy for many ailments. fevers, sore throats, the aches and pains due to colds, flu, and allergies. Chamomile has natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties.

For those who like to garden, Chamomile is also very easy to grow.

Anyone allergic to ragweed or sunflowers should avoid chamomile as it is of the same family of plants. Likewise, any people taking prescription blood thinner medications shouldn't take chamomile because chamomile contains coumarin, and will cause the blood to become too thin.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Garlic Banned From Grocery Store

The recent problems with imports from China has prompted one grocery chain to stop stocking garlic and other fresh food products from China.

In 2006 the U.S. imported 138 million pounds of fresh garlic. American growers only produce 5 percent of the world's total supply of garlic. China is the number one supplier with 66 percent!

Garlic is one of the most healthful foods available.

It's time to buy American grown garlic or even better, grow your own. Garlic is very easy to grow in the average backyard garden.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Year Of The Potato

The humble potato is finally being recognized for the healthful food that it is. 2008 is the Year of the Potato.

Today we enjoy potatoes prepared in every way imaginable. Even wine can be brewed from potatoes.

No other major agricultural crop contains as much nutrition as the potato. The potato alone contains most of the vitamins necessary for good health. Potatoes are also one of a few foods that cause very few allergic reactions.

The potato has been cultivated by man for over 7,000 years. It wasn't until the late 1700's that the potato was welcomed in Europe when Ireland accepted them. Ireland also suffered through the potato blight in the 184's.

Today, with just a little care, a large variety of potatoes are easy to grow in the home garden.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Spring Is Garage Sale Time

Warmer weather means garage sales will start springing up in towns across America. For those hosting a garage sale beware of new laws that have been imposed since last year.

Depending on where you live there might be new laws concerning garage sales in your locale.

Some cities have started to require permits or have limits on how many garage sales a year one household may have.

A new twist on the rules is also the starting and ending times. In one Arkansas town, for example, a time frame of 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. is the new law. In still another U.S. city, the time frame is 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Fines for those who don't comply can be as high as $150.00.

Garage sales are fun and profitable. So check with your local chamber of commerce before starting to put up those garage sale signs.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Lettuce Relieves Insomnia

For anyone troubled with insomnia lettuce may just be the answer.

Everything from less coffee before bedtime to warm milk, honey, or chamomile tea has been suggested for insomnia. All this advice is good advice. But for those to whom these tips don't help, there is now lettuce as an alternative to drugs for a good night's sleep.

According to Peter Sams, a natural health expert, lettuce contains a sleep-inducing substance, called 'lectucarium'. He suggests making a tea with one tablespoon of lettuce seeds steeped in water and boiled down to one-third of it's original quantity.

Lettuce can easily be grown indoors or out and eaten regularly as well.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Green Tea Increases Metabolism

If you're trying to lose weight with exercise, drink two cups of green tea before exercising and lose weight faster.

According to tests conducted at the School of Sport and Exercise Sciences at the University of Birmingham found that participants who took Green Tea Extract (GTE) equal to 3.5 cups of green tea burned more fat during exercise than those who took a placebo.

Because of teas health benefits some tea varieties are worth more than gold in China.

The active compound called EGCG, has the capacity to help obese and diabetic patients who want to burn fat and lose weight. It can also help prevent diabetes in people who might otherwise develop the disease.

Walking, is one of the best exercises for losing weight and getting fit fast. Rope jumping is a great exercise for indoors.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Earthworm Moon

We've all heard of the Hunter's Moon and Harvest Moon but very people know about the Full Worm Moon named after the earthworm.

The Native Americans who lived close to the Earth had a name for every full moon of the year. The full moon of March was given the honor of being called the earthworm moon because earthworms are so beneficial for the soil.

March brings a thawing of the frozen ground and the robins who herald spring. Spring is the beginning of the growing season for both backyard gardeners and farmers. Soil that is healthy is abundant with earthworms and will produce strong healthy plants which means a plentiful food supply for the harsh winter.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Control Slugs With Toads

Toads love slugs. Attract and keep toads in the garden and there will be many less slugs.

Toads eat a huge amount of insects every day. Besides slugs they love flea beetles, bean and cucumber beetles, cutworms, cabbage loopers and many more.

To attract toads to the garden mulch beds heavily with straw. Put rocks and stones in places for them to sit on and warm up. Place broken flower pots in areas where the toads can crawl under them for a home.

Have a small water feature. Toads needs the water to lay their eggs in and drink.

Maintain a garden free of poisonous pesticides and herbicides. These chemicals kill toads.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Antibacterials Harm Earthworms

Antibacterial soaps, detergents, floor cleaners, fragrances, pharmaceuticals and other household chemicals are harming earthworms. Whatever harms earthworms, harms humans.

Studies conducted by scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey and the Colorado State University have found that chemicals in everyday products used in households and businesses across the country are absorbed by earthworms when introduced to the land as biosolids.

Biosolids is the product produced by the treatment of sewage at wastewater treatment plants. One of the worst offenders, tricolsan, was found in earthworms in fields where biosolids had been applied, but not in the fields where livestock manure had been used.

Triclosan is used in numerous products as an antibacterial and is partly to blame for the production of antibiotic resistant bacteria.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Magic Fertilizer For Tomatoes

Want to grow huge tomatoes? Here is the magic, natural fertilizer that will produce tomatoes as large as pumpkins. Tomatoes weighing four pounds is possible with this secret formula.

Tomatoes are America's most loved vegetable and is grown in more home gardens than any other vegetable. If not for eating, then for the competition of growing the earliest, or largest tomato on the block.

Tomatoes are extremely healthful. Studies reveal that eating these products also show reduced risks of prostate cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and high cholesterol. New studies show that tomatoes may also be a future cure for AIDS.

Tomatoes are easy to grow. The magic fertilizer is the herb comfrey. A New Zealand gardener has discovered that by soaking comfrey leaves in water and then using the comfrey tea to water the tomato plants, the tomato plants grow faster, larger, and produce larger fruit.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Protect Hedgehogs From Slug Bait

Slugs are a nuisance in the home garden. Hedgehogs eat slugs. In fact, hedgehogs are so good at eating slugs that near Ilminster, at Barrington Court's walled garden, nine hedgehogs are employed to keep the garden free of slugs.

In order to protect pets, including hedgehogs, it is best not to use commercial slug baits, but to use any of several safe, natural methods.

Metaldehyde baits are the most commonly used poison baits in the garden for slugs and snails. But this bait is poisonous to all mammals including dogs, cats, birds, children and is toxic for the environment. While it doesn't kill fish it does poison the water. It also kills hedgehogs.

Statistics for poisoned pets aren't kept in the United States but they are in the Great Britain. In 2000 a study reported that ten dogs had been poisoned by the slug bait. It is also impossible for veterinarians to always know what kind of poison an animal has ingested when it's brought in for treatment so the statistics are probably higher.

There are many natural ways to kill and control slugs which are safe for all pets, wildlife and children.

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
*****************************************

Good Tires For Better Mileage

With the cost of gas going up more and coming down less good tire care is a must. In the cold temperatures of winter driving it's even more important for good gas mileage. Cold, under-inflated tires cost more to move your vehicle down the road.

Just like the engine and oil need to warm up before driving in cold temperatures tires also need to warm up to become more flexible. Rubber gets stiff in the cold. It takes more gas to roll a hard, cold tire than it does a warmed up tire.

Also, consulting the manual and keeping the tires properly inflated maintains better gas mileage as well. Under-inflated tires, just like cold tires, need more gas to move the vehicle.

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Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
Email: Current address on website
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