Start Preparing for Christmas Early

It's never too early to start preparing for the Christmas holidays. This is my mantra. I'm a dedicated herb gardener and crafter, and many of my asked for gifts are herb related. If you don't have an herb garden started yet, any time of year is a good time to begin. Either indoors or outdoors will do. My blog, The Herb Gardener will help you.

Once you have some herbs going, you can use the leaves, flower and seeds to make great, one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family.
What do you think of homemade herb blends like bouquet garni, herbs de Provence, or Old Bay Seasoning. How about decorative seed packets for friends, wrapped with fabric and sporting their own computer generated planting sticks. If you are intrigued, visit some of my blogs to learn how to turn your herbs into gifts, or buy herbs to make into gifts.

Seasons Greetings
Sara

Keep Your Pets Safe From Toxic Plants

In spring your pets love to be out of doors as much as you do. It's important to keep them safe from other animals, but sometimes even the plants on your property can present a threat.

Prepare your yard for a pet-safe summer by understanding the types of plants that can sicken or kill your pet. Did you know that cocoa mulch can pose many of the toxicity problems to pets as chocolate does, or that the leaves and stems of tomatos are toxic if ingested?

Follow the link and compare the plants on the list to those growing in your yard. Sometimes the unexpected can create problems, so be forearmed. Even animals that have never shown an interest in eating plants before may get curious or bored and start munching. Most of the plants listed are also toxic to children, so take a moment to check it out.

If you are planning on undating your landscaping this season, use the list as a guide to building a safer environment for your family. . . two legged and four legged: Common Plants That Are Toxic to Your Pets