Looking for ways to save energy at home? If you are like many homeowners, you want to make your home more energy efficient. After all, sustainability starts on the homefront. The good news is that you don’t have to dramatically overhaul your lifestyle or invest tons of money in renovations. Here are some simple ways to save energy and create an energy efficient home. It’s easy and you will do your part to keep the planet clean and green. Plus, you will save money, too! Editor's Note: Home Garden and Homestead receives a small commission for sales generated by the Amazon links in this story. Thanks for supporting this website! 1. Power Down What if you could become more energy-efficient while improving your relationships with those you hold nearest and dearest? You can. The answer is as simple as locating the button on your phone, tablet and computer that turns off the power. Those devices you rely on to run much of your modern life use a considerable amount of … [Read more...] about 19 Ways to Save Energy at Home
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How to Grow Tropical Fruits in Containers
It's easy to grow tropical fruits in containers. Way easier than you think. If you live in a climate where temperatures dip below freezing during the winter months, growing tropical fruit in containers probably sounds like a fantasy. But garden experts say virtually anyone can do it. “If you want to grow tropical fruits, I have good news for you,” said Byron Martin, co-owner of Logee’s Tropical Plants. “You can grow tropical fruits in containers in most climates." According to Martin, all you have to do is follow these three tips. Tips to Grow Tropical Fruit in Containers The first tip is to choose the right plant varieties. The key is to choose dwarf varieties of plants that have been bred to produce fruit on smaller plants. Varieties such as Changshou Kumquat and Super Dwarf Cavendish Banana are perfect for growing in pots or containers. Tip number two, according to Byron Martin, is to move your potted tropical plants as the seasons change. "To grow tropical fruits … [Read more...] about How to Grow Tropical Fruits in Containers
Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaners
The best cordless vacuum cleaners are more impressive than ever. It doesn’t matter whether you call them cordless vacuums or stick vacuum cleaners. Many lightweight cordless vacuums can now offer the performance of the heavier, full-size vacuum cleaners. Perhaps best of all, these vacuum cleaners are powered by rechargeable batteries. So, they don’t have to be plugged in and tethered to a power cord when you use them. Want a vacuum cleaner that is convenient to use? Looking for one of the best cordless vacuum cleaners that quickly goes from stand-up vacuuming to hand-held cleaning? No problem. There is a wide range of prices for the best cordless vacuum cleaners. There are big brand names and lower-priced options from newer manufacturers. No matter what your budget is, you can find a good cordless vacuum that’s right for you. Here is a review of the best cordless vacuum cleaners now available. Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaners: Premium Models LG CordZero LG says its … [Read more...] about Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaners
8 Easy Rustic Holiday Decor Ideas
Want to make some awesome rustic holiday decor? It's easy to make, and it will give your home an old-fashioned feel for the holidays. Whether you are planning a big holiday get-together or are enjoying a quieter holiday season, there is just nothing quite like rustic holiday decor to get you in the spirit! If you need some nice decor ideas that you can set up in a hurry, the 8 rustic holiday decor ideas below will do the trick. Many of these timeless winter decor ideas are fitting all winter long, not just during the holidays. Just for Fun: Click here to see What’s Trending on Amazon.com Click on the photo to see the awesome Photo Hanging LED String Lights. Favorite Rustic Holiday Decor Materials One of the great things about rustic decor is how simple and cost-effective the materials are. Many can be foraged for free, or easily reused. Tree trimmings are often found for free at tree farms - all you have to do is ask. Most of the ideas here … [Read more...] about 8 Easy Rustic Holiday Decor Ideas
Create a Gratitude Tree for Thanksgiving
November is the perfect time to create a Gratitude Tree for your family. After all, November is the month for giving thanks. Making a Gratitude Tree gives you a tangible way to count your blessings, and this project is a fun activity to do with your kids or grandkids. A Gratitude Tree (also known as a Thankful Tree) provides a way for you and your family to think about and write down the blessings in your lives. Why? Because we’ve all got lots to be thankful for, but sometimes we forget to take time out of our busy days to simply say “thank you” for all of the good things we are blessed to experience. Did you know Amazon had an outlet store? Check out what's on sale at the Amazon Outlet! What is a Gratitude Tree? Your gratitude tree can be as simple as a drawing of tree branches upon which you attach leaves. I prefer to use an actual tree branch or a few branches put into a vase for the “tree.” (You can even buy a Gratitude Tree kit online. But … [Read more...] about Create a Gratitude Tree for Thanksgiving