20/06/2014

How to clean a clogged drain

Do you have a clogged bathtub drain? Don't worry, it happens to us all from time to time. But how can we try to fix it before calling in the plumber? Here are five  surefire ways to clean a clogged bathtub drain:

1. Use a baking soda & vinegar mix
Pour some a cup of baking soda into the the drain, let it settle and then flush with a cup of white spirit vinegar. You can follow up the initial flush with boiling water.

2. Use a drain claw
If you have a drain claw, or are willing to purchase one they can be useful in cleaning out clogged drains.

3. Use a plumbers snake
Similarly a plumbers snake is a useful tool for blocked drains and can be quite efficient at getting rid of nasty blockages.

4. Use a plunger
The age old favourite, the plunger. Just about every home has one and although it may be number four on our list it will probably the first thing most people turn to when the get a blockage in their home.

 5. Call your local plumber
If you have exhausted all avenues and the blockage is still causing you problems then your best bet is to call your local plumber.

13/06/2014

Help Save The Bees

It's well known that Bees are dying in large numbers and whilst there is no definite answer to why there is much speculation among academic circles. Experts have offered a number of reasons including; insectisides, pesticides, and GMO crops. Whatever the reason Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is a very real threat to Bees all over the world and something we need to actively fight to stop.

So, how can you help? It's easy really. All you need to do is ensure your garden has some of the lovely plants mentioned below in it and you will be helping immesely.

Herbs that help save Bees:

Lavender
Catmint
Sage
Cilantro
Thyme
Fennel
Borage

Perennials that help save Bees:

Crocus
Buttercup
Aster
Hollyhocks
Anemone
Snowdrops
Geranium

Annuals that help save Bees:

Calendula
Sweet Asylum
Poppy
Sunflower
Zinnia
Cleome
Heliotrope

If you have trouble locating any of these plants just ask your gardener to pick some up for you from the local nursery before he next comes to tend to your garden.