Latest news with #Wisteria
Scottish Sun
10-07-2025
- Climate
- Scottish Sun
Gardeners told not to mow lawns this weekend as hosepipe bans are put in place across the UK
Read on to find out how to keep your lawn looking healthy this summer LAWN & ORDER Gardeners told not to mow lawns this weekend as hosepipe bans are put in place across the UK Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) GARDENERS have been told not to mow their lawns this weekend as hosepipe bans are put in place across the UK. It's not just to save water either as the bans have left gardeners worried about their parched, patchy lawns. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Scorching temperatures and a hosepipe ban has left many gardeners worried about the state of their lawn Credit: Getty After the warmest ever June and driest spring for 132 years, temperatures are creeping up yet again. The first hosepipe ban from Yorkshire Water came into place today – and it's highly likely more will follow. This has left many gardeners worried about the keeping their lawns in tip-top shape. Especially as breaking the rules could land you with a whopping £1,000 fine. Expert help Fortunately, expert gardener Luke Newnes is on hand to help. Luke is a new build gardening specialist, gardening content creator and a member of the Interior Squad at Hillarys. He's shared his top tips to help your grass survive - and even thrive - through the heatwave, all while keeping water use to a minimum. "Heatwaves can be tough on lawns, especially with hosepipe bans in place," he said. "But with a few smart strategies, you can give your grass the best chance to bounce back when the rain returns." Top tips for lawn survival in a heat wave Mow high, stay cool: Set your mower blades higher than usual. 'I was quoted £10,000 for a garden renovation but did it MYSELF for £1,000 using ChatGPT to show my kids what single mums can do' Longer grass shades the soil, keeping your roots cooler and reduces water loss too. Water wisely—if allowed: If you're permitted to use a watering can, make sure to use it early in the morning or late evening to minimise evaporation. Focus on the base of the grass, not the blades. Collect every drop: Place a bucket in the shower to collect water or reuse cooled cooking water for your plants. Every little helps and your garden won't mind if it's not from a watering can. Mulch with clippings: Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing. This acts as a natural mulch, locking in precious moisture and protecting the soil from the sun's harsh rays. Pause the feed: Hold off on fertilisers during the extreme heat. Fertilisers can stress your grass and increase its thirst. Aerate for relief: Gently spike your lawn with a fork to help any rainfall or hand-watering reach your roots more effectively. July gardening jobs The Sun's Gardening Editor Veronica Lorraine, has shared the tasks you need to tackle this July in your garden. 1. Prune Wisteria You should only prune back Wisteria twice a year - and July - or mid summer - is one of those times. After flowering cut back long side shoots to around seven or six leaves. 2. Pinch out tomatoes Your tomatoes should be really picking up - so pinch out all the side shoots without flowers - and remove all the leaves that are shading the tomatoes - this will give them maximum light and energy. 3. Keep weeding Hand weeding and hoeing the surface of the soil will keep your weeds under check. 4. Feed Dahlias To keep Dahlias flowering until Autumn, you must keep feeding them weekly with a liquid fertliser high in potassium - which encourages blooms. 5. Keep deadheading plants Keep up with deadheading your bedding plants and perennials - so they keep coming back for the season. With roses make sure you're deadheading back to a set of five leaves, giving you the best chance of them flowering again. 6. Check on your pond If you're lucky enough to have a pond - make sure it's clear of algae, which can really bloom when the sun beats down. 7. Feed your lawn Whether that's with a liquid feed or granules. If you've chosen granules try to get them down before the rain comes, so they soak into the soil. 8. Tend to strawberry plants Cut the leaves off strawberry plants after you've picked them - leaving the crown untouched - which should help with next years fruit. 9. Sow extra seeds July weather is a great time to sow seeds as the warm soil and sunshine is great for germination. Try carrots, winter broccoli and other brassicas. 10. Move young plants into soil Get any young plants you've got left in the greenhouse - like courgettes - into the soil. Reduce traffic: Try to keep off the grass as much as possible. Foot traffic during a heatwave can compact the soil and damage already stressed grass. Don't panic if it browns: Luke has reassured gardeners that it's normal for lawns to go brown after a heatwave. He said: "Grass is incredibly resilient and will recover with cooler weather and rain. 'This summer, it's all about working with nature. "With a little patience and the right care, your lawn will survive the heatwave and come back greener than ever.' If you're looking for more tips to look after your garden during the scorching weather, Sun Gardening Editor Veronica Lorraine has some top tips to beat the ban. From "grey" water to clever planting, we've got you covered when it comes keeping your garden looking fresh.
The Irish Sun
10-07-2025
- Climate
- The Irish Sun
Gardeners told not to mow lawns this weekend as hosepipe bans are put in place across the UK
GARDENERS have been told not to mow their lawns this weekend as hosepipe bans are put in place across the UK. It's not just to save water either as the bans have left gardeners worried about their parched, patchy lawns. Advertisement 1 Scorching temperatures and a hosepipe ban has left many gardeners worried about the state of their lawn Credit: Getty After the warmest ever June and driest spring for 132 years, temperatures are creeping up yet again. The first This has left many gardeners worried about the keeping their lawns in tip-top shape. Especially as breaking the rules could land you with a whopping Advertisement Read more Fabulous news Expert help Fortunately, expert gardener Luke Newnes is on hand to help. Luke is a new build gardening specialist, gardening content creator and a member of the Interior Squad at Hillarys. He's shared his top tips to help your grass survive - and even thrive - through the heatwave, all while keeping water use to a minimum. "Heatwaves can be tough on lawns, especially with hosepipe bans in place," he said. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous Exclusive Tested Exclusive "But with a few smart strategies, you can give your grass the best chance to bounce back when the rain returns." Top tips for lawn survival in a heat wave Mow high, stay cool: Set your mower blades higher than usual. 'I was quoted £10,000 for a garden renovation but did it MYSELF for £1,000 using ChatGPT to show my kids what single mums can do' Longer grass shades the soil, keeping your roots cooler and reduces water loss too. Water wisely—if allowed: If you're permitted to use a watering can, make sure to use it early in the morning or late evening to minimise evaporation. Advertisement Focus on the base of the grass, not the blades. Collect every drop: Place a bucket in the shower to collect water or reuse cooled cooking water for your plants. Every little helps and your garden won't mind if it's not from a watering can. Mulch with clippings: Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing. Advertisement This acts as a natural mulch, locking in precious moisture and protecting the soil from the sun's harsh rays. Pause the feed: Hold off on fertilisers during the extreme heat. Fertilisers can stress your grass and increase its thirst. Aerate for relief: Gently spike your lawn with a fork to help any rainfall or hand-watering reach your roots more effectively. Advertisement July gardening jobs The Sun's Gardening Editor Veronica Lorraine, has shared the tasks you need to tackle this July in your garden. 1. Prune Wisteria You should only prune back Wisteria twice a year - and July - or mid summer - is one of those times. After flowering cut back long side shoots to around seven or six leaves. 2. Pinch out tomatoes Your tomatoes should be really picking up - so pinch out all the side shoots without flowers - and remove all the leaves that are shading the tomatoes - this will give them maximum light and energy. 3. Keep weeding Hand weeding and hoeing the surface of the soil will keep your weeds under check. 4. Feed Dahlias To keep Dahlias flowering until Autumn, you must keep feeding them weekly with a liquid fertliser high in potassium - which encourages blooms. 5. Keep deadheading plants Keep up with deadheading your bedding plants and perennials - so they keep coming back for the season. With roses make sure you're deadheading back to a set of five leaves, giving you the best chance of them flowering again. 6. Check on your pond If you're lucky enough to have a pond - make sure it's clear of algae, which can really bloom when the sun beats down. 7. Feed your lawn Whether that's with a liquid feed or granules. If you've chosen granules try to get them down before the rain comes, so they soak into the soil. 8. Tend to strawberry plants Cut the leaves off strawberry plants after you've picked them - leaving the crown untouched - which should help with next years fruit. 9. Sow extra seeds July weather is a great time to sow seeds as the warm soil and sunshine is great for germination. Try carrots, winter broccoli and other brassicas. 10. Move young plants into soil Get any young plants you've got left in the greenhouse - like courgettes - into the soil. Reduce traffic: Try to keep off the grass as much as possible. Foot traffic during a heatwave can compact the soil and damage already stressed grass. Don't panic if it browns: Luke has reassured gardeners that it's normal for lawns to go brown after a heatwave. He said: "Grass is incredibly resilient and will recover with cooler weather and rain. Advertisement 'This summer, it's all about working with nature. "With a little patience and the right care, your lawn will survive the heatwave and come back greener than ever.' If you're looking for more tips to look after your garden during the scorching weather, From "grey" water to clever planting, we've got you covered when it comes keeping your garden looking fresh. Advertisement
The Irish Sun
08-07-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
The 3 things gardeners need to do for hydrangeas to flower continuously until October & how to stop blooms going crispy
A TIKTOK flower expert has revealed her top three tips for gardeners to know to keep their hydrangeas blooming through to October. By doing these things, it will help stop the Advertisement 3 Miller Flowers has grown a following of 32.3k on TikTok Credit: tiktok/@millerflowers 3 They are a sister duo known for providing gardening advice online Credit: tiktok/@millerflowers 3 This will help stop them going brown and crispy due to the high temperatures Credit: Getty One sister from the popular TikTok duo, Miller Flowers, shared the advice online which attracted a number of comments, likes and shares from garden enthusiasts. The Miller sisters, Gina & Caitlin, have grown their following on social media after expanding the flower farm business they took over from their parents around 30 years ago. Caitlin said these points will help Watering hydrangeas The first tip is around watering, as "hydrangeas are plants that love water". Advertisement Read More Fabulous News It is recommended to water them three times a week, for ten minutes. Caveat this if your hydrangea is in the soil, but if in a pot it can be watered less. It is also increasingly important to try to stick to this routine in the heat, which makes it particularly "tough" for hydrangeas to cope. In the video, Miller Flowers also recommend watering the base of the established hydrangea plants deeply, which can best be done by placing the hose spout underneath the flowers. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous Positioning of the plants Where the hydrangeas are positioned in the garden is also a valuable component to consider for their optimal flowering. Hydrangeas need both sun and shade. I tried 'magic' Lidl garden hose - you need to get it, it's perfect for summer This allows them to grow but still stay moist. The right positioning in a garden is therefore probably somewhere they can ideally get the morning sun and afternoon shade. Advertisement Fertilisation A little It can encourage more blooms, and help them deal with heat. However, it is not always necessary, also depending on the soil used, and time of the year. Excess fertiliser can also attract pests to the plants, as they look for softer foliage to eat. Advertisement Miller Flowers is now a florist, greenhouse and flower farm, as well as a social media channel that provides online education to inspire gardeners. July gardening jobs The Sun's Gardening Editor Veronica Lorraine, has shared the tasks you need to tackle this July in your garden. 1. Prune Wisteria You should only prune back Wisteria twice a year - and July - or mid summer - is one of those times. After flowering cut back long side shoots to around seven or six leaves. 2. Pinch out tomatoes Your tomatoes should be really picking up - so pinch out all the side shoots without flowers - and remove all the leaves that are shading the tomatoes - this will give them maximum light and energy. 3. Keep weeding Hand weeding and hoeing the surface of the soil will keep your weeds under check. 4. Feed Dahlias To keep Dahlias flowering until Autumn, you must keep feeding them weekly with a liquid fertliser high in potassium - which encourages blooms. 5. Keep deadheading plants Keep up with deadheading your bedding plants and perennials - so they keep coming back for the season. With roses make sure you're deadheading back to a set of five leaves, giving you the best chance of them flowering again. 6. Check on your pond If you're lucky enough to have a pond - make sure it's clear of algae, which can really bloom when the sun beats down. 7. Feed your lawn Whether that's with a liquid feed or granules. If you've chosen granules try to get them down before the rain comes, so they soak into the soil. 8. Tend to strawberry plants Cut the leaves off strawberry plants after you've picked them - leaving the crown untouched - which should help with next years fruit. 9. Sow extra seeds July weather is a great time to sow seeds as the warm soil and sunshine is great for germination. Try carrots, winter broccoli and other brassicas. 10. Move young plants into soil Get any young plants you've got left in the greenhouse - like courgettes - into the soil.
The Irish Sun
30-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
Homebase is selling premium outdoor lanterns which don't require plugs for under £30 – they're perfect for summer nights
AS summer evenings stretch out before us, there's nothing quite like enjoying a balmy night in your garden or on your patio. And to truly set the mood, the 4 Homebase is currently selling garden lighting for cheap Credit: LNP 4 They shared a video on their TikTok account showing off their latest collection Credit: tiktok/@homebaseuk Forget fiddly wires and the need for outdoor sockets, because Homebase has just unveiled a range of premium outdoor lanterns that are both stylish and incredibly convenient - for under £30. The buzz began with a recent TikTok video from @ Crafted from durable black metal with a sleek square design, these lanterns exude a sophisticated, contemporary feel that will instantly elevate your home's exterior. Whether you're looking to illuminate your doorway, create a welcoming glow on your porch, or add a touch of ambiance to your garden wall, these lanterns are perfectly suited. READ MORE ON GARDENING What truly sets them apart is their hassle-free nature. They don't require any plugs, making installation a breeze and offering ultimate flexibility in placement. Each Plus, with an IP23 rating, you can rest assured they are protected from the elements, ensuring they'll stand up to whatever the British summer throws at them. Most read in Fabulous For those dreaming of enchanting summer nights filled with laughter and al fresco dining, these Homebase lanterns are an absolute game-changer. At under £27, they offer a touch of luxury and practicality that's hard to beat. 'It's spacious enough for two adults' - The Range release double garden rocking chair less than €120 Gardening fans are also flocking to Home Bargains to get their hands on their Perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and wonder to your outdoor space, this isn't just any garden ornament. This eye-catching bird bath features a delightful stained glass-style design, adorned with vibrant flowers and delicate butterflies. It promises to become a captivating focal point, drawing the eye and adding a splash of colour to your green oasis. 4 The garden store has a solar panel light that attaches to the wall Credit: Homebase 4 It is currently on sale for £27 Credit: Homebase As described on the Home Bargains website, it will "Transform your garden into a wildlife haven." The bird bath invites local birds to "drink and bathe," offering a much-needed spot for them to cool off and rehydrate, especially as the warmer weather arrives. Crafted with care, the bird bath is hand-painted and frost-resistant, ensuring it can withstand the elements and remain a charming feature year-round. Measuring a generous 21x40cm, it provides ample space for a variety of birds to enjoy a refreshing dip. July gardening jobs The Sun's Gardening Editor Veronica Lorraine, has shared the tasks you need to tackle this July in your garden. 1. Prune Wisteria You should only prune back Wisteria twice a year - and July - or mid summer - is one of those times. After flowering cut back long side shoots to around seven or six leaves. 2. Pinch out tomatoes Your tomatoes should be really picking up - so pinch out all the side shoots without flowers - and remove all the leaves that are shading the tomatoes - this will give them maximum light and energy. 3. Keep weeding Hand weeding and hoeing the surface of the soil will keep your weeds under check. 4. Feed Dahlias To keep Dahlias flowering until Autumn, you must keep feeding them weekly with a liquid fertliser high in potassium - which encourages blooms. 5. Keep deadheading plants Keep up with deadheading your bedding plants and perennials - so they keep coming back for the season. With roses make sure you're deadheading back to a set of five leaves, giving you the best chance of them flowering again. 6. Check on your pond If you're lucky enough to have a pond - make sure it's clear of algae, which can really bloom when the sun beats down. 7. Feed your lawn Whether that's with a liquid feed or granules. If you've chosen granules try to get them down before the rain comes, so they soak into the soil. 8. Tend to strawberry plants Cut the leaves off strawberry plants after you've picked them - leaving the crown untouched - which should help with next years fruit. 9. Sow extra seeds July weather is a great time to sow seeds as the warm soil and sunshine is great for germination. Try carrots, winter broccoli and other brassicas. 10. Move young plants into soil Get any young plants you've got left in the greenhouse - like courgettes - into the soil.
India.com
25-06-2025
- Health
- India.com
Top Body Lotions for Dry and Normal Skin
Formulas vary from lightweight, fast-absorbing lotions for normal to oily skin, to richer creams designed for dry or sensitive skin. Many body lotions also include added benefits like SPF, brightening agents, or soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid. Regular use of a body lotion not only enhances skin health but also leaves it looking smooth, nourished, and radiant. 1. Plum – BodyLovin' Vanilla Caramello Body Lotion with Cocoa Butter Image Source: Order Now This indulgent body lotion from Plum combines the comforting scent of vanilla and caramel with the deep nourishment of cocoa butter. Designed to hydrate normal to dry skin, its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feel. Ideal for daily use, especially during colder months when skin needs extra moisture. Key Features: Infused with cocoa butter and vanilla extract Delicious, long-lasting fragrance Lightweight and fast-absorbing Vegan and cruelty-free Suitable for normal to dry skin Cons: Fragrance may be overpowering for sensitive noses Not ideal for extremely dry or eczema-prone skin Requires reapplication in very dry weather 2. CeraVe – Moisturizing Body Lotion for Normal to Dry Skin Image Source: Order Now CeraVe's body lotion is a dermatologist-recommended formula developed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help restore the skin's natural barrier. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, it's ideal for those with sensitive or problematic skin, providing long-lasting hydration without irritation. Key Features: Contains essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid Developed with dermatologists Fragrance-free and non-irritating Non-greasy and suitable for sensitive skin Hydrates for up to 24 hours Cons: No fragrance, which may not appeal to some users Slightly higher price point Plain packaging lacks aesthetic appeal 3. Innisfree – My Perfumed Body Lotion Image Source: Order Now Innisfree's My Perfumed Body Lotion offers a blend of hydration and fragrance, inspired by nature. It features a soft, silky formula that moisturizes the skin while leaving a light, lingering scent. The range includes multiple fragrance options to match your mood or personality. Key Features: Lightweight, quick-absorbing formula Leaves a subtle, long-lasting scent Multiple fragrance variants available Enriched with botanical extracts Elegant packaging Cons: More of a perfumed lotion than deep moisturizer Not suitable for very dry or sensitive skin Fragrance may cause irritation for some users 4. L'Occitane en Provence – Glycine Perfumed Body Lotion Image Source: Order Now L'Occitane's Glycine (Wisteria) Perfumed Body Lotion is a luxurious, fragranced moisturizer that pampers the skin with a light floral scent. Enriched with shea butter, it delivers a silky-smooth texture that hydrates and softens the skin while leaving behind an elegant fragrance. Key Features: Infused with shea butter for hydration Sophisticated floral (wisteria) fragrance Silky, luxurious texture High-quality ingredients and French formulation Ideal as a layering product with perfume Cons: Premium price Focused more on fragrance than intense hydration Not suitable for those who prefer unscented products Body lotions play a crucial role in maintaining healthy, smooth, and hydrated skin. Whether you're looking for deep nourishment, lightweight moisture, or a luxurious scent experience, there's a body lotion to match every skin type and preference. Products like CeraVe focus on skin barrier repair and long-lasting hydration, ideal for sensitive or dry skin. On the other hand, options from Plum, Innisfree, and L'Occitane offer not just moisture but also indulgent fragrances that elevate daily self-care routines. The key is to choose a formula that meets your skin's specific needs while aligning with your lifestyle—be it fragrance-free, richly moisturizing, or sensorially pleasing. Regular use of the right lotion can significantly improve skin texture, softness, and overall health. Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.
