Whether you’ve spotted a spider in your home or are simply curious about what to do if you find one, understanding the different types of spiders and knowing how to respond appropriately is crucial.

This guide will help you identify some of the most dangerous spiders in Australia, provide practical advice on handling spider encounters, and offer guidance on when it’s time to call pest control.

What Are the Most Dangerous Spiders in Australia?

Australia is known for its unique wildlife, and when it comes to spiders, there are a few that stand out as the most dangerous. While spider bites are relatively rare, it’s important to be aware of which species to look out for and what to do if you come across one. Below are some of the most dangerous spiders found in Australia.

1. Sydney Funnel-Web Spider (Atrax robustus)

The Sydney funnel-web spider is often considered the most dangerous spider in Australia and possibly the world. These spiders are found in New South Wales, particularly around Sydney. The funnel-web spider’s bite is highly toxic, containing a powerful venom that can be fatal if untreated.

Appearance and Habitat:
Funnel webs are dark, shiny spiders with a robust body. They build burrows lined with silk, usually in moist, shaded areas such as under rocks or logs.

Danger Level:
The bite of a male funnel-web is more toxic than the female’s, and symptoms can develop quickly, including severe pain, difficulty breathing, and muscle spasms. However, since the introduction of antivenom in the 1980s, no deaths have been recorded from a funnel-web bite.

2. Redback Spider (Latrodectus hasselti)

The redback spider is another well-known dangerous spider in Australia. These spiders are found throughout the country and are often spotted in sheltered areas such as sheds, garages, and outdoor toilets.

Appearance and Habitat:
Redbacks are small, black spiders with a distinctive red or orange stripe on their back. They usually create messy, tangled webs in dry, sheltered places.

Danger Level:
While redback bites can be extremely painful and cause symptoms like nausea, sweating, and muscle aches, they are rarely fatal, especially with access to antivenom. However, it’s important to seek medical attention if bitten, particularly for children or the elderly.

3. Mouse Spider (Missulena)

Mouse spiders are often mistaken for funnel webs due to their similar appearance. These spiders can be found across Australia, and although their venom is toxic, bites from mouse spiders are not common.

Appearance and Habitat:
Mouse spiders are medium to large spiders with a bulky appearance. They are usually found in burrows, often near water or in drier areas.

Danger Level:
Their venom is similar to that of the funnel-web, but mouse spider bites are less aggressive and rarely result in serious harm. Nonetheless, it’s wise to seek medical attention if bitten.

4. White-Tailed Spider (Lampona)

White-tailed spiders are often blamed for causing severe skin reactions, although research suggests this is not common. They are widespread across Australia and are commonly found inside homes, hiding in bedding or clothing.

Appearance and Habitat:
These spiders are usually grey or black, with a distinctive white tip on their abdomen.

Danger Level:
While their bite can be painful and cause some swelling or irritation, it is not considered life-threatening. In most cases, symptoms resolve without serious complications.

5. Wolf Spider (Lycosidae)

Wolf spiders are common across Australia, and while they are not typically considered dangerous, their bite can still cause pain and discomfort.

Appearance and Habitat:
These spiders are brown and hairy, often found outdoors in gardens or grassy areas.

Danger Level:
Wolf spiders don’t pose a significant health risk, but their bite can cause redness, swelling, and mild pain. Medical treatment is usually not required unless an allergic reaction occurs.

What to Do If You Found These Eight Legs in Your House?

Finding a spider in your house can be unsettling, especially if it’s one of the more dangerous species. Here’s what you should do if you encounter these eight-legged creatures:

1. Stay Calm

First and foremost, try to stay calm. Most spiders, even the dangerous ones, will not attack unless provoked. Panicking may lead to hasty actions that could increase the risk of a bite.

2. Identify the Spider

If you can safely do so, try to identify the spider. Knowing whether it’s a dangerous species like the Sydney Funnel Web or a less harmful one can help you decide the best course of action. However, don’t attempt to handle the spider yourself if you’re unsure.

3. Do Not Attempt to Handle It

Avoid trying to catch or handle the spider with your bare hands. Use tools like a broom or a long stick to gently move it if necessary. If you’re unsure about handling it, it’s better to err on the side of caution and leave it alone.

4. Create a Barrier

If the spider is in a room, you can use a barrier like a towel, blanket, or fly screens to prevent it from moving into other parts of your home. This is particularly useful if you’re waiting for someone to help or if you plan to remove it yourself.

5. Contain the Spider

If possible, gently trap the spider in a container. Use a glass or jar and a piece of paper to cover the opening. This method is especially useful for less dangerous spiders or if you want to safely release the spider outside.

6. Call for Help

For dangerous spiders, especially those like the Sydney Funnel Web or Redback, it’s best to contact SWAT Pest Control Services. They have the expertise to safely handle and remove dangerous spiders from your home.

7. Keep the Area Secure

If you’ve found a dangerous spider, it’s wise to keep the area secure until help arrives. Make sure children and pets stay away from the area to avoid accidental contact with the spider.

8. Seek Medical Attention if Bitten

If you or anyone in your household is bitten by a spider, seek medical attention immediately. Even if the bite seems minor, it’s crucial to get it checked out, especially if you suspect it might be from a dangerous species. Symptoms like severe pain, muscle spasms, or difficulty breathing should be addressed promptly.

9. Prevent Future Encounters

After dealing with the spider, take steps to prevent future encounters. This includes:

• Regular Cleaning: Keep your home clean and free of spider webs. Spiders are often attracted to cluttered areas.
• Seal Entry Points: Check for and seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and foundations where spiders might enter.
• Use Spider Repellents: Consider using natural spider repellents like essential oils (peppermint or citrus) or commercial spider repellents.

10. Educate Yourself and Others

Learn more about local spider species and educate family members, especially children, about how to avoid spider bites and what to do if they find a spider. Awareness and preparation can help reduce fear and improve safety.

Should You Call For Pest Control If You Find One?

Whether you should call pest control if you find a spider depends on a few factors:

1. Spider Identification

• Dangerous Species: If the spider is identified as a dangerous species, such as a Sydney Funnel-Web, Redback, or other venomous types, it’s a good idea to call pest control. These spiders require professional handling due to the risks they pose.
• Non-Dangerous Species: For common or less dangerous spiders, such as garden spiders or house spiders, you might not need to call pest control. These spiders are usually harmless and can often be dealt with using DIY methods.

2. Location and Frequency

• Single Encounter: If you find a spider only once and it appears to be a non-threatening species, you might handle it yourself or use a DIY method for removal.
• Recurring Issues: If you frequently encounter spiders or find multiple spiders, especially dangerous ones, calling pest control can help address a potential infestation and prevent future encounters.

3. Comfort and Safety

• Personal Comfort: If you’re uncomfortable dealing with spiders or unsure about handling them safely, it’s wise to call pest control. They can remove the spider and provide advice on preventing future problems.
• Safety Concerns: If the spider is in a location that’s hard to reach or in a space where handling it could be risky (e.g., high places or tight spaces), professional help can ensure the spider is removed safely.

4. Preventative Measures

• Ongoing Prevention: Pest control services can also offer preventative treatments and advice to minimize the likelihood of spiders entering your home in the future. This can include sealing entry points and treating potential nesting areas.

5. Health and Allergies

• Allergies: If someone in your household has severe allergies or a compromised immune system, it’s better to call pest control to avoid any risk associated with spider bites or the stress of dealing with the spiders yourself.

When to Call Pest Control:

• Dangerous or venomous spiders are present.
• You find multiple spiders or suspect an infestation.
• You are uncomfortable handling spiders or unsure about their identification.
• The spider is in a hard-to-reach or hazardous location.
• You want to implement long-term prevention measures.

In summary, while it’s not always necessary to call pest control for every spider sighting, doing so can provide peace of mind, especially if you’re dealing with dangerous species, frequent encounters, or if you prefer professional assistance in managing and preventing spider issues.

Conclusion

Encountering a spider in your home can be unsettling, but knowing the correct steps to take can help maintain calm and safety. While most spiders are harmless and can be managed with simple home remedies, venomous species like the Sydney Funnel-Web or Redback require professional help.

Understanding the types of spiders you might encounter and the appropriate actions to take enables effective management of such situations and prevents future issues.

If in doubt or uncomfortable handling the situation alone, it’s prudent to contact SWAT Pest Control services. Their expertise ensures your safety and peace of mind, keeping your home free from unwelcome spider inhabitants.

The post What Are the Most Dangerous Spiders in Australia? What to Do If You Found One in Your House? appeared first on Hokie Joint.

This guide’s got you covered on the ins and outs of pruning, trimming, and hedging, helping you pick just what your green buddies need. With the right know-how, you’ll keep your trees in top shape, looking great, and adding that extra charm and worth to your place.

What is Tree Pruning?

Tree pruning is the horticultural practice of selectively removing specific parts of a tree, such as branches, buds, or roots. This process is an essential aspect of tree care and maintenance, aimed at improving the tree’s health, safety, and appearance. Pruning involves various techniques and serves multiple purposes, from promoting healthy growth to preventing potential hazards.

Here’s a more detailed look at what tree pruning entails and why it’s important.

Objectives of Tree Pruning

1. Health Improvement: One of the primary reasons for pruning a tree is to maintain or improve its health. This involves removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches that can harbour pests or diseases. By cutting away these problematic areas, the tree can focus its resources on healthy growth.
2. Safety: Pruning is crucial for safety. Overgrown or weak branches can pose significant risks to people and property. Removing these branches reduces the likelihood of them falling during storms or strong winds. Pruning also ensures that trees do not interfere with power lines, buildings, or pathways.
3. Aesthetic Enhancement: Pruning helps shape trees and enhance their natural beauty. By controlling the tree’s growth, pruning can create a more desirable form and appearance. This is particularly important in landscaped areas where the visual appeal of trees is a priority.
4. Structural Integrity: Proper pruning can help establish a strong structure in young trees, guiding their growth to develop a robust framework. This early intervention helps prevent structural problems in the future, reducing the need for corrective measures as the tree matures.
5. Encouraging Fruit and Flower Production: For fruit trees and flowering trees, pruning can stimulate better production. By removing certain branches, the tree can allocate more energy to producing flowers and fruits, resulting in a more bountiful yield.

Pruning Techniques

1. Thinning: This involves selectively removing branches to increase light penetration and air circulation within the tree canopy. Thinning helps reduce the risk of disease and promotes healthy growth.
2. Raising: Raising, or lifting, is the removal of lower branches to provide clearance for pedestrians, vehicles, or buildings. This technique is often used in urban environments to maintain safety and accessibility.
3. Reduction: Reduction reduces the size of the tree while maintaining its natural shape. This is often done to keep a tree away from power lines or to reduce its overall height and spread.
4. Crown Cleaning: This involves the removal of dead, dying, or diseased branches from the tree’s crown. Crown cleaning improves the tree’s health and appearance.
5. Pollarding: Pollarding is a method of severe pruning where the tree’s branches are cut back to the trunk or a few main limbs. This technique is used to control the size of the tree and promote vigorous new growth.

When to Prune

The timing of pruning can significantly impact the outcome. Generally, late winter or early spring is the best time for most trees, as it allows the tree to heal quickly and promotes strong growth in the spring. However, the ideal time can vary depending on the type of tree and the specific pruning goals. Some trees may benefit from summer pruning to manage growth or remove damaged branches caused by storms.

How to Prune

Pruning should be done carefully to avoid causing unnecessary damage to the tree. Using clean, sharp tools is essential to make precise cuts. For small branches, a clean cut just outside the branch collar (the swollen area where the branch joins the trunk) is recommended to promote proper healing. For larger branches, a three-cut method is often used to prevent the bark from tearing and causing additional damage.

What is Tree Trimming?

Tree trimming, often used interchangeably with tree pruning, refers to the process of cutting and removing specific parts of a tree, such as branches, twigs, or leaves, to improve the tree’s appearance, health, and safety. While the terms are similar, tree trimming typically focuses more on aesthetics and maintaining the desired shape of a tree, whereas pruning often targets health and structural integrity.

Here’s a detailed look at tree trimming and its importance.

Objectives of Tree Trimming

1. Aesthetic Enhancement: One of the main reasons for tree trimming is to maintain or enhance the tree’s appearance. This involves shaping the tree to achieve a specific look or to complement the surrounding landscape. Regular trimming helps keep trees looking neat and attractive.
2. Health Maintenance: Like pruning, trimming can help maintain a tree’s health by removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This prevents the spread of disease and pests, allowing the tree to grow stronger and healthier.
3. Safety: Trimming is crucial for safety, particularly in urban and suburban areas. Overgrown branches can interfere with power lines, buildings, and roadways, posing significant hazards. Regular trimming ensures that trees do not obstruct visibility or access and reduces the risk of branches falling and causing damage or injury.
4. Improving Airflow and Light Penetration: Trimming can help increase airflow and light penetration throughout the tree’s canopy. This is particularly important for densely growing trees where interior branches may not receive adequate light and air. Improved airflow reduces the risk of fungal infections and other diseases, while better light penetration promotes overall tree health and growth.

Trimming Techniques

1. Thinning: This technique involves selectively removing branches to reduce the density of the tree. Thinning helps improve light penetration and air circulation, contributing to the tree’s health and reducing the risk of disease.
2. Topping: Topping is the cutting back of the top sections of the tree to reduce its height. This is generally discouraged by professionals as it can stress the tree and lead to weak new growth, but it is sometimes used for safety reasons.
3. Shaping: Shaping is done to create a specific form or structure, often for ornamental purposes. This can involve trimming the tree into various shapes to match the desired aesthetic of a garden or landscape.
4. Crown Reduction: This technique reduces the size of the tree’s canopy without compromising its shape. Crown reduction is often used to manage the size of a tree and prevent it from interfering with structures or power lines.

When to Trim

The best time to trim trees depends on the species and the specific goals of the trimming. Generally, late winter or early spring is ideal for most trees, as it promotes healthy growth and allows the tree to heal quickly. However, certain species and circumstances may require trimming at different times of the year.

How to Trim

Proper tree trimming requires the use of clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts. It’s important to make cuts just outside the branch collar to promote proper healing and avoid damaging the tree. For larger branches, using a three-cut method helps prevent tearing of the bark and minimizes damage.

What is Tree Hedging?

Tree hedging refers to the practice of shaping and maintaining trees or shrubs in a dense, continuous line to create a hedge. Hedges are often used for decorative purposes, privacy, and as windbreaks or property boundaries. Tree hedging involves regular trimming and training of the plants to ensure they maintain the desired shape, height, and density.

Here’s a detailed look at tree hedging, its purposes, and how it is done.

Objectives of Tree Hedging

1. Privacy: One of the main reasons for creating a hedge is to provide privacy. A well-maintained hedge can serve as a natural barrier that blocks the view from outside, giving homeowners a sense of seclusion and security.
2. Windbreaks and Shelter: Hedges can act as windbreaks, protecting gardens, homes, and livestock from strong winds. They also provide shelter for wildlife, offering a habitat for birds and small animals.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Hedges can enhance the visual appeal of a landscape. They can be shaped into various forms and patterns, adding structure and beauty to gardens and outdoor spaces.
4. Property Boundaries: Hedges are commonly used to mark property lines. They provide a natural, living boundary that can be more attractive and eco-friendly than fences or walls.
5. Noise Reduction: Dense hedges can help reduce noise pollution by acting as sound barriers. This is particularly useful in urban areas where traffic and other noises can be intrusive.

Types of Plants Used for Hedging

Various trees and shrubs can be used to create hedges, depending on the desired height, density, and growth rate. Some common types include:

• Evergreen Trees and Shrubs: Such as boxwood, yew, and holly, which retain their foliage year-round, providing continuous privacy and shelter.
• Deciduous Trees and Shrubs: Like beech and hornbeam, which lose their leaves in winter but can still provide an effective barrier during the growing season.
• Flowering Shrubs: Such as privet and forsythia, which add seasonal colour and interest to the hedge.

Hedging Techniques

1. Planting: The first step in creating a hedge is selecting and planting the appropriate trees or shrubs. Plants should be spaced evenly to allow for uniform growth. The spacing depends on the species and the desired density of the hedge.
2. Training: Training involves guiding the growth of the plants to achieve the desired shape and height. This may include tying branches to supports or using stakes to encourage vertical growth.
3. Trimming and Pruning: Regular trimming and pruning are essential to maintain the shape and density of the hedge. This involves cutting back new growth to encourage branching and keep the hedge compact. Trimming should be done at least once or twice a year, depending on the growth rate of the plants.
4. Shaping: Hedges can be shaped in various ways, from simple, straight lines to more elaborate designs. Formal hedges often have precise, geometric shapes, while informal hedges may have a more natural, flowing appearance.
5. Maintenance: In addition to trimming, hedges require ongoing maintenance, including watering, fertilizing, and pest control. Regular inspection helps identify and address any issues, such as disease or pest infestations, early on.

Best Practices for Hedging

• Timing: The best time to trim hedges is during the growing season, typically in late spring or early summer. Some hedges may also benefit from a light trim in late winter to encourage new growth in the spring.
• Tools: Using the right tools, such as hedge shears, pruners, and electric trimmers, can make the job easier and more efficient. Sharp, clean tools help make precise cuts and reduce the risk of disease.
• Technique: When trimming, start from the bottom and work your way up, making sure the base is wider than the top to allow sunlight to reach all parts of the hedge. This prevents the lower branches from becoming shaded and losing foliage.

How Do I Know If I Need Tree Pruning, Trimming or Hedging Service?

Determining whether you need tree pruning, trimming, or hedging services depends on the specific needs and conditions of your trees and landscape. Here’s a guide to help you identify which service is required based on various factors:

Tree Pruning

1. Health Issues:

• Dead or Diseased Branches: If you notice dead, diseased, or damaged branches, your tree likely needs pruning. Removing these branches can prevent the spread of disease and pests.
• Fungal Growth: The presence of fungi, such as mushrooms growing on the tree or at its base, often indicates decay, which necessitates pruning.

2. Structural Concerns:

• Weak Branch Structure: If the tree has branches growing at narrow angles or crossing each other, pruning can help improve its structural integrity.
• Overcrowded Canopy: Pruning can thin out dense canopies, allowing more light and air to penetrate, promoting better overall health.

3. Safety Hazards:

• Hanging or Broken Branches: Branches that are broken, hanging, or appear ready to fall can pose safety risks and should be pruned.
• Proximity to Structures: If branches are too close to your house, power lines, or other structures, pruning can prevent potential damage.

Tree Trimming

1. Aesthetic Reasons:

• Overgrown Appearance: If your tree looks unruly or overgrown, trimming can enhance its appearance and shape it to fit your landscape design.
• Uneven Growth: Trimming helps maintain a balanced and aesthetically pleasing shape.

2. Seasonal Growth Management:

• New Growth Control: Regular trimming helps manage new growth, ensuring that the tree does not become too dense or overgrown.

3. Safety and Accessibility:

• Obstructing Pathways: If branches are blocking walkways, driveways, or obstructing views, trimming can clear these areas.
• Interference with Utility Lines: Trimming is necessary if branches are growing too close to utility lines to prevent power outages or damage.

Tree Hedging

1. Privacy Needs:

• Creating or Maintaining Privacy: If you need a natural barrier for privacy or noise reduction, hedging services can help establish or maintain a dense, continuous hedge.

2. Windbreaks and Boundaries:

• Wind Protection: If you need protection from strong winds, a well-maintained hedge can act as a windbreak.
• Defining Boundaries: Hedges are ideal for marking property boundaries in an attractive and eco-friendly manner.

3. Aesthetic and Functional Landscaping:

• Ornamental Design: If you want to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden with neatly shaped plants, hedging can create formal lines and shapes.
• Plant Health: Regular hedging helps maintain plant health by promoting dense, healthy growth.

How to Decide

1. Assess the Condition of Your Trees and Shrubs:

• Inspect for Disease or Damage: Look for signs of disease, decay, or structural issues in your trees.
• Evaluate Overgrowth: Determine if your trees or shrubs are overgrown or uneven in appearance.

2. Consider Your Goals:

• Aesthetic Goals: Decide if you want to improve the appearance of your landscape.
• Functional Needs: Identify if you need to address safety concerns, provide privacy, or define boundaries.

3. Professional Evaluation:

• Consult an Arborist: If you’re unsure about the specific needs of your trees or shrubs, consulting a professional arborist can provide expert advice and a tailored maintenance plan.

Grasping the nuances of pruning, trimming, and hedging, along with assessing your landscape’s unique needs and objectives, enables you to choose the right service to keep your trees and shrubs healthy, safe, and attractive.

Conclusion

Knowing the difference between pruning, trimming, and hedging is key to keeping your trees and shrubs in top shape. Pruning is all about keeping your trees healthy and structurally sound, trimming is for looks and safety, and hedging sets up those neat and tidy boundaries. Check out your trees and shrubs, think about what you want for your garden, and pick the service that fits the bill.

Whether it’s boosting tree health, playing it safe, or just making your garden look good, these methods are crucial for a lively, well-kept outdoor space. And you might want to get advice from a pro arborist like AB Tree, they are the cherry on top for giving your trees the VIP treatment they deserve.

The post What is Tree Pruning, Tree Trimming and Tree Hedging? Which One Do You Need? appeared first on Hokie Joint.

Rest assured, there is. In fact, there is much that you can do at home and in your everyday lives to contribute towards a more sustainable global society and in this article, we’re going to share some of those ideas with you. 

If you aren’t quite convinced of there being any point to it, let this excellent quote proceed over the article: 

“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito” – Dalia Lama. 

How can I be more sustainable at home?

So, what’s the first step to leading a more sustainable life? Well, it all begins at home! But how does one go about being more sustainable at home? 

You’ve already taken the first step and that is doing some research. You have proven that you are conscious of your impact on the environment and would like to do more to reduce your carbon footprint. That is a very big step – very few people have any interest at all in the impact that they have on the environment and the lives of others around them. Bravo. Now onto the next step: 

• Eat more sustainably

• Shop more sustainably

• Travel more sustainably

• Consume more sustainably 

• Dispose of waste more sustainably

What are examples of sustainability at home in everyday life?

To expand on the points listed above, what are some examples of sustainability at home? 

• Be conscious of where your seafood is caught: overfishing in many areas is rife and whilst there is little you can do about that as an individual, being conscious about where and from who you buy your seafood is critical.

• Drink tap water where possible: avoid single-use plastic bottled water like the plague. Provided the tap water in your area is safe to consume, make the switch. There are many filtration systems you can have installed at home quite easily. 

• Reduce your meat consumption: you don’t have to give up the occasional steak dinner, but be mindful of how much meat you are consuming. There are plenty of delicious vegetarian dishes that will leave you equally as satisfied. 

• Cook more: not only will cooking at home more often save you a tonne of money on dining out and getting takeaways, but it will significantly reduce your single-use waste. 

• Shop with reusable bags: there’s no excuse to be using plastic bags any longer. Stock up on reusable bags and keep them handy when you go shopping. 

• Purchase certified sustainable goods: take your time to find and buy certified sustainable goods. Some might be more expensive, but if you can afford to swap it will make a big difference (plus, you can save a significant amount of money in other areas when being more eco-conscious) 

• Buy and consume less: in the US alone, nearly 40 million tonnes of food go to waste — every year. This is largely due to overconsumption (buying what you don’t need and throwing out waste that invariably spoils). 

• Shop seasonally: buy local seasonal produce as and when it comes in. Do you need to have a Dragon fruit from Southeast Asia? Importing produce from all over the world is terribly wasteful, particularly when there’s plenty of local produce available. 

• Switch to eco-friendly products: read the labels of your beauty products and start throwing out any that are not eco-friendly. Shop more responsibly and fill your home with eco-friendly products.

• Ditch fast fashion ideologies: yes, you can wear that dress more than once. Fast fashion is terribly harmful to our environment and it can all change when individuals like yourself to make a conscious effort to resist. 

• Use public transportation: you don’t have to drive everywhere, particularly if it’s within walking distance or you are on a bus route. Be mindful of your travel habits and you may just save an awful lot of money on fuel consumption. 

• Fly less: that’s not to say that you shouldn’t treat yourself to a holiday, but try and fly as little as possible. Can you get there by train? Is there a ferry that will make the journey? Perhaps a road trip? 

• Grow your own produce: tend to your garden and start growing fruit and vegetables of your own. There is so much garden space in the world that is left empty and untended because people can’t be bothered. And yet, you can produce so much food for yourself with a little effort. 

• Replace single-use items: even something as seemingly insignificant as switching to glass straws at home can make a big difference. 

• BYOM to work: bring your own reusable coffee mug to work with you. Do you need to use single-use foam cups every day? 

• Upcycle: get creative and start thinking about ways that you can upcycle certain items before throwing them out. Can that item of furniture be saved with a lick of paint? Give your waste items some love and rehome them where possible. 

• Ditch your bad habits: smoke less, drink less, and spend less time binge-watching television. There are so many harmful habits out there that are not only detrimental to your physical and mental health, but to the environment as well. 

• Compost: buy an electric indoor composter and start turning all of that organic food waste into food for your plants! This is even better if you have made the decision to grow your own fruit and veg at home as well.  

Why is sustainability important in daily life?

Sustainability is so important for a wide variety of reasons, namely because it can reduce your carbon footprint thus lowering the number of toxins released into the environment. Not only that, but leading a more sustainable lifestyle sets a good example for those around you. When people see you thriving whilst leading a cleaner life, other people may be inspired to join you – not to mention teaching your children how to be conscious consumers.

The post How can I be more sustainable at home? What are examples of sustainability? Why is it important in daily life? appeared first on Hokie Joint.

Here we will take a look at one of the key types of tree care – pruning. Once you know when and how to correctly prune your trees, or get them pruned, you will be well on your way to a healthy and well-maintained garden.

What are the different types of pruning?

There are many different ways that you can approach pruning and a variety of cuts that you can elect to use. The key is to know what it is that you are trying to achieve with your cut before you make it, and go steadily as you try to accomplish it. The main types of pruning are:

• Dead pruning – when your tree has areas that are dead or dying, the best way to save the rest of the tree is to cut it off. Dead pruning is used to make the tree look and feel better, but also to prevent possible danger from dead branches falling on their own.
• Crown thinning – used to, as it sounds, literally thin out the crown of the tree and therefore allow more light to permeate, this reduces the number of branches on the tree. Having fewer branches means that those remaining get more of what they need to flourish and look great.
• Crown lifting – branches lower to the floor are removed, raising the height of the main body of the tree and again improving its aesthetic as well as for more serious reasons. These low branches can often be dangerous to people on foot or taking transport, and should be removed when the tree is young.
• Crown reduction – used to decrease the height of the tree overall, this involves cutting the top branches instead of those lower down to let them grow and flourish.
• Pollarding – this is where the top branches are removed and the tree is encouraged to grow dense foliage, keeping trees at a uniform height and looking smart.

Whether you are pruning for presentation or health, the method that you use will have hugely varied results. If you aren’t sure what to go for, consider asking a professional from a highly qualified firm like Lakeside Trees and Stumps for advice and a quote.

Taking the wrong action can cause irreparable harm to your trees, so make sure that you take care and ask the experts if you are in any doubt.

Why is it important to prune trees?

There are a great many reasons to prune your trees, some of which are pretty obvious and have been mentioned above, and some that may be a little more unexpected. Here are some of the top reasons why you should make pruning your plants a priority:

• Health – as stated, cutting off dead and dying parts of the tree can be the only way to keep up the health of the entire plant.
• New life – pruning is a great way to encourage new growth. Think of it like giving your hair a trim when you are growing it out, you will get more length with a regular cut than if you leave it for ages.
• Shape – whether you are carefully cultivating the most beautiful and creative shapes or simply like your trees to look smart and tree-like, pruning is the way to achieve this.
• Size – you may be restricted on size because of your location, or simply preferences, and pruning the tree and even the roots can be the way to keep your plants at the correct size.
• Light – crown thinning and pruning can let more light pass through. This is not only good for the branches of the tree but also can brighten and lighten your garden too.
• Safety – one of the most important reasons to prune your trees is for the safety of yourself and others. Dead branches can fall and hurt someone. Your tree could topple onto power lines, cause damage to your neighbours, and so much more if not properly cared for, so don’t take the risk.

For all these and so many other reasons, it is so important to prune your trees yourself or hire the right company to do it for you.

When should trees be pruned back?

When you should prune trees depends on why you are doing it and what you hope to achieve. If you are pruning to get rid of dead and dying material, it should be done as soon as you notice that something is wrong. Leaving these kinds of branches where they are risks further harm to the tree and also the danger of falling branches to people.

If you are pruning for more aesthetic reasons, the time of year will alter based on the kind of plant that you have. Generally, winter can be a good time to choose as the tree is dormant and so will take less harm from the process of pruning than it might in the full growth of spring.

You should avoid pruning in the spring for this reason. A great deal of energy is being used for new offshoots, buds, and foliage. If you cut into it then it can stress out the tree and cause longer-term issues.

In general, trees should be pruned when needed, but not in spring unless there is a danger to the tree or others from dead and dying branches. Once again, consult the experts for further tips and advice, or to get your pruning taken care of professionally and perfectly.

Final thoughts 

Pruning your trees is absolutely essential to maintain the health and care of your garden. You can do it yourself in the winter months, keeping on top of any dead branches all year round, but you must be careful not to cause more harm than good.

For the best results, you may wish to check out one of the excellent arborist companies like Lakeside trees and stumps who use all of their combined knowledge and experience to do the best job for your trees.

The post What are the different types of pruning? Why is it important to prune trees? When should trees be pruned back? appeared first on Hokie Joint.

But rather than go for the more traditional office furniture, have you considered office antique reproduction furniture? That’s right, you can transform your office into something out of a period drama. Perfect for the discerning type who has a taste for style and refinement. 

It might seem a little over-the-top to some of you. However, you’re investing in your home either way. So, why shouldn’t you indulge in some beautiful furniture for your home office? Create a space for you to thrive and take pride in. 

The benefits of buying furniture from an antique reproduction shop 

There are other benefits to buying furniture from an antique reproduction shop besides the aesthetic appeal. For example, think about the cost implications involved with purchasing antique furniture. The difference in cost between the real-deal and an exact reproduction copy is staggering. 

Unless you’re an avid collector, then there should be no reason not to save your money and go from a quality reproduction piece instead. 

You don’t need to look very far for antique reproduction furniture 

Finding a certain antique piece is easier said than done. In fact, you might struggle for a long time trying to find a certain item, and when you do eventually find one, who’s to say that it’s going to be in mint-condition? 

The fact is, when you purchase antique reproduction furniture, you don’t need to look very far at all. You can select from one of the reputable dealers and find precisely the style that you are looking for. Additionally, you can even have certain styles replicated especially for you, and even improved upon if you have any style or functionality preferences. 

You won’t be afraid to use your office antique reproduction furniture 

There’s no good buying an actual antique piece if you have the intention of using it every day. When something is so old and valuable, you wouldn’t want to run the risk of causing it any damage. However, when you purchase some office antique reproduction furniture, you won’t need to worry so much. 

These items will be designed using modern crafting methods and will be designed to last a life-time. That and you’ll likely receive a certain amount of warranty, whereas an antique shop most certainly will not. 

These are all things worth considering before going ahead and making your purchase. Just take your time, do your research and weigh up the pros and cons. In any case, we wish you the best of luck with your new home office, no matter how you decide to furnish it.

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And of course, owning a swimming pool isn’t exactly cheap. You will need to maintain it, keep it clean and ensure that the pool equipment is in working order. Keeping the swimming pool heated and working regularly is going to result in higher utility bills as well, though again; it’s all worth it. In this post we’re going to highlight these benefits to you. 

The Benefits of Having a Swimming Pool with Children 

If you have children and you’ve got a swimming pool, then your life is going to be much easier! It will be easier in the sense that tiring your children out and getting them ready for bed is rarely going to be an issue due to how much exercise they will be able to get from using the pool. 

In addition to that, owning a swimming pool will give you the unique opportunity of being able to teach your children how to swim from a young age which is great. This will make them feel more confident, it will teach them useful life skills and you won’t worry so much once they’ve of age and they start heading out with their friends. 

In addition to that, hosting birthday parties for your children will be much better as well. You won’t have a houseful of screaming children because they’ll all be outside knackering themselves out. (Not to mention the amazing health benefits of children and swimming) 

The Benefits of Having a Swimming Pool (For You) 

Swimming is one of the most incredible exercises that you can undertake. It’s a low-impact cardiovascular exercise which works all of the body. This is great for bolstering your health, strengthening your heart and lowering your blood pressure. 

In addition to that, the mental health benefits are certainly not to be snuffed at! Imagine coming home from a long and stressful day at work; what better a way to unwind then by enjoying a nice and relaxing swim? 

You can invite friends over to share your swimming pool with you as well. Not only are the physical and mental health benefits huge, but it is also a serious amount of fun as well! 

If you’re interested in having a swimming pool installed, or you own one which needs bringing back to life; check out a reputable company. You won’t regret your decision if you invest in a swimming pool for your home. Just think of the amazing memories that you can make with you and the people that you hold dearest?

The post The Many Ways in Which Owning a Swimming Pool Can Improve Your Life appeared first on Hokie Joint.

Sure, that might seem like an awful lot of effort to go to, just to stop a few flies from coming into your house, but there’s so much more to it than that. In this post we’re going to take a look at the other benefits and applications for having such screens installed. 

First of all, they’re not all that expensive, particularly when you consider how useful they are. It can get so hot in the home in Australia, and it can be terrible expensive having to run your air conditioning all of the time. 

A great alternative is having these screens installed and then opening your windows and doors. Sure, that’s not going to be quite as cold as air conditioning, but the breeze can certainly cool your home down.

The mesh from the fly screen is also very effective at reducing the impact of UV light coming through into your home which in turn, lowers the overall temperature of a room. 

This is also great if you have young children and toddlers. Having the doors open, but the screens closed and locked will prevent them from running outside and onto the street when your back is turned for a moment. 

On a nice sunny day, it’s nice to have the breeze come through the house without having to worry about whether your toddler is gonna waddle off into the garden and fall into the swimming pool. 

On top of that, the additional security benefits are certainly not to be snuffed at. A burglar is going to be significantly less likely to want to rob your house because not only do they have to contend with getting past your doors or windows, but the great big mesh metal things covering them! 

Now, you might think: ‘great big mesh metal things’, that sounds like a real eye sore, – but you’d be wrong. They’re actually very discreet and can be fitted to match your homes windows and doors. They’re not half as bulky or ugly as you might imagine and considering how many great benefits they come with, it’s certainly worth it. 

Security screen doors are perfect for anyone who is looking to keep those pesky pests out of the house. And that is referring to insects and unwanted visitors such as burglars alike! Up the security of your home and keep your living areas free of pests and insects. You’ll feel all the better for it and you’ll be able to relax in the knowledge that your family is safer.

The post Retractable Fly Screens Offer So Much More Than Protection from Insects appeared first on Hokie Joint.

If that’s not enough to get you excited about re-turfing your garden then I don’t know what will – however, if your garden is showing any of the following 5 signs, then there’s a good chance that it’s time to re-turf anyway! 

1 – Dry Patches and Dirt Spots 

If your lawn is looking rather patchy with plenty of dirt spots scattered throughout, then it’s time to dig it up and replace it with some fresh turf. You could always try and re-seed it, though for the sake of saving yourself much time and effort, a new batch of turf will soon fix it no problem. 

2 – Too Many Weeds 

The presence of lots of weeds on your lawn is a clear sign that the grass is poor, with an abundance of weak spots. If you replace it with fresh and dense turf you will be able to successfully choke the weeds out and prevent them from growing back in the future. A lawn full of weeds is not a pretty sight, so do away with it all together and successfully turf your re-garden. 

3 – Lawn Disease 

Lawn disease can be incredibly difficult to cure, and sometimes it’s impossible altogether. If you have significant lawn disease in your garden, then we would advise that rather than try to rectify it with the potential of failing and wasting a great deal of time, bite the bullet and re-turf your lawn instead.

4 – Poor Drainage 

If after rainfall you notice water pooling in your garden, then it’s evident that there is poor drainage on your lawn. A great way of rectifying this is by having your lawn replace and re-turfed with a high-quality turf with much better drainage. 

5 – If you Don’t Like it 

You don’t have to have a seriously good reason to re-turf your lawn, other than you don’t like the grass that you have at the moment. And you might be thinking that, ‘grass is grass’, however there are so many different types for you to choose from. If you fancy a change and you’d like some examples of the many different variations available to you, You’ll be able to get some more information on the different features and qualities to find the perfect fit for your garden.

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