16 Best Backpacks for College of 2021

Choosing the right backpack can be a difficult task for students, especially in high school or college. It is not easy to pick the best backpack that will suit your needs. With so many options available today, it can be overwhelming and confusing to choose one. Which type of bag should you get? What features do you need?

Below is the list of the best backpacks for college and high school kids in 2021.

1. Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack Herschel

Pop Quiz Supply Co. is an independent designer, distributor, and manufacturer of luxury backpacks, bags, and accessories. One of their best-sellers is the Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack which has everything you need for college. This backpack is spacious, durable, and lightweight.


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It offers enough compartments to keep your must-have organized. This bag comes equipped with a padded laptop sleeve, fleece-lined sunglasses, and a few other compartments you can use to store your go-tos. The base of this bag is also lined with a water-resistant faux leather panel that keeps your items safe from spills and puddles.

2. Moleskine Metro Backpack

This backpack is a multi-purpose bag you can use to store all your college essentials. It has several compartments where you can store your laptop, phone, charger, and even your notebooks. It features padded straps that add extra comfort when carrying the pack for hours.

Moleskine Metro Backpack
Image credit: https://www.moleskine.com/

If you’re looking for a sleek, compact backpack that can help you keep your laptop safe from elements, then this is the right choice. This bag is crafted from water-repellent nylon, and it boasts a protective polyurethane base that keeps your electronics safe from spills and puddles.

3. Everlane Modern Snap Backpack

For minimalist college students, this backpack from Everlane is a good choice. This pack doesn’t have traditional compartments or zippers. Instead, it features a series of pouches and slots that allow you to store your stuff in the most efficient way possible.

Everlane Modern Snap Backpack
Image credit: https://i.pinimg.com/

Plus, its design allows you to store laptops, notebooks, and other school supplies. It has an exterior side pocket for your water bottle, making it safer for your inside belongings. You can also keep it for the longest time, thanks to its water-resistant cotton twill exterior.

4. The North Face Borealis Backpack

One of the best backpacks for college is this one from The North Face. It has 28 liters of storage space, perfect for carrying your books and notebooks on campus. Additionally, it features a fleece-lined pocket that allows you to keep sunglasses protected when you’re on the go.

The North Face Borealis Backpack
Image credit: https://images.thenorthface.com/

If you need a whole lot of space, the Borealis backpack is a perfect choice. Upfront, it has an elastic bungee system. This bag is also comfortable, and there’s also a version that can fit women’s bodies. It comes in various colors, fitting everyone’s preferences.

5. Mokuyobi Flyer Backpack

This is one of the best backpacks for college students because it’s got a huge amount of space. If you want to carry your laptop, tablet, or iPad with you, there are two pockets in the front that can fit most laptops with screen sizes up to 15 inches. You’ll also find several exterior pockets with zipper closures.

Mokuyobi Flyer Backpack
Image credit: https://cdn.shopify.com/

There is an open space that’s perfect for carrying several books. If you’re worried about running out of time, this is for you. It has some space for extra clothes, some make-up or perfume, and a few items.

6. Herschel Heritage Classic Backpack

If you’re looking for a stylish backpack for college, this is your answer. Herschel is a brand that’s known for its affordable and trendy bags and accessories. It has several designs to choose from, so you’ll surely find one that complements your style.

This backpack has a bit more than enough space for most students with 19 x 13.5 x 8 inches. If you also like a light, classy backpack, this may be the best backpack for you. It has a large compartment with a sleeve that can hold a 15-inch laptop and a small media pocket with a headphone port.

The classic black color with a saddle brown faux leather bottom is one of the 23 designs available. It has an air mesh back padding and cushioned straps that keep you comfortable across the campus.

7. Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

This is a cool backpack for students who are always on the go. It has one main compartment with dividers to provide easier organizing. The exterior also features two front zippered pockets, one of which is padded to protect your laptop or tablet.

There are three colors available, including dark pink camo, midnight camouflage, and navy blue. For comfort and better back support, the designers made the straps adjustable. It also has the signature feature of Dagne Dover’s backpacks and bags, which is the key leash.

The superior material is made of premium neoprene, making it water-resistant, hand-washable, and one of the most durable backpacks on the market.

8. Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port

This is great for any college student. It can fit most laptops up to 15 inches with its slim design, making it perfect for many carrying cases during the day. With two front pockets, one of them with a built-in USB port, this backpack will make it easier for you to access your phone or tablet while on the go.

This backpack has a roomy main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve and an internal organization panel. There is also a front pocket for your accessories, such as pens, calculators, tablets, phones, and more. This backpack also boasts spacious main compartments, two water bottle pockets, and two compact pockets.

9. Day Owl Backpack

If you want to live a sustainable life on campus, then the qualities of this backpack suit you well. While the bag looks trendy and small with its circular design, the interior of this backpack is very spacious and can hold your laptops, a few books, and other belongings. You can also send this backpack back for repairs to make it last longer.

Also, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly backpack that will suit all your outfits while carrying all your items in it, then you should consider this one. Since the bag is made with non-toxic materials and the company’s claim that every feature in the backpack has an environmental purpose is convincing, I’d say that there is no reason not to buy this for yourself or even friends who are into sustainable living.

10. Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack

Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack is a highly practical and stylish backpack. If you’re looking for a high-quality, durable backpack that does not look like a typical boring one, this should be your choice. In addition to its durability, the Fjallraven Kanken is also waterproof and highly functional.

It comes with a number of pockets and compartments inside and out, which means you can fit everything you need in the backpack, including assorted snacks for your college days. If you’re looking for something trendy but functional, this might be the best choice for you.

The Fjallraven Kanken comes in 17 colors inspired by nature, including acorn forest green and autumn leaf. The ergonomically designed padded shoulder straps also make a comfortable journey between classes.

11. Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack

This is another great choice of student college backpacks. It’s designed to protect all your 15-inch laptops and tablets. With careful details like the Napoleon pocket that makes it easy to quickly access important items, rugged ballistic zips, and a scratch-resistant lining, this bag is just an example of what you can expect from Timbuk2 products.

If you’re going to school in a rainy city, this bag should be one of your options. It’s made out of canvas fabric and waterproof material, enabling it to keep your laptop dry. It also has a laptop compartment and a zip pocket that can hold your phone, wallet, and other small, significant items.

It has multiple storage spaces for pen holders, water bottles, and other school supplies on the inside. Apart from the laptop compartment, the main compartment can carry books, extra jackets, and other essentials. It has incognito back zip access and a secure pocket for valuable items. It also has comfortable straps which are adjustable and come with a sternum strap suitable for travelling.

12. Vera Bradley Signature Cotton Campus Backpack

Vera Bradley is a globally recognized brand with an extensive selection of luggage and backpacks. This backpack comes in 13 different designs, giving you a wide range of options to choose from depending on your style preferences.

The bag has double carrying options, a short handle, and adjustable shoulder straps. It has a front pocket with a flap and an additional zipped pocket for your valuables. It also has three pen holders. In addition, it has no natural wool fiber, making it perfect for animal lovers.

13. JanSport Right Pack

The Right pack features the signature suede leather bottom, padded laptop sleeve, two front pockets, and a side water bottle pocket. This backpack is also made of durable Cordura fabric and comes with an organizer. The company is also committed to providing durable and reliable products offering you a lifetime guarantee.

If the bag breaks down, you can send it back, and the company will fix or replace it. Additionally, there are many colors and designs you can choose from. For example, you can display your personality in bright, floral, and evergreen tones.

14. Lululemon City Adventurer Backpack

This college student backpack is for you if you’re a sports enthusiast and want academic success and a fit body. It has enough room for your laptop and comes with an expandable pocket that could hold your gym clothes. It has a water repellent fabric and comes in different colors.

The minimalist design of this college backpack makes it fit well in both class and at the gym. If you want to save time and money, this is the backpack for you.

15. Kenneth Cole Reaction Women’s Chelsea Backpack

If you’re looking for a feminine backpack with enough for all your school essentials, grab this Kenneth Cole Reaction backpack. It has enough room for your laptop and all the other things you need during class, plus it comes with an extra compartment where you can keep your sunglasses safe. It also has interior pockets where you can place your pens, phone and tablet.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Women's Chelsea Backpack
Image credit: https://qvc.scene7.com/

16. Herschel Dawson Backpack

Hershel backpacks are very popular. However, this one differs from other backpacks belonging to the same brand through its separate front pockets.

Herschel Dawson Backpack
Image credit: https://herschel.eu/

The pocket has a drawstring closure with foam padding for extra protection. Plus, the main compartment has a capacity of 20.5 liters and can hold laptops and notebooks effortlessly.

FAQs on Best Backpacks for College 2021

How do you choose college backpacks?

By the total capacity. It should be spacious enough to carry all your books, laptop, computer accessories, and toiletries.

How do you choose a durable backpack for college?

By its fabric and construction. Good backpacks are made of robust materials like leather and canvas to ensure long-lasting durability.

Final Thought on Best Backpacks for College of 2021

Being a student is already hard enough. Try to make it simple by choosing the right backpack. Remember that a good backpack shouldn’t only have trendy looks and enough space for your things. It will also contribute to your health, and a low-quality backpack can deform your spine and put you in tremendous pain.

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What are Faucet Aerators and Why You Should Install Them

What are Faucet Aerators and Why You Should Install Them

As a homeowner, you should constantly look for ways to improve your home functions. Home renovation helps you conserve water and energy, improve user experience and help you save money in the long run. One thing that often gets overlooked is faucet aerators.

Faucet aerators reduce the pressure at which water comes out of a faucet by reducing the flow rate. This reduces the amount of water used per action and brings down your monthly water bill. The truth is that there are many reasons why installing an aerator can be beneficial to your home, regardless of whether you live alone or with family members. Keep reading.

What is a Faucet Aerator?

A faucet aerator is a round device installed on the ends of faucets that channel water into steady steam. But without a faucet aerator, your faucet will still deliver water, but the stream will splutter and splash. A faucet aerator helps to reduce splashing and spluttering because it uses a small channel to introduce water from the faucet into a larger channel, creating a steady stream.

The result is that your dishes and laundry will be cleaner, and you can also save water. In addition, an aerator is a small screen that breaks up the flow of water into multiple small streams, adding air in between. Today, a faucet aerator is very common in all kitchen and bathroom faucets.

By diluting the water stream with air, the aerator significantly reduces the volume of water flowing from your faucet. The aerator does this while maintaining the feeling of a high-pressure flow.  Aerators also reduce splashing in sinks.

Choosing Faucet Aerators

Daniel O’Brian, a technical specialist with SupplyHouse.com, says that different faucet aerators are designed to enforce different flow rates. Here are what you should consider before installing a faucet aerator

Consider the Flow Rate When Installing an Aerator

You might be tempted to choose an aerator with the lowest flow rate to maximize savings. You should also remember that you’ll rely on certain gallons per minute GPM minimums on activities such as washing the dishes. However, O’Brian suggests choosing an aerator with a flow rate between 1 and 1.5 gallons per minute GPM is a good compromise between conservation and practicality.

To wrap it up, there’s no rule here, so your personal preference and use cases will dictate what GPM you should choose. For the most part, it’s considered to install an aerator with a flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute GPM if you want to conserve water while maintaining functionality.

erators Come in Different Sizes

Apart from knowing how many GPMs you require, you should also know the size of the aerator you’ll need. Faucets come in different shapes and sizes, and aerators come in three different varieties. These varieties include standard, junior and Tom thumb.


Image credit: https://upgradedhome.com/

Other than the diameter, you also have to know if your faucet has a male or female spout. You’ll be able to identify this by locating the sprout’s threads, which are grooves found at the end of the spout. If the threads are outside, then it has a male spout and requires a female aerator. If the threads are inside, then it’s a female spout and requires a male aerator.

erators Provide Different Water Streams

You’ll also want to consider what kind of water stream you would like your aerator to provide. There are three different stream designs to choose from. These include the aerated stream, which is the most common in households.

In the aerated stream, the air is introduced to the water flow, causing the water to come out in even. There is also a laminar stream where the air isn’t mixed with water. The laminar stream also differs from the aerated stream by offering more gallons per minute GPM. The last one is spray stream, where faucets require very few GPMs.

Benefits of Faucet Aerators

Decreased Faucet Noise

Also, by installing a faucet aerator, you will end up having a decreased flow rate without actually needing to cut your water pressure. The water stream that comes out of the faucet is frizzy and mist-like. This makes it much quieter than the concentrated streams.

Decreased Faucet Noise
Image credit: https://kitcheneminence.com/

As mentioned above, water flow can be reduced by up to 35 percent. This is a great benefit as the faucet remains to deliver adequate water without causing any inconvenience or discomfort.

Lower Water Bills

As you save more water, your water bills will also get lowered. Though this might not be noticeable in the short term, it is great to note that the faucet aerator can help you lessen your water expenditure over time.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, installing a faucet aerator is the single most effective water-saving plumbing change you can make. This is true because you’ll use less water when you use an aerator to accomplish the same task.

More Consistent Water Pressure

A mesh screen allows the water pressure to be more consistent. It also slows the flow of water, making it possible for you to use less water and still achieve the same task. Instead of experiencing pressure changes right away as they happen, the steam will stay steady due to water caught behind the aerator.

Reduced Overall Water Use

Reducing the flow rate of water may cause some people to feel like they need to use more water to get the job done. However, experts say that using an aerator will not cause you to increase your overall water usage.

They claim that it is possible for you to reduce your total amount of daily and total monthly water usage. Apart from reducing water consumption at home, installing an aerator means less water usage, thus, reducing your home’s impact on the local and global environment.

Increased Filtration

With a faucet aerator, drinking water is filtered as it comes out of the tap. By using a filter, you can ensure that water used for drinking is free from toxic chemicals and metals. This reduces the overall amount of money spent on bottled water which would have been required if no aerator was installed.

The small screens increase the particle filtration for an individual faucet. A high-quality aerator works with a filtration system to keep your water clean and clearer. Ensure that if you have dirt and debris problems, you deal with them by regularly cleaning your aerator to prevent buildup.

FAQs on Faucet Aerators

How do faucet aerators work?

Faucet aerators work by getting air mixed into the flow, reducing the amount of water passing through the tap.

Final Thought on Faucet Aerators

That’s all about faucet aerators! Make sure you clean your faucet regularly to keep it as clean as possible. Do not forget to use a filter if you need it to keep your water pure and clear.

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How To Hang A Door

How To Hang A Door

You want to change the look of your home by a simple act such as replacing a door. But you don’t have time or money for a professional installation. Installing a new interior door can be simple once you know how to do it. The key is knowing what tools and materials are required and having the right safety gear on hand.

We’ll walk you through each step of the process so that hanging your doors will be easy as pie. No matter whether your project requires one or two doors, we’ve got all of the instructions, tips, and tricks it takes to get them hung safely and securely in no time at all.

Our guide includes everything from choosing hardware to cutting out holes for knobs and locks. And we even show you how to install decorative molding around your new door’s frame if desired. With our handy checklist at hand, there’s no reason why anyone should struggle with hanging doors ever again.

Required Tools and Materials

Sharp chiselScrewdriverUtility knifePencilHandsawTape measureDoor slabElectric or smoothing planeSpirit levelWooden Shims

Steps on How to Hang a door

Remove the Existing Door

If the old door has a transom, remove it from its hinges before you begin to hang your new door. If there’s an old lock in the way of your new slab, position the chisel where it meets the jamb and tap lightly with a hammer until you can knock out the plug by hand. Place wedges of wood underneath your old door to support the jamb while you work.


Image caption: https://www.wcmanet.org/

Then unscrew it from its hinges and remove it from the opening. If your hinge is still in good condition, you can set them aside for reuse. Be careful not to damage the hinge recesses in the jamb while you remove it. Also, don’t hang a new door in an old door frame, or you’ll end up fixing a sagging door in the future.

Measure the Space for Your New Door

Move on to measure the space for your new door. You can use a stud finder to locate the framing members to make sure that you can secure the hinges into place. Be sure that you center it evenly across the opening and between both jamb edges.

The old door can also guide you, as you can lay it on the new one and mark where you’ll cut the new door with a pencil. You can work with someone to help you position the door in the door frame and level it.

Get the Floor Level

Take your spirit level and check to see if the threshold on your new door is level with the floor. You can use a pencil and mark the high and low points where needed. If the floor is finished but not leveled, then you’ll need to trim one of the door jambs.

Use shims to position each door jamb evenly against the floor. Mark the shim at the point where the gap is big using a sharp pencil. Measure the thickness of the shim as that measurement is what you’ll need to cut off your door jamb from the opposite side. You can also learn how to level a floor so you avoid any such future problems when hagging a door.

Mark the Hinges

The hinges on a door are usually placed at 1/3 of the total height from the top. Mark the point around the edge of the door, as well as where you will want to hang your new hardware on both sides. Use a sharp pencil to mark clear lines on both the lining and the door.

Once you’ve marked all the hinge positions, remove your door from the lining, place it in the saddle, and wedge it. After that, hinge the side up, square all the pencil lines, and hinge it to the opposite side. Use a straight edge and level to ensure that your door is completely square and plumb. Use shims under either side of the hinges to adjust for deviations, then tack each hinge in place with nails only along the top line.

Place the hinge to mark its length on the door’s edge. Slide it up to the line and mark the first hole. Set your marking gauge up and scribe the width of the hinge into the door edge. Use a sharp Stanley knife to ensure your door won’t always close flush. You can repeat to ensure all hinges are positioned and set the gauge to the same thickness as the hinge between the door and the frame.

Chop the Hinges Out

Use a sharp chisel to chop your hinge horizontally from the top and bottom. Sand, the remaining pencil lines, then drill correct pilot holes for your screws. You can also use a mallet to cut around the perimeter of the hinge recesses you’ve marked. By placing your chisel at 45 degrees, make several cuts apart and to the depth you’ve marked across the wood grain. Put the flat side down, then use the chisel to pare away the wood as you position the hinges. Drill all the holes and ensure one screw gets into each hinge flap.

Trim the Bottom

This is where you’ll need an electric plane or circular saw. Only use them if you need to remove a lot of trims from the bottom. You can as well score your door with a sharp Stanley knife before cutting the bottom to the angle you have designed. This will prevent your door from tearing.

Hold the Door Steady

Now it’s time to attach your wooden blocks on the sides of your interior door to the wall. Place your door in the middle of the space and check the level. Use the spirit level to ensure that your door is even on both sides, then mark where you need to drill the wooden blocks into the wall. Make sure the jambs are resting on the blocks to maintain the correct height.

If the jambs aren’t in the correct position, cut or plane the door using a saw or a block plane. Check if the hinge side of the door is plumb by using the level. If the hinge side of the door is plumb, attach the blocks by hammering 2-inch, 15 nails through each block on the hinge side and into the wall. Check if the gap between the side of the door is even, then do the same for the blocks on the latch side.

Ensure Your New Door will Shut

Now that your door is held in place make sure it will close properly. All you need to do is take out the plug that holds the door slab, then open and close the door as you carefully watch the gaps. If the jambs aren’t in the correct position, cut or plane the door using a saw or a block plane.

If one part is hitting the door, stop first and make sure you adjust the door jamb before you proceed. Move the jamb from the top to the bottom until the problem is solved. If there’s no gap between top and bottom, use a belt sander or plane to create a small gap.

Place Shims Behind the Hinges

If the hinge is too close to the floor, you’ll have a hard time opening and closing them. To avoid this, put a shim behind each hinge. Your door may not stay open by itself because its hinges aren’t level with each other. You can solve this dilemma by popping out the cover on one of the hinges and moving it to a level that aligns with the other.

Place Shims Behind the Hinges
Image caption: https://www.wcmanet.org/wp-content

After unscrewing and removing the middle screw from each hinge, put a shim behind the hole. Then check your jamb door if it’s still level. If it’s not, add the shim until you get a level door. Check if your door jambs are level with the wall. Check the gap between the slab door and door jambs if they’re still even. Double-check to ensure the gap between the door stop and slab is also even. You don’t want to come back here to learn how to fix a misaligned door, right? That’s what will happen if you skip this step.

Screw the Hinges

Start with the hinge plate at the top of the door. Move to insert a screw into the hole nearest the bottom of the plate, then tighten it. Repeat the same way with the lowest hole on the hinge plate at the bottom of your door. Open and close your door to ensure it works properly. Once you’ve set the hinge at the top of the door, put a level on top of your slab door and make sure it is perfectly even. You may need to adjust the height of the hinge plates if one side doesn’t line up with the other.

Mount the Latch and Doorknob

If your door frames have a strike plate, then measure how far it’s from the floor and measure the corresponding position of the door. You can also prevent your interior doors from slamming in high winds by enforcing the latch plate. All you have to do is to drill a bit and countersink a hole in the top corner of the space for the latch plate.

Make sure you position your hole away from the edge of the frame. You need to drill a hole in your door that matches the size of your latch plate. Then, position both pieces of wood together while you’re sure they’re level and mark exactly where you need to drill holes.

Remove the Blocks and Hang Your Door

Now that your door can open and close smoothly, the next step is to remove the blocks you have used to prop the door up. Follow the instructions that came with your door for this part of the installation. Use the nails and filler to cover any holes that you made.

Now, find out how to hang a door. Hold your door open on the wedges, and then screw the screw to the hinge using only one screw at each stage. Lift your interior door out of the clamp to give it a frame at a slight angle, then begin by screwing the top hinge to the lining.

FAQs on How to Hang a Door

Can you hang a door without a door frame?

Yes, it’s possible as long the frame is in good condition and not warped or worn out. The door frame doesn’t come with hardware attached; instead, you can either reuse the old frame hardware or replace it with new hardware in the new slab. But a pre-hung door comes set in a frame.

What is a pre-hung door?

The pre-hung door is the package of a door with its frame attached to it. You can hang the new slab on your existing door frame using three basic tools: drill, screwdriver, and hammer.

Can you hang a door on drywall?

Yes, but interior doors should be installed after the drywall is installed. This is because the drywall needs to be secured by nails if you intend to hang door slabs. If not, the door will not hold its weight and may eventually come crashing down, which can cause damage to its hardware, like hinges and screws.

Hanging your door after installing the drywall will make your doors stay cleaner and prevent any scratches and dents on the door surface.

Final Thought on How to Hang a Door

Hanging a door by yourself is much easier, especially if you’re using wooden blocks to hold the door in position. You don’t need any additional support. So, it’s something you can do on your own. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

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13 Best Aqua Paint Colors for Your Home

13 Best Aqua Paint Colors for Your Home

We all know that interior design is a crucial part of home decor, but it can be hard to decide on the right paint colors. There are so many options out there, and you might find yourself overwhelmed with choice. You may also lack inspiration when trying to pick the perfect color for your walls or furniture.

Try out these bright, cheerful, muted, and relaxing aqua paint colors. Aqua paint colors are a hot choice right now and work perfectly in homes with modern, contemporary, or even rustic decor. Aquatic paint colors provide fresh feelings and look incredibly stylish.

This blog post will help you choose from the best aqua paint colors for your home. Each option has its personality and style, which makes it unique in its way. Read on!

1. Sherwin Williams Sea Salt

This shade of aqua is the most popular option right now, with its freshness and brightness. It can be used on walls or furniture to provide a contemporary feel to your interior design. It looks great paired with browns, blacks, greys, and whites.

If you’re looking for the best light aqua paint, Sherwin Williams sea salt is the right choice. With its rich colored accents, the green undertones in this light aqua paint shine through. Sea salt aqua paint color is perfect for any room, including bedroom, living spaces, and kitchens.

2. Benjamin Moore Jamaican Aqua

Jamaican Aqua paint color is one of the most popular aqua colors right now. With rich, bright blue undertones, this green aqua color will brighten up your living space instantly. Jamaican Aqua looks great when paired with white accent pieces and fabrics. This is a truly saturated color.


Image credit: https://st.hzcdn.com/

This shade of greenish aqua is the best choice for painting kitchen cabinets hardware, furniture, and the front door. Jamaican aqua is balanced perfectly between blue and green. Despite being vibrant and striking, Benjamin Moore Jamaican aqua is also relaxing and tranquil. It’s a good choice for bathrooms and cheery laundry. Plus, it’s the perfect blend of green and blue.

3. Sherwin Williams Comfort Gray

Comfort gray paint is one of the best aquamarine colors. This aqua paint color is made up of a gray undertone, making it the perfect shade for any room in your home. This aqua color is not too dark or heavy but also not too bright and vibrant. What makes this shade so unique are its warm gray undertones that make the aqua pop.

4. Behr Marina Isle

If you’re looking for the best dusty aqua paint colors, you’ve just found it. This color is perfect for a bathroom or laundry room to create a relaxing and restorative atmosphere. The best part about this shade is its ability to make the entire room feel more spacious, thanks to its blue-green undertones.

Behr Marina Isle
Image credit: https://www.behr.com/

This aqua paint pairs well with other muted tones such as beige and olive green. It works well in both large and small living rooms. Make sure you pick the bolder green accents to make this aqua hue pop.

5. Sherwin Williams Aquatint

A soft, light blue aqua paint color that makes your home feel clean and calm. This shade is perfect for a powder room, mudrooms, or even an accent wall behind the bed. This sea foam green shade would be beautiful in a guest room or master bedroom where you want to create a relaxing retreat space.

Pair it with white woodwork and a white tile shower for a crisp feeling. Sherwin Williams Aquatint is a versatile blue-based aqua suited for nurseries because of its cheerful nature. Light wood and crisp white trim would be perfect with aquatint for a contemporary bathroom and master bedroom.

6. Glidden Deepest Aqua

If you’re not afraid of trying deep bold colors, glidden deepest aqua is the right choice. This color is an excellent choice for almost every room. This rich, mermaid-inspired aqua is perfect for a playroom and an accent wall. Plus, it can pair well with other bright colors such as coral and pink.

7. Sherwin Williams Waterscape

Sherwin Williams’s waterscape is a soothing gray-aqua that is perfect for any living space. This color would be great in the bedroom or bath, because of its calm and serene nature. Adding watery blue curtains or an aqua rug could enhance this shade to tie the room together.

This refreshing aqua paint color works perfectly well in the home office and a kid’s bedroom. It is a great color for any room you want to add some youthful energy and calming feeling to it at the same time.

8. Benjamin Moore Palladian Blue

Palladian blue is a soft, muted aqua with blue undertones that works beautifully in airy, sunny living spaces and bathrooms. If you’re looking for a perfect blend of gray and blue with a calming effect, Palladian blue is your perfect combination.

Benjamin Moore Palladian Blue
Image credit: https://i.pinimg.com/

Add some little pigment to that small space using these aqua paint colors from Benjamin Moore. This soft aqua can add a little personality without becoming too intense.

9. Sherwin Williams Interesting Aqua

Sherwin Williams Interesting Aqua is bright with a little green in it. It’s like a bright teal and can be the perfect paint color for your kid’s room. It gives an impression of water, which makes it calm and soothing.

With its gray and green undertones, this unique aqua shade is a great choice of color for entryways, kitchen cabinets, and bedrooms. Interesting aqua adds the perfect dose of color without feeling juvenile and outdated.

10. Valspar Beach Blanket

Valspar Beach Blanket has gray and blue undertones, which means it is soothing like water and calming like the ocean. It’s probably not the best choice for your kid’s rooms, although you might want to try it, it can be great in bathrooms since they are usually small spaces that need something light and calm.

If you love green and beach-inspired vibe that much, then this aqua hue is a great choice. It’s a warmer aqua than others, making it a great paint to pair with neutral beiges and yellows.

11. Sherwin Williams Tame Teal

Sherwin Williams Tame Teal is one of the many sophisticated hues that come in this shade family. It has brownish undertones, which means it’s calming and cozy like the ocean at sunset. When paired with lighter tones, painting your bedroom and office space makes your room feel modern and updated.

Sherwin Williams Tame Teal
Image credit: https://i.pinimg.com/

Make a modern, contemporary girls’ room with a feature wall painted in tame teal and decorated with golden circles. This beautiful green, blue aqua paint looks excellent in the front door, kitchen cabinets, and tray ceiling as well.

12. Benjamin Moore Quiet Moments

Quiet moments from Benjamin Moore is an aqua paint color that leans more toward the green side of things with a good bit of gray undertone to it. If you’re looking for aqua paint colors to incorporate in your kitchen and dining room, Benjamin Moore quiet moment is one of those aqua paint colors you should never let go of.

13. Benjamin Moore Caribbean Breeze

Benjamin Moore Caribbean Breeze is a cool aqua hue. It’s a romantic color paired with warm colors like oranges and yellows to create a fun girls’ room painting. This soft aqua is also a wonderful choice for a space that has less than ample natural light. With its inner glow, the Caribbean breeze can light up a room regardless of its size.

FAQs on Ten Best Aqua Paint Colors for Your Home

Is aqua warm or cool?

Aqua is a color that lies somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. It’s best to think of aqua as its category and not associate it with any particular warm or cool family.

Is aqua paint easy to work with?

Yes, aqua paint is easy to work with as long as you know how to pick the right paint for your space. It’s important to realize that just because a trending color doesn’t mean it will work in every room. Aqua requires a cool or neutral backdrop so it can shine as its statement.

Final Thought on Best Aqua Paint Colors for Your Home

As you can see, aqua paint colors are trending big time. And their popularity is well deserved. Aqua paints are lively, calming, and refreshing all at the same time. Plus, they go with just about any color palette you can think of, so there’s no shortage of options when it comes to decorating with aqua hues. So, if you’re struggling to choose paint colors, aqua paint is for you.

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17 Best Christmas Decorations

17 Best Christmas Decorations

Christmas is one of the most wonderful times of the year, but it can also be stressful for many people. It’s a time of year when it’s not always easy to get into the holiday spirit. The stress of getting everything ready for the big day can get in the way, and you might even miss out on some family fun along the way.

Finding the best Christmas decorations doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. There are loads of great ways that we can help you enjoy your Christmas festivities this year. We’ve put together a list of the best Christmas decorations to ensure your home looks stunningly festive all through December. Read on!

1. Ceramic Christmas Tree Decorations

Finding the best Christmas decorations doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive.   You can opt for a green tree or bring a modern twist on the trend with a rose gold tree. The tree boasts removable and rearrangeable Christmas lights and tree toppers.


Image credit: https://i.pinimg.com/

Inside the ceramic structure, you’ll find a light bulb to provide a Christmassy glow. Kids love this Christmas decoration, and it’s sure to add a soft, warm light to any corner of your house.

2. Kurt Adler Christmas Decoration

The Kurt Adler Christmas decoration provides a bit of glitz and glam without being too over the top. This Christmas tree will become the most festive item in your house, and the perfect tree topper makes all the difference.

This best Christmas decoration won’t break the bank but will provide all the gold glitter needed to shine all season. The intricate die-cut pattern will let the light from your LED lights shine through for an impressive glow that fills the whole room.

3. Inflatable National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

This is a great decoration for those of us who work hard all year to enjoy a good time at Christmas. The inflatable presents and the large Griswold family all make this themed decoration one worth having. If you’re looking for interior Christmas decor, then this is the right choice.

4. Plush Christmas Gnome

These plush Christmas gnomes are perfect for kids. With the soft fabrics and cuddly characters, this is an interior decorating set that will make your child happy all season long. The plush isn’t just cozy; it’s also detailed with festive colors and patterns to keep them in a holiday mood from morning until night.

Plush Christmas Gnome
Image credit: https://m.media-amazon.com/

5. Pottery Barn Nottingham Faux Fur Plaid Throw

This is Pottery Barn’s best-selling plaid throw. It’s warm, luxurious, and the design with reindeers will fit in perfectly with your holiday decorating scheme. This faux fur rug can be used during all four seasons of the year to create a cozy atmosphere inside your home.

It’s made of 100 percent polyester, and Oeko-tex certified with faux fur on the other side. It doesn’t have any harmful chemicals and dyes. You can easily clean this festive throw pillow in your washing machine, and the product’s high yarn will retain its color after washing.

6. Advent Calendar

This wooden advent calendar is of notable quality, and it’s also very fun to build. Christmas countdown has never been so exciting before. This product features 24 pieces that you will have to put together to get the final product.

Once you’re done building this ultimate festive decoration, your home will feel like Santa’s workshop with its numerous hanging bells and baubles hanging everywhere. It’s simply not Christmas without an advent calendar counting down the days until Santa’s arrival.

7. Sea Team Christmas Ball Ornament Set

Preserve your holiday memories year after year with this set of 24 round decorations. It features a variety of designs, including reindeer, Santa hats, and snowflakes. Very festive and charming, the Ornament set is a versatile and affordable collection that will make your holiday feel infinitely more special.

Ornaments come in 86 sets, and each ornament set is crafted from eco-friendly shatterproof plastic. The sets come in 10 different colors, and each contains a similar pattern from glitter coated to mirror to design with small snowflakes. They’re great for a completely monochrome tree, and you can also buy a few packs to switch up your color scheme.

If you’re looking for a non-traditional feel, opt for pink or purple instead of the classic, red and green. But if you’re looking to mix up your ornamental bulbs and brighten up your tree, then this is the best Christmas decoration you should consider.

8. West Elm LED Light Bulbs

The best Christmas decoration of the year doesn’t necessarily have to be on top of your tree. If you want something more subtle that can provide some low-level lighting, then West Elm’s LED Light Bulbs is an economical and easy option to do this. They also come in a four-pack, so you can have some on the string or spread out around your house.

West Elm LED Light Bulbs
Image credit: https://christiannkoepke.com/

This Boxwood wreath from West Elm offers the perfect base for ribbons, ornaments, and lights. It’s made from real boxwood leaves and artificially preserved, and it comes in either 16 or 20 inches and should be used indoors to maintain the vibrancy of the green. The charming wreath can add rustic flavor to any home.

If you’re looking for that joyful country feel during the festive season, then place this beautiful Christmas decoration on the brick wall or a window and enjoy the view.

9. Mina Victory Van Holiday Square Throw Pillow

Add a touch of holiday cheer to your home by placing this festive pillow on your couch or chair. Featuring a vintage map design and hand-drawn illustrations of cities, countries, and continents across the globe by New York artist Mina Victory, this throw pillow brings an interesting touch to any space.

It’s a great piece, especially if you’re working on a tight budget. It features a carefully stitched scene of a bright green Christmas tree and cherry red Volkswagen against a cream-colored backdrop. Plus, it’s a hand-hooked throw pillow that will spark joy and holiday cheer in your home.

10. Kunyida Unique Burgundy and Ivory White Knit Christmas Stockings

A set of three handmade knit stockings with burgundy, ivory, and white coloring. This is the perfect addition to your holiday decor this season because it can be used throughout the year to hold odds and ends around the house or even as a delightful accessory for an outfit.

If you’re looking for something stylish to leave for Santa and Christmas Eve, these stockings are the way to go. With the cable pattern and rich colors, these stockings are both affordable and high quality.

11. LTD Commodities Set of 6 Reindeer Tea Light Holders

A set of six reindeer tea light holders. These adorable animal candle holders will be a hit at your next holiday party, and they’ll make any occasion special. Each reindeer is made with care and precision to provide years of quality use. The antlers are removable, so you can easily pull them off for cleaning purposes, although we don’t recommend letting them get too dirty.

These woodland reindeer tea light holders are great for buffet tables, side tables, bookcases, and any place that could use a touch of ambient candlelight. If you’re worried about having an open flame around kids, they can hold any standard tea light, including LED tea lights. Their simplistic design will also fit any aesthetic.

12. Hanging Snowflake Decorations

Try to turn your living space into a winter wonderland with these hanging home decorations. The snowflakes are made of high-grade pearl paper, giving them an enticing shimmer, and are sturdy enough to pack up for next year. You can hang them on a window, entryway, and across the dining room table to create a wintery holiday backdrop.

Hanging Snowflake Decorations
Image credit: https://i5.walmartimages.com/

13. Hashtag Home Snowman Globe with Penguins Inflatable

Add some holiday spirit to your front yard with this inflatable snowman from Hashtag. The large inflatable measures 8 feet tall, making it a great central character for an outdoor holiday scene. The snowman features an unusual but fun snow globe base. At night, switch on the LED light to illuminate the snow globe feature.

14. Outdoor Waterproof Flameless Candles with Timer

These flameless candles feature a realistic flickering flame and come in an elegant jar that can be used to decorate your fireplace for the holidays. With its waterproof exterior, this candle is great for outdoor use as well. Just put it on your covered patio or porch or by the poolside. It also comes with timers so you won’t have to worry about turning it off after the holidays.

These candles are an excellent choice to place on the dining table, credenza, windowsill, and outdoors. For more convenience, they come with a remote control to enable you to light up your Christmas display from across the room.

15. Roman Store Winter Scene Glitterdome

If you’re looking for a high-quality resin that you can use for several years, this is the one for you. With its LED lights, it can last up to 2000 hours without burning out. What’s more, the cardstock it comes on is fade-resistant and waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about inclement weather damaging your Christmas scene.

16. National Tree Company Pre Lit Artificial Mini Christmas Tree

If you’re in a tight space, then a mini Christmas tree can get you in the holiday mood without taking too much of your room. This pre-lit artificial mini Christmas tree from National Tree Company is ideal for bedrooms, dorm rooms, and apartments. This small tree comes ready and features built-in warm LED lighting to add to the holiday charm.

17. Pre Lit Frosted Berry Garland

The best way to add some holiday cheer. This pre-lit Christmas garland is an attractive choice for lining doorways, windowsills, and mantels. This realistic-looking Christmas decor is made from thick faux branches, pine cones, and red berry details to ensure your decor remains sturdy throughout the holiday season. Warm white lights also add a seasonal glow, making it a great addition indoors or outdoors-covered locations.

FAQs on the Best Christmas Decorations

Where should you buy Christmas decorations?

You can buy Christmas decorations from many market sites such as Amazon, Wayfair, and Walmart. Also, during colder months, you can never run short of these Christmas decorations, as many small shops will unveil their inventory once the fall rolls.

Can you make Christmas decorations?

Yes. Homemade Christmas decorations are simply adorable! Many people prefer to go the homemade route to save money and make their designs which is much more than you can ask for.

How long should you keep Christmas decorations up?

This differs just like any other decoration that hangs around your house for many days or weeks. However, it is best to follow your heart. If you do not like having the decorations up, then take them down.

Final Thought on the Best Christmas Decorations

As you can see, there are many best Christmas decorations that can please anyone. It just depends on your taste and your budget. Spice up your festive season with these creative ideas, and have a wonderful time.

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How to Remove 6 Different Kinds of Drain Stoppers

How to Remove 6 Different Kinds of Drain Stoppers

The tub stopper is a small part of your bathroom, but it can cause a lot of stress when it’s not functioning correctly. The drain pipe can be blocked by a build-up of hair and grime, meaning that you have to remove and drain it. Removing a bathtub stopper is easy to do, but first, you need to find out what kind of stopper is installed in your tub.

This guide will show you exactly how to remove six different bathtub drains with step-by-step instructions and pictures for each type. You’ll also find out what tools you’ll need, how long it takes to complete this task.

What You’ll Need

ScrewdriverPliersReplacement drain stopperBathroom cleaner

How to Remove a Lift and Turn Drain Stopper

You can easily identify the lift and tub turn drain stopper by its small, threaded knob on top of the stopper. It’s similar to a push and pull stopper except for the knob of push and pull, which is fixed for the user to push the stopper down and pull it up.


Image credit: https://i.ytimg.com/

Remove the Drain Stopper Knob

To remove the lift and turn the drain stopper, ensure the water is off to prevent getting wet. Find the round knob on top of the drain stopper, which should be either at the side or center of the drain. Turn the stopper counter clockwise until it comes loose.

Pull up on the knob while turning it counterclockwise to remove it. To remove the metal insert drain stopper, there will be a screw directly in the center underneath the water. Turn counterclockwise to unscrew the screw and pull up on it. Normally there is another plate or cover underneath, so make sure you don’t scratch your sink when removing it.

Unscrew the Drain Stopper Bolt

To do this, you will need a flathead screwdriver and Allan wrench to unscrew the drain stopper bolt from the threaded hole. It may take a bit of force to get it off. Use the flathead screwdriver and Allen wrench to remove the screw from the center, and don’t remove the entire screw to remove the stopper. The stopper can fall down the drain if you use the entire screw.

Inspect, Clean, and Replace the Drain Stopper

After successfully removing the drain stopper and slowly rotating it counterclockwise, it is time to inspect what might need replacing or cleaning. If there are any cracks, corrosion, scratches, or other damage on the metal pieces of your drain stopper, make sure to replace them with new metal parts.

How to Remove Push Pull Stopper

Push pull stoppers are easy to identify because they have a simple operating mechanism. Push the plug down to close the drain and pull the knob up to open the drain.

How to Remove Push Pull Stopper
Image credit: https://i.pinimg.com/

Unscrew the Drain Stopper Knob

The first step on how to remove the bathtub drain stopper is to unscrew the knob. To do this, twist the slip nut counterclockwise as you hold it tightly with one hand. Make sure you grip the drain stopper knob tightly and turn it to the right to unthread the stopper lid and reveal the fastening bolt.

Remove the Drain Stopper Bolt

The second step is to remove the drain stopper bolt. To do this, you should place a standard flathead screwdriver on the lip of the washer and twist it off counter-clockwise with your hand. You can also use set pliers to unthread the bolt from the drain crossbar and lift the stopper out of the drain.

Inspect, Clean, and Replace the Drain Stopper

Once the stopper is removed, inspect it for silt or mineral deposits. Check closely around the center hole where the drain tube makes an L-shaped bend. Remove any debris with a damp rag and give it a gentle brush before replacing it in the same position. Apply some liquid detergent in the hole to make sure it’s clean.

How to Remove Toe Touch Tub Stopper

Toe touch stopper opens and closes with the touch of your toe. It’s circular at the top with no tabs and knobs. Here’s how to replace a toe touch tub stopper:

How to Remove Toe Touch Tub Stopper
Image credit: https://i.stack.imgur.com/

Open the Drain Stopper

Turn the stopper counterclockwise with a pair of pliers to open it if it’s not in an open position. If you don’t have any pliers, wrap the jaws in electrical or duct tape for better grip. You can also use channel locks or slip joint pliers for this job, but always make sure they are covered with tape so they won’t scratch them.

Twist the Drain Stopper Lid

For some toe, touch stoppers holding the shaft cylinder and turning the top cap will allow you to unscrew the top finished cap portion of the stopper. If this is the case, twist it to the right and apply a small vertical force to unthread the lid to access the fastening screw.

Unscrew the Fastening Screw

With the stopper in this state, you can now use a set of pliers to unscrew the fastening screw. Keep track of where and how it’s placed so that when you’re finished with the job, you’ll know how they go back together.

Inspect, Clean, and Replace

With the stopper in the “open” state, remove any debris or build-up from within with a lint-free cloth or cotton swab. If your sink isn’t draining properly, this would be a good time to clean it out and ensure that there’s nothing blocking your drain lines.

How to Remove a Trip Lever or Plunger Style Stopper

This drain stopper may look easy to remove, but that’s the opposite. It’s one of the types of bathtub drain stoppers that proves to be difficult to remove. Trip lever drain stoppers have levers located on the overflow faceplate. If you trip the lever, the plunger will move up and down.

How to Remove a Trip Lever or Plunger Style Stopper
Image credit: https://diy.sndimg.com/

When the plunger is up, water will flow into the drainage system, but when the plunger is down, it will form a seal inside the drainpipe to stop the water flow. These drain stoppers are prone to clogging and can be troublesome to remove and replace because of their compact assembly. Here’s how to remove a trip lever drain stopper:

Open the Drain

If the lever is not in an open position, water will not flow through the system. To turn off the water valve, look for a stem in and around the overflow faceplate and twist it clockwise until it stops. If you cannot locate the shutoff, open up your wall until you find the source of water to prevent flooding. Removing the trip-lever drain stopper while in the closed position can cause the bathtub drain stopper to get stuck.

Remove the Overflow Grate

Remove the screws holding down your overflow grate with a screwdriver and remove it from the overflow faceplate. Ensure you put the screws in a safe location for reinstallation.

Pull Out Trip-Lever Drain Stopper Assembly

If your overflow faceplate has a trip-lever to show the water level, you must first remove this assembly. Turn off the water supply at either the main shutoff for all appliances or the individual faucet. You may need to flush out your drain lines to completely stop any residual water flow.

Use an adjustable wrench to remove the nut holding this assembly. Without breaking any pieces, pull out the entire assembly, including the trip lever, rods, and the plunger. You can as well spray the assembly with a lubricant to free a stuck plunger.

Inspect, Clean, and Replace the Trip Lever

If you note a loose trip lever or corroded in place, replace or tighten it. Make sure that the rubber gasket is undamaged and in good condition before replacing it. A worn-out gasket will allow water to leak through the overflow faceplate. Wipe off any corrosion on the rods with a piece of steel wool, and spray the rods with rust preventative.

How to Remove a Flip-It Stopper

This bathtub drain stopper uses a flip lever to expand and contract a gasket that sits inside the drain. The gasket contracts when the flip lever is open, allowing water to flow into the drain. But when you close the flip lever, the gasket will expand to create a seal in the tub and sink. These drain stoppers are only secured by an O ring and suction cup that sits inside the drain at the device’s base.

How to Remove a Flip-It Stopper
Image credit: http://behindtheshower.com/

Open and Remove the Stopper

Remove the ring from beneath the flip-it stopper by sliding it up and off the drain. Wipe away any corrosion on the rods with steel wool, and spray them down with rust preventative.

Inspect, Clean, and Replace the Check Ring

Remove the check ring by finding a spot where you can pry underneath it with a screwdriver. Lift on this edge, then pull out any dirt or corrosion that may be inside it. Once clean, reinstall the ring into its original position. Inspect the O-ring for cracks or hardening, and replace it if necessary.

How to Remove a Pop-Up Drain Stopper

Pop up stopper drain also has a lever on the overflow faceplate connected to the rod assembly and drop-down vertically through the overflow pipe. The rod assembly doesn’t connect to the plunger but connects to the spring on top of a horizontal rocker arm.

How to Remove a Pop-Up Drain Stopper
Image credit: https://docs.landmarkhw.com/

When the lever is in an open position, the spring is compressed, pushing down on the rocker arm and popping up the plug. While in a closed position, allowing the rocker arm to pivot up, causing the plug to be pulled down, and hence sealing the drain. Here’s how to remove a pop-up tub stopper:

Open the Drain and Remove the Pop-Up Drain Rod

First, make sure that you have turned off the water to the sink and have drained it completely. Next, remove your strainer, usually a round piece with a removable handle attached directly to the bottom of the drain opening in your sink. Then open up the pop-up drain rod.

Remove the Drain Stopper Plug and Rocker Arm

Open the drain stopper by removing the round rubber piece at the bottom of the stopper plug. Then you’ll be able to remove it from your drain. Once you’ve removed that, you will be able to see a plastic rocker arm attached to one side of the pop-up rod. Turn it around so that it’s facing upward, and then pull it straight up. This will remove your pop-up drain, but you still need to remove the stopper plug.

Unscrew the Overflow Plate Screws

Once you remove the rocker arm from the drain, you’ll be able to see two screws that are holding the overflow plate onto your sink. Use a screwdriver to get these out and then set them aside for later.

Remove the Rod Assembly

Now, the last thing that you need to remove is the stopper rod. You can do this by removing the screws that are holding it into place underneath the sink lip. Use a wrench for this if possible, but be careful when removing them because they’ll come out with some force and could do damage if they hit your hand or face.

Inspect, Clean, and Replace

Once you’ve removed all of the parts from under your sink, you should clean them with water and air pressure to ensure they’re ready for installation. Put them back in place to make sure everything fits correctly.

If not, take a file or a grinder and shave off very small amounts until the rod fits into its hole properly. Once the rod fits in, add some plumber’s grease to its end and slide it back into its proper position under the sink.

FAQs on How to Remove Six Different Types Bathtub Drain Stoppers

re bathtub drain stoppers removable?

Yes, drain stoppers are removable using different techniques depending on the type of stopper. For instance, a drain plug is removable by turning it with an adjustable wrench or channel lock pliers, while a compression ring is removed easily by pulling it out.

Final Thought on How to Remove Six Different Types of Bathtub Drain Stoppers

Bathroom drain stoppers are very important elements to have in your bathroom space because they can help prevent messy floors. Just ensure you choose a model that fits the diameter of your drain opening. Removing these stoppers can also be a daunting task, but having simple tools and basic skills is enough to remove bathtub drain stoppers.

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How To Grow and Care for Godetia Plant

Godetia is a spring-blooming annual flower. It’s native to Western North America. It blooms throughout the summer and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. However, most people don’t know how to care for this beautiful flowering plant and end up killing their plants instead.

If you want your Godetia to thrive, you should take the time to learn about its growing conditions to give it what it needs. If you want to keep your yard free from these invasive plants, growing them yourself will help reduce their numbers.

Growing this flower isn’t hard, but there are a few things you’ll need to know before planting, so you don’t end up with dead flowers. Here’s how to grow the godetia plant successfully and without accidentally spreading seeds.

Origin of the Names

This genius plant was called Godetia about a 19th-century Swiss botanist Charles Henry Godet. Later, the name was changed to Clarkia in honor of William Clark of the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition. And finally, Godetia amoena, which means beautiful and pleasing. 

The Godetia plant is also named farewell to spring because it doesn’t like hot and humid summer weather. It’s a cool-season annual that puts on most of its growth in the spring. As soon as temperatures begin to rise at the start of the summer, godetia flowers come into their peak, leading to their nickname farewell to spring.

Godetia Care

Size and Growth

The Godetia plant grows to about 14 inches tall and 16 inches wide, with green leaves on top and gray underneath. These elegant plants produce green stems with thin leaves. As an annual plant, Godetial dies each year.

Flowering and Fragrance

Godetia plants produce a cluster of trumpet-shaped pink, red, or salmon flowers. The Godetia flower blooms in the late spring then flower throughout the summer. While the flowers don’t have a noticeable fragrance, they’re still very attractive to look at. Godetia plants can also make great cut flowers. All you need to do is to cut several stems once the flowers appear, then trim off the spent blooms to encourage new blooms to appear.

Soil

Godetias thrives on soil types ranging from sandy to loamy soils with medium acidic content. Adding organic matter before planting helps maintain this pH balance. These plants grow well on average to rich soil. Organic matter helps to keep the soil moist and not wet. You can make compost to get organic matter easily. Add mineral fertilizer when planting, then once a month after planting. 

This will ensure strong roots and a healthy plant. Also, mulch around them to help retain soil moisture and keep the plants healthy. You can also use any enhanced water that is available from large retailers for watering these plants.

Watering

Godetia plants have similar needs as other flowering annuals when it comes to watering. Provide enough water, so your plant doesn’t wilt but not too much water to where it’s sitting in puddles. Whether you grow it in a tub, pot, or container, this plant needs frequent watering. 

This means if you’ve seen your plant start wilting, then give it a bit of water, which should restore its health. If the wilting persists, then you may have given it too much water, or your soil is overly wet. On the other hand, if your plant isn’t wilting but looks dry, you can water it to restore its health.

Light and Temperature

Grow Godetia in full sun unless your garden is in a hot area with lots of humidity. It’s also suitable for outdoor growth in USDA hardiness zones two to eleven. It can tolerate both warm and full sun, but it’s not a particularly picky plant.

Grooming Godetia Plant

Do not prune your plant at the end of winter because this will affect flower production. Instead, it’s better to cut back around mid-summer and then again in early autumn should you feel the need to do so. Make sure you dead-head and remove withered flowers as this will encourage new blooms next year.

How to Propagate Godetia Amoena

As an annual, this plant dies at the end of every year, so you need to propagate it with seed each year. After purchasing your seeds, you can plant them any time of the year. Sow the seeds early spring indoors and cover lightly with fine garden or potting soil to encourage early bloom. 


Image credit: https://www.gardensonline.com.au/

You can directly seed it in your flower garden or start it in four to six weeks before the last frost date in your region. When sowing outdoors, sow the seeds after the last frost date. Flowers bloom early to mid-summer while taller varieties may require staking.

Use a propagating tray to help you spread the seeds over the light soil, then cover your seeds with plastic and poke holes for ventilation. Placing your tray in a bright spot such as a windowsill and balcony will help your seeds grow. Ideal plant spacing is 16 to 20 inches and godetia plants don’t like to be crowded.

How to Grow Godetia Plants from Seeds

Godetia is grown from seeds, and this propagation method is not difficult for flower growers. You can sow godetia seeds directly in the open ground where you want to grow your flowers. However, if you are a beginner, sow the seeds in seed trays or containers to make it easy for you to identify each type of seedling.

How to Grow Godetia Plants from Seeds
Image credit: https://www.thespruce.com/

If you want to sow your godetia seeds in the garden, do it in the middle or end of April. In areas with warmer climates, you can sow seeds even in autumn. Before planting, immerse your seeds in a weak solution of potassium permanganate for half an hour to protect future sprouts from diseases.

Spring Planting of Godetia

At the end of May or early June, you can plant seedlings that have reached 2 to 2.8 inches in an open ground with the soil cold so as not to damage the roots of the seedlings. You should do this in cloudy weather, early in the morning before sunrise or in the evening after sunset.

utumn Planting of Godetia

Autumn Godetia should be planted only in warm climate areas. Flower growers prefer to sow seeds directly into the ground. However, plants grown from the seeds sown in late autumn are better adapted to the environment and resistant to pests and disease.

Species and Varieties of Godetia

Godetia Grandiflora

This is the most common species in commercial cultivation. The plant’s height reaches 20-30 cm, and the flowers are purple or pinkish. They grow well in half shade but are not among the shade-loving flowers. You must also remember to protect them from direct sun rays during hot summer days.

Godetia Amoena

This variety is two feet high and produces large flowers with a diameter of 4-5 cm. Plant it in full sun, but protect its delicate buds from frost and strong wind.

Double Godetia

This is a rare variety that features double flowers in white or rose colors. The plant is tall – 1-1, 5 m. Seeds need cold weather to germinate and will only grow in bright sunlight.

FAQs on How to Grow and Care for Godetia Plant

Is the Godetia plant easy to grow?

Growing Godetia is easy and fun; plus, the plant will provide you with heaps of flowers in just a few months.

What’s the best way to grow Godetia?

You can grow godetia flowers in containers, window boxes, or flower beds. If you want it to survive during winter, plant it in rich soil with organic matter and place it in full sun during summertime.

Final Thought on How to Grow and Care for Godetia Plant

As you can see, growing and caring for the Godetia plant is not that hard and is very rewarding. If you love flowers, then you should consider growing this plant. You will enjoy the color and beauty of the godetia flower in your garden.

 

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Why Do Ants Have Wings?

Ants develop wings as adults to help with mating and flying. Male ants use their wings to fight over territory, food, and females. Female ants don’t use their wings for the same reasons males do, but they do for laying eggs.

In this article, we will be discussing ants and why they have wings.  Here’s all you need to know. 

nts and their wings

Ants don’t hatch with wings; they develop them as adults. The muscles that make flight possible are only fully developed after pupation has occurred, which is when the adult ants go through their metamorphosis process and life stages to become an adult.


Image Credit: http://insectcop.net

This means that most of the ants you see flying around now were once pupae, but these ant pupae weren’t able to fly because they hadn’t yet developed their wing muscles.

Females also use their wings for laying eggs – there’s a lot more energy involved in egg-laying than there is fighting, so female ants have bigger and more developed wing muscles than male ants do.

Ants can’t fly without their wing muscles fully developed – this is why there are no baby or adolescent ants that have wings. Some species of ant don’t even have developed wing muscles at all. These types of ants live in trees or on low-lying plants where they never need to leave the ground. 

What is the purpose of ants?

The purpose of ants is to sustain the ecosystem of the Earth. Ants contribute by supporting other insects and contributing to plant life. They also clean up animal remains and help dispose of them.

There are more than 12,000 species of ant and their colonies average 50-100 members at a time. They can range from as few as 10 up to half a million. Ants live in tropical or semi-tropical regions that have warm weather year-round. Their nests can be found anywhere from deserts to rain forests; they’re truly amazing creatures that we still know very little about.

How do ants reproduce?

Ants cannot sexually reproduce because they don’t have male genitalia. Instead, they reproduce by laying eggs. These eggs are called “clutches.” Ant colonies have one queen who creates all these clutches throughout her life. She changes positions in the colony to let another and take over when she becomes weak or dies.

Some species of ants can reproduce asexually. These types of ants are born with wings on the imago stage of their development so they can fly off and establish their new colony once they’ve mated with a male and from another nest. This is how most new colonies are established in nature.

Do baby ants have wings?

No, baby ants do not have wings because they haven’t developed them yet. Ants develop through four life stages. They hatch as larvae and go through pupation, metamorphosis, and adulthood before they reproduce or die. Each life stage has its distinguishing features but none of the pre-imago stages have wings. During pre-imaginal development, at the larvae and pupae stage, ants grow and change to become their adult forms, and only after that do they develop wings.

The first stage of ant development is how we get queen ants that lay eggs for the colony. The second stage is how we get worker ants that are sterile females who work in the colony. Sterile females are not able to reproduce because they haven’t developed ovaries yet – this happens during metamorphosis. 

The third stage of ant development is when we get male ants. They’re able to fertilize the eggs that the queen lays and only later in life do they develop their wings. Male ants use their wings for finding a mate and then fighting over territory, food, and females. 

The fourth stage of ant development is when we get alates; these are female worker ants in the imago/winged stage who haven’t yet found a suitable nest to move into. This is why most winged ants you see outdoors aren’t actual late queens or males – these creatures tend to stay in nests until it’s time for them to establish their colonies by founding a new nest together.

So, there you have it: ants don’t fly without their wings. They don’t even have them until they’ve reached the imago stage of development. More than anything, this is why baby ants can’t fly.

Why Do Ants Have Wings – FAQ

How do I get rid of ants?

If you want to get rid of ants, the solutions should be both effective and environmentally friendly.

Keep your house as clean as possible if you want to keep the ants away. The fewer food crumbs and other sources of nutrients they can find around your house, the better. This is one of the best ways to get rid of ants on your kitchen counter

Also, you can use some natural ingredients to get rid of ants. For example, lemon juice and chili powder will help you get rid of ants quickly and easily. Simply mix one part of chili powder with two parts of sugar and add it on the ant trail or near the anthills outside your house. The ants will carry this mixture back to their nest and will die in no time at all.

What do winged ants look like?

Winged ants usually have darker brown color than their worker counterparts and they possess wings while workers don’t. However, some species have both winged and non-winged queens.

Do ants bite?

No, they don’t. Ants can only pinch (usually worker ants) or sting if they are provoked, but they usually will not attack unless you disturb them.

Identifying a Flying Carpenter Ant in Your Home
Image Credit: http://modernpest.com

How do ants reproduce?

Ants lay eggs that develop into male and female offspring, while the males will eventually die off, females will become queens that start new colonies. Worker ants have no reproductive organs, so the queen ant is the one who reproduces using her spermatheca organ where she stores sperm after mating with drones in springtime. Some species also have winged alates which fly away from their colonies to start new ones elsewhere.

Final thoughts on why ants have wings

In conclusion, the reason why ants have wings is to reproduce and spread their species. The queen ant doesn’t need the wings because she can already fly or crawl everywhere, but male ants use their wings to disperse and find a mate for reproduction to take place.

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Vegetable Gardening in a Small Space

Growing your vegetables is a great way to save money and get healthy farm produce. But finding the time or space for a large vegetable garden can be hard. A small veggie garden doesn’t have to be boring. You can create an amazing-looking vegetable garden in just about any size yard or patio area with some creativity, plus rich, fertile soil and adequate water. 

By growing your food in a small space garden all year long, you’ll save money while getting some exercise and enjoying nature. This article will show how to grow veggies even if you live in an apartment or condo with limited garden space. It includes information on what types of plants do well in small spaces and techniques for maximizing the available area so that more crops can be grown there.

Grow Vegetables in Containers

A great way to grow vegetables in a limited space is by using containers that can be moved around as needed. Try growing them in containers filled with potting soil if you don’t have a patio, porch, balcony, yard, or driveway area for garden beds and rows of crops. It’s important to use a good quality potting mix, not dirt from the yard.


Image credit: https://www.backyardgardenlover.com/

The potting soil mix will make sure the plants get enough air circulation and drainage, so they don’t get root rot or other fungal diseases. If growing on the ground is not an option due to poor soil, lack of sun, and space limitations, containers are the best alternative. When growing edibles in these containers, choose patio or dwarf varieties and shallow-rooted plants such as lettuce, garlic, radishes, and leeks.

In containers, you use anything that holds soil, from fabric grow bags to old metal wash buckets, as long as you provide good drainage. Container plants also need good water, so do not leave them dry out completely. Fertilize your containers during the growing season by using organic fertilizer such as liquid kelp. Grow your tomatoes, peppers, and basil from seed using your large container.

Choose Compact Varieties

If you must have giant vegetables like beefsteak tomatoes or a row of sweet corn, then the space for growing other vegetables in your small vegetable garden will be limited. Fortunately, you can choose varieties that are bred to grow in small spaces. 

Any plant with the name patio, pixie, tiny, compact, and baby and dwarf in the name is a good bet. If a plant is bred to be small, it doesn’t mean that the fruits will be small or less yield. The labeling of seeds and seedlings will indicate the mature size of the plant varieties. 

There is an area set aside for growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs in the traditional approach, but in small gardens, this isn’t possible. So, try growing edible and ornamental plants together. Planting flowers and vegetables together will make it harder for pests to hone in on specific crops. 

An abundance of blooms will also ensure there are always beneficial insects on hand to pollinate flowering vegetables and all types of fruit. Also, include edible flowers such as borage, nasturtiums, lavender, calendula, chives, and thyme. 

Don’t forget to create a pollinator-friendly garden by planting ground cover. Try growing fennel or dill with your vegetables. The scents of these plants will attract bees or butterflies, which are also beneficial for pollination purposes.

Use Vertical Space

A small garden doesn’t have to mean a lack of vegetables. Try growing vegetables vertically on walls, fences, or railings. The tying string between two sturdy stakes is an effective way of growing runner beans or peas. Plant climbing varieties of cucumbers, tomato plants, and different types of squash are at the base of fixed support for them to grow up along.

Use Vertical Space
Image credit: https://www.almanac.com/

 A rose arbor, trellis, or even a clothesline can be put to good use in the garden by growing beans up it. This frees up ground space and will save you money on buying plant supports. So if you don’t want to grow a variety of vegetables in your small garden, look for compact varieties and vining crops that you can grow vertically on support structures. 

You can also opt for pole beans instead of bush beans. Vining cucumbers can also take up less space despite their nature. Growing your vegetables vertically won’t only save space but will also create structure and visual interest.

Grow High-Value Crops Vertically

If you only have a small space to grow in, you want to make sure that the vegetables you plant are of high value. Try growing more expensive crops like heirloom tomatoes or leafy greens instead of radishes or onions. By doing this, you can fit more plants into the same amount of space and increase your profits.

Make sure you maximize your small space by growing small amounts of different crops that offer big rewards like salad leaves, leafy greens, fresh herbs, and chili plants. Give your crops some space to enable them to get high density by using a high nutrient moisture-retentive soil mixture. 

Make sure that you choose vegetables that are suitable for your climate and grow well in containers. You can use different pots such as rectangular plastic tubs, large buckets, or circular half barrels to place plants on top of each other and maximize space and yield. 

Choose compact varieties that are suitable for growing this way and arrange them to maximize your visual impact. You can also use hanging baskets to catch that valuable sunlight.

Position Your Small Vegetable Garden Near the Kitchen

It is important to consider the best place to put your small vegetable garden. The most convenient location for harvesting would be near the kitchen entrance, so you don’t have to carry them far when it’s time to store them in the fridge. Select vegetables suitable for growing indoors, such as cherry tomatoes and baby carrots, which can fit nicely in small spaces.

Position Your Small Vegetable Garden Near the Kitchen
Image credit: https://st.hzcdn.com/

Most small vegetable crops are annuals. They have a very short timescale and need to grow rapidly. And to enhance their performance, they need a lot of help and plenty of food to fuel their growing process, and that’s only possible in full sun. This small vegetable garden idea allows you to place your crops near the kitchen for ease of use, and you can also pay close attention to pests and diseases.

Plant Your Vegetables in Pots

To have a successful vegetable patch indoors, you need to install it in containers. There are different kinds of pots that you can use for this purpose, such as flower pots and barrels. You should find a wide variety in your local garden store or supermarket, one that has good drainage holes in the bottom.

Plant Your Vegetables in Pots
Image credit: https://gardenerspath.com/

Organic soil is the best option because regular soil or compost can get dirty quickly. If you use a regular potting mix, your containers will need to be turned over regularly so that all of the dirt is mixed up with the new material being added each time. 

Use tubs, pots, hanging baskets, and troughs to grow vegetables and herbs. Potted edibles and other container gardening ideas are convenient for small vegetable gardens using a patio and a court space. You can use your large container to plant flowers and a range of crops, including salad leaves and chilies, which are decorative and practical.

Regular harvesting of your plant leaves, such as lettuce and chard, will help prevent crowding. Both your crops and containers should be compatible with the growth of the plants.

Consider Companion Planting

There are some vegetables that work well together. For instance, basil can help control tomato plant pests and fertilize with its nitrogen content. Dill attracts the predators of aphids, ladybirds, and hoverflies to your small garden. 

Companion touted plants not only prevent pest infestation but also help conserve space. Shade-loving flowers and plants can also benefit when planted next to taller plants. Other leafy greens and basil hate hot afternoons and will thrive when grown next to tomatoes.

Lettuce will also keep on producing all summer when taller plants shade them. You can plant early harvested vegetables such as spinach, radishes, and peas with slow-growing crops such as broccoli, root vegetables, and peppers.

Build a Raised Bed Vegetable Garden

Raised beds are a very popular way of growing edibles in a small vegetable garden. You can also design your raised beds using various companion planting techniques. 

Build a Raised Bed Vegetable Garden
Image credit: https://site.extension.uga.edu/

Plant garlic, leeks, and onions together with beans snap peas, and corn for a high-yielding low maintenance combo of vegetables. You can use brick, wood, and sleepers to frame your bed. Make sure you fill your beds with good quality soil and then add your vegetables or fruits.

Plant a Small Vegetable Garden amongst Flowers

Growing vegetables in a small vegetable garden require creative thinking. If you don’t have much room for a full-sized vegetable garden, grow veggies among flowers. Vegetable and fruit plants can blend attractively beside other plants. Some flower bed winners would do well with most vegetables like carrots, spinach, tomatoes, and beans. 

Transplant your young seedlings of cauliflowers into the bed prepared to plant flowers. Once they mature, the heads of the cauliflower are protected from sunlight due to the foliage of the surrounding flowers. With its pretty daisy-like flower blooms, this plant will shade your vegetables very well, which makes it perfect for carrots and spinach.

Grow Vegetables in Window Boxes

You can also grow vegetables in window boxes that you’ve hung near your windows. Vegetables like lettuce, peas, and beans will yield a bountiful harvest provided they get enough sunlight and water. Tomatoes and peppers do well when placed next to the kitchen window for this reason; you’ll always see them when inside the house and be reminded to care for them.

If you grow vegetables in boxes, you will find that they need more frequent watering than vegetables planted outside the house. The reason for this is that soil in boxes heats up faster and dries out quicker. You can try covering the bottom of your window box with enough bags of brown peat moss to allow the soil in your box to retain more moisture. 

An advantage of growing vegetables in boxes is that you can move them around, placing them where they will get full sun and thus ripen faster. A disadvantage of raising your vegetables indoors is that they produce a smaller yield than those grown outside the house. For this reason, it is best to start your plants in the house and transplant them outdoors once they are large enough.

Succession Planting

Succession planting is useful for any planting technique, whether it is a large or small vegetable garden. But it is most valuable when you have limited garden space. It means reseeding quick-growing garden crops from two to three weeks during the growing season. It’s useful for plants such as zucchini, beans, and lettuce.

Small-Space Vegetable that Grows and Produce Well

Pole Beans and Peas

Start your peas on trellis in early spring, and they’ll provide you with fresh peas as well as a nice crop of fertilizer for early-season flowers and vegetables. In the fall, plant your pole beans in large clumps or groups instead of rows. This will allow them to take advantage of any heat retained from the summer; they will produce a crop before the cold weather sets in again.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are very popular in gardens, but they require a lot of room that the average gardener may not have. Cherry tomatoes are often grown on plants that can be planted alongside regular vegetable crops. Smaller varieties work very well for container gardening; some good choices are determinate tomatoes, beefsteak, and green tomatoes. Make sure you learn how to prune tomatoes for better yields.

Salad Greens

These are among the easiest vegetables to grow. You can even grow them indoors in your kitchen. The key is finding a good fertilizer that will not be too strong for your baby greens and giving them enough nutrition to mature into full-size heads of lettuce, spinach, or other salad crops.

FAQs on Vegetable Gardening in a Small Space

What kinds of vegetables can be grown indoors?

Certain kinds can be grown indoors, such as carrots and tomatoes, though you should first research to see if they will grow well in a container. Also, mint is easy to grow and can help cleanse any containers you use for your indoor garden.

What do you need to learn before starting a vegetable garden?

You should investigate the needs and requirements of your chosen veggies and decide on your space and what equipment you need beforehand.

How much water is required per day for growing vegetables in pots?

Vegetables grown in pots will require more frequent watering than those grown in the ground. Be prepared to water your plants at least twice a day if they are grown in pots, and make sure you allow them to drain.

Final Thought on Small Space Vegetable Garden

Growing vegetables in a small space is possible, but you need to be more creative than planting in a large yard. If you’re growing your vegetables, it is important that you know what works best for the type of vegetables that you want to grow and pay attention to their sunlight and water needs. Your site location should also have adequate sunlight, access to water sources, and has rich, fertile soil.

 

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How To Grow Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are a great source of nutrients and have been used for thousands of years. However, many people don’t know how to grow them at home.

In this article, we will show you everything you need to know about growing chia seeds from the comfort of your own home. We’ll start by talking about what they are, where they come from, and why they’re so good for you before moving on to how exactly to grow these tasty little treats in your garden or even inside if it’s too cold outside.

What are Chia Seeds?

First things first, let’s talk a bit about what Chia Seeds are. They’re tiny black or white sprouts from the Salvia hispanica plant, native to Mexico and Guatemala. The Aztecs were said to eat these plants as early as 900 AD but didn’t catch on until recently when health nuts started touting their nutritional benefits all over social media sites like Instagram and Pinterest.


Image caption: https://assets.bonappetit.com/

Chia seeds are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. Because they’re so rich in dietary fibers, they’re great for keeping your digestive system regular. Many people also like to sprinkle chia seeds on top of yogurt or cereal because they act as tiny little sponges that soak up all the liquid around them, which helps to prevent soggy breakfast foods.

The Chia plant has several stems arising from its base. During late spring or early summer, the chia plant will start to grow flowers. Each set of these flowers produces a seed head of tiny gray or brown seeds. The seed heads look like dandelions. 

After harvest, the seed heads are allowed to dry in the sun. Once they are dry, they are either threshed by hand or machine to remove the seeds from the inside of the flower head. The seeds are then cleaned and dried again.

Black and White Chia

When you see black and white chia in the store, note that they don’t come from different varieties. They both come from the same species of plant, but they grow under different conditions. Black Chia, which is dark purple/blue/black, comes from the coastal regions where it gets more rainfall and summers are warm. White chia, on the other hand, comes from desert regions with hot, dry summers. 

You may also see dessert chia or golden chia, known as salvia hispanica, the same species as black and white chia. However, it can’t be used in drinks since its sweet flavor won’t go well with liquids. Chia seeds can also be planted to grow chia pets or plants. When they sprout, the roots will hold onto a figurine to make it stand upright. However, the sprouts won’t last for very long.

When to Plant Chia

The Chia plant does well in USDA zones 8 to 12. Frost may kill immature plants and prevent flowering on mature plants. However, you can still plant your chia as an annual if you don’t live in these zones. Chia plants need warm temperatures and full sun to start glowing.

Chia seeds also prefer sandy, well-drained soil. They can’t stand wet feet because they are prone to rotting. They are also sensitive to extreme temperatures, so before planting the seeds, make sure that your gardening soil is not too hot or cold.

When to plant chia seeds depends on the time of the year and the type of seeds you have. If you are growing chia in a container, make sure to transplant it when the outdoor temperature is warm enough. Chia plants will grow slowly in cold conditions. You can also start planting indoors in 4-inch containers about two weeks before the last frost date for your area.

How to Plant Chia Seeds

You can purchase chia seeds from the supermarket and use them to plant or buy organic chia seeds from a health food store. Chia seeds do well in small containers which have good drainage holes at the bottom. Fill the container with potting soil up to an inch below the rim.

Now you are ready to place the seeds on top of the soil. Don’t worry about spacing; just spread them evenly in a thin layer across the surface. Smooth out so that your seeds are all at the same level, and press gently with your hand to secure them in place. Sprinkle chia seeds on the surface of the potting soil and cover with a thin layer of more soil.

Do not plant too deeply, or you will lose some seeds below the surface as they need light to germinate. Chia seed is so small that it can be hard to see and space evenly. Keep these tips in mind for the best results.

Planting Chia in Microgreens

If you don’t want to plant your seeds in the garden but still want to enjoy the health benefits of chia, use sprouts as microgreens. Place your seed raising mix in a shallow, wide container, then sprinkle chia seeds over the surface and cover with a ¼ inch layer of more seed raising mix. Keep moist, not wet, until your seedlings emerge.

How to Care for Chia Plants

When it comes to harvesting chia plants, they’re easy to grow and require low maintenance. You can use both the leaves and seeds in your recipes if you don’t have a garden, plant chia outside in the partial shade or in containers where it will get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

How to Care for Chia Plants
Image caption: https://images.saymedia-content.com/

Light

Chia plants do well in full sun. They’re very tolerant of hot weather because they can go for several weeks without water. Avoid planting your chia plants in the afternoon because the leaves will be burned by the hot sun.

Mix and Soil

The right soil is just as important as other strategies to grow healthy chia plants. Use a potting mix combined with perlite or sand for optimal drainage. Chia thrives on a wide range of soil conditions. Good drainage is also important as chia plants don’t like wet feet. 

If growing your chia in pots, use a commercial potting mix combined with sand or perlite. Then use unglazed terra cotta pots for the best drainage. Terra cotta pots are porous and will absorb moisture, which will increase humidity around your chia plants. For outdoor planting, use topsoil mixed with sand or compost. No need to test soil pH as chia seeds can do well in all soil types.

Water

Chia seeds are very drought tolerant. In that case, you need to water them only when the soil is dry. Bear in mind that they need water whenever their leaves look wilted and start to curl up. During the blooming phase, chia plants require abundant watering (it’s like with humans). However, wait until their second set of true leaves develops before you begin watering them regularly.

How to Sprout Chia Seeds

Besides being essential fatty acids, chia seeds sprouts are also a natural source of linoleic acid that strengthens hormones. Chia seeds are also a natural source of linoleic acid that prevents the hardening of blood vessels. They also help to lower cholesterol and high blood pressure.

The Covered Moisture Method

In this method, you’ll need a bowl and a piece of cloth. You can use a paper tray or plastic tray, but you can use whatever works for you. This is to cover your growing seeds so that they don’t dry out.

The Terra Cotta Tray Method

This requires more work than the covered method, but it has better results. You can use a plastic tray again, or you can opt for a terra cotta dish. The tray must be filled with chia seeds and enough water to allow your sprouts to grow well.

The Chia Pet Method

You can easily grow chia seeds in the form of a pet you like. This is because they can grow chia seeds with the shape of anything you put them in. All you need is to pick pottery, terra cotta dish, or any other form that’s available and fill it with chia seeds and water. You can then wait for the sprouts to grow little by little.

The Chia Pet Method
Image caption: https://www.gannett-cdn.com/

The Jar Method

In this method, you can use any container with a lid where you can put your sprouts in and screw the lid on tightly. Make sure you use a jar with a wide mouth to cover the linen cloth and secure it with a rubber band. Add water and let it soak overnight. Your chia seeds will turn into gel overnight. The following day, drain the water in the jar by opening the lid to let it flow through the cloth. You can also use a mason jar to get the best results.

Companion Planting for Chia

Chia plants can grow up to five feet tall, so plant them with herbs that won’t compete with height. You can plant chia with another mint family, parsley, sage, cilantro, and thyme.

Harvesting Chia

When it comes to harvesting chia, timing is very important. Make sure you harvest them before they self-seed. Don’t allow your flowers to turn brown, as you’ll lose much of the seed harvest. Once the petals have fallen off the flower, cut the flower heads off. After harvesting, don’t hang your flowers to dry; instead, put them in paper bags to dry. After drying, remove them carefully and place them on a flat, clean surface. The seed heads should be dark brown and dry.

FAQs on How to Grow Chia Seeds

How long does it take to grow chia seeds?

It takes around two weeks for chia seeds to develop after germination.

How many inches tall can chia seeds grow?

The height of the chia plant is about 14-18 inches tall.

Can you eat chia seed sprouts?

Yes, you can use them in your salad or sandwich. They are very healthy and nutritious too.

Final Thought on How to Grow Chia Seeds

Chia can be grown at home. It is a very beautiful plant and will add color to your room too. In addition, if you have pets or kids, they will benefit from this wonderful plant.

 

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