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What Is The Fastest Way To Clean A Wet Carpet?

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Do you have a leakage that has caused severe damage to your carpet? Dealing with a damp carpet is no joke, whether you’re cleaning up after a flood or a busted pipe. Aside from the obvious aesthetic detriment, water seepage through wet carpet may also harm walls, furniture, and even electronics. What should you do if your carpet becomes wet, and how can you minimise the damage? That’s what you’ll learn here.

Signs Of A Wet Carpet

At first glance, this may appear to be a ridiculous question, yet there are occasions when a carpet is genuinely wet but doesn’t look wet. There might be some residual dampness lurking beneath the carpet’s surface. If the carpet is damp, you should investigate a less noticeable area of the house for a leak.

Carpets with moisture issues are often identified initially by the unpleasant stench that arises from the place. If you don’t get rid of the source of the stink, it will spread through your home’s air and make everyone sick. Constant illness and allergy problems in family members and pets, as well as discolouration in parts of your carpet, are further indicators of retained moisture.

The Importance Of Drying A Wet Carpet On Time

No matter how long ago the water began to seep in, fixing the problem as soon as you become aware of it is essential. Letting a wet carpet lie around might ruin the carpet, padding, and subfloor. Mould and mildew may grow on a damp carpet if left unattended, lowering the air quality in the home and perhaps causing health concerns. 

Tips For Drying Wet Carpet

If you have a wet carpet, there’s no time to lose. Follow these steps to dry your carpet correctly and prevent moisture and mildew from spreading.

  • To ensure you have a dry surface to work on, take stock of your furnishings and remove anything soaked.
  • Get rid of as much moisture as you can by sucking it out with a wet vacuum.
  • To hasten the drying process and reduce lingering odours, you should open up as much of the affected area’s airflow as feasible. To speed up the drying process, open windows, switch on fans and set a high-speed fan on the floor.
  • We recommend using very powerful fans for this purpose. Any circulation is preferable to none, even if you have access to regular fans. Consider renting a dehumidifier if you need to get rid of a lot of moisture.
  • If you replace the underlayment, you can save the carpet from mould infestation.
  • Detoxify and freshen up a damp carpet by steam wet carpet cleaning
  • Baking soda is fantastic for defoaming and eliminating lingering moisture. Putting baking soda over the carpet and letting it soak for at least half an hour should help remove any stains. After that, you can vacuum it and walk around on dry carpets.

It’s also important to disinfect the rest of the room to stop the spread of mould and mildew. To remove any remaining moisture and mould, scrub the baseboards and walls to have a clean and dry indoor space.

Amazing Ideas for Dining Table Designs for Small Spaces

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Designing a dining area in a small space can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. A functional and stylish dining table is an essential element in a small dining area, and there are several types of tables suitable for small spaces.

Let us look into some amazing ideas for dining table designs for small spaces.

Drop-Leaf Tables:

One of the most popular types of dining tables for small spaces is the drop-leaf table. This type of table has a hinged leaf on each side that can be raised or lowered, depending on the amount of space needed. When not in use, the leaves can be folded down to save space. They can be used as 4 seater dining tables when folded and can be extended when needed. Drop-leaf tables come in various styles and designs, including foldable and expandable models, making them an ideal choice for those looking for compact 6 seater dining tables. They are perfect for small apartments or houses with limited dining space.

Round Tables:

Another excellent option for small spaces is a round table. Round tables are great because they can fit into tight spaces and can accommodate more people than square or rectangular tables of the same size. They also promote a more intimate dining experience, making them ideal for small gatherings. Round tables come in various sizes, styles, and materials, from classic wooden designs to modern glass and metal ones.

Wall-Mounted Tables:

Wall-mounted tables are a space-saving solution that can be folded down when not in use. These tables are mounted on the wall, and they take up very little space when folded down. They come in various styles and designs, and some even have built-in storage. Wall-mounted tables are perfect for small apartments or homes with limited space.

Nesting Tables:

Nesting tables are a set of tables that can be stacked together to save space. They are versatile and can be used as side tables, coffee tables, or dining tables. Nesting tables come in various styles and designs, from traditional wooden ones to modern glass and metal ones.

Counter-Height Tables:

Counter-height tables are taller than regular dining tables, and they are perfect for small spaces because they take up less floor space. They come in various styles and designs, from rustic wooden designs to modern glass and metal ones. Counter-height tables are also great for creating a casual dining experience, making them ideal for small families or couples.

Folding Tables:

Folding tables are a versatile and space-saving option for small dining areas. They can be folded down and stored away when not in use, making them perfect for small apartments or homes with limited space.

Creating a small dining space can be a challenge, but with the right dining table, it’s not impossible. Choose one of the tables mentioned above to suit your needs and personal style to create a functional and stylish dining area in your small space.

19 Self-Seedling Plants that Will Pop Up Again from Years to Years

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Homesfornh.com – Many self-seedling plants on earth. These plants make a beautiful garden because they can pop up again after blooming. The self-seedling plants will grow new plants around them. Thus, you don’t need to remove the deadheads of flowers. Here, are lists of self-seedling plants that grow well in the garden. Let’s get to the 19 Self-Seedling Plants that Will Pop Up Again from Years to Years!

  1. Common Poppy

Common Poppy is the first self-seedling in this article. It is a colorful flower that grows better in a sunny location. Poppy has a diverse variety. Common Poppy is as beautiful as Flanders Poppies or Papaver Rhoeas. Both are popular Poppy varieties.

Common Poppy

Common Poppy will return every year. It offers red flowers and downy leaves. Common Poppy can grow up to 2 feet tall. This ornamental plant can reseed after blooming. The deadheads will fall on ground the and grow new Common Poppies.

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  1. Marigold

Marigolds are a popular flower. It has striking colors like yellow, orange, and red flowers. Marigold blooms in warm seasons. The flowers emerge at the same time and make a beautiful group. This flower is stunning to grow in a sunny garden.

Marigold

Marigold can reseed and grow back every season. Also, the flowers are easier to get away from. It has many petals which fall off during rainy or windy days. Besides, Marigold’s seeds will get dormant on their deadhead. The seeds will fall to the ground. Therefore, magardensden with Marigold can be very invasive.

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  1. Allium

Allium is another beautiful flower. It has many species. Most of Allium offers striking flowers during their blooming time. The bright color of Allium flowers is stunning to enliven your green garden. Allium is also drought tolerant.

Allium

It grows better in hot or cold conditions. Any type of Allium always brings a cheerful nuance. This will go back every year after blooming time. Allium produces seeds by the deadheads. This plant will spread the seeds around them without being aggressive.

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  1. Morning Glory

Morning Glory is an attractive flowery plant. Like its name, this plant blooms in the morning. When it gets warm sunlight, it will slowly bloom. Morning Glory grows better in hardiness zones 8 to 11. It has various species, like Mexican Morning Glory, Heavenly Blue, Blue Dawn Flower, and many more.

Morning Glory

Morning Glory is easy to grow. It is a self-seeding plant. Morning Glory produces their flower on the vines. After blooming, Morning Glory generates pods from their green seeds. Every pod will turn brown and drop on the ground. Morning Glory will grow new vines.

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  1. Lupine

Lupine is an eye-catching plant. It looks interesting to grow in your garden. Lupine is drought-tolerant. So, it is okay to grow Lupine in any place. Despite this, Lupine prefers rich and moist soil to grow well. Also, it needs warm sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours per day.

Lupine

Lupine can self-seed easily in a good environment. The seeds will be dormant before dropping on the ground. Some gardeners let the seeds fall off the ground. Lupine seeds will start new plants around the mother plant. This plant is an alternative to growing more plants effortlessly.

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  1. Coneflower

Coneflower is a beautiful plant. Like its name, their flowers look like a cone. This plant produces seeds after blooming. The deadhead will fall to the ground. These seeds will grow new Coneflowers. When they grow a bit more mature, you can replant Coneflowers in another area. Also, you can let the seeds grow on the ground where they fall onto.

Coneflower

Coneflower is easy to care for. It requires moderate water and enough sunlight. They like moist soil to spread the roots. Also, Coneflower has a low germination rate. So, it needs adequate water to help them grow. Most Coneflower grows better in hardiness zones 3 to 9.

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  1. Clary Sage

Clary Sage or Salvia Sclarea is an easy-growing plant. It has various colors of flowers. There are white, violet, and pink flowers. It blooms from spring to mid-summer season. Clary Sage is identical to their green-gray leaves. As an invasive plant, Clary Sage can spread their seeds naturally on the ground.

Clary Sage

Clary Sage produces seeds after blooming. The seeds will get dormant before falling off the ground. This plant can’t live in wet soil, thus, ensure it grows in well-draining soil. Clary Sage also needs adequate water to keep growing. Besides, this plant is useful as a culinary herb because it has a fresh fragrance.

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  1. False Indigo

False Indigo or Baptisia Australis is an attractive plant. It self-seeds after blooming. This plant has clusters of deep blue flowers. You will love to see them in a group. It makes a beautiful accent in the garden. Besides, False Indigo is a bit invasive. They spread new growth by self-seeding.

False Indigo

False Indigo is an elegant flower. You can grow False Indigo to fill an empty part of your garden. Moreover, it is drought-tolerant. False Indigo frows well in almost anywhere. Besides, it grows better in hardiness zones 3 to 11.

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  1. Foxglove

Foxglove is a classic ornamental plant. It is identical to a cottage garden. Foxglove is an invasive plant that can self-seeding. This character is beneficial for a gardener who wants many flowers effortlessly. Besides, you can replant the new plants by self-seeding. Then, take them to another area to make a beautiful landscape.

Foxglove

Foxglove offers different flowers like lavender, pink, cream, white, yellow, and purple. Most Foxglove grows better in hardiness zones 4 to 9. It requires adequate water and warm sunlight. After blooming, Foxglove produces seeds that sow themselves on the soil. The seeds will spread around the mother plant.

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  1. Hollyhock

Hollyhock is a classic plant for a cottage garden. It has tall stalks that attract attention to the garden. Hollyhock flowers can attract pollinators like honeybees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These pollinators help Hollyhock to produce seeds.

Hollyhock

After that, Hollyhock’s seeds will be dormant. They turn brown, then fall on the ground. You will have an amazing Hollyhock garden if you grow them well. The soil and water are helpful to support their growth. Moreover, this beautiful flower is adaptive. It grows well in hardiness zones 3 to 9.

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  1. Balloon Flower

Balloon flowers or Platycodon grandiflorus will make a new accent in your garden. It can self-seed after blooming. The seeds will sow themselves on the ground. Then, they will grow slowly in the first growing. Here, you need to boost Balloon Flower seeds with moist soil and adequate sunlight.

Balloon Flower

Moreover, Balloon flowers can be very invasive if you don’t control their growth. Sometimes, it needs pruning or replanting. The pruning will help them to return every year. Besides, Balloon Flower is an adaptive plant that loves hardiness zones 3 to 8.

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  1. Deadnettle

Deadnettle is a tiny flower. This ornamental plant is interesting to grow as a garden plant and ground cover. Also, it spreads easily on garden soil by self-seeding. Deadnettle has an attractive appearance. It has green leaves with gray edges. Also, this plant has striking red-purple flowers. These flowers will produce seeds.

Deadnettle

Besides, Deadnettle has a diverse species. Another Deadnettle has solid leaves and white flowers. You can grow the most attractive Deadnettle in your garden. This flower has a texture like mint leaves. Besides, Deadnettle can be an eye-catching plant in your garden.

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  1. Euphorbia

Euphorbia is a popular flowery succulent. It has thorny fleshy stalks. Euphorbia grows small flowers with different colors based on the species. There are red, yellow, white, and orange. Look at the dark center of every flower. It is a part that produces seeds. This flowery succulent can self-seed.

Euphorbia

Euphorbia grows well in hardiness zones 4 to 9. As a succulent, this plant keeps minerals in its fleshy stalks. So, they grow well in hard conditions. Euphorbia also needs water when their topsoil is dry. It is a bit invasive but the self-seeds are slowly growing on the ground.

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  1. Gladiolus

Gladiolus will make a nice landscape in your garden. It has sword-shaped leaves and tall spikes. Gladiolus produces vibrant blossoms. Some people like to cut flowers and put them in a vase for decoration. Besides, you can let them grow in the garden to self-seed.

Gladiolus

Their seeds will fall on the ground. Then, it will grow new Gladiolus. This beautiful plant will rebloom next season in the hardiness zones 8 to 10. Also, there are hardy Gladiolus that grow well in cold weather.

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  1. Forget-Me-Not

Forget-Me-Not is a stunning flower. It produces tiny flowers in a striking color. Forget-Me-Not plant has a diverse variety. It looks interesting to grow as a group. There are white, pink, and blue flowers of Forget-Me-Not. Their blossoms are beautiful to make a colorful landscape for months.

Forget-Me-Not

Moreover, Forget-Me-Not can self-seed. This plant will rebloom after self-seeding. Some of the Forget-Me-Not seeds will get dormant due to the summer heat. It is a natural process, so they will regrow after that. The seeds that fall off the ground will grow more Forget-Me-Not plants.

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  1. Cosmos

Cosmos can be your next choice. This is a versatile plant that can be perennial or annual. Cosmos grows in hardiness zones 7 to 11. As another plant, it needs mulching to protect moist soil. Cosmos blooms in summer season, then will self-seed in fall season.

Cosmos

When Cosmos bloom flowers, wait for the deadheads. It takes time to let the blossoms fade. Then, Cosmos plants will let their seeds fall on the ground. Then, the new plants will grow after that. You can replant them after growing the first crop.

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  1. Hosta

Hosta has various species. It loves full sun to partial sun. Hosta lives in hardiness zones 3 to 9. So, they keep growing well in any climate. It blooms during warm seasons. Hosta will self-seed after blooming. The only thing to do is wait for the seeds to fall off. It is a natural process to get new Hosta plants.

Hosta

The falling seeds will take some weeks to grow. It will grow faster in moist soil. You can check the topsoil every week before misting the ground. Some seeds need a bit of push to the soil. You can push them into the soil and make a better plant.

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  1. Delphinium

Delphinium is an interesting plant. It can self-seed after blooming. The seeds will fall off the ground. The rain or wind can push them on the ground. Delphinium loves to grow in hardiness zones 3 to 9. So, Delphinium tolerates cold to hot weather.

Delphinium

Besides, Delphinium is a short-lived perennial. Their patch will return every year. Delphinium offers various colors of flower spikes, like yellow, blue, purple, white, and red. You can pick the most attractive flower that matches your garden. Also, this plant can grow well with a little maintenance.

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  1. Columbine

Columbine is another short-lived plant. This plant will regrow by self-seedings. Columbine will bloom in spring season. It needs moist soil and warm sunlight to boost its bloom. Columbine loves to grow in hardiness zones 3 to 8. So, they accept cold and warm weather.

Columbine

This ornamental plant is an attractive flower. Columbine offers maroon, pink, red, purple, and lavender flowers. These flowers will be dormant for a few weeks after blooming. Then, let the deadhead fall on the ground. They will spread the seeds naturally. Besides, you replant them once after growing crops.

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These are 19 Self-Seedling Plants that Will Pop Up Again from Years to Years. Every plant produces beautiful flowers. These flowers can reseed after blooming. The falling deadheads will help the seeds spread on the garden soil. You can boost their growth by watering them regularly. Ensure water flow won’t move them into another area, so you can mist the soil. Hopefully, this article will inspire you to grow self-seeding plants in your garden. Happy gardening!

How to Keep Your Mattress Clean and Fresh

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You can have the cosiest setup. You can have the warmest lighting, the most tasteful décor, the prettiest colours, and the most inviting bedroom layout there is. All of that won’t help when you climb into bed only to find it musty, smelly, and generally unpleasant. It’s surprisingly easy for us to overlook our mattresses when it comes to regular cleaning, especially since we spend almost more time on our mattresses than we do everywhere else throughout the waking hours! In fact, most of us spend more time on the cleanliness of our towels and floors than we do our mattresses, even though we see more of the latter than we ever do of the former. Because of that, too many people don’t get that perfectly cosy bedroom feeling they’re looking for. Not unless they avoid the bed in their bedroom! To get around that, here are a few tips for keeping your mattress fresh and clean and inviting.

Ventilation is Preventative

Maybe you have your mattress from https://www.mynextmattress.co.uk/brands/sleepeezee a few years and you’ve never washed it? Perhaps you’re just looking for a new mattress now and you want to keep it clean from the very beginning? Once a mattress gets musty, it’s a bit more work to freshen it up. That’s why it’s best to get ahead of the problem. To avoid having to break out the baking soda, open a window every so often. You see, many fabrics are absorbent, especially when it comes to odours. Since your bed is almost certainly going to be the largest fabric object in the room, it’s going to absorb a lot of odour from all over the room. Once those smells settle in, they’re stubborn, too. You’ll find no shortage of posts online from people begging for help with smells that just won’t go away. So, ventilate your bedroom regularly to avoid being one of them.

If the Smells Do Show Up…

You can’t go wrong with baking soda. You may have heard of this age-old remedy used for refrigerators, but it works in basically any instance that requires odour removal. Baking soda works in so many scenarios because of its highly reactive nature. It’s a type of substance called an amphoteric compound; that means it can act as either an acid or a base in a chemical reaction. You might remember from chemistry class that acids and bases tend to neutralise or cancel each other out when they react with each other. Baking soda does this with the odour molecules in its vicinity. It reacts with the molecules and neutralises their pH, which eliminates the underlying smell. So, baking soda doesn’t really trap smells so much as it cancels them out. With it, you can eliminate lots of built up odour and be left with a fresh sent.

The Wonders of Misting

Sometimes, it’s about the little things. If you’re the sort of person who loves incense, candles, and perfumes, this is the ideal solution for you. Between changing the bedding on your mattress, take the opportunity to hoover it a little. After that, apply a bit of sleep mist directly onto the mattress. If you quite like soothing scents, apply a bit more to your freshly applied clean bedding too. The mist takes over as the primary odour, which prevents anything more unpleasant from taking over. Great scents for this approach include lavender and chamomile.

17 Yellow Annual Flower Ideas to Make A Striking Summer Garden

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Homesfornh.com – A yellow flower has a striking appearance. It adds an energetic impression to the garden. You can grow some yellow flowers to enliven the summer vibe. The annual flowers are interesting and easy to grow. Also, most of them are versatile whether it grows indoors or outdoors. If you need some fresh ideas, here are 17 Yellow Annual Flower Ideas to Make A Striking Summer Garden.

  1. Calibrachoa

Calibrachoa or Calibrachoa sp is a sun lover. It resembles a Petunia flower in habit and appearance. Calibrachoa is a popular yellow flower that grows best in hot weather. This striking flower can grow up to 24 inches. Their small trumpet flowers will reach 12 wide. So, Calibrachoa can be invasive when growing in the garden. There are popular varieties of Calibrachoa, such as Aloha Kona Yellow, and Superbells Yellow.

Calibrachoa

Calibrachoa loves sunlight. You need to plant it in a sunny location. It looks perfect to grow wider in a container. Calibrachoa will show off their trailing habits. This yellow plant blooms prolifically along the seasons. The deadhead Calibrachoa flowers will encourage new flowers. Thus, fertilize this plant to support its growth.

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  1. Lantana

Lantana is another sun lover. This plant can grow up to 12 inches. It tolerates warm to hot weather. Lantana can be your choice to improve the summer garden. This is an ideal plant because it tolerates drought and heat. Their small flowers are attractive and make a perfect ground cover.

Lantana

You can grow this plant along the garden path. The creeping Lantana will decorate the summer garden beautifully. After the blooming, Lantana will produce small purplish berries in the late summer. You can let the berries dry on the plant before harvesting. Then, this plant will continue to grow throughout the seasons.

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  1. Marigolds

Marigolds are popular plants. It has various colors and shapes. Marigold is also known as Tagetes spp. This plant is a sun lover, so they grow happily in a sunny location. Marigolds can mature to 24 inches. Some gardeners like to grow Marigolds in their gardens. This striking flower is interesting to grow throughout the seasons.

Marigolds

Moreover, Marigold is useful as a plant companion. French Marigolds are beneficial to attract good insects. This flower is a favorite nectar source for bees. Besides, the Marigold is an easy-growing plant. It requires basic needs like moderate water, sunlight, and fertilizer or soil nutrients.

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  1. Cannas

Canna is an interesting yellow plant to grow in the summer season. This is a sun lover that will grow well in hot seasons. Canna tolerates drought conditions and minimum water. Like other plants, this flower grows taller up to 36 inches. Moreover, some varieties of Canna can grow taller than that.

Cannas

Canna is easy to care for. This yellow plant will stay compact in the soil and won’t invade other plants. Thus, Canna is ideal to grow in a colorful garden. Moreover, this striking plant will survive the extreme condition. It even blooms in the first frost. The most popular varieties of Canna, such as Canova Yellow, and Toucan Yellow.

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  1. Calendula

Calendula or Calendula officinalis can be your next choice. Their yellow flowers are attractive to improve your summer garden. Also, this plant keeps growing throughout the year. This annual plant is a sun lover and grows up to 12 inches. Some people call it pot Marigold because both are from the same family.

Calendula

The golden and pale yellow flowers are stunning to make an eccentric accent in the garden. Also, you can grow Calendula in a pot as well. Then, keep them growing indoors to beautify your home interior. The most recommended varieties of Calendula are Pacific Beauty and Lady Godiva Yellow.

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  1. Purslane

Purslane loves the full sun. This flower can grow up to 24 inches when mature. It is an adaptive plant. Most Purslane plants can grow in the cool to hot seasons. Purslane is an ideal choice for a beginner. It is easy to care for. Purslane requires adequate water, sunlight, and soil nutrients.

Purslane

Ensure that it gets moderate water and never stays in soggy soil. Purslane can grow well in poor soil but prefers rich soil. You will love their waxy leaves and small dainty flowers. This perennial plant tolerates warmer climates. Purslane will produce seeds during the cool seasons.

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  1. Petunias

Petunia is a popular flower. It has some varieties that are attractive to grow. Petunia is a sun lover, so it is better to grow it in a warm summer. Some varieties of Petunia can grow to mature at about 36 inches. Many colors of Petunia that you can pick, like the yellow variety.

Petunias

Petunia is easy to grow in almost any soil type. It needs regular watering in the first growing. Petunia withstands the dry and cool seasons. This plant blooms beautiful yellow flowers in the warm seasons. After blooming, cut off the deadhead to encourage new growth. The best varieties for your garden are Easy Wave Yellow and Mini Vista Yellow.

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  1. Bidens

Biden can grow well in full sun to partial shade. The mature Biden plant can reach 24 inches. It even can grow taller with good maintenance. This small golden flower is attractive. Biden plant has fern-like foliage. So, it looks stunning to grow indoors as a decorative accent.

Bidens

Biden is easy to care for. These yellow flowers have a trailing habit. Some people grow Biden plants in a pot or hanging pot. Then, they let the trailing run over the pot. After the blooming time, Biden’s flower will turn to deadhead. Then, you must clean the deadhead to encourage new growth.

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  1. Torenia

The Torenia plant is also known as Shade. This partial sun lover is a fast-growing plant. Torenia can grow to mature to 24 inches. Also, it tolerates the coolest weather and hottest days. Like its botanical name, this plant tolerates direct sunlight. Torenia will grow well as an annual plant. It produces small bell-shaped flowers.

Torenia

This plant has a trailing habit. So, you will see Torenia trails out of the container. The best location to grow Torenia is in a shady location. This plant is sensitive to bright sunlight because it causes the brown leaves. Moreover, Torenia has many varieties, so you can grow some Torenia plants with different colors.

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  1. Nemesia

Nemesia loves full sun to partial shade. This plant can grow up to 12 inches. It grows well in both cool and dry seasons. This yellow plant refers to a cape snapdragon and a small dainty flower. Similar to this plant, the Cape Snapdragon plant grows up to 10 inches. Both are attractive and striking to grow together.

Nemesia

Nemesia is an adaptive plant. When it grows in a warm season, Nemesia will be better in a little shade. Also, this plant requires adequate water to keep them hydrated. In addition, you can aerate and fertilize the soil, if Nemesia is growing poor. The recommended varieties of Nemesia are Sunsatia Lemon and Spicy Yellow.

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  1. Begonia

Begonia is an easy-growing plant. It loves shade to partial sunlight. Begonia can grow to mature to 24 inches tall. This yellow plant tolerates cool weather, so it gets no problem during the winter season. Begonia will be best to decorate a shady area, such as a patio, garden, or balcony.

Begonia

Also, some Begonia varieties tolerate some sun. Begonia plants are annual in hardiness zones 2-8. As a decorative plant, Begonia is interesting to grow in a hanging basket. You will enjoy their beautiful appearance in your area. Begonia offers green waxy leaves which makes an eye-catching accent.

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  1. African Daisy

African Daisy is also known as Osteospermum spp. This is a full sun lover. African Daisy will grow up to 24 inches. It loves warm to hot seasons. This South African plant is an ideal choice for gardeners. Also, it brings a striking accent to the garden.

African Daisy

It is one of the Daisy varieties that you will love to grow in a container. You will see the blooming African Daisy throughout the seasons. Regular pruning will fasten their blooming. Frequent deadheading is beneficial to store the seeds. Then, you can grow new plants in another area.

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  1. Pansies

The pansy plant or Viola x wittrockiana is the next yellow flower. It requires full sun to grow mature. Pansy can grow up to 12 inches tall. Also, it lives well in the hardiness zones 9 to 11. This yellow plant is available in the early spring season because it tolerates cold temperatures.

Pansies

You can grow this plant in the summer garden. This striking flower has vast varieties. Pansy survive extreme conditions but their foliages may turn into grey, then begin to wilt. Pansy will reseed after blooming. It is a nice option for spring gardening, then it will bloom in the summer seasons.

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  1. Black-Eyed Susan

Black Eyed Susan has a botanical name Thunbergia. It grows better in full sun. This yellow flower can reach 8 feet in height. Black Eyed Susan lives in hardiness zones 9 to 11. It is a wildflower that usually grows wild along the highway. You can plant it in your garden and makes a new landscape.

Black-Eyed Susan

Black Eyed Susan can climb on the trellis. It offers golden yellow colors. This yellow plant is attractive to grow as a trailing or ground cover plant. Black Eyed Susan is easy to care for. So, you don’t need to do special maintenance to keep them growing.

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  1. Zinnia

Zinnia or Zinnia elegans can be an ideal choice for a beginner gardener. This plant loves the full sun. Most people know about Zinnia as it is easy to grow. Zinnia survives in almost all types of soil. So, it has no problems with the soil. This plant can grow up to 24 inches tall.

Zinnia

You will love to see Zinnia in a group. The blooming is beautiful and makes them more alive. Moreover, Zinnia is a self-seeding plant. So, the deadhead will fall the seeds on the ground. They will grow as new Zinnias.

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  1. Sunflowers

Sunflower or Helianthus annuus is another popular plant. It has an iconic yellow flower. This plant loves full sun and grows up to 9 feet tall. You can grow this flower in a cool to warm place. Some gardeners grow sunflowers as a garden border. The straight stalks are stunning to keep them reaching sunlight.

Sunflowers

This yellow plant is easy to care for. It requires warm days and nights. Some sunflowers will go wild or rot in extreme frost. You need not worry because Sunflowers will reseed after blooming. Then, store the Sunflower seeds to plant new Sunflowers. In addition, you need to find the right location for a certain variety.

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  1. Creeping Zinnia

Creeping Zinnia or Sanvitalia procumbens are weed-like plants. It has striking small flowers. Creeping Zinnia loves full sun. The mature Creeping Zinnia can reach 24 inches in height. This plant grows better in a sunny location and with moderate water. As a part of Zinnia, Creeping Zinnia is an underrated annual plant.

Creeping Zinnia

This decorative plant generates tiny yellow flowers. It contrasts with dark green leaves. Creeping Zinnia can spread their creeping stems at about 10-12 inches wide. You can maintain this plant as a ground cover. Also, it looks interesting as a base in your garden landscape. The attractive varieties are Sunbini and Sunvy Super Gold.

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Thus are 17 Yellow Annual Flower Ideas to Make A Striking Summer Garden. Every flower has an attractive appearance. Most are sun lovers and easy to care for. You can grow some of them in the garden. They require basic needs like moderate water, warm sunlight, and rich soil. The only key to keeping them healthy is a regular checking. Ensure that every plant gets the best maintenance. Hopefully, this article will inspire you to grow some yellow flowers in the garden.

Characteristics of Modern Interior Design: What Really Makes It Modern?

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Modern design is a term that gets thrown around a lot. But it’s a specific interior design style that evolved from the early- to mid-twentieth century. It became more popular with industrialization and inspired interior design between the 1940s and 1960s and post-modern interior design after the 70s. Modern interior design leveraged the power of industrialization to influence the home’s architecture, interiors, and furnishings.

Here is everything you need to know about modern design.

The Basic Tenets of Modern Design

A few elements define what makes modern design…well…modern.

Emphasis on Clean Design Lines

Before modern design, interior design styles used to feature dramatic elements, hefty textures, dark themes, and a lot of ornamentation. These earlier styles could be categorized into Victorian, Renaissance, and Gothic designs. At the turn of the 20th century, modern design took over with its uncluttered approach that included clean design, straight lines, and a general affinity to minimalism.

Neutral Colors are King

In modern design, you stick to a basic color pallet filled with tones of beige, white, grey, and even black. Earthy tones dominate the modern design, so you might have lighter tones on the walls and then darker earthy tones for floors or furniture. Indoor plants are also a big part of modern design. There are no bold splashes of color or walls with eclectic patterns on them. The idea is to give an open feel to the home that dissolves with the outdoors.

Experimenting with New Materials

The industrial revolution introduced many new materials (apart from wood) to construct furniture – molded plywood, steel, and even concrete. The practicality of the furniture was a priority, but it had to be easy on the eyes too.

The choice of material used varied with the region. Germans created the iconic Wassily chair, and Americans introduced the Eames lounge chair. In contrast, Brazilians stuck to using locally sourced, natural wood to build their furnishings.

Long, Low, and Simplified Furniture

It is also worth mentioning that modern design is characterized by long and low furniture. The lines were uninterrupted and clean. Saarinen’s Tulip Arm Chair, for instance, encapsulates the design mentality well. In the words of its designer, Eero Saarinen, “The undercarriage of chairs and tables in a typical interior makes an ugly, confusing, unrestful world. I wanted to clear up the slum of legs. I wanted to make the chair all one thing again.”

Open Floor Plan

Modern design reduces the number of walls, and leans towards open floor plans. Instead of walls, modern design relies on furniture to distinguish between different spaces. Coffee tables and couches separate the living room from the dining area. A kitchen counter offers a visual divider between the kitchen and the rest of the house.

Such a plan also ensures that the space receives maximum natural light. So, even the windows are generally wide and left un-draped.

Major Influences on Modern Design

Modern design is the product of a variety of design influences from different parts of the world in the 20th century. These influences underline functionality, emphasize the abstract, and insist on simple-yet-impactful design. Here are the major influences that shaped modern design.

Dutch

Staatliches Bauhaus, popularly known as Bauhaus, is a German school of design that grew into an art movement around the beginning of the twentieth century. The central idea of the Bauhaus movement was to make fine arts functional, be it architecture, interior design, or the visual arts. Their experiments with shape are widely seen in the furnishing used in modern interior design.

Modern Art

The maximalism of Victorian design feels outdated in the wake of the modern art movement. The movement advocated function-over-form philosophy. Modern home design grew out of this movement, and it was fueled by industrialization. Steel, glass, and concrete were now used to build the clean lines modern art inspired. These included floor-to-ceiling windows, flat roofs, open layouts, and more.

How is Contemporary Design Different from Modern Design?

Contemporary design is the ongoing evolution of interior design. It is not an interior design style that can be defined by specific characteristics but a blanket term used to refer to the current developments in interior design. On the other hand, modern design refers to a specific time in history, characterized by specific design philosophies.

Modern design is about minimalism, clean lines, and the use of earthy materials and tones. On the other hand, contemporary design is still creating an identity for itself. You may come across a contemporary home with geometric lines, grey tones, and an open layout or stumble upon one with asymmetric furnishings, and ubiquitous splashes of color.

So, a design that is being called contemporary today may just be a fad and blow over tomorrow. Alternatively, a design trend may come to define this era, but we can make that call in, perhaps, 50 years from now.

Give Your Home a “Modern” Touch

Modern interior design lets you get out of the clutter, appreciate minimalism, and create your unique style. From choosing the right tones for your walls to welcoming a new plant into your house, modern design can help you create a warm, inviting, and practical space in no time. Get recommendations from an expert on how to reinvent your space and create a sense of harmony with modern design.

If you are looking to upgrade your home into a modern space, get in touch with a designer who specializes in it. You can then discuss your core demands, and they can recommend you the tones, textures, and colors that fit your needs. A qualified modern interior designer will declutter your space while retaining its function.

Tips for Container Gardening At Your Lake Home

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A container garden can be a great and simple way to enhance your landscaping, especially if you live by a lake. It can add a splash of colour to your porch, patio, entryway or pier and allow you to experiment with different plants.

For those who own vacation homes, container gardens are often easier to maintain than a large, in-ground garden, as it frees up more time for relaxation instead of tending to weeds.

Why are container gardens more manageable than in-ground gardens?

First, let’s explore the various reasons why using containers and boxes can be easier than traditional gardening.

Container gardens offer improved accessibility

Taking care of plants in containers can be physically easier than tending to in-ground gardens because you can position the containers at a more comfortable and workable height.

This allows you to care for your plants while standing or sitting without bending over or kneeling, which can strain your body.

Containers are also a fantastic option for individuals who lack access to a plot of land but still want to care for plants. They can be placed on balconies, decks, or concrete pads, allowing for easy and accessible gardening.

They are more flexible

Maintaining a small garden plot for seasonal lake homeowners can be challenging, so container gardens are an ideal solution.

With container gardens, you can enjoy the benefits of a seasonal garden without worrying about weeds taking over when you leave for the winter.

Cleanup is easy if your plants don’t survive – just empty the container.

Growing plants and vegetables in containers also offer the advantage of portability. Seasonal lake house residents can take their favourite plants when they leave.

Great for beginners

If you lack gardening experience, containers are an excellent starting point. Their size makes them manageable and easier to grow compared to maintaining a garden plot, as there is no need for digging or tilling or using too many specialised tools.

You also have significant control over growth factors such as water, sunlight, soil type, and nutrients.

How to pick the perfect pot or container?

Regarding aesthetic container gardening, various containers are available, including plastic, wood, clay, concrete, and fibreglass.

While many of these can get the job done, choosing the right container for a lakeside setting requires more thought.

Most lakeside property owners opt for clay and untreated wood pots because they offer a natural look and better plant protection. These pots regulate soil temperature more effectively than plastic or fibreglass ones and evaporate water through their walls better.

However, there are downsides to these pots. Clay pots can break easily or freeze at low temperatures, while wood is prone to rot and decomposition in high moisture environments. Consider the pros and cons of each and choose the option that works best for you.

If you have a plot of land, consider a larger container accommodating mature plant roots. Consult your local garden centre for expert advice on the most suitable type of container for your needs.

Before purchasing containers for your plants, inquire about the root systems of the plants you plan to grow. It’s essential to select containers that will accommodate the roots of mature plants. For instance, tomato plants require a depth of two feet, while zinnias only need a few inches.

Larger containers may be better in areas prone to drought conditions (such as waterfront locations), as they can store more water and nutrients your plants need.

Flowers that are suitable for dock planters

If your lakefront landscape gets a lot of sunlight, it’s advisable to plant only one type of plant per flower pot. This provides ample space for plants to grow and multiply, offers greater design flexibility, and creates a more natural look.

However, when planting different items in the same pot, you must consider their peak bloom times, height, colour, and compatibility when planted close together.

You can plant the following flowers along your lakefront landscape:

  • Petunias;
  • Pansies;
  • Violas;
  • Hydrangeas;
  • Calibrachoas;
  • Geraniums;
  • Marigolds;

Create an edible container garden

Why not take your dockside container garden to the next level by planting some containers with edible produce that looks not only good but also tastes delicious? It is better to use a larger container for container vegetables.

Several produce plants are perfect for planting and thriving in containers, including:

  • Tomatoes;
  • Cucumbers;
  • Sweet and chilli peppers;
  • Squash;

Herbs are also amazing plants for container gardens that do double duty to provide beauty and food. It would be ideal for growing herbs in an area with lots of sun and moderate temperatures.

The following herbs do well in containers:

  • Chives;
  • Basil;
  • Dill;
  • Cilantro;
  • Garlic;
  • Fennel;
  • Lemon balm;
  • Mint;
  • Marjoram;
  • Parsley;
  • Rosemary;

How to care for your container gardens

When you have established your container garden in a waterfront area, preserving its beauty can be challenging. The sun’s rays are intensified by water, so making sure your plants get enough water is essential. It is advisable to water your plants in the morning to help them withstand the heat of the day.

Avoid watering the foliage, which may lead to evaporation before the plant can use the water. It’s better to use a hose or watering can that allows water to flow directly into the soil. Wet foliage, caused by overwatering, rain, or insufficient air circulation, invents fungus and rot.

Keep the water flowing until the drainage hole begins to overflow, indicating that your container is soaked. Plants in a waterfront setting must be watered daily or every other day, particularly those exposed to the full sun.

If you’re going to be away, arrange for someone to care for your plants or consider using self-watering containers, drip irrigation systems, or probes attached to a water source. A thick layer of mulch surrounding the base of your plants can also aid in moisture retention.

In addition to watering, it’s essential to feed your plants with liquid fertiliser at least twice a month. Supporting larger or upward-growing plants with a trellis or stake can help them grow effectively.

To encourage growth and abundant flowering, it’s also important to regularly deadhead your plants.

Final thoughts:

Container gardening at your lake home can be a fun and rewarding way to beautify and refresh your outdoor space while enjoying fresh produce and colourful blooms.

With the tips and tricks outlined in this post, you can create a thriving container garden that will enhance the natural beauty of your waterfront property.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, there’s no better time to start. So, what are you waiting for?

Start planning your container garden today, and don’t forget, if you want to ensure your garden looks its best all season long, book a professional garden maintenance service. A team of experts will take care of everything, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your stunning lakeside oasis.

17 Modern Spanish Kitchen Ideas : Add Eccentric Accents in Your Interior

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Homesfornh.com – Modern Spanish is an interesting design for your kitchen. It represents diverse elements. There are Spanish colonial accents, a modern accent, and a bit of traditional touch. Some designers add modern furniture to create a modern touch. Here, we have ideas of modern Spanish that will inspire you to remodel the kitchen interior. Let’s get to the 17 Modern Spanish Kitchen Ideas : Add Eccentric Accents in Your Interior!

  1. Modern Spanish with Mediterranean Style

The modern Spanish kitchen is stunning. It is easy to combine this design with other classic designs. The Mediterranean style is one of interesting classy design. It has a traditional touch with a warm color. Both designs will revive a classic impression in the kitchen.

Modern Spanish with Mediterranean Style

Look at the idea. There is a patterned backsplash. It is an identical style of Spanish kitchen design. The brown accent on the backsplash is connecting to the room’s color. The Mediterranean style improves the traditional style with natural accents, such as wicker chairs and wooden ceilings.

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  1. Using Patterned Backsplash with Vibrant Color

A cheerful color can affect the mood. It brings an energetic feeling. Maybe you can try this vibrant backsplash for your modern Spanish kitchen. It has an interesting design with a neutral color. The shades of blue and white are the best combination.

Using Patterned Backsplash with Vibrant Color

Moreover, the ornate backsplash is decorating a small area. For other spots, you can use the white color or another that fits the whole room. This kitchen has a white theme, thus the white color is dominating the room. Even the kitchen cabinet is white as well. The colored accents are the blue kitchen island and blue carpet.

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  1. Modern Spanish Kitchen x Brown Theme

The brown color is a neutral shade for design. It has many shades and is easy to combine with other colors. This modern Spanish kitchen has a brown theme with a beautiful backsplash. The ornate backsplash decorates the white wall. It is a focal point when gazing at the kitchen.

Modern Spanish Kitchen x Brown Theme

Just look at the kitchen bar. There is a white countertop with a cabinet. Across it, you will see the kitchen island with dark grey color. Next to it, there are brown chairs. This furniture is stunning t match this Spanish kitchen.

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  1. Attaching Neutral Colours

Neutral colors are interesting. It will enliven a calming impression in the room. There are white, brown, and yellow in this kitchen. The modern Spanish kitchen can get a light color with neutral shades. First, you must see the striking backsplash.

Attaching Neutral Colours

It has an ornate design with rich colors. This element represents the energetic nuance in the kitchen. Moreover, there is a white wall that brings a bright and clean impression. Meanwhile, the floor is natural brown to terracotta shade. These neutral colors are perfect to enliven a cheerful nuance in the modern Spanish kitchen.

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  1. Using A Large Island for Big Family

Having a big family needs a big place. If you have a big family in your house, you need to make a bit of decoration. Start from the essential part like the kitchen. You can adapt this modern Spanish kitchen to your house. This kitchen uses an open-space design.

Using A Large Island for Big Family

It is exposing the kitchen bar, so you can see the whole countertop. Across from the kitchen bar, you will find a large kitchen island. It is a useful element. You can finish cooking or garnishing your meal on it. Also, it is nice to use as a dining table.

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  1. Add Natural Blind on Window

A natural element will bring something new. Most of them can decorate a room with a neutral color. Look at this idea. There is a natural blind from wood. It has a neutral appearance of brown color.

Add Natural Blind on Window

The blind is useful to cover your window. Thus, it can protect your room from exposure to sunlight. Some homeowners use a blind to add privacy. In this modern Spanish kitchen, the blind is matching the white wall. It makes a nice accent on the wall.

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  1. Stylish Backsplash with Blue Theme

Using random tiles are creative idea. The room will have a new look by having this design. So, you can try this idea to add a focal point in the modern Spanish kitchen. The ornate backsplash is a character of this design. Then, take the random tiles with the same theme.

Stylish Backsplash with Blue Theme

After that, arrange these tiles to make a beautiful position. Even though few tiles are the same, you can make it as they pick randomly. Meanwhile, support this design by having an aesthetic theme. Pick the same color for the kitchen cabinet or other elements.

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  1. Classic Modern for A Spanish Kitchen

Spanish design represents the old design from Spain. Thus, it is fine to have a bit of a combination with other classic designs. There is a classic accent from every country in the world. You can pick your lovely classic style in this decoration.

Classic Modern for A Spanish Kitchen

For example, this modern Spanish kitchen gets a bold color from mid-century design. The dark green cabinet is the big accent in this room. Meanwhile, there is always a patterned backsplash. It looks more interesting for the cooking area. Then, there is a dark grey floor with an artistic design.

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  1. Using Wooden Floor

The floor is a part of interior design. You need to determine this element as well. If you want to design a modern Spanish kitchen, then use the wood floor. It is a versatile design. Almost all interior designs will fit this flooring.

Using Wooden Floor

Look at this idea. It has a zigzag pattern which brings a new look. Also, the natural timber picture is stunning to add an ornate pattern on the floor. Meanwhile, this room has a white theme. Thus, there are white cabinets, walls, and Spanish backsplash as well. This idea is soft and calming for people who love neutral nuance.

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  1. Modern Spanish with Tile Backsplash

Do you like the tile backsplash on a Spanish kitchen? Here, is an interesting idea for a modern Spanish kitchen. The backsplash is identical to the use of a natural pattern, like a flower or branch. This backsplash is decorating a small area. Meanwhile, the other wall has white colors.

Modern Spanish with Tile Backsplash

Moreover, this modern Spanish kitchen has many modern accents. There is a white marble kitchen island. It looks stunning to put in the middle of the room. Also, you will see the matching chairs near this kitchen island. Besides, you can add some traditional touches, like an old-style cabinet, pendant light, and wood accent on the ceiling.

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  1. Using Stone Floor

The Spanish kitchen has a traditional accent. It revives the identical Spanish element for the interior. Here, this idea uses stone tile flooring. The whole room is having this flooring. This stone tile is orange-brown with a warm impression.

Using Stone Floor

It looks catchy to match the modern Spanish design in the kitchen. Moreover, there is a kitchen island with white marble. You can arrange a few stools near it. Then, the wooden elements will complete the warm impression. Besides, it is interesting to add a carpet on the kitchen floor as an accent.

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  1. Add An Eccentric Carpet

Do you want an eccentric accent in the kitchen? Installing a decorative carpet is key. It looks stunning to have a striking carpet in the modern Spanish kitchen. This accent has various patterns and colors. Thus, you can pick a carpet with an energetic nuance.

Add An Eccentric Carpet

Moreover, this carpet is functional as an anti-slip path in your kitchen. Look at this carpet design. It has a striking color and an interesting pattern. Even though it has a different shade, it matches this modern Spanish kitchen. Then, just use your lovely carpet to decorate your kitchen floor.

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  1. Having More Furniture

This is a large kitchen. The best part of a large room is having a diverse design. Here, is the modern Spanish kitchen with many furniture. There is a kitchen island near the kitchen bar. It has a long black table with a few chairs.

Having More Furniture

Meanwhile, there is a dining table as well. The dining table has a sleek design. It may look different from the previous design, but both are connecting the whole room. There are a few wicker chairs with wood frames. In addition, this dining table has fresh decorations on it.

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  1. An Open-Space Kitchen with Modern Spanish Design

Most people like to have a spacious impression in every room. It looks large and airy. Just look at this idea. The open-space kitchen is easy to design. It doesn’t need a door and just exposes the kitchen. This design is best for a large house or a minimalist kitchen.

An Open-Space Kitchen with Modern Spanish Design

Besides, the open space is interesting to use a modern Spanish design. It looks stunning with some traditional details, like wood flooring and ceiling. Also, there are modern accents, such as the stove, marble countertop, and interesting cabinet.

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  1. Modern Spanish with Eclectic Touch

An eclectic design is one of my favorite designs for classic style. It uses bold colors, a clean line, and an old-fashioned design. Let’s see this idea. The modern Spanish kitchen has a few eclectic accents. The most striking accent is the navy cabinet.

Modern Spanish with Eclectic Touch

This storage has a bold color with a stunning appearance. The designer fills every spot on the wall with a kitchen cabinet. Even a narrow space is useful for a vertical cabinet. Also, there are golden accents on the cabinet knobs. Meanwhile, the modern Spanish design is on the backsplash.

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  1. Using Patterned Flooring

The patterned flooring is identical character to the Spanish design. There are various patterns for the Spanish room. It enlivens the traditional nuance with pattern and color. You can pick the most ornate tiles for the floor. The rich patterns will cover the floor interestingly.

Using Patterned Flooring

Besides, the patterned floor matches the kitchen interior. It has blue shades with a bit of brown. The navy kitchen island has a nice view to putting near the navy cabinet. In addition, there are blue accents on the countertop and kitchen island. If you apply this ornate flooring, then use a white backsplash that balances this design.

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  1. Add A Large Window

Natural sunlight is a helpful element in a home design. It warms the atmosphere and lessens the fusty air. If you have a large window in your modern Spanish kitchen, then open it wide. The window will boost the oxygen in your room. Also, it can invigorate the kitchen interior.

Add A Large Window

The sunlight will add brightness to this modern Spanish kitchen. The beautiful interior can reflect their colors by sunlight. Also, some people need a window in the kitchen to let the odor out of the room. Moreover, sunlight helps you to thrive on indoor plants. This window is a must-have element for the kitchen.

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Thus are 17 Modern Spanish Kitchen Ideas : Add Eccentric Accents in Your Interior. This design has some elements to create a beautiful interior. Some homeowners use an ornate backsplash that represents Spanish design. Thus, they can add some modern elements, such as furniture and cleanliness. Try to design your dream kitchen by taking inspiration from this article. Good luck and happy decorating!

Is it Difficult to Find Good Moving Companies?

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Imagine finally getting a promotion in a field where you do what you love to do every day. The pay is good, working hours are reasonable, you have time for family and relaxation. There’s only one catch, you’ll have to move near the company headquarters in another state and you’ll have to move your entire household. Can you just pack up and go? How do you bring crates of well-curated furniture and well-loved knick knacks?

First things first, hire a reputable moving company and hope it is also a reliable moving company. Interstate moving can be as stressful as international moving depending on the moving crew you hire. Corporate moves are especially hard not just because of business continuity concerns and client expectations but also because you will have to consider every member of the company. While it is always advisable to go for properly licensed professional movers, sometimes, the budget is limited. Moving services can be pricey and for a good reason at that. If you want to save money and have a cost-effective move, you have to be strategic and wise. You can look for “moving companies near me” online to start your search for the best moving company that can provide your relocation needs.

How do you know if a moving company is good?

It can be hard to find a professional mover or a moving company you can trust while keeping costs manageable. You have to be thorough in your research. You have to ask around for recommendations from friends, family and even colleagues. Leave no stone unturned. Vary the keywords you input in your search engine for better results. You will want to have a big picture view of how your relocation journey will pan out before you tackle the details.

How much more when you need an international moving company? Foreign exchange rates change daily, and cultural nuances can be quite tricky. Another complication would be the language barrier if you are moving to a non-English speaking country.

If you are planning on an international relocation it may be the best option to touch base with someone who has done it before. If your company has headquarters in the country you will be moving to, their assistance is important. Presumably, they already have local contacts they have worked with in the past and people they can trust to deliver the quality service required. They will also be familiar with timelines and timing-related concerns and can give you invaluable tips on when is the best time to start your relocation, delays you may encounter, permits and clearances you may need to secure and other factors that can affect your move.

Aside from thorough research and asking for recommendations from other people, the following steps can also help you assess whether the moving company you are planning to hire are reputable companies:

  1. Ask for the company’s training and experience

There is no substitute for real-life, on-the-job experience. If a company has been in the business of relocation for years, the expectation is that they have mastered the process or at least, they have encountered a lot of situations that enabled them to identify tried and tested efficient ways to go about it. They may even have a solid contingency plan for when things take a turn for the unexpected or for when emergencies happen.

  1. Research their ratings and reviews

Nowadays, almost everything is available on the internet. With just a few keywords, you can find out past reviews about the moving company you are considering to hire. While it is not a fool-proof guarantee if the company only has positive reviews available, it can still help you sift through which actually deliver good service. You can also learn invaluable insights and tips from past customer experience.

Word of mouth can be a starting place to base your evaluation on especially if this is your first time hiring a moving service. You can also check if the moving company has an accreditation from credible institutions in the moving, logistics and relocation industry. This can save you a lot of times especially for long distance moves.

  1. Read the fine print and put everything on paper

Once you have decided on the moving company you will work with, it pays to be upfront with your negotiations with them. Discuss any possible difficulties or challenges they may encounter during the moving process. If they are experts on long distance moves, they generally know what to expect. It is also advisable to ask them in detail regarding every service they will provide. There’s nothing like being surprised by charges for tasks you thought were free or included in the service you paid for. Do not commit the mistake of assuming and better ask, ask and ask some more.

How can I avoid being scammed by a moving company?

We have all heard of a cautionary tale or two related to moving. Packing services are not careful enough with breakables worth thousands of dollars. Local movers misplace crates of valuable appliances. Realizing your whole wardrobe full of work clothes were lost on moving day. Racking up costs beyond what was previously agreed upon.

When crossing state lines, it can also be hard to track what federal rules govern transactions and contracts. While there will always be things that will not go your way, some headaches are avoidable if we carefully plan out our actions.

Take note of these steps to avoid becoming a victim of relocation fraud:

  1. Be vigilant for red flags

If you experience any or a combination of any of the following, you might be dealing with scammers pretending to be legitimate moving companies. Be careful not to fall into their trap.

  • You cannot find the company anywhere online. They do not have a website or even a Facebook page.
  • You cannot find any customer reviews or testimonials about them, good or bad.
  • They keep on changing the rates for the same services and give higher-priced rates without any reasonable explanation.
  1. Get estimates

Similar to how you should window shop and evaluate options before purchasing a product, you should get at least three written in-home estimates before closing the deal with a moving company. As much as cheap rates are desirable, be on the lookout for unusually low rates or refusal to provide an in-person estimate.

  1. Verify credentials

To ensure that the moving company that will assist you is licensed to provide such services, you can check if they have a number issued by the US Department of Transportation. This number serves as a license identifying commercial vehicles transporting passengers or hauling cargo in interstate commerce. The mover must also have a carrier number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

How much should you ask for when moving companies?

Gas prices have gone up. Cost of living has also increased. The best way to estimate the cost of moving is to gather at least three quotes from different suppliers. This way you can decide which are the rates that your budget can accommodate. You can also decide which services are essential depending on your situation and which services you can do without.

Factors which may affect costs are:

  1. Add-on services and Moving supplies

If your schedule is too busy to accommodate packing and unpacking, you might have to rely entirely on movers to complete this for you. Will you need cleaning services for your old place before the move out? Perhaps your carpet needs to be cleaned before it can be packed for the move. This will normally entail additional costs.

If your pottery collection needs felt pads and special wrapping, this will also set you back a few hundred dollars. Some movers charge separately for loading services and even for cardboard boxes, plastic bins and other moving and packing supplies.

Be sure to check with your moving company which services and packing materials are included in the price quote they provided and which items they can give for a fee.

  1. Moving time and date

Some movers will charge higher rates for high demand days such as weekends and holidays. You might want to adjust your schedule to accommodate a weekday move. This may entail filing a leave at work or canceling some appointments in your calendar. Plan ahead to avoid any unnecessary stress.

Most apartment leases start or end at the beginning of the month, you can move in the middle of the month so there will be less demand. Try to avoid peak moving season in the months of May to early September when students return to school and demand for movers increase.

  1. Travel fees and insurance coverage for valuables

Transporting a lot of things can increase your moving expenses. If you have expensive furniture and equipment, these may need insurance. This is another great reason to declutter and reduce your belongings. Consider government charges and fees and customs rules when you are moving to another country. Fees can quickly add up.

  1. Tip for your movers

After helping you with the heavy boxes and other moving-related tasks, it is only fair to tip your movers. It is up to you how much you think is a reasonable amount but make sure you tip in cash to avoid causing any hassle.

Is it better to hire a moving company or move yourself?

Deciding on whether or not you need to hire a moving company can spell the success or failure of your relocation and can even affect the new life you are trying to set up post-move. Consider the following in coming up with a final decision:

  1. Your life and work schedule

For busy people on a tight schedule, hiring professional movers is a necessity. The moving process can be an overwhelming experience. If it is a long-distance move and you are from another state, it can also be unnerving. If it is an international move, you will have too many things to think about such as visas, working permits on top of logistics considerations. If the move is a time-sensitive project, it can easily turn into a nightmare.

As your moving date nears, these added tasks can take a toll on your mental health and energy. You cannot expect to put life or the world for that matter, on pause while you focus on packing, unpacking and furniture disassembly. Hiring a moving company can take this pressure off.

  1. Time and cost-efficient relocation

By hiring a professional moving company, you will not need to start from scratch. They have templates and inventory systems for mapping out a successful moving process. They have technical know-how on what is the cheapest way to move your furniture. This is especially important for long distance moves.

Even for local moves to the same city, packing can still be a daunting task. While you have the option to declutter and bring only a few things to your new home, sometimes this will not be enough. Hiring movers can help you decide how many boxes you will need for the move or the cheapest and fastest way to transport large furniture.

You can easily rack up costs you did not anticipate when relocating. You may need to hire laborers and rent equipment to get your furniture to your new home. Finding out on moving date that your building does not have an elevator can be stressful to say the least. While you were trying to save, you might unintentionally incur higher costs and expenses.

  1. Heavy lifting can be a health and safety hazard

If you are not used to strenuous physical labor, you can easily strain your muscles and get injured by trying to lift heavy items and furniture. Rather than hurt yourself in the process of lifting, loading and unloading bulky items, movers can take care of this for you.

  1. Tracking and transportation of valuables

Long distance moving is challenging when you have a lot of belongings. Expensive furniture and breakable items can be difficult and costly to transport without the help of interstate moving companies. You will have to look for trucking and shipping service providers with experience and a good reputation. This will not guarantee that your fragile items will survive in one piece while in transit. This may also entail additional costs you were not prepared for.

  1. Workforce and labor support

Moving requires a lot of physical labor and manpower support. While you can enlist family and friends to help you and rely on their assistance, this may not be possible if you are moving to another country. For local moves, if you do it by yourself, you need to decide whether you will bring your car and if it can accommodate all your things.

Do you need to drive cross country? Can you complete a 26-hour drive to a place you’ve never been to before in the middle of winter? What happens when your car breaks down?

Conclusion

It is challenging to find a moving company that prioritizes customer satisfaction and delivers above and beyond expectations. The usual moving process with its accompanying tasks and considerations make it stressful for both movers and customers. A careful evaluation of competencies and services can save you from falling into the trap of engaging fraudsters and incompetent movers. You may check out the Community Labor Partnership by calling (888) 314-5128 for your upcoming move!

18 Stapelia Variety Ideas : A Striking Flowery Cactus for Desert-like Nuance

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Homesfornh.com – Cactus is a type of succulent. It has a thick, fleshy stem that typically bears spines, lacks leaves, and has colored flowers. Cactus have myriad types and species. Thus, many flowery cactus that look stunning to decorate a garden, like Stapelia. Here, we’re gonna show Stapelia variety for you. Let’s see 18 Stapelia Variety Ideas : A Striking Flowery Cactus for Desert-like Nuance below!

  1. Stapelia engleriana

Stapelia engleriana is a thick-stem cactus. It has dark green stems and rhizomatous stems like Euphorbia. As a flowery cactus, Stapelia engleriana blooms flowers. Their flowers are dark purple-brown or chocolate-hued. It looks stunning to thrive in your garden.

Stapelia engleriana

Moreover, Stapelia engleriana is a low-maintenance cactus. It needs succulent soil to grow better. Their roots are easy to invade. It is drought tolerant, thus they will survive in a hardy zone. Besides, they require water when the topsoil is completely dry.

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  1. Stapelia gettleffii

Stapelia gettleffii is an interesting succulent. It offers a striking appearance with its velvety tall branches. The long branches will beautify your garden. These cacti match any succulent. So, you can grow them in any area.

Stapelia gettleffii

Besides, Stapelia gettleffii is easy to care for. It can live in minimum water. Stapelia gettleffii requires full sun to partial shade. They need well-draining soil. Thus, you can add sand to your succulent soil. Then, water them thoroughly to create humid soil.

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  1. Stapelia flavopurpurea

Stapelia flavopurpurea is a tufted succulent. It produces a starfish-like flower. This striking flower has various colors, such as green, yellow, orange, purple, white, and maroon. You can grow it in the pot and put it on your windowsill.

Stapelia flavopurpurea

The sunny window is an ideal place to grow Stapelia flavopurpurea indoors. Besides, this plant can survive in hard conditions. Even though it is drought tolerant, it requires enough water during hot days. Otherwise, it can’t live in soggy soil as well. The constant wet condition will damage their roots.

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  1. Stapelia gigantea

Stapelia gigantea has an incredible appearance. Like its name, Stapelia gigantea has a gigantic flower. The star-shaped flowers are stunning to decorate a garden. It offers velvet and spineless branches. Thus, it makes this cactus look more interesting.

Stapelia gigantea

Stapelia gigantea is not difficult to treat. It grows well in normal to warm temperatures. The full sun area is their favorite place. Also, it loves humid soil with a well-draining conditions. You can grow Stapelia gigantea in a pot and provide good drainage.

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  1. Stapelia divaricata

Stapelia divaricata has a cute appearance. It produces grey-green and white stems. You will see the red angular branches that create tillers. This succulent can grow well in a pot or garden. You can plant it in a medium pot if you want to take it as an indoor plant.

Stapelia divaricata

Besides, Stapelia divaricata is easy to care for. It needs 0,8 cups of water every 9 days. The extreme heat of cold will affect this plant. Also, they can die slowly in wet soil. Like other succulents, it loves a warm place, but shouldn’t grow in direct sunlight.

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  1. Stapelia gariepensis

Stapelia gariepensis is native to South Africa. It is a rare variety of cacti. This incredible plant has  4 inches-wide red-brown flowers. Every stem is hairy and long. It can be a precious cactus variety. Thus, it is better to grow them indoors on a sunny windowsill.

Stapelia gariepensis

Moreover, Stapelia gariepensis can grow well with low maintenance. It loves full sun to partial shade. Adequate sunlight will keep their dark flowers healthy. Also, Stapelia gariepensis requires water and enjoy well-draining soil. It even tolerates loamy and sandy soil.

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  1. Stapelia arenosa

Stapelia arenosa is a popular flowery cactus. It will be a striking accent in your area. Stapelia arenosa offers tubercle stems with irregular knobs. These stems grow in rows. Moreover, this cactus has dark flowers.

Stapelia arenosa

It produces purple-yellow flowers star-shaped. Thus, it makes Stapelia arenosa a striking cactus. This rare flower needs bright sunlight. It requires enough water during the first growing. Ensure that you water it thoroughly. So, it will help them to survive without water for a long time.

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  1. Stapelia clavicorona

Stapelia clavicorona has strong stems. Their stems are deeply serrated between the angles. Like most Stapelia plants, it has star-shaped flowers. The flower grows from all staps. Thus, it will create a striking accent in your garden.

Stapelia clavicorona

This succulent loves well-draining soil, like succulent potting mix. Even though this plant can stand in extreme heat, don’t let them stay under direct sunlight in the summer season. It is better to grow them in bright sunlight to partial shade. Besides, it is frost tolerant. In addition, this plant needs dry soil and good drainage.

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  1. Stapelia glanduliflora

Stapelia glanduliflora is an interesting succulent. It offers star-shaped flowers. The blooms are wrapped on the top side. It has white glandular and club-shaped hairs. Stapelia glanduliflora can be your choice to improve a desert-like nuance.

Stapelia glanduliflora

Furthermore, Stapelia glanduliflora is not difficult to plant. It can grow a new plant from stem propagation. The mature plant can bloom yellow-green flowers. Most flowers have purple marks and white hair. Besides, this succulent requires adequate water and a sunny area.

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  1. Stapelia hirsuta var. vetula

Var. Vetula is a variety of Stapelia hirsuta. This plant has dense clumps and erect four-angled stems. It has soft and tiny leaves. Stapelia hirsuta var. vetula offers purple-burgundy blooms. These flowers have textures and are star-shaped.

Stapelia hirsuta var. vetula

Besides, they can live in minimum water. Also, they need full sun to partial shade. This succulent has short-lived leaves, thus it will drop the leaves at a certain time. In addition, it requires succulent soil, like sandy soil and compost. Also, you need to mulch the topsoil with moss or compost. It will keep the soil moist.

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  1. Stapelia grandiflora var. conformist

Var. conformist is one of Stapelia grandiflora varieties. It has club stems that grow up to 12 inches tall. Thus, it looks interesting to be your upright plant in the garden. Moreover, Stapelia grandiflora var. conformist produces flowers. The dark inner is stunning to decorate the plant.

Stapelia grandiflora var. conformist

Like most succulents, it requires bright to partial shade. Sunlight keeps them healthy and maintains their colors. Besides, it can’t grow well in an extreme climate or soggy soil. You must be careful with the watering schedule. It only needs water when the topsoil is dry.

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  1. Stapelia hirsuta var. tsomoensis

It is another type of Stapelia hirsuta. This succulent looks fascinating. It will add a striking accent to the container. Stapelia hirsuta var. tsomoensis has star-shaped flowers with hairy textures. The pink-yellow flowers will decorate this plant beautifully.

Stapelia hirsuta var. tsomoensis

Stapelia hirsuta var. tsomoensis is a low-maintenance plant. It can grow well in poor soil but prefers rich soil and is well-drained. This succulent needs a sunny place to produce flowers. Besides, it can’t withstand extreme frost. So, you need to cover the ground to protect your roots during winter.

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  1. Stapelia acuminate

Stapelia acuminate is a desert-like plant. It can live in a desert or dry environment. Their green fleshy stems are important to keep them growing. As a flowery succulent, this plant produces interesting blooms. It offers cream flowers with maroon and orange marks.

Stapelia acuminate

Stapelia acuminate will grow upright and reach 20 cm tall. Also, their fleshy stems will be thicker. It is about 1,5 cm thick for the mature plant. In a warm season, this plant can drop leaves or dry out. Don’t worry about this natural cycle, you only need to water them when the topsoil is dry.

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  1. Stapelia leendertziae

Stapelia leendertziae is a unique cactus. This creeping plant will create trails. It will hang down over a pot if they grow in the container. Otherwise, they will creep on the ground if they plant in the garden. Stapelia leendertziae can create a dense green carpet like a ground cover plant.

Stapelia leendertziae

Moreover, this cactus is easy to care for. They need adequate water during extreme heat. Ensure to water them thoroughly and improve the humidity. Besides, they will grow better under bright sunlight to partial shade. The balance of nutrients will guarantee their growth.

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  1. Stapelia grandiflora

Stapelia grandiflora is an eccentric succulent. It has starfish-shaped flowers. Their large flowers will attract attention to your garden. Like some succulents, it has some hybrids. Thus, you can find similar flowers from the Stapelia grandiflora variety.

Stapelia grandiflora

Furthermore, this plant is a sun lover. It requires full sun to partial shade. Also, it is rare to prune this plant, even though they grow mature. You don’t need to prune this plant, because its thick-fleshy leaves are attractive. Remove the yellow leaves only, it will be better for protecting their growth.

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  1. Stapelia mutabilis

Stapelia mutabilis is a hybrid plant. It is from seeds combination of Tromotriche revoluta (Stapelia revoluta) and Masson. Both plants are cross-fertilized and become Stapelia mutabilis. This succulent can produce flowers. Their flowers will survive for 4-7 days of blooming.

Stapelia mutabilis

Moreover, Stapelia mutabilis is easy to care for. It lives well in poor soil but prefers succulent soil. You can sand and slow-release fertilizer into the potting mix. Then, ensure they get good drainage. It is essential to boost their growth.

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  1. Stapelia hirsuta var. gariepensis

Var. gariepensis is another Stapelia hirsuta variety. This succulent has flat and hairy flowers. The striking yellow flowers have red-purple tips and an attractive center. This plant can attract pollinators during their blooming time. It will bloom more flowers from late summer to late fall season.

Stapelia hirsuta var. gariepensis

Stapelia hirsuta var. gariepensis is not difficult to care for. This plant is drought tolerant. Besides, it prefers a normal temperature with adequate water. It doesn’t need pruning time because the stems are slow growing. In addition, you need to put them under bright sunlight, but don’t let them withstand extreme frost.

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  1. Stapelia hirsuta

Stapelia hirsuta has a myriad variety. This plant is commonly known for its smell. Also, it has an iconic flower. This succulent can produce cream flowers with deep purple marks. It makes them more stunning during their blooming time.

Stapelia hirsuta

Some people like to grow them as a houseplant. It looks catchy to grow in the pot. Also, this plant is low-maintenance. You can water them only the topsoil is dry. This cactus is not a heavy feeder, thus they don’t need regular fertilizing. As long as it gets enough sunlight and water, it will be fine.

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Thus are the 18 Stapelia Variety Ideas : A Striking Flowery Cactus for Desert-like Nuance. This flowery cactus is interesting to add a striking accent to the garden. Most Stapelia plants have large flowers. Also, these flowers have bold colors that make them on point. You can grow some species to beautify your house. Hopefully, this article will help you to find the best Stapelia plant. Good luck and happy gardening!