Why are gen Zs deserting garden centres? Maybe they’re more into planting than shopping | Claire Ratinon

They can be joyful and important social spaces, but a new generation of customers runs a mile from the shelves of plastic and chemicals

When I first heard that garden centres are facing a wave of closures, I immediately thought of the one around the corner from where I live. On a recent Wednesday afternoon, the car park was full and the cafe was bustling with people my parents’ age and older, chatting over milky coffees and slices of cake. The retired ladies who talk to me in the gym changing room love to come here for a jacket potato after their aquafit class.

Yet, as I stepped through the automatic doors, the plants weren’t immediately visible. First, I had to pass a bright deli counter, an area filled with homeware and crockery, shelves of fragrant toiletries, and a section of children’s toys before anything remotely connected to gardening came into view. I waded through gloves, power tools, pesticides and outdoor furniture, and then, finally, I found the annual bedding plants and potted shrubs. Here, all was quiet. The gardening section was quite unlike the busy cafe; I was alone but for one member of staff.

Claire Ratinon is an organic food grower and writer

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* This article was originally published here

State of play: a home created with fun in mind

A North Yorkshire couple’s home celebrates their creative individuality

If a house can change your mood, I just don’t know why you wouldn’t want to concentrate on the joy.” Neil Bedford has been asked about his thoughts on beige homes and he’s trying his hardest to be diplomatic. “A house like this makes coming home a little more exciting,” agrees partner Daisy Fry, gesturing to their Selfridges-yellow staircase. “It cheers you up.”

The couple moved into this early Edwardian terrace in the North Yorkshire coastal town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea in 2021. Neil is a photographer, while Daisy, who has a masters’ degree in creative practices and has dotted the house with her “soft sculptures” – is now taking time out to be at home with the couple’s young son, Solo.

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* This article was originally published here

‘Humanure’: RHS plans rollout of first compost toilet to fertilise flowerbeds

The horticultural charity’s showpiece garden in Surrey is setting aside an space to test human waste fertiliser

For more than 200 years, gardeners at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) have been reaping the benefits of using compost and manure in their flowerbeds.

But until now, they have never had the satisfaction of using compost created from their own human waste.

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* This article was originally published here

What’s the best way to clean a jute rug?

Jute is easy to clean if it’s just walked on. It gets tougher if it’s grimy or drenched in pet urine.

* This article was originally published here

Rick Seccombe obituary

My partner Rick Seccombe, who has died of oesophageal cancer aged 74, lived his life according to his convictions and was known for his kindness and generosity. He was a radical bookseller and community activist, committed to working to bring about change. He campaigned for CND and supported nonviolent direct action against American cruise missiles stationed in the UK in the 1980s.

In 1990 he co-founded the One World festival in New Mills, Derbyshire, dedicated to international peace and environmental issues. Until recently he was a trustee of the Omega Research Foundation, which tracks the development and trade of weapons and equipment misused for torture.

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* This article was originally published here

* This article was originally published here

Rick Seccombe obituary

My partner Rick Seccombe, who has died of oesophageal cancer aged 74, lived his life according to his convictions and was known for his kindness and generosity. He was a radical bookseller and community activist, committed to working to bring about change. He campaigned for CND and supported nonviolent direct action against American cruise missiles stationed in the UK in the 1980s.

In 1990 he co-founded the One World festival in New Mills, Derbyshire, dedicated to international peace and environmental issues. Until recently he was a trustee of the Omega Research Foundation, which tracks the development and trade of weapons and equipment misused for torture.

Continue reading...

* This article was originally published here

DIY Cat Exercise Wheel: Step-by-Step Guide And Video Tutorials

If you’ve ever wished for a fun way to keep your cat active and entertained, a DIY cat exercise wheel is the perfect solution! Store-bought wheels can be expensive, but with some creativity and a few supplies, you can build your own at a fraction of the cost. This guide will show you how to make a simple yet sturdy cat exercise wheel. If you are not feeling in the DIY mood, we found this one online for just $77.00.   

 

Materials You’ll Need:
Wooden circular base (plywood or MDF, approximately 36–48 inches in diameter)
Flexible PVC sheet or MDF strips (for the wheel sides)
Heavy-duty caster wheels (4–6, depending on the size)
Wood screws
Drill and screwdriver
Wood glue
Carpet or foam padding (for the interior running surface)
Non-toxic paint or wood stain (optional, for finishing)
A wooden or metal base structure (to hold the wheel in place)
Step 1: Create the Circular Base
Cut the Circle:

Use a jigsaw or a circular saw to cut a large circle from a piece of plywood or MDF. The diameter should match the size of the exercise wheel you want (around 36–48 inches works best for most cats).
Smooth the Edges:

Sand the edges of the circle to remove any splinters or rough areas.
Step 2: Build the Wheel Sides
Cut the Side Panels:

Use a flexible PVC sheet or MDF strips cut to the desired width of the wheel (typically 10–12 inches).
If using MDF strips, bend them carefully around the edge of the circle base. You may need clamps to hold them in place temporarily.
Attach the Sides to the Base:

Secure the strips or PVC sheet to the circular base using wood glue and screws. Space the screws evenly around the edge to ensure stability.
Step 3: Add the Running Surface
Prepare the Padding:

Cut a piece of carpet or foam padding to fit the interior circumference of the wheel.
Attach the Padding:

Use a strong adhesive to attach the padding to the inside surface of the wheel. This will provide a soft and grippy surface for your cat to run on.
Step 4: Build the Base
Construct the Frame:

Create a sturdy frame from wood or metal that will support the weight and movement of the wheel. A simple “H” or “A” frame design works well.
Install Caster Wheels:

Attach heavy-duty caster wheels to the base. These wheels will allow the exercise wheel to spin smoothly. Ensure they are evenly spaced and securely mounted.

Step 5: Assemble the Wheel
Mount the Wheel to the Base:
Place the circular wheel on top of the caster wheels. Test the rotation to make sure it spins freely.
Adjust the alignment of the base or caster wheels if needed to ensure smooth operation.

Step 6: Finishing Touches
Paint or Stain (Optional):

If you’d like, paint or stain the wood to match your home decor. Use non-toxic finishes that are safe for pets.
Test the Wheel:

Before introducing your cat to the wheel, give it a few test spins to ensure everything is stable and secure.

Step 7: Training Your Cat
Introduce the Wheel Gradually:

Use treats or toys to encourage your cat to step onto the wheel.
Positive Reinforcement:

Reward your cat with treats when they use the wheel, even if they only walk on it at first.
Be Patient:

It may take some time for your cat to get used to the wheel, so don’t rush the process.
Building a cat exercise wheel is a rewarding DIY project that promotes your feline’s health and happiness. Not only will your cat enjoy hours of playtime, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of creating something functional and fun!

Here are some online video tutorials for those of you who are a visual learner.

DIY Plastic Cat Wheel – petdiys.com 

How to make a Cat Exercise Wheel 

Make a Cat Exercise Wheel

The Best DIY Cat Running Wheel On A Budget/Inexpensive/Cheap/Easy 

homemade DIY cat wheel (and also designlight) 

diy cat exercise wheel

Making a Giant Hamster Wheel for our Cat 

How to make a hamster wheel for cats: the best DIY cat toy – ep02 – Roland Master Maker

Why does my cat need an exercise wheel? An exercise wheel can be a fantastic addition to your cat’s life for several reasons, especially if you want to promote their physical and mental well-being.

Physical activity stimulates endorphin production, which can reduce anxiety and stress in cats.

* This article was originally published here