The Garden Awakens
Anise 'Woodland Red' ( Illicium floridanum ) A few weeks ago, I thought spring would never arrive, but now the change is astonishing. The nights are still cold (40s and sometimes even 30s) so planting tender annuals and vegetables is unwise although I have already succumbed, but covering and uncovering things gets old quickly. Someone made a wise comment last week and I must agree with them - "Don't plant anything tender until after May 1". Several plants are blooming like never before. One is the Anise shrub (above and below). I don't know if the recent tree pruning, which is allowing more sun into the woodland path, is affecting it or perhaps it is just age, but I've never seen so many blooms. Michael refers to this as "the stinky fish shrub" and I have to admit to smell of the flowers is quite unpleasant. It is so beautiful that I can overlook that. The old pink dogwood tree, which was already here, shades our woodland path and it too is prett
I've heard of people making their own, but never tried it for myself. I think it's great that you can save some money for yourselves. Maybe my wife will be encouraged to try it? Nah.....
ReplyDeleteHmmm, can you use this in those Energy Efficient washing machines? Our machines require you to use those laundry detergents that have the HE label.
ReplyDeleteHmmm I'm going to have to try this
ReplyDeleteI have read about people doing this but have never seen the recipe. Interesting. How do your clothes feel?
ReplyDeleteYou can get Fels Naptha soap on Amazon with free shipping.
ReplyDeleteI have the question about the HE machines as well. In general, I've found powder doesn't work well in them with cold water. I've gone to eco friendly liquid detergents. They cost more but are safer and I use just a little so I am saving. Good luck saving to retire soon!
ReplyDeleteMeemsync, I'm not sure about the energy efficient machines question.
ReplyDeleteLisa, to me they feel the same. Sometimes I use fabric softener but I haven't bought any in a while.
Brilliant idea, bookmarked the page, soon as I've got the time/money I'm going to try making a batch!
ReplyDeleteSoap making recipe is a simple science meets art concept.Your article gives light to many people regarding this topic.Thanks a lot.
ReplyDeleteI've been meaning to make this detergent ever since you posted it, and just never got around to it. Well my mom got a recipe from someone at an Ace Hardware store in Tenn, and she made some today. She found the Nels Naptha soap, Borax, and Arm & Hammer washing powder at Peck Ace Hardware at 7 Points in North Florence. We "cooked" ours, so that it would be a liquid detergent (you melt the Nels Naptha soap and add it with the other ingredients and some water), and our whole house smells very soapy.
ReplyDelete