Ten July Favorites
Chaste Tree ( Vitex ) One of the highlights of the year is when the Chaste Tree blooms. It pains me that I don't know the name of it, but I suspect it is 'Shoal Creek' . I failed to record it, and I also do not remember where it came from. We sell a newer variety at Yard N' Garden called 'Flip Side ', which has stunning leaves of olive-green with a purple reverse. A friend has the pale pink variety, but I don't think it is as pretty as the blue-colored flowers. This little tree is constantly covered with bees. Catalpa bignoinoides 'Aurea' A large limb died over the winter, leaving a gaping hole. However, it is looking better after Michael raised some of the remaining limbs. It has bloomed profusely this year. Like the vitex, our best view of it is from the windows, where you get an elevated view. Heliopsis helianthoides 'Fire Twister' This perennial is doing much better after I moved it to a better location. I saw it last week in an ope...
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