It's Seed Planting Time!

So you want to start your own plants from seeds, you probably have several questions. How do I start seeds? What seeds can I plant? Where do I plant them? All of these are valid questions, especially for beginning gardeners. Here I will help you discover the answers to those questions.

The Right Plants

Some things are best left to the professionals; planting seeds, however, can be easily done at home. Try these to start: basil, broccoli, cabbage, chives, leeks, lettuce, peppers, and tomatoes. Most flowers are also easily grown from seeds or bulbs.

Where Do I Put These Things?

Where are you putting the growing plants? Basement? Sunroom? Greenhouse? The cooler the temperature, the earlier you’ll want to plant. The warmer the temperature, the later you’ll want to plant. Heat promotes growth, while colder weather delays it. I start my seeds (for spring planting) mid-to-late February, because I keep them in the basement.

Proper Containers

Practically anything can be used as a container. Have a broken teacup? It makes the perfect home for small plants. Egg shells? Eggshells are great for planting seeds because they’re already nutrient-rich. Feel guilty throwing out all those toilet paper rolls? Cut them in half and use them as planters. Even newspaper can be rolled up and used as planters.

Good Soil Is Key

Finding a good soil is very important to seed growth. You can use dirt straight from your garden, or you can purchase an organic variety at any hardware store. Whatever you choose, make sure it is properly fertilized. I like to throw broken egg shells into the soil before planting.

Watering

Keeping soil damp is very important. Young plants require extra TLC. I keep a spray bottle near the young plants and every time the soil feels a bit dry, spray directly at the soil. Try not to get the leaves wet, as this will promote bacteria growth (especially without direct sunlight).

Space

Make sure your planters/pots are not crowded. Follow the directions on the seed packet. When transplanting them to the garden, also make sure there is enough space. Remember that the larger the plant, the more space you will need. For example, peppers don’t require a lot of space because the plant grows up. Tomatoes, on the other hand, need more space because they grow up and out.

All Grown Up

When the seedlings are about 2-3 inches tall, it’s time to transplant them to the garden. I like to leave my planters outside for a few days and overnight (up to 1 week) to get them accustomed to the outdoors. This has been a trick of the trade of gardeners for generations.

-CJ LaRose, Senior Supervisor

Source: http://www.rodalesorganiclife.com/home/start-seeds-your-kitchen-table

Valentine's Day Makeup Suggestions with Cosmetologist CJ LaRose

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, we talked with our In-House Makeup Expert, certified Cosmetologist, CJ LaRose, about makeup suggestions for the big date.

Q: What do you think the biggest stress is for women when prepping for their Valentine's Day date?

A: Women often go days thinking about what to wear; how to do their hair; and what to put on their face. Makeup can be fun and easy; it doesn’t have to be complicated and overwhelming. For me, applying makeup comes naturally. I have been doing it for years and I enjoy helping people find what works for them.

Q: Any tips on where to begin with makeup?

A: Think about this: What do you want to put on your face? Are you more simple and natural? Do you like glam? Or, are you somewhere in the middle? There are so many options out there. The Mineral Fusion line we carry is great because it not only provides us with top-quality products that look great, they also are full of minerals that are healthier for skin.

Q: Back to Basics. What's your thoughts on a liquid foundation and then a powder verses just powder?

A: I usually keep it simple with a pressed powder.

Q: Those eyes are always the tricky part for most women. Between colors and the how-to, it can be confusing for many. Any advice?

A: I opt for light, cool colors for special occasions. Use a light color on the lid, such as Buff, and a warmer color for the crease, such as Stone or Rare. Also, making sure you use the right eyeliner and mascara is important.

For eyeliner, I like to use Midnight Blue. With blue eyes, it makes my eyes stand out. This also works for other eye colors. The blue is subtle enough that it draws attention to the eyes without a lot of color.

I always use Volumizing mascara; Jet is my favorite.

Q: Lastly, let's talk lipstick. That always seems so easy, but I think we have a tendency to choose colors we like instead of what works with our skin tone.

A: Choosing the lip color you like can be challenging. Finding the right color can be even more challenging. Remember that lighter skin tones look best with pink based colors and darker tones look best with orange based colors.

You can play around with colors to help you decide what looks best. I like to swap between Melon lipstick and Honeysuckle lip butter. Or, you can use a true red – like Ruby – to really stand out - especially on Valentine's Day where bold can be beautiful.

Q: Any final tips for Valentine's Day?

A: Finding what works for you can be fun and easy. Take your time and enjoy trying on different colors. And of course, have fun pampering yourself on Valentine's Day. 

6 Date Night Tips

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about chocolate, roses, and romantic love songs anymore. It has evolved into a ritualistic date night for couples and has become more stressful. Make your evening memorable and stress free with these tips.

1. Try NEW Urban Moonshine’s Chocolate Love Potion for a special evening.
2. Take extra care of your sweetheart with Badger body oils. Naturally soothing ingredients like Jojoba and Olive oils keep your skin hydrated and silky soft.
3. Treat yourself to a luxurious bath with San Francisco and Evolution Salt bath salts. With scents like lavender and coconut, who could resist?
4. Brighten your dazzling smile for the special night with all-natural toothpastes.
5. Harness your hairstyle with healthier options! ShiKai and Conceived by Nature are perfect for your hair-styling needs.
6. Mineral Fusion cosmetics are great for those with sensitive skin. With an array of products like foundations, nail polish, eye shadows, lipsticks, and more, there’s something for everyone!

~CJ LaRose, Senior Supervisor