VERDE
VOICE
Verde Elementary School
6590 Verde Trail
Boca Raton, FL 33433
561-218-6800
The judges’ scores are in and based on their evaluations, Verde
Elementary has received recognition as a 2017 Green School of Quality!
This is a tremendous achievement in our first year applying and
surpassing the first level of recognition and going straight to level two.
The Green Team has many plans and initiatives in the works to keep the
momentum going and ascend higher next year. First on the list is our Going
Bananas green fundraiser underway now! Proceeds will be used for acquiring and
integrating green tools and practices in the classrooms, curriculum and on
campus.
The Green Team has scheduled a week of fun “GREEN” themed days and activities
leading up to Earth Day. Earth Day’s 2017 campaign is all about environmental and
climate literacy. Stand up! Join up! Take action! See the schedule below, and Vikings be
sure to tune into VTV every morning to learn about the upcoming activity, as well as
inspiring people and tips impacting the environment. Also, stop by the front office to see
“green inspired” art projects by Verde students on display.
EARTH WEEK AT VERDE
Monday, April 17
Wear your favorite Verde green attire in
honor of Earth Day
Tuesday, April 18
Zero Waste lunch – ditch the paper and
plastic; pack only reusable products
made of BPA free and metal in lunch boxes
Wednesday, April 19
Green Tips on Verde TV
Thursday, April 20
Eat brain food/snacks to ace FSAs
Friday, April 21
GO Bananas! Bring a nutritious banana as
a snack and turn in donations for banana
plants.
Green Edition 2017
Join Verde’s Green Fundraiser for Green
Educational Resources and Programs
Donors receive a Dwarf Cavendish banana
plant for donations of $10 or more.
Students who collect donations of $50 or
more earn a FREE Banana Plant!!
Orders due by Friday, April 21st
Care Instructions:
Dwarf bananas, such as the Dwarf Cavendish, require the same care as their taller cousins. The only difference
between the two varieties is their height. Dwarf bananas reach a height of anywhere between 4 to 7 feet, while
taller varieties can grow 12 to 18 feet tall. Being a tropical fruit, bananas require warm conditions to grow.
Cooler climates will need to grow dwarf bananas inside of containers to protect them from frosts and freezes.
Dwarf bananas are relatively hardy plants that even a novice gardener should have success growing.
• Step 1 - Grow dwarf bananas outside in a warm location, such as on the south side of the house, next to a
building or a cement driveway. Grow in an area that receives either full sun or at least four hours of sunlight
throughout the day.
• Step 2 - Plant and grow the dwarf banana in soil that is rich with organic material. Amend the planting site
with compost, manure or peat. Tolerant to a wide range of soils, bananas will perform best when grown in
rich soil conditions.
• Step 3 - Grow dwarf bananas planted in containers in a rich potting mix that has peat moss added to it. Use a
container that is approximately 5 to 7 gallons in size, to give the roots room to grow. Be sure the container
has drain holes.
• Step 4 - Water the dwarf banana regularly, keeping the soil moist but not flooded. Bananas require moderate
amounts of water to perform well. Keep container grown plants moist, but not soggy. Do not allow the
planting area or container to completely dry out.
• Step 5 - Fertilize outdoor dwarf banana plants once per month with an 8-10-8 fertilizer. Apply at a rate of 2
pounds per plant. Spread the fertilizer in a circle extending approximately 4 feet from the banana's trunk.
Do not allow the fertilizer to touch the trunk. Fertilize container-grown plants on the same
schedule, but with half the amount. Bananas are heavy feeders.
• Step 6 - Protect the dwarf banana from freezing temperatures by bringing container
grown plants indoors. Cover outdoor trees with blankets or wrap the trunk on taller trees.
• Step 7 - Prune off all suckers except one. Allow the main stem to develop and grow
bananas to put all the plants energy there. Cut down the main stem once the bananas
are harvested, allowing the remaining sucker to develop and mature. Banana plants die
off after they have produced fruit.
Print this form and use it to keep track of donations from
family and friends. With a donation of $10 or more donors
will receive a starter banana plant. Proceed will benefit green
initiatives and programs at Verde! Orders due by April 21st.
Name:
Address:
Amt:
1. ___________________________________________________________
2. ___________________________________________________________
3. ___________________________________________________________
4. ___________________________________________________________
5. ___________________________________________________________
6. ___________________________________________________________
7. ___________________________________________________________
8. ___________________________________________________________
9. ___________________________________________________________
10.__________________________________________________________
• $50 or more in donations earns a FREE banana plant
• Winning class will receive a banana split party
GO BANANAS ORDER FORM
Student:
Teacher:
Donation amount:
No. of plants:
Send in cash or check payable to Verde PTA along with this form Attn: Go Bananas
FUN BANANA FACTS
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Bananas are the fruit produced by various banana plants.
Bananas can be found in other colors, including red.
Banana plants are not trees, they are a type of herb.
Humans have grown bananas for thousands of years.
Most species of banana plant originated in Southeast Asia.
Bananas grow in large, hanging bunches.
A row of bananas is sometimes called a 'hand', while a single banana is called a 'finger'.
The average banana weighs around 125 grams.
Bananas contain around 75% water.
Bananas have high nutritional value and are a healthy snack.
The Gros Michel banana was a popular variety before crops were destroyed by Panama disease in
the 1950's. Panama disease attacks the roots of banana plants.
The most popular type of banana sold in stores these days is the Cavendish banana, it is resistant to
the strain of Panama disease that effectively wiped out the Gros Michel banana but there are
concerns that it too may eventually suffer a similar fate.
Lady Finger bananas are small, sweet and have relatively thin skins.
Plantains are harder and contain less sugar than normal bananas, they are often used in cooking.
Wild bananas grow with large, hard seeds.
India is the leading producer of bananas.
Bananas sent overseas are picked green and ripened under special conditions when they reach
their destination.
Fibre taken from banana plants can be used to make clothes.
Bananas contain a lot of potassium, making them more radioactive than other fruits. You don't
need to worry though as this naturally occurring radiation has very little effect on the body.
BANANA MUFFIN RECIPE
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large bananas, mashed
3/4 cup white sugar
1 egg
1/3 cup butter, melted
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Coat muffin pans with nonstick spray, or use paper liners. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking
soda, and salt; set aside.
Combine bananas, sugar, egg, and melted butter in a large bowl. Fold in
flour mixture, and mix until smooth. Scoop into muffin pans.
Bake in preheated oven. Bake mini muffins for 10 to 15 minutes, and large
muffins for 25 to 30 minutes. Muffins will spring back when lightly tapped.
Thank You Lowe’s
for donating towards our
Going Bananas fundraiser
Verde Families please show
your support by shopping at
21870 State Road 7
In Boca Raton 33428
Phone: (561) 883-1215
EAT GREEN
The choices you make in the foods you consume have a great impact on
the environment. Livestock production is crop and energy-intensive, not to
mention it also takes up 70% of all agricultural land and 30% of the of the
land surface of the planet. So avoiding animal products will reduce carbon
emissions.
Being vegan is not for everybody, so try eating a plant-based diet, which
helps the planet and your health. You can start by eating one meatless
meal a day or practicing Meatless Mondays, or becoming a weekend
vegetarian.
Choosing to eat organic is also better for our health, but did you know it is also
better for the health of the planet? Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers used in
conventional agriculture are typically made of fossil fuels. Synthetic nitrogen fertilizers produce nitric oxide,
which is 300 times more powerful than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere. These synthetic
pesticides also contaminate our soil and waterways.
Eating local organic food is the best alternative, but if you have to choose organic versus local, go for organic.
According to the David Suzuki Foundation, transportation of the food makes up about 11% of the carbon
footprint of food, while the way it is grown makes up about 83%.
Eating whole foods like fresh produce, whole grains, dry legumes and nuts reduces packaging and processing.
Don’t waste food, eat leftovers and only buy what you need. The United States is the world leader in food
waste. According to the USDA, 30-40% of the food supply in the United States ends up as waste. This has a
huge impact on food security, resource conservation and climate change, particularly taking into account that
agriculture is the greatest driver of global deforestation and uses about 70% of all freshwater.
Choose your ingredients wisely. Palm oil is the most common vegetable oil, but its production is leading
deforestation and the loss of habitat for many species. Soy, including soy lecithin found in so many foods, also
causes deforestation.
Grow some of your own food. It reduces your carbon footprint and reduces the use of synthetic pesticides and
fertilizers. Grow herbs, tomatoes and other veggies, it can be fun for the whole family.
Raise your fork for positive change, and remember that your food choices impact the environment.
What is Your Carbon Footprint?
Do you know what carbon footprint is? It is the measure of the
environmental impact of a person or group’s direct and indirect activities
and is measured in units of carbon dioxide. Driving a car, disposing of waste
and electricity use are some of the activities that impact our greenhouse
emissions. Below are two carbon footprint calculators. The first takes
approximately 1 minute and the second one in greater depth, takes between
15-20 minutes. Both provide tips to improve your carbon footprint.
http://www.nature.org/greenliving/carboncalculator/
https://www3.epa.gov/carbon-footprint-calculator/
Join Verde Elementary at Gumbo Limbo’s
Great American Clean-Up
There will be over 30,000 activities all across the country for the
Great American Clean-Up. Gumbo Limbo will be doing one right
here in Boca Raton on April 15th from 8am and 11am. Our Verde
Green Team already has over 20 participants. Come join us! Not
only will you prevent the trash from ending up in the ocean, but
you will also prevent it from ending up hurting wildlife. This year
Gumbo Limbo has partnered with Comcast who will donate $10
to Gumbo Limbo per volunteer that attends the Clean-Up. This
will help them continue their wonderful work of rehabilitating
turtles so they can return to the ocean. You can sign up:
http://www.gumbolimbo.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=events.detail
s&Content_Id=501369&returnTo=main. Make sure to also fill out
the Volunteer Registration form.
Once registered, please email us at [email protected]
and we will contact you with our meeting place. Bring reusable
gloves (such as gardening gloves), sun block, mosquito repellent
and plenty of water in reusable bottles. See you there!
April Events at Gumbo Limbo
A Walk on the Ashley Trail
Join us for a FREE guided walk along the Ashley Trail, a quarter-mile natural trail that winds through the
Butterfly Garden, Coastal Hammock, and Mangroves, to a sandy beach by the Intracoastal. Observe local
flora and fauna as your naturalist guides you on this island exploration. No reservations required. Meet on
the front porch of the Nature Center.
Ages: All ages; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Days and Time: Every Tuesday and Wednesday, 11:00 am-12:30 pm
Beach Treasures
Sand dollars? Sponges? Oh, what treasures you may find… sea beans, coral, shells and more; see what the
sea has left behind! Meet at the Center to learn about shells and sea life; caravan to Red Reef Beach Park,
for beachcombing with the experts! Prepayment recommended (561) 544-8615 or online at
gumbolimbo.org; walk-ins welcome based on availability.
Ages: All ages; children under 18 must sign-up and participate with an adult.
Dates and Time: Wednesdays, April 5 and 19; 3:30-5:00 pm
Cost per person: Member $5, Non-member $8
Little Wonders
Join us for stories, laughter, and fun as we learn about everything under the sun! Gumbo Limbo, a great
place to explore; aquariums, trails, gardens, and more! Make a craft, meet an animal, take in the scene;
come back every month for a brand new theme! Prepayment recommended (561) 544-8615 or online at
gumbolimbo.org; walk-ins welcome based on availability.
Ages: 3-4 with an adult; no older or younger siblings please.
Date and Time: Saturday, April 1, 10:00-11:00 am
Cost per child: Member $5, Non-member $8
Seining the Lagoon
Wading in the Intracoastal Waterway just behind Gumbo Limbo, we catch (and release) fish, shrimp, crabs,
and more! With hand-held dip nets and large seine nets, get up close and personal with our local marine
life. Closed toed shoes required (old sneakers or water shoes; no sandals). Bring a change of clothes and
towel. Prepayment recommended (561) 544-8615 or online at gumbolimbo.org; walk-ins welcome based on
availability.
Ages: 10-adult; children under 18 must sign-up and participate with an adult.
Dates and Time: Saturdays, April 8 and 22; 3:00-4:30 pm
Cost per person: Member $7, Non-member $10
Wetlands & Wildlife
Wakodahatchee is a man-made wetland which has become a favorite for birders and photographers. Bring
your binoculars and join us for a FREE ¾ mile guided boardwalk tour to learn more about Florida’s wetland
birds and ecosystems. Meet our Gumbo Limbo Naturalist at the Wakodahatchee boardwalk (call for
directions).
Ages: 7-adult; children under 18 must sign-up and participate with an adult.
Dates and Times: Fridays; April 7, 8:30-10:30 am and April 21, 3:00-5:00 pm
Earth Day is Saturday April 22
Earth Day Network is launching a campaign for global environmental and climate literacy by Earth Day
2020. We are dedicated to ensuring that every student around the world graduates high school as an
environmental and climate literate citizen, ready to take action and be a voice for change. This goal is
not only an enormous undertaking, it is critical and timely. The signing of the Paris Agreement is one
step towards mitigating the impacts of climate change. Education needs to be a key part of this effort.
In the four years leading up to 2020, Earth Day Network will launch a series of bold, thematic
initiatives to galvanize unparalleled global collaboration. Earth Day 2016’s theme was Trees for the
Earth. That year we set the ambitious goal of planting 7.8 billion trees – one for every person on the
planet – by Earth Day 2020.
The theme for Earth Day 2017 is Environmental and Climate Literacy Before we can solve the dire
environmental threats facing us in the 21st century, we must build a global citizenry knowledgeable in
environmental science and fluent in local and global ecological issues.
For Earth Day 2017 we’re launching toolkits to give schools, colleges, and community groups across
the world the resources to hold their own teach-ins for Environmental and Climate Literacy or other
Earth Day events.
This Earth Day, gather with your community for an Environmental & Climate Literacy Teach-In or
another project focused on education. Log onto earthday.org for ideas and inspiration.
Tips To Make Earth Day Every Day
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Reduce, reuse and recycle!
Recycle paper products in the yellow bin, and plastic, glass and metal in
the blue bin at school and at home
During school events, please recycle plastic, glass and metal in the big
blue rolling bins
Ditch the plastic bottle and use reusable water bottles instead
Hold the straw! Avoid using straws at home and refuse straws at restaurants
Use reusable containers for school lunch. Avoid single-use cups, bottles, plates,
utensils and sandwich bags
Use reusable glass/porcelain storage containers at home to reduce waste and
possible chemical leaching from plastics.
Take the school bus, carpool, ride a bike or walk to school. Carpooling to school and
work can reduce pollution and traffic!
Take your own reusable bags when shopping for groceries and other items
Turn off the tap water while brushing your teeth
Turn off the shower while lathering up
Turn off the lights when leaving a room
Chargers and adapters use energy when plugged in. Unplug them when not in use
Arbor Day is Friday April 28th – a holiday in which individuals and
groups are encouraged to plant and care for trees. For great tips and
ways to celebrate check out arborday.org
Arbor Day originated in 1872 in the United States territory of Nebraska.
Mr. J. Sterling Morton, a newcomer to the treeless plains of Nebraska,
was a keen proponent of the beauty and benefit of trees. He persuaded
the local agricultural board to set aside a day for planting trees and
through his position as editor of Nebraska's first newspaper, encouraged
participation in the event by publishing articles on the value of trees for
soil protection, fruit, shade and building
Selecting a Good Planting Site
Identify the prospective tree planting location and, if it is on city property, find out what municipal
department is in charge of planting and caring for city trees. Ask that department who is responsible
for the identified area and what process must be followed to receive permission to plant a tree there.
When choosing a location, keep in mind soil conditions water availability, overhead wires, space
available for roots (to avoid upsetting sidewalks or streets) and space available for the canopy (to avoid
interfering with traffic or business signage).
Selecting the Right Tree - When selecting a tree to plant, be sure to consider what the tree needs and
what the planting site can provide. There are six ''tree needs" to compare with the site’s conditions:
1. Temperature – Trees have a limit to the cold they can endure. Check hardiness zones before
choosing a tree.
2. Moisture – Each species can tolerate wet or dry conditions to a different degree.
3. Light – "Shade tolerance" is the term foresters use to rate the light requirements of each species.
4. Pests – Every locality has problems with a particular insect or disease. Some trees are more
susceptible to a certain disease than others.
5. Soil – Soil depth, structure, pH and moisture can make the difference between success and failure
with a tree. Each species has its preferences.
6. Air pollutants – Chemicals in the air vary with localities; some trees are more tolerant of air
pollution than others.
Before you make the final decision on the tree species, other factors should be considered. Is the tree
being planted to save energy and provide shade? Is it being planted to beautify the grounds? Is
providing wildlife habitat important? Will the tree be part of a windbreak or shelterbelt? Determining
why a tree is being planted will help identify the ideal species.
Also know how big it will be at maturity. Will it have "head space" and root area to grow well? Will
roots interfere with the sidewalk, patio, or driveway at maturity? Will it block windows or scenic views
or tangle with the utility wires when it is mature? These answers will all help eliminate inappropriate
species.
Finally, keep in mind its shape, its leaves and its impact on the area. After you have chosen a tree that
is suitable for the location, get permission to plant from the appropriate city agency. Have your choice
approved by your city or state forester.
Planting Your Tree
Get planting instructions based on the root configuration of your tree.
Greening up Your Classroom
 Upcycled Art Reuse household items to decorate bulletin boards and classroom displays.
Create colorful artwork using plastic bottle caps. Pinterest has some beautiful examples to
help spark your imagination!
 Get Some Fresh Air Adding a plant to your classroom is a great way to incorporate nature
into your teaching space and purify the air. According to NASA, bamboo palms, English Ivy,
and rubber plants can purify air and help reduce stress.
 Creative Organizers Create organizers from common household goods. Use
plastic milk cartons to create a student supply center or use cans to
create portable supply caddies.
 Got Scratch Paper? Create a special bin for scratch paper that has only been
used on one side. Encourage students to use paper from the bin before using a
new piece of paper.
 Data, Data, Everywhere Practice graphing and data analysis skills by creating a
“green data wall”. At the end of each week count up the number bottles and
cans in your recycle bins and weigh recycled paper. Create a graph in your
classroom to track your recycling efforts over time. Incentivize students with
parties and prizes for increasing the number of items recycled, just remember
to reinforce to students that while recycling is good, the overall goal is reduce
consumption!
 Green Mantras Unify your classroom theme by adopting a green mantra. Display it
prominently in your classroom. Ideas include: My choices make a difference. We have the
power to make a difference in the world
 Acid-Free Glue Sticks Acid-free glue sticks create fewer messes than liquid glue and are
better for the environment.
 Petroleum Free Crayons Most conventional crayons contain petroleum. There are many
alternatives on the market made from soy, vegetable wax, and beeswax.
 Make Your Own Watercolors Finally, a way to make use of dried up markers! Squeeze the last
bit of ink out of your markers to make your own watercolors.
 Use Refillable Dry Erase Markers Purchase refillable dry erase markers to
reduce the amount of plastic waste you send to the landfill.AusPen and Pilot
make great options and are available for purchase online.
 Clean Green Making eco-friendly cleaners can be a fun science project to do
with your students at the start of the year. Many cleaning supplies contain harsh
chemicals. Create environmentally friendly alternatives by using common household
items such as vinegar and baking soda.
 Go PVC Free Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is found in many household items and is a major source
of phthalates – which can harm a child’s health and development by interfering with
hormone functioning. PVC has been banned from children’s products in many states but is
found in many school supplies including lunch bags, backpacks, and binders. Opt for
cardboard binders and natural fibers instead of PVC based-products to reduce exposure to
phthalates.
 Save A Few Trees Encourage your school to purchase paper products made from postconsumer waste.
Energy Efficiency in the Classroom
 Let in the Breeze Turn off heating or cooling units and open the windows when
the weather is nice. Enjoy the fresh air!
 Power Down Turn computers off instead of putting them in sleep mode when
leaving school, you can reduce energy use by nearly 40 percent.
 Don’t Block the Airflow Books and other bulky items absorb warm and cool air
coming from heating and cooling units. Be sure to keep vent areas clutter free to
maximize efficiency.
 Stop Leaks Heat can escape through windows. Have students determine areas of
energy loss by creating “draftmeters” made from thin plastic wrap and pencils.
Create a lesson where students use draftmeters to identify leaks. Report major
leaks to your custodial staff for repair.
EARTH DAY WORD SCRAMBLE
TNAPLE _______________________________________________
EUSRE ________________________________________________
YLCCEER _____________________________________________
ORTEINNEVNM _____________________________________
LEOCGYO ____________________________________________
AECNSO _____________________________________________
NULSATBAIES ______________________________________
ECRDEU ______________________________________________
TREAH _______________________________________________
AETRW _______________________________________________
IEVRRS _______________________________________________
ARIDINOAT __________________________________________
LINANTSOUI _________________________________________
EOIHSOTTYSHNPS __________________________________
DURYINST ___________________________________________
PNTUILOOAP_______________________________________
SONEVNCRTOAI______________________________________
Answers
PLANET, REUSE , RECYCLE,ENVIRONMENT, ECOLOGY, OCEANS, SUSTAINABLE, REDUCE, EARTH, WATER, RIVERS,
RADIATION, INSULATION,PHOTOSYNTHESIS, INDUSTRY,POPULATION,CONSERVATION
ZERO WASTE LUNCH
What is a zero waste lunch?
It is a lunch that has no packaging that
needs throwing away.
Invest in a large reusable container - A container
that is durable can be used for years to come
instead of one-use plastic bags and styrofoam
containers. Though glass is nice and sturdy, try
avoiding it since it can break easily if dropped.
Pack a cloth napkin and silverware - Make an easy bundle by tying your utensils in the napkin! This
keeps them clean and easy to find/transport.
Overpack - This might sound like the opposite of zero-waste, but hear us out. By packing an extra
apple or banana, you don't run the risk of an afternoon hunger resulting in a vending machine snack. If
you don't end up eating it, just save it for later or the next day!
Save the scraps - Remember the reusable container in step 1? After lunch, you can fill it with any
leftover food scraps, like crumbs or apple cores, to compost later.
And that's it! Easy right? These tips can go beyond lunchtime too - this pack is perfect for traveling,
hiking and plenty of other situations!
Rubbermaid LunchBlox® makes packing lunch easier
than ever. These modular containers snap together in
multiple configurations to efficiently use the space in
your lunch box or bag. Containers are perfectly
portioned for your favorite lunch foods with handy
measurements on the sides of each container. Your
lunch stays chilled with snap in Blue Ice™. Rubbermaid
Lunchblox come in kits and are sold separately so you
can configure a different way everyday.
•Containers stack compactly to stay organized
•Secure lid seal
•Microwave, Dishwasher, and Freezer Safe
•BPA-free
•Blue Ice™ keeps your lunch cool on the go
Zero Waste Lunches are good for the environment
and also good for your pocket!
Butterfly Gardening and Plants for South Florida
South Florida is a perfect paradise for butterfly gardening, with warm climate and hundreds of
butterfly plants - and many butterfly species to enjoy. You can create a dedicated butterfly garden or
just tuck a few plants that attract butterflies into your landscaping. A butterfly goes through 4 life
stages: egg, caterpillar (larva), pupa (aka chrysalis), and adult. Adult butterflies live for about 2 weeks.
They spend their short lives feeding and reproducing, and both are dependent on butterfly plants.
Butterfly plants fall into two basic groups...host plants and nectar plants.
Host - or larval plants - attract female butterflies who lay their eggs on the plant. The eggs hatch
within a few days and out come tiny caterpillars. These eat the foliage of the host plant, shedding
their skin several times as they grow out of it, until the final pupa stage. Emerging from the pupa - or
chrysalis - is the adult butterfly, and the metamorphosis is complete. Adult butterflies need nectar
plants on which to feed. They use their proboscis, like a long straw, to drink the nectar from a flower.
Some species have a short proboscis, and usually drink from smaller flowers. Some with a longer
"straw" hover like hummingbirds to drink from tubular flowers. When not in use, the proboscis curls
up beneath the butterfly's head.
Which butterfly plants work in your landscape?
A true butterfly habitat is going to look more wildflower eclectic than tidy
landscape design. Host plants will be eaten. They usually grow back just
fine but it can give your garden a shabby, munched-on appearance at times.
Obviously you can't use any kind of insecticide. So dealing with problems
from other insects may become impossible in order to preserve a safe
haven for butterflies. If you'd prefer more control over the look of your
landscape plants, use nectar plants. Most homeowners prefer this method
of butterfly gardening...the butterflies flutter and feed, you smile and enjoy,
and everybody's happy.
Serious butterfly gardening is both an art and a science
You can create a butterfly habitat complete with resting places to bask in the
sun, shelter from winds and from birds, and a water source - as well as host
and nectar plants.
Host plants generally attract specific types of butterflies. Milkweed, one of
the most commonly sold butterfly plants, attracts the monarch butterfly. Gulf
fritillary loves passion vine. Black swallowtails enjoy fennel, parsley and dill.
The cloudless sulfur likes cassia flowers. Butterflies also help pollinate flowers
as they sip nectar.
They're cold-blooded, so they don't produce body heat. As a result they need to bask in the sun to raise
their body temperature, giving them the energy they need to move freely. But in our warm climate,
basking is usually only briefly necessary. To observe butterflies more closely, place plants in an area near
the house - or even in window boxes and patio containers where you'll have easier visual access than
across an expanse of yard.
To provide basking spots, you can simply use flat stones or areas of mulch
near the butterfly plants. Male butterflies will drink from a puddle of
water in order to absorb salts that help with fertility. A shallow water
source for butterflies can be created from a low dish of water on the
ground filled with some sand and a few small rocks or twigs for the
butterflies to land on to drink. Fill the container or dish with water to the
same level as the sand.
Place nectar plants and host plants in sunny areas protected from winds. Don't use them by a bird bath
or feeder since birds are natural predators. Host plants get eaten quickly. Milkweed has sparse leaves to
begin with, so when it gets eaten, your larval stage butterflies may run out of food. Be prepared to have
more on hand to add to the garden.
Attracting the most butterflies
The best way to enjoy lots of these lovely creatures is to use plants in
groups. Flowering nectar plants grown in drifts or masses are more
visible and attract the most types of butterflies like a big Sunday buffet.
A large area covered by a host plant vine like Dutchman's pipe is ideal.
This way the caterpillars won't run out of food, they'll just move on to
the next batch of foliage.
Benefits of a Yogurt Face Mask for Gorgeous, Glowing Skin
So, what’s for breakfast? Decisions. Decisions. Hmmm, oatmeal or yogurt? Both will give your body
healthy nutritious goodness, but if you want some seriously sumptuous skin, I’d eat the oatmeal and
save that creamy yogurt to add to your collection of homemade beauty products for a super
moisturizing yogurt face mask (not that oatmeal doesn’t have a place in skincare, too!).
Chock full of protein, calcium, vitamin D, and probiotics (the healthy bacteria that aid digestion), there’s
no doubt yogurt provides delicious benefits for your insides. But it can also do beauty wonders for your
outsides as well, namely for your skin.
Yogurt contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxyl acid, that dissolves dead skin cells. This gentle exfoliation
not only helps to create a natural glow and prevent breakouts, but works to diminish the appearance of
lines and wrinkles. When topically applied to the skin, a velvety yogurt face mask will help moisturize,
fight acne, prevent premature aging, relieve sunburn, and reduce discoloration. It’s an all-around beauty
multi-tasker.
Honey & Rose Yogurt Face Mask
Ingredients
6-7 fresh rose petals
Crush rose petals in a bowl and add
2 tbsp organic rosewater rosewater, organic yogurt, and honey
1 tbsp local yogurt
and mix well. Apply to the skin and
leave it for 10 minutes, then rinse.
1 tsp Manuka honey