You can rely on citrus peels to repel pests like aphids and earwigs, without resorting to toxic pesticides. Ryan Farley, a garden expert, suggests saving peels from oranges, lemons, and grapefruits and scattering those scraps around your plants. Citrus contains a natural compound called limonene, which acts as a repellent to insects. Pests can detect the scent of limonene and will avoid the area, giving your plants a protective barrier. It is advisable to replace the peels every week or so or when you notice they have decomposed into the soil.

One effective way to enhance container plants is by using coffee grounds. According to Noah James from Liberty Lawn & Garden, coffee ground scraps can raise the pH levels in the soil, enabling plants to absorb more nutrients and promoting faster growth. The nitrogen in coffee stimulates root growth, while the copper and manganese help flowering plants maintain their vibrant colors. To utilize coffee grounds, simply sprinkle them around the base of the plant and replenish them every two weeks.

When it comes to protecting seedlings from slugs, calcium-rich scraps like eggshells can be incredibly useful. Lindsey Hyland, a garden expert from Urban Organic Yield, suggests crushing eggshells and scattering them around the plants. This method creates a barrier making slugs unable to cross, effectively safeguarding young plants. As the eggshells break down over time, they also contribute calcium to the soil, which strengthens the stalks and root systems of the plants.

If you want to enhance the brightness of your flowers, look no further than banana peels. Amy Pennington, author of Tiny Space Gardening, explains that these common kitchen scraps contain phosphorus, a nutrient that promotes strong and vibrant petals. Chop the banana peels first and add enough water to cover them. Then, allow the mixture to steep for five days and water your flowering plants using the liquid. Alongside brightening your plants, banana peels also have the added benefit of reducing petal wrinkles.

For those looking to revitalize their lawn without resorting to strong and potentially harmful fertilizers, a non-toxic alternative is to use Epsom salts. Richa Kedia from SimplifyPlants.com recommends watering the grass with a mixture of one tablespoon of Epsom salts and a gallon of water. This solution is rich in magnesium, which gently promotes the growth of greener and healthier grass compared to traditional fertilizers. Water your lawn with it once a month to enjoy the benefits.

The oldest living person in the world just turned 117. Her name is Kane Tanaka, and she’s from Fukuoka, Japan.

According to the South China Morning Post, Tanaka wakes up at 6 a.m. every morning and enjoys studying math to this day.

To gain a better understanding of how she’s lived to be the oldest person to date, let’s learn more about her birthplace, namely – Fukuoka, Japan.

A lesson – Japan

Fukuoka is a city well-known for the longevity of its residents. Japan is one of the healthiest countries on the Earth, with its well-rounded lifestyle and clean diet. Okinawa, Japan, has even earned the title of one of the original five “Blue Zones” in the world.

So-named by Dan Buettner, a multiple New York Times bestselling author, “Blue Zones” are the places in the world where people live the healthiest and longest.

Japan’s key to longevity

The Japanese diet is excellent for aging because it is low in calories but high in nutrients.

The Japanese style of eating – Washoku – is characterized by plenty of natural, locally sourced ingredients like vegetables, seafood, and rice. Washoku emphasizes a connection to the land. And it’s not a surprise that a lot of Japanese people are still gardening to this day. But diet isn’t the only thing about Japanese culture tied with longevity.

The themes of purpose and connection are prevalent within the Japanese culture, too. People know very well that loneliness can actually cause inflammation and potentially take years off their life, but with a “moai” at their side, that’s much less of a concern. What’s moai? Translated from Japanese, moai means  “a group of lifelong friends,” or “a social support group that forms to provide varying support from social, financial, health, or spiritual interests.” Not only that but ikigai, which translates to “reason for being,” highlights the importance of living a life of purpose (which is also linked with longevity).

While there is no sure formula for living to 100 and beyond, one thing is certain: some cultures are definitely onto something with a combination of strong relationships, healthy eating, living on purpose, and active lifestyles.