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  • Iceland tested the four-day workweek for six years and the result is remarkable

    Iceland tested the four-day workweek for six years and the result is remarkable

    Is it really necessary to have five-day work weeks or even more in some cases? It seems not. Since 2019, Iceland has been experimenting with four-day work weeks, and the impact on employee well-being as well as productivity has been impressive.

    Is it really beneficial to work 40 hours spread over five days a week?

    Certainly, the number of hours worked per week can vary depending on the industry, the position held, and several other factors. However, a “normal” workweek is generally associated with 8 hours of work per day, five days a week, typically from Monday to Friday. It has been observed that these 40-hour work weeks often do not suit employees. Many individuals have reported experiencing burnout, and various studies have shown that a 40-hour work week contributes to this issue.

    In fact, this so-called normal work rhythm is long enough for individuals to accumulate fatigue. A short two-day weekend is hardly sufficient for recovery. Moreover, when someone is fatigued, it affects not only their well-being but also the company’s performance, leading to less motivated and less productive employees. With accumulating evidence against excessively long work hours, many are seeking better alternatives.

    New evidence of the benefits of a four-day work week

    One of the most commonly considered alternatives today is to reduce employees’ working hours and days. Several companies and countries, including France, have already tested this new system. Iceland is among these pioneers. In 2019, the country decided to approve 36-hour work weeks spread over four days. This decision followed a pilot program that began in 2015, involving around 2,500 employees. Due to its resounding success, with 86% employee support, the initiative was formalized in 2019.

    Today, nearly 90% of Icelandic workers enjoy a reduced work week of 36 hours—down from the previous 40 hours—without a reduction in pay. Initial concerns about a four-day work week were numerous, both in Iceland and worldwide. However, the success observed in Iceland—and in other countries and institutions—suggests there’s little cause for concern. In Iceland, improvements in employee well-being and productivity were evident from the start of the experiment and continue six years later.

    Since 2019, Iceland has seen employees who experience less burnout, less stress, and consequently, greater productivity and efficiency. On a broader scale, the country has also analyzed the impact of four-day work weeks on the Icelandic economy, and so far, the results are positive. According to the IMF’s World Economic Outlook 2024, the Icelandic economy grew by 5% in 2023, outperforming almost all other advanced European countries. Unemployment, meanwhile, was just 3.4%, well below the European average.

  • A “copy” of the Magna Carta purchased for 25 euros is actually an original

    A “copy” of the Magna Carta purchased for 25 euros is actually an original

    The Magna Carta is a historic document from British history that has been sought after for a long time. 79 years ago, Harvard University purchased a copy of this famous charter for a small price. Nearly eight decades later, it has been determined that it is actually the original document over 700 years old.

    A manuscript once thought to be an unofficial copy of the Magna Carta is now recognized as an authentic version and, thus, one of the most valuable documents in the world. This astonishing discovery dates back to 1946 when the Harvard Law School library decided to buy the document for the modest sum of $27.50 (around €25) from a veteran of the British Royal Air Force. For nearly 80 years, the document remained hidden in the library, its true nature unknown.

    Fortunately, two medieval history professors from King’s College London and the University of East Anglia finally decided to take a look at it. They found evidence that confirms it is indeed the extraordinarily rare original Magna Carta from 1300. This document, drafted during the reign of King Edward I, could be worth millions of euros. It is important to note that the Magna Carta—first granted by King John in 1215—was the first document to put in writing the principle that the king and his government are not above the law in England.

    In other words, the Magna Carta is a precursor to democracy and a foundation for legal systems around the world, as well as conventions regarding human rights. Additionally, a piece of amber worth a million euros had been used as a doorstop for years.

  • The secret of clever gardeners? This conifer that stays green all year round and requires almost no maintenance

    The secret of clever gardeners? This conifer that stays green all year round and requires almost no maintenance

    Would you like to have a flawless garden all year round without spending your time trimming, watering, or pampering your plants? Good news: there’s a perfect solution for gardeners who want to enjoy their garden without too much effort!

    Meet microbiota decussata, a little-known conifer that will quickly become your number one gardening ally thanks to its numerous qualities, starting with its almost nonexistent maintenance needs.

    Microbiota Decussata: Do You Know This Conifer From Siberia?

    Commonly referred to as Siberian cypress or creeping fir, its proper name is microbiota decussata. This unique species belongs to the same family as cypress and thuja, the Cupressaceae.

    You may never have seen it? That’s normal! This small conifer was long reserved for botanical gardens before appearing in our private gardens starting in the 1920s. With its sprawling, creeping habit, it naturally forms a beautiful, dense green cushion, typically growing only 30 to 50 centimeters high and can spread up to two meters wide.

    Its evergreen foliage features a lovely bronze-copper hue in winter, very decorative. Another plus: its slow growth (10 cm/year) means you won’t have to worry about pruning it much.

    Why Is Microbiota Ideal for Your Garden?

    Exceptional Resistance to Cold and Drought

    Originating from the Siberian mountains, this conifer easily withstands glacial winters down to -40°C. Do you live in a region with harsh winters?

    It stays perfectly green despite repeated freezes. Once well established, it is even resistant to moderate droughts, thanks to its robust root system.

    Minimal Maintenance Required

    Are you a beginner gardener or simply overwhelmed? This plant truly requires little attention. After the initial years, watering becomes unnecessary, except during prolonged dry spells.

    Here are the few simple tasks to remember:

    • Water regularly for the first two years
    • No regular pruning needed
    • No fertilizer needed, even in poor soil
    • Very good natural resistance to diseases

    Unlike other conifers like cypress or thuja, there’s no need for regular trimming here: the microbiota naturally develops a lovely harmonious shape.

    Versatile for Various Soil Types

    Think your soil isn’t ideal for a conifer? Microbiota adapts effortlessly to different types of terrain. It thrives in a wide range of conditions, such as:

    • Calcareous soils (often problematic for conventional conifers)
    • Stony or rocky terrains
    • Well-drained sandy or clay soils

    It will quickly become your miracle solution for areas of the garden where other plants stubbornly refuse to grow.

    How to Easily Integrate Microbiota Into Your Garden?

    Aesthetic and Highly Effective Ground Cover

    With its rapid horizontal spread, this conifer makes an excellent ground cover, capable of greening bare areas while naturally limiting weeds.

    Some ways to use it include:

    • At the base of bare trees
    • To stabilize steep or rocky slopes
    • Replacing unhealthy grass in shaded areas
    • Under the mass of other tall shrubs

    The Star in Rock Gardens

    To give your stone garden an authentic alpine touch, consider integrating microbiota. With its soft, spreading branches, it adds a very natural mountain aspect.

    Feel free to pair it with alpine plants, ornamental grasses like carex, or perennials such as saxifrages or aubrietas.

    A Natural Alternative to Boxwood

    Looking for a solution to replace boxwoods that are susceptible to diseases? Great idea: microbiota can easily take their place and provide harmonious masses all year round.

    Installation and Advice to Keep Your Microbiota in Top Shape

    What Time to Choose for Planting?

    Microbiota prefers to be planted between September-November or March-May. Avoid very cold or hot periods:

    1. Prepare a hole twice as wide as the root ball
    2. Lightly amend the soil with well-matured compost
    3. Place the plant at the same level as it was in the pot
    4. After planting, gently pack down and water generously
    5. Apply mulch to retain moisture and coolness

    Maintain a spacing of about 80 cm to 1 meter between each plant to optimize its role as ground cover.

    The Perfect Exposure for Your Microbiota

    This dwarf conifer adapts to various exposures, although a position in partial shade suits it ideally.

    When planted in light shade, it grows just a little slower while maintaining its density. In full sunlight, ensure the soil stays cool to see its beautiful bronze hue appear in winter.

    Interesting Varieties to Discover:

    Among the few existing cultivars, you can choose:

    • Microbiota ‘Jacobsen’, ideal for rock gardens due to its very compact shape.
    • Microbiota ‘Fuzzball’, appreciated for its particularly dense foliage.
    • Microbiota ‘Celtic Pride’, perfect for wet regions in winter.
    • Microbiota ‘Siberian Carpet’, remarkable for its very intense bronze color in winter.

    Why Choose Microbiota Over Other Creeping Conifers?

    Compared to junipers or savins, which are often spiky and require more light, this conifer stands out:

    • Soft foliage, pleasant to the touch
    • Better tolerance to shade and extreme cold
    • Non-aggressive root system towards neighbors
    • Completely free of fruits or berries

    Microbiota Decussata stands out as an excellent choice for creating an aesthetic, sustainable garden that requires minimal maintenance!

    Has your garden already adopted microbiota? Would you like to share your experience or need additional advice? Please feel free to leave a comment below; we’re interested in your thoughts! So, are you ready to give it a try? We look forward to hearing from you!

  • This magical plant that drives away mosquitoes and that everyone should have (it’s not citronella)

    This magical plant that drives away mosquitoes and that everyone should have (it’s not citronella)

    Every summer, do you find yourself battling mosquito bites every evening? Chemical solutions are far from being the healthiest choices for you or the environment. What if nature provided you with a healthy, practical, and wonderfully fragrant alternative? Discover lemon balm, your new natural and easy mosquito repellent.

    Lemon balm, what are its characteristics?

    Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a beautiful perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family, native to the Mediterranean region. Be careful not to confuse it with tropical lemongrass, which belongs to a different botanical family.

    When mature, this herbaceous plant reaches a height of 60 to 80 centimeters. Its light green leaves, delicately edged, release an incomparable lemon scent when crushed.

    During summer, its small white or slightly yellow flowers bring joy to bees and other helpful insects.

    Why does lemon balm effectively repel mosquitoes?

    The true anti-mosquito power of this plant lies in the essential oils naturally contained in its leaves. Specifically, two effective molecules: citral and citronellal, which emit an odor unbearable to mosquitoes.

    These substances work by particularly confusing the olfactory receptors of mosquitoes. By masking human body odors, they make it difficult for these pesky insects to locate us.

    The icing on the cake: the effectiveness of lemon balm has been demonstrated even against invasive species that carry diseases, such as the tiger mosquito.

    How to best use lemon balm daily?

    Strategic planting in your garden

    For maximum effectiveness against mosquitoes, plant lemon balm in strategic locations:

    • Along the edge of the terrace or outdoor living areas.
    • Near the windows of bedrooms to minimize nighttime mosquito visits.
    • Around wet areas of your garden, preferred breeding spots for mosquitoes.
    • In masses or hedges to create natural protective barriers.

    Homemade recipes with lemon balm

    While lemon balm works well when planted, preparing it as a natural repellent enhances its effectiveness even further.

    • Infusion against mosquitoes: Boil 1 liter of water and pour it over 100 g of chopped fresh leaves. After filtering and cooling, spray this infusion on your skin before going out (make sure to do a patch test to avoid allergies).
    • Fresh repellent bouquets: Simply place a few freshly cut sprigs in vases to emit natural protection indoors or outdoors.
    • Leaf rubbing: Crush fresh leaves and apply their oil directly to your skin. This is particularly useful in emergencies; it’s immediate and effective.

    Successfully multiplying lemon balm

    Incredibly easy to multiply, lemon balm can quickly fill your garden with minimal effort. Here’s how to do it simply:

    Division of clumps

    This is the simplest method: in spring or autumn, take an adult plant, gently divide its roots into several pieces that you replant directly in the ground 40 cm apart. Don’t forget to water generously!

    Simplified cuttings

    At the beginning of summer, collect young stems (10-15 cm), plant them in a sand-soil mix, keep them moist, and place them in a semi-shaded area. In 3 weeks, you’ll have new plants.

    Natural self-sowing

    Simply allow a few plants at the end of flowering to go to seed: lemon balm self-sows and will provide you with young shoots as soon as the weather warms up.

    Some practical tips to easily cultivate your lemon balm

    Easy to care for, this plant thrives well when you follow a few simple conditions:

    • Choose a semi-shaded or sunny area.
    • Prefer a rich and well-drained soil.
    • Water regularly but without overwatering.
    • Cut flowering stems to stimulate new growth.

    Be cautious, as its ability to proliferate can become excessive: monitor its growth regularly to control it, for example, by delimiting its area with growth barriers.

    Other well-known beneficial qualities!

    Lemon balm is not just a mosquito repellent: it also has multiple medicinal properties useful in the home:

    • Calming effects against stress and sleep disorders.
    • Antiviral and antioxidant effects beneficial for boosting your defenses.
    • Relief from digestive disorders.

    In cooking, it delicately flavors cocktails, lemonades, desserts… a treat that’s also beneficial!

    Finally, lemon balm promotes biodiversity and attracts beneficial insects, precious allies for a healthy garden.

    Where to ideally install lemon balm outside?

    • In the vegetable garden: when planted alongside tomatoes, cabbages or salads, it repels many harmful insects while attracting pollinators.
    • In a flowerbed with other aromatic plants: lavenders, fragrant basils, or geraniums will create a beautiful fragrant and repellent bed.
    • In a pot for balcony or terrace: accessible even if you live in an apartment, it easily thrives in containers.

    Easy to grow, useful, and fragrant, lemon balm will quickly become essential to your outdoor life this summer. Goodbye mosquitoes, hello relaxation in nature!

    Have you tried lemon balm against mosquitoes? What do you think? Share your tips and experiences in the comments! We’re eager to hear your experiences and additional advice for enjoying summer in the garden.

  • These stone circles in Scotland disrupt the history of early human migrations

    These stone circles in Scotland disrupt the history of early human migrations

    Recently, stone tools and Neolithic stone circles were discovered along the Scottish coastline. These findings indicate that prehistoric humans settled further north than previously thought. Here’s an explanation.

    A New Perspective

    These discoveries were made on the Isle of Skye, revealing that humans occupied the present northern Scotland approximately 11,000 years ago. These individuals braved a chaotic landscape of glaciers and unpredictable coastlines, venturing far north of what experts once believed.

    “This is an extremely important discovery offering a new perspective on the earliest known human occupation in the north-west of Scotland,” stated Karen Hardy, a prehistoric archaeologist at the University of Glasgow and lead author of a study on two archaeological sites on the Isle of Skye, published in the Journal of Quaternary Science.

    Until recently, specialists knew little about the earliest human settlements in Scotland due to rising sea levels and the lack of organic remains for radiocarbon dating of archaeological sites in the area. However, the discovery of new stone tools shaped into points, blades, and scrapers in a style known as Ahrensburgian, which was used throughout north-central Europe at the end of the Upper Paleolithic, provides evidence that prehistoric humans traversed the Isle of Skye over 11,000 years ago.

    Impressive Stone Circles

    The researchers also discovered several stone circles ranging from three to five meters in diameter at a second archaeological site in the intertidal zone. Rocks approximately 50 centimeters in diameter were embedded in the muddy beach substrate to form a circle.

    Due to the rising sea levels, these stone circles “are only visible during extreme spring tides and are exposed for about 2 to 3 hours a year,” the researchers wrote. “But the circles were likely terrestrial features when they were constructed.”

    An Unstable Climatic Period

    These stone circles are believed to have formed around 11,000 years ago during a period of unstable climate characterized by rapid glacier melting at the end of the last Ice Age. At the same time, the drop in sea level likely opened a land bridge between the southern part of the Isle of Skye and continental Scotland. Ancient peoples probably used this route to migrate northwest from what is now Germany and Belgium. Presently, this area connecting Britain to continental Europe is known as Doggerland, but it is now submerged under the North Sea.

    The researchers concluded: “Reaching the northwest of Scotland would have required a complex journey through unknown terrain featuring steep mountains and expansive bodies of water. Living in Skye 11,000 years ago necessitated rapid adaptation by ancient populations to a constantly changing climate and environment. However, the abundance of stone tools and the curious circles suggest that a significant group of inhabitants thrived for a long time and established themselves in their new coastal life. The journey undertaken by these pioneers, who left their lowland territories in continental Europe to travel north into the unknown, tells the ultimate tale of adventure.”

    Moreover, a tiny detail on an animal bone is reshaping the narrative of human history.

  • Are your lemon tree leaves turning yellow? These simple actions can save it (provided you don’t delay)

    Are your lemon tree leaves turning yellow? These simple actions can save it (provided you don’t delay)

    Your potted lemon tree certainly brightens up your terrace or balcony, bringing that delightful Mediterranean atmosphere. However, with the arrival of spring, its leaves may start to turn yellow. This common phenomenon isn’t necessarily serious.

    Have you identified the cause of the yellowing? A simple action may be enough to restore its luster. Discover how to respond effectively right now.

    Why do the leaves of the potted lemon tree turn yellow?

    If the leaves of your potted lemon tree show a yellowish appearance in spring, don’t panic just yet! Often, this sign simply indicates a nutrient imbalance in the soil or a space issue within the pot.

    Several factors can explain this unsightly yellow color. It’s essential first to understand where the problem lies in order to provide the most suitable solution.

    Common reasons for a lack of nutrients in the soil

    • Your lemon tree requires several essential elements for good health. In particular, it needs iron, nitrogen, and magnesium to maintain its vibrant green foliage. As the soil in your pot gradually becomes depleted, the leaves may start to yellow.
    • Overwatering can also lead to a loss of these vital minerals due to leaching. If you’re generous with your watering, be sure to check the soil moisture before each application.
    • Regularly using a liquid fertilizer specifically for citrus at the beginning of spring is a great option to prevent deficiencies and meet your lemon tree’s nutritional needs.

    Is your lemon tree too cramped in its pot?

    Perhaps your lemon tree has been in the same pot for quite some time? The roots may become entangled and eventually lack space. This phenomenon hinders proper absorption of water and essential minerals.

    A compacted soil can also cause drainage difficulties, which may lead to serious root problems or even rot.

    In this case, topdressing is a simple and effective solution. This method involves replacing the top 5 to 7 centimeters of exhausted soil with a new nutrient-rich substrate. A great tip to quickly restore vigor to your lemon tree with minimal effort.

    Repotting your lemon tree: the essential step to reinvigorate it

    However, if you haven’t repotted your lemon tree in over two years, topdressing may not be sufficient. A complete repotting then becomes necessary.

    Key steps to successfully repot

    Here’s a simple and effective way to proceed:

    • Gently remove the lemon tree from its current pot, taking care to gently untangle the entangled roots.
    • Place your lemon tree in a new pot that is slightly larger, filled with fresh, well-draining substrate. Choose a mix of potting soil, compost, and sand specifically suited for citrus.
    • Water generously after planting to eliminate air pockets and ensure a good root-soil contact.

    Post-repotting maintenance: simple actions that make a difference

    Have you taken the time to repot your lemon tree? Don’t let your efforts slip just yet! Continue to implement these actions regularly:

    • Water moderately but frequently, without drowning the roots.
    • Provide it with a liquid fertilizer specifically for citrus every month to support its growth and prevent further nutrient deficiencies.
    • Stay alert for any pests and diseases to intervene quickly and naturally if necessary.

    With these good practices, your lemon tree will quickly regain its stunning Mediterranean appearance and produce delicious lemons for many years to come.

    Ensuring the long-term health of your lemon tree

    By intervening at the right time, you can regularly anticipate and prevent yellowing problems. Don’t neglect to monitor the condition of the foliage and roots, as well as the quality of the soil in the pot.

    By adapting your care routine to your observations, you’ll provide your lemon tree with the best conditions for continuous thriving.

    Finally, remember that in gardening, a little regular attention is often more effective than a late intervention. Take care of your potted lemon tree; it will reward you with beauty and delicious fruit!

    Have you ever encountered this problem of yellow leaves on your potted lemon tree? Share your experience in the comments! Did you adopt the repotting method or choose another solution? Your testimony could help other amateur gardeners! Also, feel free to ask your questions; we’re happy to respond.

  • Discovery of a wooden water conduit from the Roman era in Belgium

    Discovery of a wooden water conduit from the Roman era in Belgium

    Recently, during an archaeological study conducted in anticipation of a university residence building project, a Roman water pipe made from hollow tree trunks was discovered in Leuven, Belgium. Found near what could be a pumping system, it likely dates back to the 2nd or 3rd century AD. Here are the details.

    A Roman Side Branch

    In the first century BC, Julius Caesar conquered vast territories in Europe, including parts of present-day Belgium. These areas were incorporated into Roman Gaul. According to a statement from the Leuven government, the city could have served as a “Roman side branch”, essentially a settlement located along a military road connecting modern-day France and Germany. The pipeline may have supplied water to this colony.

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    The uncovered water pipe was located approximately 4 meters underground and was made up of several sections of tree trunks, each about 1.5 meters long. In total, the pipe measured between 20 and 30 meters long. Due to its proximity to the Dyle River, the soil was damp and muddy, which helped the pipe remain exceptionally well-preserved. “We are in a valley, a veritable swamp,” noted Dirk Vansina, a Leuven city councilor. “The wood being deprived of oxygen, it remained intact.”

    Complex Plumbing Systems

    In antiquity, the Romans were known for their complex plumbing systems. They built large elevated aqueducts as well as underground channels to transport water.

    Ben Van Genechten, project leader at the BAAC Flanders archaeological company, added: “The pipe discovered is unique. Remains of ancient wooden pipes have been found at other Roman sites, but in most cases, the wooden artifacts themselves have decayed. The fact that we found a water pipe indicates that the colony had to have enjoyed a certain level of prosperity.”

    New Insights

    According to the statement, this wooden pipe will shed new light on the Roman presence in Leuven. It is currently under observation in a conservation laboratory for further analysis. Researchers plan to determine the age of the wood at the time of its cutting through dendrochronology, the study of tree rings. They may then freeze-dry the pipe to ensure its preservation.

    “We cannot yet fully understand what life was like here in the past. It is very interesting to be able to piece together the puzzle little by little,” concluded Ben Van Genechten.

    Additionally, ongoing excavations in Sudan are revealing the “lies” of the Roman Empire.

  • Finished mowing the lawn for the weekend: this beautiful purple plant replaces the grass and blooms all summer!

    Finished mowing the lawn for the weekend: this beautiful purple plant replaces the grass and blooms all summer!

    Are you tired of spending your weekends mowing the lawn? Do you dream of a garden that is beautiful, eco-friendly, and requires little upkeep? Consider planting phacelia. This charming plant with violet flowers offers a surprising alternative to traditional lawns, attracting an increasing number of gardeners who are mindful of ecology and time-saving solutions.

    Discovering Phacelia: A Complete Overview of This Amazing Plant

    Scientifically known as Phacelia tanacetifolia, phacelia originates from North America. This annual plant from the Hydrophyllaceae family boasts impressive growth, reaching heights of 30 to 80 cm.

    Its delicately cut leaves resemble those of ferns, while its blue-violet flowers form beautifully curled clusters.

    Another advantage? It adapts effortlessly to various exposures, from full sun to partial shade, as well as to different types of soils, even poor ones. It also tolerates cold temperatures down to -5°C.

    @rustica_jardinPhacelia: A Valuable Ally for Your Garden 🌸 Easy to grow, phacelia is not only stunning with its violet flowers but also excellent for enriching the soil and attracting pollinators. 🐝 Additionally, it serves as an ideal green fertilizer, promoting biodiversity and the health of your garden. 🌿 #Gardening #Phacelia #GreenFertilizer #Pollinators

    ♬ original sound – Rustica

    Why Choose Phacelia Over Traditional Lawns?

    Have you ever calculated how much time and resources your traditional lawn actually requires? In contrast, phacelia demands minimal maintenance while delivering an impressive visual impact:

    • No mowing required: Say goodbye to Sunday chores—phacelia naturally maintains its ideal height.
    • Significant reduction in water needs: Save up to 70% compared to a traditional lawn.
    • Natural soil fertilization: Its roots improve soil structure and fix nitrogen.
    • Self-seeding under favorable conditions: It spreads easily from year to year.

    This leads to better time management and significant savings on natural resources.

    The Undeniable Ecological Benefits of Phacelia

    Phacelia is not just visually appealing; it is also environmentally beneficial.

    • Exceptional nectar source: It attracts pollinators like bees, ensuring biodiversity.
    • Effective erosion protection: Its dense roots stabilize the soil, particularly on sloped terrains.
    • Natural repellent effect against certain pests: This helps limit the proliferation of weeds and underground pests.

    Did you know that a single square meter of phacelia can nourish up to 300 bees per day? Food for thought…

    How to Replace Your Lawn with a Beautiful Cover of Phacelia?

    It’s straightforward, with a few steps to make your life easier:

    Prepare Your Soil Well: An Essential Step!

    For a successful planting, prepare your area by following these guidelines:

    • Mow the old lawn very short.
    • Carefully remove all persistent weeds.
    • Till and level the surface thoroughly.

    Sowing: The Right Timing to Respect

    Choose your sowing period based on your desired flowering:

    • Spring (March-May) for summer blooming.
    • Summer (June-August) for extended colors into autumn.
    • Autumn (September-October) for soil protection over winter and early spring blooming.

    A dosage of 10 to 12 grams of seeds per square meter is sufficient, to be scattered at a depth of no more than one centimeter.

    Simplify Maintenance After Sowing

    Once the phacelia is established, you can forget about regular watering and weeding. A light intervention is all that is needed for specific issues. To maintain lasting results, consider staggered sowing or combining with perennial plants.

    What Plants to Ideally Combine with Phacelia?

    Create a Beautiful Flowering Meadow with Wildflowers

    Phacelia pairs wonderfully with:

    • Poppies: for a stunning touch of red color.
    • Cornflowers: a perfect blue complement.
    • Corncockle and marigolds: to harmonize and brighten the mixture with light and vibrant hues.

    Enhance the Green Fertilizer Effect by Combining with Other Beneficial Plants

    Here are some other beneficial companions:

    • White mustard: for a fast, complementary root cover.
    • Clover: ideal for fixing more nitrogen and adding color.
    • Vetch and buckwheat: great for enriching the soil and attracting beneficial insects.

    Your Frequently Asked Questions: Let’s Clarify

    • Does phacelia tolerate foot traffic? Yes, but moderately. Plan for pathways or combine it with clover in heavily trafficked areas.
    • Do I need to sow it every year? Officially, yes. But if you let it seed, it often reseeds itself.
    • Does it increase the risk of harmful insects? Not at all! On the contrary, it attracts beneficial insects.
    • Is it adaptable throughout France? Absolutely, as long as you follow the sowing periods according to the local climate.

    Now you know everything about what could make you the ecological hero of your neighborhood!

    Does this alternative to traditional lawns inspire you? Would you be willing to adopt phacelia in your garden? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below; we are curious to hear your reactions! Feel free to ask your questions; we will be happy to respond.

  • Why were these ancient Greek coins adorned with owls?

    Why were these ancient Greek coins adorned with owls?

    Emerging over 2,500 years ago, the “Owls of Athens” quickly became essential currency in the ancient world. Renowned for their purity, these silver coins also financed significant Greek military campaigns.

    The Tetradrachms of Athens

    The minting of the first owls is traced to the late 6th century BCE, following the overthrow of the tyrant Hippias, who ruled Athens with an iron fist, and the restoration of a democratic regime.

    The production of these tetradrachms (weighing in silver equivalent to four ancient drachmas) was closely tied to the discovery of vast silver mines in Laurion, south of Attica.

    Each coin featured the helmeted head of Athena on one side, and an owl symbolizing the goddess of wisdom’s ability to “see what is obscured“, accompanied by an olive branch and the letters ΑΘΕ (an abbreviation of the word ΑΘHNAIΩN, which can be interpreted as “from the Athenians“).

    Illustrating the prosperity and strength of the Greek city-state, these coins symbolized broader aspects of the political system and the social and economic values of Classical Greece, a period spanning from 510 to 323 BCE (the year of Alexander the Great’s death).

    Essential Currencies of the Ancient World

    Made of 99% pure silver, the owls of Athens quickly gained a strong reputation throughout the Mediterranean, prompting many merchants to accept and utilize them.

    Becoming the first international currency of the ancient world within a few decades, they helped finance the creation of a powerful navy that successfully repelled the forces of the Persian Empire, led by Xerxes I, during the Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE.

    When adopting the euro, Greece chose to feature the iconic owl on one side of its €1 coin.

    For more, discover the secrets of the Oracle of Delphi, famous throughout ancient Greece for its remarkably accurate predictions.

  • Do you dream of a fragrant garden even in winter? This little-known shrub is the perfect solution

    Do you dream of a fragrant garden even in winter? This little-known shrub is the perfect solution

    When winter blankets our outdoor spaces in silence and slumber, some plants remain awake to offer us an unexpected spectacle. Have you heard of the Daphne odora? Often absent from French gardens, this remarkable shrub truly deserves special attention. Do you dream of a fragrant garden even in the depths of winter? Here’s why this shrub could become your best ally.

    Discovering the Daphne Odora: A Rare Shrub with Multiple Assets

    Native to Asian regions like China and Japan, this small shrub belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. Its appearance resembles that of laurel, and it’s no coincidence: its name refers to the Greek myth of the nymph Daphne, who was transformed into a laurel tree to escape Apollo.

    With a slow growth rate and a limited height (generally between 1 and 1.5 meters), it makes for a wise choice to subtly structure a garden bed or serve as a natural focal point in a country garden.

    Its foliage is also worth noting: evergreen and glossy dark green, it can sometimes be found in varieties with yellow or cream margins. A definite plus for brightening up your garden even in the absence of flowers!

    Important Information: Attention to Its Toxic Side

    However, a note of caution: be aware that all parts of this shrub are toxic if consumed. Protect your children and pets by carefully selecting its location.

    Wear gloves when handling the shrub, as its sap can cause irritation.

    A Unique Fragrance, Discreet Flowers Yet Remarkable

    The real charm of the Daphne odora undoubtedly lies in its winter flowering. Between January and March, when everything seems frozen, it adorns itself with small star-shaped white-pink flowers grouped in elegant clusters.

    Be careful, don’t underestimate the modest appearance of its flowers! They emit an intense, sweet, and lemony fragrance capable of generously permeating the surrounding air.

    Looking to naturally scent your interior? A few picked branches will suffice to diffuse a pleasant aroma throughout the room.

    Our Practical Advice for Successful Cultivation of the Daphne Odora

    The Right Conditions for Optimal Flowering

    Are you tempted by the idea of welcoming this lovely shrub into your garden? A few precautions need to be taken regarding the choice of location and ideal conditions:

    • Choose a spot in your garden that is partially shaded or lightly sheltered from icy winds.
    • Opt for well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (between 6 and 7).
    • Ideally, plant in autumn to get a head start on rooting before summer.

    The Essential Actions for Planting and Care

    Once well established, this beautiful shrub requires minimal additional care:

    • In the first year, provide moderate but regular watering. After that, only during dry periods will your intervention be needed.
    • Avoid pruning, except to remove any dried or damaged branches.
    • A moderate application of compost each spring will ensure a generous and fragrant flowering.

    A unique detail to note: once planted, it does not take well to being moved. So, choose its final location in your garden carefully.

    A True Fighter Against the Cold, Resistant Down to -15°C

    You might doubt its cold resistance due to its Asian origins? Think again!

    This shrub possesses surprising robustness as it survives temperatures as low as -15°C without issue. A fantastic piece of news for your gardens exposed to harsh winters.

    In the event of severe frost during flowering, only a few flowers may be affected: the shrub itself will remain unharmed! Thus, it’s an ideal choice, worry-free.

    3 Must-Have Varieties of Daphne Odora to Enhance Your Garden

    Still unsure which specific variety to choose? Here’s a brief selection to guide your choice:

    • Daphne odora Aureomarginata: foliage edged in gold, very fragrant pink and white flowers, ideal in lightly shaded spots.
    • Daphne odora Leucanthe: completely white, intensely fragrant flowers, with bright light green foliage, perfect for shadier corners.
    • Daphne odora Rubra: deeper pink-red flowers that create a beautiful contrast with dark green foliage. Its blooming is often early.

    Where to Ideally Place Your Daphne Odora in the Garden?

    To maximize the effect of its enchanting fragrance, choose strategic locations:

    • Right next to an entrance or a frequently used path, you’ll enjoy its delightful fragrance as you step outside.
    • Place it under a window or near a terrace, allowing this subtle aroma to waft into your home.

    In terms of composition, pair it with winter or spring flowering plants like hellebores, daffodils, cyclamens, or ferns for an enjoyable contrast and mutual enhancement.

    We would love to hear your experience! Did you already know about this shrub before reading this article? Are you planning to plant one in your garden soon? Don’t hesitate to share your tips or questions in the comments. The floor is yours!