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A Parisian luxury stylist explains how you can find your signature style in 2026. London (PA Media/dpa) – The idea of a New Year wardrobe reset can feel either invigorating or overwhelming. On one hand, there’s the appeal of a clean slate – fewer “nothing to wear” mornings and a more streamlined style. On the other, there’s the reality of bursting wardrobes, emotional attachments and the dread that a reset means starting from scratch. But according to Parisian stylist Elsa Boutaric, the most effective wardrobe refreshes are small rather than drastic. She shares her top tips for resetting your wardrobe for 2026. Start with sorting not shopping The instinctive response to a style rut is often to buy something new. A coat, a pair of shoes, a statement piece that promises reinvention. But Boutaric insists that the real reset begins long before a checkout page. “I always start with a wardrobe edit to assess what no longer works and what truly fits my client’s lifestyle,” she says. “We need a wardrobe strategy before buying anything new.” That strategy is less about what you like best and more about what you wear the most. How you actually dress day-to-day matters more than who you imagine yourself to be. A wardrobe reset means interrogating how often you reach for something, what you feel best wearing and where your life currently sits – work, weekends, evenings, travel. Without that assessment, new purchases tend to repeat old mistakes: beautiful pieces with nowhere to go. The items we hold onto for too long Every wardrobes contains their ghosts – pieces that once worked perfectly but now date everything else around them. Denim is often the biggest culprit. “I would say, denim is often kept past its prime and can look outdated,” Boutaric explains, “a tailored wide-leg pant is a modern upgrade for 2026.” Jeans cuts are often less timeless than tailoring, reminding us of past phases and eras more quickly than other items. Wide-leg trousers, particularly in structured fabrics, offer the same ease of wear while being less trend-led. The same applies to overly trend-led pieces that no longer reflect how you dress now. The reset isn’t about erasing personality – it’s about removing what you won’t wear this time next year. Mind the gap One of the most common frustrations Boutaric encounters isn’t a lack of clothes, but a lack of connection between them. “What I see the most is a lack of strong transitional pieces between casual and elevated looks,” she says. “Invest in a good quality blazer and elevated basics to fill that gap.” These are the items that turn jeans into an outfit, or make a simple dress appropriate for more than one setting. A well-cut blazer, a cosy knit, a crisp white shirt – they don’t shout, but they do a lot of work. A New Year reset is often about strengthening this middle ground. Not investing in rarely-worn pieces of workwear or loungewear – but the pieces that carry you between the two. Keep, alter or donate? Editing a wardrobe is as much emotional as it is practical. Boutaric’s rule is refreshingly straightforward. “If a day-to-day piece hasn’t been worn in over a year, it usually goes.” That doesn’t mean everything unworn must leave – occasionwear and sentimental items live by different rules – but for everyday clothing, inactivity is information. If something doesn’t fit your life now, it’s unlikely to suddenly earn its place. Boutaric suggests the hanger trick for figuring out what you wear most. Flip all your hangers backward, then turn them forward as you wear items; after a set time, you’ll see what you reach for most and what you don’t. Tailoring is the middle option that’s often overlooked. A coat that feels slightly off, trousers that drag, a blazer that almost works – these can often be rescued. The reset isn’t about perfection, but intention. Refreshing without replacing everything The idea that a wardrobe reset requires a full overhaul is one of its biggest deterrents. In reality, small, considered changes tend to have the biggest impact. “Add a well-tailored blazer, wide-leg trousers and a [good quality] crisp white shirt or tee,” Boutaric suggests. “These pieces instantly elevate and modernise any wardrobe.” They also work across seasons, trends and settings – which is precisely the point. A reset should make dressing easier, not more complicated. Styling tweaks matter too. Switching trainers for a loafer, adding a belt, wearing a shirt more undone or leaning into proportion can recalibrate an outfit without necessarily adding new statement pieces, Boutaric says. The following information is not intended for publication dpa pa arw

(The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

A smelly drain, a blocked toilet, a dripping tap: some everyday problems can be solved with simple tricks. And sometimes it's better to call a plumber – a decision-making aid. Berlin (dpa) – Oh no, the toilet's clogged! Now what do you do – call a plumber or, to spare the expense, try to unclog it yourself? Sometimes there's no getting around calling on professional help, "especially if the work involves the water pipes – the drinking water, in other words," says Jens J. Wischmann, a sanitary industry specialist. Only a registered plumber will do. And for good reason: "If the drinking water becomes contaminated, liability issues arise that no insurance covers," he explains. Otherwise, give it a go yourself as best you can – "so long as you're prepared to break something and then have to pay a pro to fix it," says Sylvia Adamec, who works for a German academy promoting DIY skills. Not to worry though. Many household problems are easily fixable. Here are seven: 1. Smelly drain A foul odour emanating from a drain can put you in a foul mood. The solution is usually quite simple though: Let the water run for a while. "In most cases the cause of a smelly drain is that the P-trap hasn't been sufficiently rinsed out," Adamec says. A P-trap is a P-shaped pipe under a sink or similar plumbing fixture designed to trap a small amount of water after the fixture is used. The water acts as a seal blocking off sewer gases. If the drain gives off an unpleasant odour, the culprit may be liquids that were poured into it or food scraps. A drain may also be smelly when you return home after a holiday. "This is because the P-trap has dried out in the meantime," explains Adamec, adding that in this case too, it can help to simply let the water run for a while. 2. Water keeps flowing into toilet This problem is usually caused by the float valve in the toilet cistern, says Wischmann. In older, close-coupled toilets, where the cistern sits directly on top of the bowl, you can typically remove the lid and quickly spot what's causing the trouble. In more modern, back-to-wall toilets, however, the cistern is hidden within a wall or fitted furniture, in which case Wischmann recommends calling a plumber. 3. Jewellery dropped into drain Whoops! You were inattentive for just a second and your wedding ring or other small object of value fell into a drain. No reason to panic though, as it's fairly easy to take apart the P-trap underneath the drain. For this you'll need a suitable wrench or pair of pliers, tea towel and bucket. "First you should remove everything that's under the sink or washbasin," says Adamec. Then cut off the water, "and ideally close the angle valves to be sure there's no residual water flow while you're working." The bucket can catch water remaining in the P-trap. Now you can start. "P-traps often aren't touched for years and are furred up with limescale. So you've got to have at it with gusto," Adamec says. Don't be timid. Once you've unscrewed the slip nuts, you can easily fish the lost item out of the P-trap. A tip: Place a tea towel between the slip nuts and jaws of the wrench or pliers. This way you won't scratch the slip nuts, and you'll keep the wrench or pliers from slipping. Another tip: Adamec advises photographing the various steps you take in disassembling the P-trap before you clean it out. The photos will help you to reassemble it properly. It's also "a good idea," she says, "to replace the slip nuts' gaskets while you're at it." And Wischmann stresses the importance of putting everything back together carefully, as "forgotten or damaged gaskets can lead to water damage." 4. Clogged shower drain Depending on the shower model, it can be difficult to unblock a clogged drain. Wischmann nevertheless advises against using chemical pipe cleaners, warning they can damage the plumbing and are very harmful to the environment. Instead, you should use your hands. "I recommend removing hair and soap scum as well as you can with a handkerchief or an old toothbrush," he says. A thin wire can help as well. If you can't reach the source of the blockage, call a plumber. 5. Nightmare scenario: plugged up toilet A standard tool in many households, a plunger is the means of choice to unclog a toilet. "First remove as much water as possible so that the plunger sits firmly on the toilet bowl," says Adamec. Next, rapidly and repeatedly push down, then pull up the plunger, creating suction that can dislodge the clog. This may pull some of the clogged matter out of the toilet, "which can make a mess," Adamec says, "so you shouldn't be wearing your best clothes." She discourages using tools such as a toilet auger or drain snake, because "unless you're practiced in their use, you can do a lot of damage." To prevent a toilet from clogging, she recommends occasionally putting a dishwasher or denture cleaning tablet into the toilet and letting it work overnight. 6. Dripping tap Drip, drip, drip… A dripping tap can be maddening, and there are various possible causes. In many cases the cartridge – which regulates the flow of hot and cold water in a single-lever mixer tap – is furred with limescale or faulty. Disassembly is somewhat complicated but possible. You've got to unscrew the handle and extract the underlying cartridge. "This is a job for advanced do-it-yourselfers," notes Adamec. Instructional videos can be found on the internet. The question is whether the trouble will save you money though, because "depending on the model, the cartridge can be almost as expensive as a new tap." 7. Limescale build-up on shower head Weak shower pressure is often due to limescale buildup on the shower head. "It can help to remove the shower head and soak it in diluted vinegar," Wischmann says. "This isn't suitable for all materials, however, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations." Simply using a sponge can also help to descale a shower head. The following information is not intended for publication dpa/tmn ada yyzz a3 bzl mod ob lue tsn coh

(The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

Berlin (dpa) – Flammkuchen is the French-German answer to pizza, but with a little more class and a far more exciting name – flame cake!  Known in French as tarte flambée, it's a must-have on many restaurant menus in southern Germany, where it's traditionally served with crème fraîche, chopped bacon and onions. Unlike with pizza, this thin, crispy dough is often topped with a mix of sweet and savoury ingredients. This version with pear and fig elevates things with a light mustard note and a topping of soft blue cheese or Gorgonzola for a stronger flavour. If you want a quick supper, you can buy a ready-made unleavened dough from the fridge section at the supermarket. Just roll it out nice and thin, add the toppings and 10 minutes later you can eat. The base: The dough is an extremely simple mix of flour, water, salt and a little olive oil, with no time needed for rising or strength-building. If you can't find unleavened dough in your local supermarket, then mix two cups of flour with half a cup of water, half a teaspoon of salt and two tablespoons of oil, and roll out thin. Ingredients for four portions Four fresh flammkuchen bases at 85 g each, or one big roll for a baking tray at 340 g 2 pears 4 figs 150 g soft blue cheese or Gorgonzola 1 pot of crème fraîche 4 tbsp mustard thyme freshly ground pepper salt 1 tsp garlic powder Method: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Stir the crème fraîche with the mustard, season with salt, pepper and the garlic powder, then spread evenly over the bases. Remove the cores from the pears. Slice the pears and the blue cheese thinly, distribute evenly over the bases and bake for 8 minutes. Meanwhile, cut the figs into slim wedges and arrange them on the flammkuchen as soon as they come out of the oven. Grind over a good amount of fresh pepper and scatter with thyme. Your flammkuchen is ready to serve. The following information is not intended for publication dpa/tmn hsk yyzz n1 xlt cwg amc coh

(The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

Celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson helps break down the biggest style shifts predicted for the new year. London (PA Media/dpa) – While many think TikTok or Instagram are Gen Z’s favourite platforms, Pinterest has slowly been rising the ranks as one of the most influential social media for the under-30s. Pinterest has become the go-to visual search engine for mood boarding fashion, beauty and interiors. So the platform’s annual Pinterest Predicts report has become a strangely accurate fashion crystal ball over the past few years – forecasting everything from the rise of tomato-girl summer to the quiet luxury overhaul. According to the data, we’re leaving streamlined stealth-wealth behind, and are about to enter a year defined by maximalist jewellery, 1980s silhouettes and a fresh take on utilitarian khaki. It’s a line-up that sounds chaotic on paper, but actually reflects a broader shift in how people want to dress – with more personality and a willingness to lean into nostalgia. To unpack the trends – and explain how to actually wear them without looking like you’ve stepped out of a time capsule – we asked celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson to decode the five biggest looks set to dominate 2026. 1. Brooches and maximalist jewellery Maximalism is back – not in the chaotic, everything-at-once sense, à la 2010s festival jewellery – but in a more retro, couture way. And according to Ranson, brooches are the easiest entry point. With Chanel’s comeback last season thanks to new creative director Matthieu Blazy, fuelling the revival, Ranson notes that “Chanel is probably one of the best places that we see inspiration for brooches and that whole vintage retro styling that’s coming back.” But forget the fussy pearl clusters of years past. Ranson stresses: “I would avoid the pearls [so as not to look outdated] and go for gold or silver – use a brooch instead of your statement earrings.” When it comes to what to wear it with, she says “we’re doing shoulder pads now […] you could have a little brooch on a shoulder-padded top – it can be a really subtle, lovely way [to finish a look].” The key is to lean into modern metals with a shine and steer clear of aged bronze and pearls so not to look too dated. H&M Metal Brooch, £12.99 Zara Knit Jumper with Brooch, £35.99 2. Icy blues and celestial whites When it comes to 2026’s colour palette, Pinterest users are overwhelmingly pinning frosted blues, moonlit whites and pearlescent textures – but how do you incorporate holographic if you’re used to dusty grey and denim ? Ranson says an easy way to experiment with these is to swap them with your basics. “Think of your basics and your base pieces,” she says. “Switch your white T-shirt for an icy blue T-shirt – rather than trying to wear a statement holographic blue blazer.” If pearlescent whites feel too much, Ranson says to try accents of the colour family – “maybe a light blue bag or a blue court shoe with a simple staple look.” Incorporating a trending colour palette into your basics helps elevate your everyday wardrobe into something more cool and current. & Other Stories Sheer Long-Sleeve Top, £32 Per Una Sheer Sequin Embellished Fitted Vest with Rib Top, £46, M&S 3. Clunky, baggy and bold The 1980s are back. Minimalism’s grip is officially loosening and we’re entering an era of volume – sweeping circle skirts, big shoulders, oversized belts and all-round capacious silhouettes. “I am so excited that maximalism is back because I am a bit bored of the beige,” Ranson laughs. But she’s quick to warn that going full maximalist is a fast track to feeling swamped. Her golden rule is one volumised piece at a time. “Think about your proportions,” she explains, “maybe do a big skirt but then a more slim top or a cinched blazer with jeans.” She tailors client choices to their height – “Ferne McCann [who’s 5’8″] could get away with much more shoulder pad,” she says, “whereas Dani Dyer [who’s 5’1″] being more petite, it could overtake her body.” She says petite frames may prefer a cinched waist with gentler shoulders; whereas taller silhouettes can lean more into the drama. “More is more is really fun,” she says. “[this trend] is very Carrie Bradshaw, big belts being massive and experimental silhouettes – it feels a bit more fun than the trends of 2025.” Maniere De Voir Marie Twist Sleeve Tailored Blazer with Belt, £180 Cos Twist Barrel-Leg Jeans, £119 4. Laced up Lace – once tied to prim-and-proper coquette-core – is entering a new era. Pinterest searches are up for lace tights, lace trims and sheer lace detailing thanks to the runways of Dior and Bora Aksu – yet most shoppers aren’t looking to dress like a ballerina. “Lace is a tricky one – you either love it or you really don’t,” says Ranson. Her advice is to micro dose the trend – don’t go with full looks. “It could just be little, minor nods – a lace pocket, a lace hem, a lace cami under a blazer.” Even chokers and lace neck scarves are resurfacing, she says, which are inexpensive ways to test the trend. For those who find lace too delicate, Ranson recommends contrast: “Team it with something a bit more masculine – an oversized blazer, wide-leg trousers, even the barrel jean.” Zara ZW Collection Lace Camisole Top, £39.99 5. Khaki Coded Utility jackets aren’t new, but the pocketed workwear is becoming the go-to style of 2026. Structured safari-style jackets styled in earthy palettes are soaring in popularity, according to Pinterest. But when it comes to tonal dressing – desert neutrals are tricky, bidding the universal question: What if it washes me out? “I love camel beige, but it completely washes me out,” Ranson says. She’s sceptical of rigid colour analysis, explaining that a client’s results once contradicted everything she would have personally chosen for them. Instead, her approach is easy and practical. “Whenever I wear certain colours, I’ll remember what compliments I get,” she says, “I think that’s a good way to learn what suits you.” If beige dulls you, try olive or pistachio. If icy neutrals brighten your eyes, lean into them. “Does your skin look smoother? Are your eyes brighter? Take note,” she says. Holland Cooper Artillery Jacket, £179 The following information is not intended for publication dpa pa arw

(The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

Shift your mindset to see the beauty of the colder months. London (PA Media/dpa) – Depending on where you are, January’s darkness and chill can often feel bleak and depressing, but it doesn’t have to always feel that way. Despite enduring freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall and being submerged into darkness throughout most of winter, Scandinavians are known for their upbeat mindset and ability to embrace the colder months. Curious about how we can better prepare for the long, grey weeks ahead, we spoke with Danish cook, bestselling author and founder of the ScandiKitchen Brontë Aurell who shared some tips on how approach the colder months the Scandi way… Accept the darkness and cold that comes with the winter months The first stage is acceptance. “In Scandinavia we live in darkness for several months, so we know it’s coming and there’s no stopping it,” says Aurell. “I think that starting to accept the fact that it will be dark and cold for a few months helps sets the scene a little bit more. It makes it feel a little bit easier, because you feel like, OK, well, I know it’s coming so I can do something about it, rather than to just be upset about it all the time.” Light up the darkness “My favourite childhood memory of winter in Scandinavia is the snow and all the lights,” says Aurell. “Because it’s so dark, I think Scandinavians are really good at lighting up the darkness with little candles and twinkly lights. Even the tiniest bit of light shines very brightly in darkness.” Switching off the main light and putting on lamps instead can be a great way to create cosy mood lighting. “I think lamps are very underrated,” says Aurell. “I’m not a fan of the big light in the living room, and in my living room there’s probably six or seven small lamps dotted around in places, along with loads of candles. I will switch them on at different times to create a different mood.” Hibernate with friends and family “Hibernate like penguins,” advises Aurell. “Huddling up is not just for physical warmth, but is also for emotional warmth. Darkness can be really isolating, but if you do it together, suddenly it’s cosy. “Spend more time with family and friends at home and make more time for each other.” Embrace the outdoors Scandinavians are known for embracing the outdoors – whether that be snow running or hiking – so Aurell encourages us Brits to follow suit and reap the benefits of the fresh air. “Getting a daily dose of vitamin D is really important, so even if you only have a couple of hours of light a day, try to go outside for a walk and get some fresh air,” recommends Aurell. “Don’t just sit in the office all day, go for a walk at lunch and get a little bit of vitamin D – it’s amazing what difference just being outside can make.” Wrap up warm “Like every Scandinavian grandmother says all the time on repeat: ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes’,” says Aurell. “It will rain, it will snow and it will sleet, but if you dress for it, then it’s OK.” She recommends investing in good quality winter gear that will keep you warm and will last for years to come. “Wear layers if it’s really cold so you can stay outside for longer and invest in good quality raincoats and umbrellas,” recommends Aurell. “We are very good at layering and being outside in the cold in Scandinavia, as we invest in good boots and good coats.” Practice hygge “Hygge is a Danish word which means to appreciate the moment you’re in while you’re in it,” explains Aurell. “You have to be present in that space, so can’t be on your phone or on a screen with other people. You have to appreciate the time with those people you’re with. “You can also set this atmosphere with mood lamps, candles, and that’s where you find this kind of cosy, warm feeling.” Make food that brings you joy “Fill your belly with really good stuff that you enjoy,” recommends Aurell. For the Danish cook, nothing says winter more than a fresh batch of cinnamon buns. “I don’t think there’s any other baked goods that will take me back to my mother’s kitchen faster than a freshly baked batch of cinnamon buns,” says Aurell. “There’s something really comforting about the smell of cardamom, cinnamon and vanilla. Even on the most depressing day of the year, I think everybody’s going to feel good if they eat a freshly baked cinnamon bun.” Jump into a sauna “Saunering is very Nordic and is very comforting to do in the winter,” says Aurell. “Not every Danish household has these, but a lot of Swedish households do, and when it’s really cold outside you go in and have a hot sauna and then you go into the cold again. It’s very good for your circulation and your mood.” Buy some blankets “Add some really cosy blankets to your living room,” recommends Aurell. “I think I’ve got four or five different blankets in my living room, one for each family member. We all sit under blankets to watch TV in the winter and it’s so nice and cosy.” The following information is not intended for publication dpa pa arw

(The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

Mark your calendar for those important seasonal tasks. London (PA Media/dpa) – It’s time to put up your new gardening calendar and give yourself reminders of some of the jobs you’ll need to do through the seasons. Follow this month-by-month bullet point guide to some of the essential tasks you need to earmark for 2026. January Check insulation around outside taps and carry out repair jobs on broken fence panels, greenhouses and sheds. If it’s been windy but not wet, water plants in containers as anything which is coming to life will need water to survive. Prune wisteria, when the side shoots are easily visible. Order seeds from catalogues and online suppliers, and if you have a frost-free greenhouse sow early crops such as lettuce, radishes and early carrots under glass. February Prune large flowered (Group 3) clematis, which flower on the current season’s growth in mid to late summer, including the varieties ‘Perle d’Azur’, ‘Étoile Violette’ and ‘Ville de Lyon’. Cut back deciduous hedging before birds start nesting in it. Plant summer-flowering bulbs such as lilies either direct into borders, if the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged, or in pots. Plant bare-rooted shrubs including roses and bare-rooted raspberry canes if weather permits. March Start weeding, hoeing off weed seedlings as they appear and removing pernicious weeds by hand. Plant out pot-grown trees, shrubs and climbers. Prune shrub, bush and climbing roses, Buddleia davidii, dogwoods with coloured winter stems and willows. Mulch the soil with a generous layer of organic matter up to 5cm deep to enrich the ground and suppress weeds. Lay new turf while the soil is still quite moist but is warming up. April Watch out for slugs, which will decimate young emerging plants. Set beer traps, or place eggshells around vulnerable leaves, or simply pick the slugs off after rainfall. Alternatively try a biological control, a nematode that attacks them which can be watered on to the soil. Deadhead daffodils and other spring-flowering bulbs before the seedheads start to form, which ensures the bulb’s energy is focused on next year’s flowers. Continue to sow vegetable seeds such as broad beans, peas and lettuce direct into prepared soil. Clean out overcrowded ponds, dividing large clumps of waterlilies. May Plant up summer bedding in borders and containers and hanging baskets when all danger of frost has passed (which could be next month in cooler regions) and keep them well watered. Prune early-flowering shrubs such as forsythia and Japanese quince (Chaenomeles), to encourage flowering next year. Keep mowing and feeding your lawn once the grass is growing well and lower the mower blades slightly as the season progresses, but avoid ‘scalping’ the lawn. Sow indoor seeds of French beans, courgettes, runner beans and sweetcorn into cells or small pots. Place them on a sunny windowsill to encourage them to germinate and they will be ready to plant out in early June. Place straw underneath strawberry plants which helps stop the fruitlets getting wet from the ground or attacked by slugs. June Plant out tomatoes in the garden, watering them in well – and start feeding them regularly. Fill gaps in borders with summer bedding or ornamental vegetables such as Swiss chard. Remove dead or damaged growth from deutzia, philadelphus and weigela which have finished flowering, cutting to a stem joint or leaf. Thin out fruit on established apples, pears and plum trees, which will prevent the weight of the fruitlets snapping the branches and will encourage the remaining fruits to grow larger. Dig up spent tulip and hyacinth bulbs and store them away in a cool, dark shed until they are ready for planting again in autumn. Regularly water and feed containers and hanging baskets. Mow the lawn regularly. July Cut lavender and statice for drying. Make provision If you are going away on your summer holiday – ask family, friends and neighbours to water the garden for you. Place all pots together in a shady spot, deadhead everything, water well and hope for the best. Top up water for wildlife, filling bird baths and other containers to allow them to drink during dry spells. Prune roses which only produce a single flush of flowers each year when they have finished blooming. Propagate some of your favourite shrubs using semi-ripe cuttings. Suitable candidates include ceanothus, lavender, skimmia, escallonia and photinia. Keep tomatoes, aubergines and peppers well watered and fed with a liquid high-potash fertiliser. August Collect seeds from plants which you want to propagate, including sweet peas, nigella, poppies and nasturtiums. Plant autumn-flowering bulbs including autumn crocuses, sternbergias and colchicums. If you return from holiday to a straggly heap of dried-out container bedding plants which you can’t save, ditch them and concentrate on autumn and winter planting displays. Take cuttings from pelargoniums, fuchsias and other tender perennials. Collect diseased fallen leaves from beneath roses as debris from any which have blackspot, mildew or rust could give you problems next year if you don’t remove them. Remove some leaves from tomato plants to allow the sunshine through to ripen the fruit. Top up water levels in ponds. September Plant spring bulbs. Lift and divide clumps of overcrowded perennials which have finished flowering and replant them, to give you smaller but more vigorous new plants. Thin aquatic plants and cover your pond with netting to stop leaves falling in. Create a new compost heap. Clearing the garden in autumn will give you plenty of old plant material to start you off. Give the lawn a boost by raking out moss and weeds and aerating it. Keep harvesting crops including courgettes, green beans, tomatoes, sweetcorn, cabbages, autumn cauliflower and onions, and work out how you’re going to preserve your gluts, whether it’s freezing, pickling or making passata. October Rake up autumn leaves and create leaf mould, a good soil texture improver or can be used as a mulch. Place them in refuse bags with holes in them for ventilation and leave them out of the way for a year, by which time they will have turned into a black, crumbly mass. Pot a clump of mint or parsley to bring indoors as a windowsill herb. Dry attractive seed heads such as eryngiums and teasel to use in indoor dried decorations. Lift and store summer bulbs including cannas and gladioli. Reseed any bare patches which have developed on your lawn. November Tidy up – but not too much. Leave some old stems and leaves to provide winter protection for insects and seedheads for the birds. Plant tulip bulbs. November is the best month for them, as the cooler soil helps prevent the fungal disease tulip fire. Give newly planted shrubs and trees some protection from the elements, even if it’s just a layer of horticultural fleece. Wrap containers in hessian, fleece or other insulating material to stop the plants in them from freezing. Lift dahlias and store them in a cool, dark, dry place. Check stored fruit and veg for signs of disease. December Plant up some containers for winter colour, featuring plants such as skimmia, helleborus, winter-flowering heathers and Cyclamen coum. Cut foliage, berries and winter flowers to create your own Christmas wreath. Harvest Brussels sprouts, parsnips and leeks for Christmas dinner. The following information is not intended for publication dpa pa arw

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And why would you want to? Why these creatures of the night are good news for you and your plants. London (PA Media/dpa) – Bats are to receive star treatment at next year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, with a show garden demonstrating how easy it is to grow plants that support these night-loving mammals. Designed by Melanie Hick, The Nocturnal Garden for the Bat Conservation Trust highlights the plantings and situations which bats love. “The image of bats is changing. The more we get to know about our environment, the more we understand we’re not the most important thing. Far from being vampires and spooky movies stars, they are adorable soft creatures of the night,” says Hick. So, why are they so important? They indicate a healthy eco-system “They are an indicator species which lets us know that the environment is doing well where we are,” she says. “When we have bats in our garden, akin to having birds in our garden, it means we’ve got insects and pollinators and a healthy soil and plant biodiversity. “If a family of bats is in your garden it means there is food there for them, and that means tiny moths and other little insects. That in turn means you’ve planted a lot of different types of plants, you’ve got water, healthy soil and you might also have tree coverage and space for roosts.” How can we attract them into our gardens? Plant for insects All species of British bat eat only insects such as midges, moths, mosquitoes and beetles, according to the trust, so you need to choose plants which are a magnet for insects. “You may already have a lot of plants that attract the insects that bats need to feed from, things like ox-eye daisies, hawthorns, dog roses, violas and some of our so-called weeds like bird’s-foot trefoil,” says Hick. Mix it up Plant a mixture of flowering plants, vegetables, trees and shrubs to encourage a diversity of insects to drop in. Native plants tend to support far more species of insect than hybrids or exotics, so they should be used as much as possible, the trust advises. Extend the flowering season Make insects available all year round. All UK bat species eat insects so try to extend the flowering season from early spring, when bats come out of hibernation, to late autumn, when they are building up fat reserves in preparation for hibernation. Use plants which attract insects at night Tall, pale or night-scented flowers are more obvious to night-time insects like moths, so consider night-scented stock, hemp agrimony and evening primrose in your planting scheme, the trust suggests. Plant in layers “Bats feed in the air, but the way to plant your bat-friendly garden is to plant in a range of layers from the ground to mid-height and up. You are trying to create a multi-textural biodiverse garden and the happy accident will be that you’ll attract bats,” says Hick. Don’t tidy up too much Let insects find their hiding places in log piles or under rotting leaves – or even in a compost heap – so leave some garden debris for shelter for them. Include open flowers “We are looking at planting for pollinators and insects so want to see a natural open face of a flower, like ox-eye daisies and forget-me-nots,” Hick says. Echinacea, Michaelmas daisies, thyme, fennel and foxgloves are also good, she adds. Don’t forget water Whether it’s building a pond or just installing a small water feature, you can offer bats somewhere to drink. Water features also attract insects. Many tiny flies favoured by bats start life in water as aquatic larvae. “Make sure you have water because the pollinators and tiny moths that bats eat need water and habitat to survive. We have to think backwards to what the insects are going to need,” says Hick. Keep it dark “Dark sky standard lighting is what we’re looking for to support wildlife, biodiversity and bats in gardens,” says Hick. Avoid using uplighters and don’t flood your outdoor space with light when it is unnatural for it to be there, she advises. “The light pollution interrupts the life cycle of the pollinators and the moths, and that in turn affects the bats. “Of course, light your paths for safety and by all means have your security lights, but consider turning them off at night when you’ve gone inside.” If you want to keep your security lighting on, consider changing your settings to a dimmer light or fit hoods or cowls over them to limit light pollution, the trust suggests. Set up bat boxes “Roosts are really important, so you can add roost boxes which are commonly available, which will be demonstrated in The Nocturnal Garden,” says Hick. Bat boxes are more likely to be used if they are located where bats are known to feed, says the trust. Some bats use a tree line or hedgerow for navigation. Putting boxes near these features may help the bats find the box. And in the smallest spaces… If you have a tiny garden, consider a vertical herb garden or wildlife friendly climbers to use your vertical space, or plant up a variety of pale, open flowered and scented plants in pots. The following information is not intended for publication dpa pa arw

(The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

Turn those chilly nights into sleep-ready bliss with these expert tips. London (PA Media/dpa)  – Brrr…. it only takes a surprise cold snap to remind us there’s nothing more miserable than sleeping in the cold – especially if your bed is far from the safe haven it promised to be. Especially as temperatures dip, diving under the duvet and keeping your feet warm can feel like an uphill struggle against the wintry chill. However, with these expert winter-ready bedding tips and clever hacks, here’s how to make struggling to sleep on frosty nights a thing of the past… Start with the right bedding “When temperatures drop, staying warm at night relies on more than simply adding layers,” says Michael Buckle, head of buying, at UK-based bed manufacturer Dreams. “Modern sleep technology plays a key role in maintaining comfort, he explains. “Advanced materials are now designed to respond to your body’s natural rhythms – absorbing, retaining or releasing heat as needed to keep your temperature steady throughout the night.” This kind of intelligent thermoregulation helps prevent the common cycle of overheating and cooling too quickly, outlines Buckle, which can disrupt sleep. “By choosing winter bedding and mattresses engineered to work with your body, you can create a cosy, consistent sleep environment that supports deep, uninterrupted rest,” advises Buckle. Don’t overlook cooling technology in winter “Although it may seem counter-intuitive, bedding known for its cooling properties can be a real asset in the colder months,” notes Buckle. These fabrics are designed to manage heat gently and efficiently, so instead of trapping too much warmth or letting it escape, they help keep your temperature even, he explains. “When paired with a winter-ready duvet, cooling bedding can provide a comfortable balance that stops you from feeling too hot at first, and too cold later on.” Choose a higher-tog winter duvet A simple seasonal switch can make a big difference, highlights Buckle. “A higher-tog duvet offers better insulation and helps trap warmth without relying on lots of heavy layers. “Combining a winter-appropriate duvet with temperature-responsive bedding creates a cosy environment that keeps you warm without feeling weighed down.” Add adjustable warmth with a heated blanket or throw For those who feel the chill as soon as they get into bed, Buckle says a heated blanket or throw can provide instant comfort. “Pre-warming the bed on a low setting makes slipping in far more inviting, and adjustable controls mean you can reduce the heat once you’re settled. “It’s an easy way to create a snug, relaxing space, while still avoiding overnight overheating,” suggests Buckle. In addition to sleep technology and features such as temperature control, Sammy Margo, sleep expert at Dreams, says there are some simple hacks to help you drift off in slumber. “While a cool room is ideal for helping your body release the sleep-supporting hormone, melatonin, being too cold can have the opposite effect,” warns Margo. “If your body has to work overtime just to stay warm, it becomes harder to relax and drift into deep, uninterrupted sleep – the key is keeping your environment cool while still retaining your own body heat.” Cosy, breathable layers, warming your pyjamas beforehand, creating a little ‘body-heat tent’, and choosing insulating materials can all help you stay comfortably snug, says Margo, “so you can enjoy the benefits of a cool room without the chills.” Pre-warm your bed… and your PJs “If you don’t have a heated blanket or throw, you can still make those first moments in bed wonderfully cosy,” underlines Margo. “Try placing a hot water bottle under the duvet for around 20 minutes before bedtime; it gently warms the space and takes the chill off. “For an extra-snug touch, pop your pyjamas in the dryer for a few minutes beforehand – there’s nothing better than slipping into warm sleepwear on a cold night.” Try the ‘tenting’ trick If the room feels a little bit chilly but you’re trying to avoid cranking the heating up, she says to tuck the edges of your duvet tightly around your body; or underneath the mattress, “trapping your own body heat in, and creating a sleeping-bag-esque cocoon.” Toast your toes As Margo points out, cold feet make your whole body feel chilly. “Wear fuzzy socks or invest in a foot warmer.” “For a quirky twist, some people swear by filling a small sock with rice, microwaving it, and placing it at the foot of the bed,” says Margo. “It stays warm for hours.” Insulate your room and block out drafts Before bed, make sure windows and doors are properly sealed to keep the cold at bay, suggests Margo. “Draught excluders and thick curtains or thermal blinds can help trap warmth where you want it – inside.” Don’t forget the floor either, she says. “Adding a cosy rug can make a surprising difference on chilly nights… just be careful not to overheat the room. “A balanced, well-insulated space is the sweet spot for comfortable sleep.” Try the ‘hat-trick’ on extra-cold nights “It might sound old-fashioned, but wearing a soft beanie to bed really does help on freezing nights,” suggests Margo. “We lose a lot of heat through the head at night, as it’s not covered by a duvet; so keeping it covered can make your whole body feel warmer.” The following information is not intended for publication dpa pa mls

(The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

London (PA Media/dpa)  – Become a stronger and healthier version of you for the year ahead. As we begin thinking about what 2026 might bring, you may have already been thinking about some fitness goals and health-focused resolutions for the year ahead. Building strength could be high on your list, but new research conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Nuffield Health suggests many people are still unsure how to get started. The survey of 2,000 adults in Britain revealed that although 28% of respondents said strength training was their favourite type of workout, 26% said they don’t feel/wouldn’t feel confident using gym equipment, while 34% admitted they feel embarrassed when using it. If you’re eager to experience the benefits of strength training this year but aren’t sure where to begin, Sam Quinn, personal training lead at Nuffield Health, is here to help. Here are his top tips to help make 2026 the year you start strength training – and maintain consistency and progress along the way. Start with bodyweight exercises “If you are starting out as a complete novice, you don’t even necessarily need a gym membership,” says Quinn. “Firstly try some bodyweight exercises – such as squats, core exercises, single leg exercises like lunges or lateral lunges or press-ups – as these are all going to help begin to build fundamental physical strength.” Set short, medium and long-term goals “Having short, medium and long-term goals will help you stay consistent throughout the whole year,” says Quinn. “You might have a long-term goal of deadlifting 100 kilograms, but your short-term goal is that you’re going to make sure that you’re going to get to the gym twice a week. “Then a medium-term goal could be that you’re going to work towards a holiday in April and then will allow yourself to have a rest before going again.” Add some resistance “If you have a gym membership, utilise some of the fixed resistance machines there or just add on some resistance bands to start with,” recommends Quinn. “Then as you become more advanced, move onto the more conventional power lifting-based exercises such as squats, deadlift and bench press.” Don’t do too much too soon “I think the biggest thing that beginners often get wrong is trying to lift too heavy a weight too soon,” says Quinn. “Lifting a really heavy weight with poor technique is going to lead to risk of injury, so gradually increasing the weight overtime and focusing on technique is key. Have rest days “If you don’t have rest and recovery days you are going to experience cognitive and physical fatigue, or you might pick up an injury and won’t be able to achieve your goal,” says Quinn. “So, it’s important to structure your training appropriately and to factor in appropriate rest days, so you let yourself recover properly.” Keep your training fun and varied “It’s important to have variety within your training,” says Quinn. “Keep it varied by training with friends and by trying out different classes, because sticking to a squat, a deadlift and a bench press, for example, will get boring quite quickly.” Have a midpoint review “It’s good to have a long-term goal to work towards, but remember to review your training,” recommends Quinn. “If you haven’t been able to stay consistent with training ask yourself, am I enjoying this training? Is this working for me? How can I change or adapt my training?” Monitor your progress “Sometimes when life gets busy you can forget how far you have come, so make sure that you are monitoring your progress,” advises Quinn. “If you’re looking to deadlift 60 kilograms and start out with just the bar, for example, keep track of your progression. Seeing progress can help give you a bit of confidence boost to keep going.” Think about the mental benefits “Strength training is a massive confidence builder,” says Quinn. “I meet people all the time who are unfit or overweight but as soon as they start training their self-esteem starts to grow. “If you feel strong, you feel more confident. So, strength training can have a massive impact on people’s perception’s of themselves and how they carry themselves.” Consider a personal trainer “Having a qualified personal trainer helps make sure that the exercise is going to be safe and effective,” says Quinn. “There’s so much conflicting information out there, so make sure that you’re getting factual information and a program which is going to be tailored to your ability. “A trainer can also help identify what potential problems you might have and can provide you with an alternative exercise.” Prioritise protein “Alongside your training, try to eat a healthy, balanced diet and make sure that you’re consuming enough protein,” advises Quinn. “Protein helps you recover from exercise, so I would aim for a daily intake of 1.1 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.” The following information is not intended for publication dpa pa mls

(The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)