Watch out for this pretty flower
Green thumbs are being asked to watch out for a beautiful but toxic flower that could be growing in their backyards.
What you need to know:
- Every part of the plant is poisonous, and can cause gastroenteritis, thirst, paralysis, blindness, and heart and kidney failure.
- This plant is hardy and normal pest control efforts are often not enough to eradicate.
- The cape tulip, growing up to 90cm high with one strap-like leaf, was introduced to Aotearoa in the 1940s, the Ministry for Primary Industries’ manager for pest management John Sanson said. “Cape tulips, like many of these invasive weeds, are really attractive ornamental species ...but they escape over people’s backyard fences and into pasture, as these things often do,”
- It was classified as a noxious plant in the late 1970s after they were discovered to cause harm to livestock and humans, even killing animals when too much as ingested.
- The salmon-pink flowers bloom for about two days a year between June and December, and have previously been an ornamental species for keen gardeners.
Sanson urged people who believed they had the weed growing on their property to leave it untouched and contact Biosecurity New New Zealand’s Exotic Pest and Disease on 0800 80 99 66.
Once a site was confirmed, manual removal or chemical treatment would start.
NBLY Conversations: What is the etiquette for bin day?
We think there are unspoken rules for bin day, but are we adhering to the same ones?
Do you think twice about dragging your bin to the pavement in the early hours? Do you mind if neighbours put excess rubbish in your bin? Share your bin day etiquette and let's compare notes!
Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.
The importance of a good night's sleep
Most people know that getting a good night's sleep is important, but few truly understand how vital at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night is.
Getting enough sleep is crucial for both our physical and mental health. It helps to boost our immune system, improves our mood and cognitive function, and reduces stress levels.
The benefits of good sleep on overall health and wellness
There are numerous physical health benefits associated with getting enough sleep.
It can:
boost your immune system.
repair tissue damage.
reduce inflammation.
regulate hormones.
regulate blood sugar levels.
control appetite-stimulating hormones.
improve your skin.
Sleep also plays a vital role in regulating mood and managing stress levels. It can:
reduce stress and anxiety.
improve our concentration and cognitive performance.
Boost your energy levels.
make it easier to cope with difficult situations.
help reduce the risk of developing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
If you're having trouble sleeping, try these tips:
Establish a regular sleep schedule.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.
Avoid screen time before bed.
Make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet.
Take time to relax and clear your mind.
Make sure your bed is comfortable.
In conclusion, prioritizing sleep is one of the most effective ways to enhance your overall health and well-being. By understanding the profound impact that quality sleep has on both your body and mind, and by implementing healthy sleep habits, you can significantly improve your quality of life. So, take that step toward better health tonight by committing to a good night's sleep.
What am I?
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