December, one of the most expensive months of the year, sees a notable spike in household spending, with an average increase of £713, equating to 29% more than typical monthly expenses.
On an individual level, UK residents are estimated to spend around £900 during Christmas, with a significant 28% of this expenditure occurring online.
In response, e-commerce and houseplant experts Beards & Daisies have put together a collection of our expert advice to help you save money at home while staying eco-friendly too, giving your January a fresh and mindful start.
Our Top 7 Planty Savings
Propagate your current houseplants
Propagate your existing houseplants or even swap cuttings with friends for a fun and free activity in January. Plants like Pothos, Spider Plants, and Succulents are especially easy to propagate.
Use kitchen scraps as fertiliser
Instead of throwing away your wastage, save money on fertilisers for your houseplants by using banana peels, eggshells, or even coffee grounds. They’re natural and packed with nutrients that your plants will love.
Make your own pest spray
Instead of purchasing a pest spray, mix water with a few drops of dish soap and a pinch of baking soda for an affordable, effective pest deterrent. Neem oil is another cost-effective, long-lasting solution too!
Water with leftovers
Instead of wasting water, use cooled pasta or vegetable water to hydrate your plants, it’s full of nutrients that can give them a natural boost. Just make sure the water is unsalted, as salt can harm your plants. Additionally, consider using rainwater for an eco-friendly alternative. Leaving containers outside during a downpour is a simple way to collect water for your plants.
Use banana peels for shine
Rub the inside of a banana peel on houseplant leaves to clean and shine them naturally. The oils in the peel help remove dust from plant leaves, leaving a healthy shine. As a bonus, banana peels can also be added to compost, giving it nutrients to support plant growth.
Grow your own herbs
Instead of buying fresh herbs every time you go to the shops, grow your own indoors. Basil, mint, and parsley thrive in small spaces and can save you money at the supermarket. You can also save some herb cuttings to plant more.
Use natural light wisely
Instead of investing in growing lights, move your plants to sunny spots and rotate them regularly for even growth, using your natural light at home.
Our Top 7 House Hacks
Use leftover veggies for DIY broth
Save veggie scraps (like carrot tops, onion peels, and celery ends) in a freezer bag. When full, boil them to create a delicious homemade winter broth instead of buying stock cubes!
Turn candle stubs into wax melts
Melt down all your leftover Christmas candle stubs and pour the wax into small molds or ice cube trays. Use them in a wax warmer for a free fragrance boost at home, perfect for that fresh January.
Freeze bananas for desserts
When bananas get overripe, freeze them! Blend frozen bananas for a creamy, healthy, and free ice cream.
Turn your clutter into cash
Clear out your home by selling items you no longer use or need, especially after all your new Christmas gifts. Online platforms like Vinted and eBay, or local car boot sales, are excellent options for finding new homes for your belongings. The money you make can go toward building your savings.
Make a “fakeaway”
Swap your usual takeaway for a homemade version. You can find plenty of recipes online to recreate your favorite dishes at a fraction of the cost.
Fakeaways are often healthier than takeout too, and if you cook in bulk and freeze the leftovers, you’ll have ready-made meals for the future.
Choose ‘Wonky’ fruit and veg
Many supermarkets offer “wonky” vegetables that might look less perfect but are just as tasty. These options are often more affordable, making them a great choice for budget-friendly shopping.
Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible. Out-of-season fruits and vegetables are often imported, which can drive up their cost.
No spend weekend
Plan a ‘no-spend weekend’ once or twice a month. Skip shopping trips or dining out and try cooking at home, taking a walk, enjoying a movie night, or hosting a games night instead. Set aside the money you would have spent, and you’ll see your savings grow in no time!
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