The summer harvest season has finally begun here in Boston. Near my house, Farmers’ markets are popping up, brimming with fresh greens, ripe strawberries, and luscious radishes. Our first CSA share delivery of the season arrived last week. And my garden has started to cough up a few plump berries and herbs.
Make friends with the farmers My family loves vegetables. The kids love kale chips and fresh strawberries. We all eat sugar snap peas by the fistful. Later in the summer, my husband and I will haul in the tomatoes that are just starting to grow in our yard and make as much salsa as we can.
Since we love vegetables so much, every summer I look for ways to economize on our fresh vegetables. There are two main aspects to this project: getting a good deal on the veggies, and making good use of them.
To get your veggies, you have several options:
Grow Your Own J.D. has written extensively about the benefits, financial and otherwise, of growing a vegetable garden. Growing your own veggies is awesome. The more DIY you can be about it, the better deal you’ll get. For example, I paid about twenty-five cents for a packet of tomato seeds this spring that I grew half a dozen tomato plants from. When a few of them failed to thrive, I bought seedlings from my local garden shop. They cost $4 for a flat of six. Still a lot cheaper than buying fresh tomatoes, but much, much more expensive than starting from seed.
I find that growing your own vegetables is the most economical way to enjoy fresh summer produce, once you have a garden in place. Setting up your garden beds, buying tools and learning the ropes can be pricey the first year. After that, you’re looking at relatively small expenses for a lot of very high-quality produce.
If you have the time to invest in gardening. As one of my gardening guru friends likes to say, you can’t do half the work and get half the benefit. I’m a bit of a slacker gardener, and I still grow great veggies. But I don’t get nearly the haul my friend gets from the same amount of space, because I don’t put as much work into it as she does. I just plant some stuff and let it grow.
Not everyone can maintain a vegetable garden. Some people don’t have the space. Some don’t have the time. Some just really don’t enjoy gardening. If you’re not going to grow your own garden, you may want to get creative about how you buy your veggies.
Sign Up For A CSA A CSA, or community-supported agriculture, is a program where a local farm sells shares of its summer produce directly to consumers. You buy a share for the season, paying up front. Then you get a weekly delivery of vegetables straight from the farm. You’re participating in the fortunes of the farm. If they have a great harvest, you get an abundance of produce at a great price. If it’s a lean growing season, you’ll get less.
It’s a great way to get fresh, local produce, but there are a few caveats.
For one thing, you need to be adventurous in your love of vegetables. You’ll get not only fresh heads of lettuce and juicy tomatoes, but a little of everything your farm grows. Kohlrabi. Brussels sprouts. Garlic. Sometimes we get vegetables in our share that I can’t even identify. This works for me because no one in my house is a particularly picky eater. We like trying new foods, and find a wide variety of vegetables exciting. But if you’d prefer to stick with your two or three favorites, a farm share might not be for you.
In addition to the adventuresome nature of a CSA, you want to be sure a farm share is a good value for you. I’ve experimented with several CSAs over the years. I found that they vary widely in value. They all cost different amounts, and you get different quantities of vegetables. Find out what the rough size of your share will be each week and do some math to compare those prices to your local farmer’s market or grocery store. Are you really getting the better deal?
The answer seems to be “usually”. Organic CSAs tend to be more expensive than conventional ones, but also a better bargain: you pay less for your organic produce getting it from a CSA than you would buying it at Whole Foods. At least in my neighborhood. Again, each farm share varies. The important thing is to do the math. Don’t assume it’s a good deal just because you’re getting it in bulk.
For a farm share to be a really good deal, you have to be sure you’ll use your full share of veggies each week. It’s like buying anything in bulk: it’s only a bargain if you use it. Seriously consider how many vegetables your family will eat, and how much time you’re willing to spend preparing and preserving your goodies. A farm share is a big commitment. If you let the produce go to waste, you’re wasting your grocery money as well.
Shop Farmers’ Markets Farmers’ markets aren’t exactly a cheap source of summer produce, but they’re still often a great value. You may pay a little more for your food at a farmers’ market than you would at the local supermarket, but you’re getting much fresher, higher-quality produce. Often you’ll get things you just can’t find in the store.
To get the best deals at your farmers’ market, get to know the farmers who sell there each week. Ask about buying seconds quality produce, like bruised peaches or tomatoes. They’re not as pretty as the premium stuff, but they make great jams and sauces.
However you decide to get your summer produce, you’ll want to take care with how you use it. Getting a good deal on fruit and vegetables is just the first part of the equation. Next week I’ll talk about money-saving strategies for using and preserving your summer bounty so you can enjoy it all year long.
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Have you ever gone over your budget only to find you’ve overspent on food? With food being the third-highest household expense behind housing and transportation, our food choices have a huge impact on our budget.
Learning how to budget groceries can help you save more to put toward your financial goals. Here are 28 ways to help you learn how to budget groceries.
1. Track current spending
Before you figure out what you should be spending on food, it’s important to figure out what you are spending on food. Keep grocery store receipts to get a realistic picture of your current spending habits. It might help to break down spending by category (via a spreadsheet or on paper), including beverages, produce, etc. Once you’ve done this, you can get an idea of where you need to trim down your grocery bill.
2. Allocate a percentage of your income
How much each household spends on food varies based on income and how many people need to be fed. Consider using our budget calculator if you’re not sure where to start. Try allocating 10% of your income to food as a starting point and then you can increase from there.
3. Avoid eating out
Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows a 13% increase in food spending in the U.S. — a jump driven by rising purchases on dining out. Avoiding eating out where possible can help reduce your overall food spending. If you’re actively dating or enjoy restaurants with friends, be sure to factor eating away from home into your food budget — and stick to your limit.
4. Plan your meals
It’s much easier to stick to a budget when you have a plan. Plus, having a purpose for each grocery item you buy may help ensure nothing goes to waste or just sits in your pantry unused. Don’t be afraid of simple salads or meatless Mondays — not every meal has to be a gourmet experience.
5. Keep a fridge grocery list
Keep a magnetized grocery list on your fridge so that you can replace items as needed. This can help you buy food you know you’ll eat. Sticking to a list in the grocery store may help you stay accountable and not spend money on processed or pricey items.
6. Eat before you go to the store
If your mother gave you this advice growing up, she was onto something: according to studies, shoppers spend more when hungry. Eating before going to the grocery store may help you avoid tantalizing foods that can cause you to go overbudget.
7. Be careful with coupons
Getting 50% off ketchup is a great deal — unless you don’t need ketchup. Beware of coupons for items you don’t need. If the item isn’t on your list, you’re not saving at all, but rather spending on something you don’t truly need.
8. Embrace the bulk section
The bulk section of your grocery store may help you find inexpensive staples, discover new foods and bring variety into your diet. Take the time to compare the price of prepackaged goods versus bulk — bulk is likely cheaper.
9. Bring lunch to work
Picture this: you’re trying to stick to a food budget, and one day at work you realize it’s lunchtime but you forgot to pack a lunch. All the meal planning and smart shopping in the world won’t help if you don’t have food when you need it.
10. Love your leftovers
Instead of throwing your leftovers away, try to eat them to avoid wasting money. To keep things interesting, look for ways to repurpose foods — yesterday’s leftover taco meat can become today’s shepherd’s pie.
11. Keep an inventory
Keeping a list on your fridge of what you have on hand can help you avoid food waste and get creative when meal planning. And it’s a great way to get the most use out of grocery items that are sold larger quantities than you need for a single recipe. Not sure what to do with that giant bunch of celery or box of spinach you have left over from another recipe? Try out some online recipe blogs or sites that offer recipe ideas based off a few ingredients you input.
12. Freeze foods that are going bad
Another way to avoid wasting food is to freeze things that look like they’re about to go bad. Fruit that’s past its prime can be frozen and used in smoothies. Make double batches of soups, sauces and baked goods so you’ll have an alternative to ordering takeout when you don’t feel like cooking.
13. Use curbside pickup
About 29% of shoppers admitted that seeing an item that looked too good to pass up led to impulse purchases. Using curbside pickup can help prevent you from purchasing unplanned items.
14. Check the top and bottom shelves
Wise grocery stores know that eye level is where the most sales happen. In fact, consumers select about 80% more products at eye level than at the bottom shelf. So next time you’re out shopping, take a quick look up and down — you may find a better deal hidden out of sight.
Additional grocery saving tips
Need more ideas on how to save on your food bill? Here are some additional tips that can help.
Choose generic — One survey found that 50% of people said opting for generic products over name brand helped them save on groceries.
Drink more water — Recent data found that 17% of consumers cut back on purchasing beverages at the store due to rising inflation. Drinking more water may help you save what you would’ve otherwise spent on beverages.
Pay with cash — Try going to the grocery store with cash — and only what you’ve budgeted for. Leave your credit or debit card at home. After all, you can’t spend what you can’t pay for.
Buy what’s in season — Food prices can vary depending on whether they are in season or not. When foods are out of season, they may be scarce — and therefore more expensive. Try to stick to buying foods that are in season.
Grow your own herbs — Herbs at your local grocery store might sometimes be expensive. Growing your own is one way to cut back on your grocery bill.
Plan a meatless meal — Beef prices increased for three years straight from 2020 to 2022, and the USDA predicts other meat categories will rise in price in 2023. By planning a meatless meal every so often, you may be able to save some money on your grocery bill.
Buy cheaper cuts of meat — Not all cuts of meat cost the same. You may be able to save money by choosing chicken thighs over chicken breasts, ground chuck over sirloin and pork loin over pork chops.
Ask for a discount — This won’t always work, but if you notice your food is close to expiring, ask the cashier for a discount. You may be able to save yourself a few dollars.
Learn how to preserve food — If you have some fruit that’s going bad in your home, you may be able to preserve it by making and canning jam. Hopefully the more food you can save in your home, the less you’ll need to buy at the store.
Keep a running tally while you shop — Jotting down the prices of items you put in your cart or quickly crunching the numbers in your phone’s calculator can help you stay more aware of how much you’re spending.
Buy canned food — Canned food is often less expensive than fresh foods, so buying canned could stretch your food budget.
Shop sales — If you notice a food you often eat goes on sale, stock up if you have room in your budget. While you may spend more than you normally would up front, you’ll save yourself from having to purchase the item at full price in the future.
Use rebate apps — Some apps provide cash back on certain purchases. Check to see if the items you need to buy at your next shopping trip may qualify.
Sign up for your store’s loyalty program — Some grocery stores have points or loyalty programs that can provide you with extra discounts when you shop.
Bottom line
Sticking to a food budget can take planning and discipline. However, learning how to budget groceries by being resourceful and cooking healthily is a skill that can benefit you for years to come.
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Eating cheap is easy. Given $10 to buy ingredients for a meal for four, even the most hopeless home cook could whip up grilled cheese and tomato soup or a simple spaghetti-and-meatballs combo.
But putting together a gourmet dinner for under $10 is more challenging. So we asked food and finance bloggers, as well as home cooks, to send in their best suggestions. (We’ve shared them below with recipe details, or, where available, linked to their blogs.)
Now Frugal Foodie has a challenge you: what’s your best super-cheap yet gourmet meal? Post it in the comments, and don’t forget to “like” your favorite submissions.
(All cost estimates are based on non-sale New York City supermarket prices. If it’s a cheap meal inNYC, we figure cooks in most other places in the country will spend even less. Prices are also adjusted for quantity: if a recipe calls for half an onion, you’ll probably find something to do with the other half. Finally, estimates don’t take into account basic ingredients you likely already have, like flour, olive oil or dried spices.)
One Pan Chicken and Rice
by Hilary Allard of Sliced and Diced
Cost: $5.73, or $1.43 per serving.
Allard’s sauté uses one pot and is finished in the oven, minimizing dishes as well as cost. Even better, cooks can swap out Mexican flavors (black beans, cumin, scallions and tomatoes with green chilies) for Indian and Mediterranean variations without affecting their bottom line.
Caramelized Cauliflower Fritatta
by Michael Natkin of Herbivoracious
Cost: $7.08, or $1.77 per serving
Fresh herbs give Natkin’s frittata zing, but can make a big dent in the budget if you’re not already growing your own. (Those who are would pay just $5.59, or $1.40 per serving, and be able to include as many types of fresh herbs as Natkin suggests instead of using just a $1.49 bunch of parsley, as we calculated.)
Monday Spinach Rice Medley
by Katie Clark and Telly Kousakis of More Dough Than Dollars
Cost: $7.15, or $1.79 per serving
Inspired by a kitchen cleanout project, Clark’s meatless dish could easily be upgraded for a few dollars more by adding cooked, sliced sausage (her suggeston).
Strawberry Chicken Salad
by Frugal Foodie of Mint.com
Cost: $8.49, or $2.12 per serving
Marinate a pound of chicken in a little olive oil, lemon juice and ground black pepper. Grill until cooked through, slice and set aside to cool. Tear up a head of romaine, and top with the chicken, sliced strawberries and a slices avocado. For a dressing, puree some of the remaining strawberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar (or alternately, a splash of olive oil and lemon juice) and some black pepper.
Venetian Chicken
by Nina Hoffman of RecipeLion.com
Cost: $8.95, or $2.24 per serving
Go ahead and buy a bottle of wine to add the optional two tablespoons in this slow cooker meal. You’re saving enough cash to justify the splurge.
Classic Turkey Chili
Maris Callahan of In Good Taste
Cost: $8.96, or $2.24 per serving.
Another great one-pot meal, Callahan’s chili could also be prepared in a slow cooker for a super-easy weekday dinner. Prepare it to your taste with different veggies and spices.
Polenta Pie
by Julie Arnheim of Rubbing Nickels
Cost: $9.58, or $2.40 per serving.
Ground turkey, polenta and fresh herbs are the most expensive ingredients in this take on shepherd’s pie, but you can economize further by preparing your own polenta (saves $2).
Cuban Shredded Beef
by Art Ginsberg of MrFood.com
Cost: $9.60, or $2.40 per serving
Shred this slow-cooked beef dish before serving it over rice or on a roll. (Frugal Foodie’s mom makes a version of this that subs out the green bell pepper for a few sliced white mushrooms.)
The key to this kicky dish: a spicy Asian-style marinade. Substitute peanuts for the pine nuts, or eliminate the nuts altogether to cut $3 from the bill.
Taco Salad Bar
Jenetta Lea Penner of Frugal Freebies and Deals
Cost: $9.98, or $2.50 per serving
A family friendly taco bar can easily come in at less than $10, especially if you’re shopping the sales for ingredients, Penner says. Her picks for this version: ground beef (browned at home in your choice of spices), a tomato (chopped), cheddar (bought in block form and grated), a head of lettuce (torn), a can of black beans (drained and warmed) and a jar of salsa. It’s enough that you’ll probably have leftovers, too.
Frugal Foodie is a journalist based in New York City who spends her days writing about personal finance and obsessing about what she’ll have for dinner. Chat with her on Twitter through @MintFoodie.
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How to Use Grains for Hearty, Healthy & Cheap Meals
A deck in your apartment offers a multitude of advantages, from enhancing your living experience to providing an outdoor sanctuary where you can relax, entertain and enjoy the beauty of nature. We’ve compiled 11 reasons a deck can elevate your living experience and some ideas to utilize this versatile space.
1. An extra space to decorate for holidays
Creativity through decoration is one of the most fun parts of being a renter. A deck is an extension of your apartment and serves as an extra place to show the holiday spirit. Whether that be Christmas lights on the railing or a Menorah in the window, a deck is a unique opportunity to get creative around celebratory holiday decorations.
2. And a comfy place to entertain all summer
When the weather is nice, hosting an outdoor get-together is ideal. A deck offers a spot to host a wine night, grill-off or catch-up session with a friend. With cozy seating on the deck, an inviting atmosphere sets the stage for making memories and charming guests.
3. A people-watching spot
We’re all guilty of doing it, and for some, it’s a guilty pleasure. Seated in your own privacy on your deck, you’re able to soak up not only the sounds of the area below but the sights. Decks allow you to indulge in people-watching and observing the vibrant energy of the neighborhood you’re living in.
4. A place to spend time with your pets outdoors
Our furry friends mean so much to us and enhance our lives in countless ways. Balconies help enhance their lives too, providing a dedicated space where they can soak up vitamin D and play to their heart’s content. Additionally, the deck becomes a cozy spot where you can cuddle up with your pet, enjoying precious moments together in the fresh air.
5. Date night in your outdoor oasis
Spending time with your significant other is valuable time. Date nights are pricey and discovering new spots is tricky. A deck date night is a creative and cozy way to drink, dine and enjoy the presence of your person without ever leaving your apartment.
6. Gardening opportunities
If you have a green thumb or aspire to grow your own veggies and herbs, a deck addition is perfect for you. Between growing flowers to brighten your day or herbs to bring life to a meal, the growing opportunities are vast with a deck. Plus, you’ll enjoy the fragrant herb smells while you hang out outside.
7. Grilling and dining al fresco
Communal apartment grills are super popular, especially during warmer months. Skip the wait and utilize your apartment balcony to grill out and dine al fresco. An apartment with a deck easily transforms to your own private outdoor culinary haven with a grill and dining area.
8. Soak up the sun privately
Don’t have enough time to head down to the pool? Just want to enough a quick cup of coffee before you head to work? A deck solves these problems for renters, providing a convenient space for a quick sunbathing or a peaceful moment of relaxation.
9. Exercise and fitness space
Fitness classes are great outdoors. With most at-home workout classes and routines only requiring a small bit of space, an apartment deck serves as a perfect spot for a stretch. Also, the privacy provided by your apartment deck allows you to freely move and follow along with your workout without feeling restricted by crowded gyms or shared spaces.
10. Staycation escape
Utilizing your deck to escape and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature can really boost mental health, elevate your mood and enhance your overall living experience. Whether you want to stargaze, lose yourself in a book series or just take a breath of fresh air, recharging and reconnecting on your deck is easy.
11. Connecting with nature
There is an endless list of ways to connect with nature on your apartment deck. Installing birdfeeders, watching the sunrise and sunset, outdoor meditation and installing wind chimes are some of the ways renters can connect with the sights and sounds of the outdoors.
An amenity in the comfort of your own home
A deck enhances apartment living by providing a private outdoor space for relaxation, entertainment and connection with nature. It expands your living space and offers endless possibilities for personalization and enjoyment.
With a deck, you can fully embrace the joys of outdoor living while enjoying the convenience and comfort of apartment life. Ready to search for apartments with this perk? Start your apartment-hunting journey today!
A house that smells nice is always more inviting, enhances one’s mood and makes staying indoors much more comfortable and relaxing. The easiest way too make your home smell nice is with the use of common air freshener products that you’ll find at retail and general stores, supermarkets and malls.
Unfortunately, these types of air fresheners consist of lots and lots of harmful and toxic chemicals — that have been documented to be hazardous to humans. These chemicals and toxins lead to a number of adverse health effects such as asthma attacks, migraines, infant illness, breathing difficulty and mucosal symptoms.
So instead, we would suggest that you get yourself a natural air freshener, one which is obviously made from natural ingredients that haven’t been altered by human hands. That or some other alternatives, which we’ve taken the liberty of listing down in this article. Not only will they leave your home smelling fresh, but they’ll also help improve your overall health as well.
Natural air freshener alternatives
Pottpourri
How many of us had wondered what those colorful bowls of leaves and flower petals were at our grandparents’ or relatives’ houses when we were young? Some of us even assumed that they were a piece of decoration to liven up living rooms and bedrooms.
Well, as a matter of fact, they do make living spaces look attractive as well as fill a particular area with fresh scents, making them incredibly versatile.
The method behind potpourri is by far one of the easiest way to freshen the air in your home. It can be made using a slew of fresh-smelling ingredients like flowers, citrus slices, as well as spices like cloves and cinnamon, depending on which types of smells you find most comforting. And the quickest way to make a potpourri mix is usually in the oven.
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All you have to do is pick out your favorite aromatic flowers like marigolds, roses, and chamomile, and then have them placed on parchment paper inside an oven set to 275° Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. For thicker pieces like oranges and lemons, they’ll have to be placed for at least 2 hours, though the level of their thickness may vary. You can even add some essential oils to make the smells last longer.
Essential oils
Essential oils are nature’s very own deodorizers, without all the nasty hidden harmful chemicals and ingredients that are used in commercial products. Essential oils are actually compounds that are extracted from plants. Each plant comes with its own unique aromatic essence.
Better yet, you can use these oils to make your very own air freshener. You can apply this type of air freshener on either your sofa or a rug, preferably where you usually have your guests hang around. Here are three easy steps on how to make air freshener:
Gather ingredients and materials: First, pick out the essential oils you need from your favorite smelling plants or flowers. Then get a spray bottle that can hold about 8 oz of liquid in it, some distilled water, a funnel and two tablespoons of rubbing alcohol or 60-plus proof vodka.
Combine the ingredients: Now mix the ingredients together.
Give it a good shake and start spring: essential oils have a habit of floating to the top of the water, so it’s always good to shake the spray bottle before spraying any area in your house.
There are a variety of natural air freshener spray recipes that you can try out, including lemon basil, tea tree eucalyptus, lavender chamomile, orange rose, or citrus lavender among others.
Pomander balls
Pomander balls have been in use since the medieval times to get rid of putrid smells and are quite easy to make. You need nothing more than some oranges with firm skin, and then some cloves that you can stud the fruit within whatever pattern you choose, doubling it as an adorable decor for your house.
To make the scent more profound, you can also roll pomander balls in other spices like ground nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon.
Baking soda
Baking soda is another amazing natural deodorizer that deserves an honorable mention on our list. It also effectively hides pungent odors, especially if you place it in a small, open jar in cupboards, the fridge, or even the bathroom. You can even mix baking soda with other essential oils or dried flowers like lavender and rose to accentuate and elongate the aroma.
Indoor herb garden
Whenever fresh, home-grown herbs are being used for cooking, not only does it help make the food delicious, but it also leaves the kitchen smelling great too.
You’ll find that most culinary herbs are pretty easy to grow indoors. In fact, a kitchen herb garden will immediately cover the entire space with a pleasant fragrance. Besides the kitchen, you can also place these herbs in other rooms where awful odors are quite common.
Simmer pots
Another way to make your house smell better is by using simmering citrus like limes and lemons along with several herbs such as rosemary or mint. The aromatic scents of simmering pots are enough to envelop the entire house, like how someone cooks a scrumptious meal in the kitchen.
You can experiment with a number of fresh-smelling herbs, spices, and fruits that you can add to your simmer pot. If you don’t know where to start, consider the combination of vanilla, rosemary, and lemon, which is the ideal mix of fresh and sweet.
Fragrant flowers
Flowers are a staple choice for natural home deodorizers. They keep your house smelling great as well as add a touch of decor with their pristine colors. If you want, you can even grow fragrant flowers indoors and outdoors, provided you give them the proper care they need all throughout the year. And what better way to get a plot where you have enough space for your flowers outside just like new homes in Brampton (Ontario’s “flower capital”)) have. You can check out further on this website.
Some of the best choices that you can opt for in flowers include jasmines and scented orchids. Scented orchids are versatile in both fragrance and color while jasmines offer a sweet aroma when they bloom at night.
Besides that, other scented indoor garden plants include peonies and hyacinths that can thrive using the right conditions. To acquire the best results, use a high-quality potting soil and then fertilize the plants using an organic, flower-enhancing fertilizer.
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Grab a little green space at your own Portland apartment.
Portland is full of so much natural beauty and is a truly great place to live. While what you can see from the amenity-filled rooftops of each apartment building is important, there are other features to consider when apartment hunting.
Whether a massive fitness center tops your list, or you need a place that’s pet-friendly, make sure to take some time to explore the outdoor space before settling on a Portland apartment. From manicured gardens to landscaped courtyards, these areas can make a big difference.
To get a running start on the prettiest courtyards and gardens in Portland, start with this list. We’ve curated some of your best options right here.
Source: Rent. / Tupelo Alley
Creating an inviting entry into the community, Tupelo Alley does landscaping right. Neatly cropped shrubs sit in elevated beds off the ground and add a layer of texture and depth to the outdoor space here.
Set within the trendy Northeast Portland neighborhood, living here puts you close to coffee shops, popular restaurants and boutiques. There are also plenty of breweries and even botanical gardens to explore. Quirky and hip, with a monthly street fair, this is a piece of Portland where there’s always something fun happening.
Source: Rent. / Waterhouse Place
More than just a basic garden or courtyard, prepare for some ‘wow’ from the greenery at Waterhouse Place. Landscaping is everywhere, with clipped grass, blooming flowers and leafy trees. A nice mix of natural elements gives the green space depth and creates a tranquil escape. Well-established walking paths make it easy to explore everything the grounds here have to offer.
Located just a few miles away in Beaverton, you’ll find a little suburbia mixed with the eclectic charm of a bustling Main Street. What stands out most, though, are the city’s 100+ parks that encompass over 1,000 acres. There are 30 miles of hiking trails combined and a 25-mile network of bike paths all within the area. This puts a park within a half mile of every home in the neighborhood. That’s not even to mention the beaches, ski slopes and forests that border the area.
Source: Rent. / Mercato Grove
When it’s hard to relax, you need a dedicated spot. Swing into the garden patio at Mercato Grove, and all your cares will melt away. Sit on the rocks beside the gently rippling zen pool, or just enjoy the peace of the greenery that surrounds you. This is the garden where de-stressing is the standard.
Less than 10 miles outside of Portland, this Lake Oswego community is a great suburban retreat. With a 405-acre lake at its center, much of the area’s recreational activities have something to do with water. There are also plenty of shops full of trendy items, uniquely Portland restaurants and off-the-wall boutiques.
Source: Rent. / Asa Flats & Lofts
A sweet little courtyard that’s perfect for taking a seat and enjoying some downtime is what you’ll find at Asa Flats and Lofts. Long flower beds hold a variety of plant life, while tall trees fill in the corners of the space. Ample seating, either on a couch or at a four-top table, makes it easy to gather with friends to hang out.
For the best in urban living in Portland, the Pearl neighborhood is where you want to be. Here you’ll find the StreetCar just outside, so getting around is a breeze. The community is also surrounded by popular restaurants, shops, art galleries, breweries and entertainment venues, so there’s no shortage of fun when it comes to filling a night out on the town.
Source: Rent. / Harrison Square
Not exactly a courtyard, but the central walkway through Harrison Square has some potential. This is thanks to the lush greenery and soaring canopies that fill the nicely landscaped space. Pass by big flowering bundles and nice greenery as you walk along this lawn-like space going to and from your apartment. This courtyard setting even offers enough room to bring out a blanket and picnic.
You’ll find this Portsmouth community in a prime location. Sitting on Portland’s peninsula, you’re within blocks of the Willamette River and Smith Lake. There are also plenty of beautiful parks with picnic and play areas, sports fields and tennis courts. McCoy Park also features an interactive fountain and a variety of public art pieces. Even the benches are sculpted to look like fish and woodland creatures.
Source: Rent. / Center Plaza
Carefully shaped bushes, rows of vivid flowers and tall, vibrant trees make up the courtyard-like area at Center Plaza. With a sidewalk winding through the area, this space creates one border for this Beaverton community. Classic lampposts even make it a usable space as the sun sets.
Considered a more relaxed neighborhood, Central Beaverton is home to the local Farmers Market. This is a great place to enjoy the outdoors while picking up fresh flowers, produce, bread and more. You’re also close to the Town Square where you’ll find great shopping. In addition, local parks provide picnic tables, a splash fountain and even a boardwalk stretching across nearby wetlands.
Source: Rent. / The Alexander Apartments
Giving you natural beauty in an urban setting, The Alexander Apartments offers residents access to this great, organic garden. Raised beds house all kinds of herbs and vegetables, growing tall and strong.
You’ll find gardens like this one throughout the Buckman neighborhood. They help provide ingredients for many of the local restaurants in this modern-historic part of town. Many of these eateries are within walking distance. Eclectic coffee shops and cool entertainment venues also populate this part of Portland.
Source: Rent. / Powell Gardens
Living up to its name, with a massive courtyard area, Powell Gardens leaves no space without a touch of greenery. Bird baths and benches sit throughout the region, with large round bushes and wide-stretching trees. It’s an environment that immediately softens the rough edges of one’s day, providing a soothing space to sit or walk through, all while just steps from your front door.
A bit boho and trendy, the Richmond neighborhood is a mix of high-end restaurants and food carts. You’ll find cocktail and wine bars among vintage boutiques. There’s also a popular independent theater that shows films and hosts a variety of community events. If you’re looking for a lively part of Portland, this is the spot for you.
Source: Rent. / North Hollow
For a more modern take on an apartment courtyard, check out North Hollow. There’s not a lot of greenery here, but the sleek look of the funky furniture creates a very inviting and sophisticated space. Planter boxes fill out the borders, but the main attraction is the large fireplace ensconced in metallic silver and black matte.
You’ll find this community in Goose Hollow, Portland’s oldest neighborhood. It’s within walking distance of Downtown, so you can’t beat the location. Full of hilly streets, this area offers up amazing views. One of the local gems, Washington Park, contains 80 miles of hiking trails, 10,000 rose bushes in the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden. From here, you can get a panoramic view of Downtown Portland. Now who wouldn’t want that?
Source: Rent. / Hassalo on Eighth
There are actually multiple courtyards within Hassalo on Eighth. Some are for gaming, like this great green space. Pops of bright orange draw the eye to the cornhole lawn as well as the covered seating area behind it. Mature trees maintain the natural barrier from one side of the buildings to help you focus on being outdoors.
Another courtyard within this Northwest Portland community is where everyone goes when it’s time to dine alfresco. Two gas grills and a prep area sit alongside a long dining table. More stonework than green space, the path here leads to a little bit of manicured grass and a row of cropped ground cover, so there’s always greenery nearby.
Find your personal garden oasis in Portland
Good luck in your quest to find the perfect Portland apartment for you. Remember to keep track of the amenities you want, and those you can’t live without.
And, don’t forget to pay attention to what the outdoor space looks like in your favorite places. You wouldn’t want to miss out on having one of the best gardens in Portland in your next home.
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Frugal green living is important for everyone because environmental issues affect all of us, not just the people who can afford to be eco-conscious.
Plus the concept of frugal green means you are saving money! And that is always helpful.
This is why I created this blog, to help people save money, find financial freedom, and have choices in life.
Reducing your carbon footprint is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and the planet.
But how do you save money while also making a difference? It’s possible!
This is why choosing to be frugal green is so important!
These are all frugal ways that I have personally done or heard of other people doing as well. They are tried-and-true methods of living a more frugal life, and I hope that you will find them helpful. Plus help the environment at the same time.
This is a win-win situation.
Have you ever wondered how to be environmentally friendly?
Do you want to save money and the environment at the same time?
This article has 91+ frugal green living tips that will help! Let me know which ones are your favorites!
How to save money and be frugal green?
There are many ways to be frugal green and save money while helping the environment.
Plus in the long run living green costs less.
We will cover ideas for your kitchen, car, shopping and so much more. There are many other ways to be frugal green, so find what works best for you and make a difference!
These are ways to live more sustainably while saving money.
Importance of Sustainability and the Environment
You can save money and help the environment without making any major changes to your lifestyle.
Some easy ways to do this include, but are not limited to, changing your habits at home, buying used instead of new, and being more conscious about how you use energy.
Every day you can make the decision to choose to be a thrifty person.
Top 10 Best Frugal Green Living Tips
In order to save money and be more environmentally friendly, try some of these tips:
1. Reduce your use of plastics. This means bringing your own bags to the grocery store, refusing straws when you order drinks, and not using disposable utensils or plates.
2. Make Recycling a Priority. Recycling is important, and everyone should do their part to make it a part of their everyday routine. It’s not just for plastics and paper- there are many different things that can be recycled. By taking small steps like bringing a reusable coffee mug, we can all make a big difference in the long run.
3. Ride a bike or walk instead of driving. Not only is this better for the environment, but it’s also a great way to get some exercise.
4. Do the “green thing” and buy things secondhand! When you’re considering your lifestyle choices, buying things secondhand is a great way to do the “green thing.” You can save money and help reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills.
5. Only buy what you need. Many times we buy things out of convenience or wants. Truly evaluate whether the purchase is necessary or if you can save money by buying used.
6. Compost as much as possible. Not only does this help reduce waste, but it also helps create nutrient-rich soil for plants.
7. Consider your carbon footprint. Americans use a tremendous amount of resources and impact the planet in many ways. We consume a lot of energy, materials, and water. Our lifestyles have a big environmental impact. There are many ways to be frugal and environmentally conscious, including recycling and reducing food waste.
8. Cut Out Paper and Plastic Waste. One way to be more frugal and green is to reduce the amount of paper and plastic waste you produce. Technology has greatly improved in many ways to cut down on plastic and paper consumption, so take advantage.
9. Think Before You Throw Away and Buy New. We are way too quick to toss things and replace them without even thinking. Next time before you throw it into the landfill, think about how you can reuse, repurpose, or give away the item.
10. Upcycle. The concept of upcycling has gained popularity in the past years. It is a simple way of taking something ugly and worn down, putting some TLC into it, and making it into something beautiful.
Related Reading: Top 10 Influential Frugal Living Tips with a Big Impact
Being frugal and being environmentally conscious may not always go hand in hand.
In some cases, you may have to make a choice between buying an eco-friendly item that is more expensive or sticking with a cheaper, non-sustainable option.
However, many of the aims of frugal families link to eco-friendly living.
Below are simple sustainable products to consider buying instead of their wasteful counterpart.
Reusable food bags are a great way to reduce your environmental impact while also saving money.
There are a variety of different types of food grade eco-friendly bags on the market today. They are made of safe, eco-friendly materials that will not harm the environment and they are lead-free, chloride-free, and BPA free.
Bamboo straws are a great eco-friendly alternative to plastic straws.
They are compostable, meaning they will never pollute the environment or harm animals. Bamboo straws are odorless and tasteless, so you can use them with any drink. Reusable bamboo straws make a great addition to your everyday kitchen supplies.
These dish cloths are also super absorbent and work better than microfiber cloths and paper towels for cleaning.
They are made from cellulose, which is a soft material that is gentle on your hands. They can be used for a variety of tasks, such as dishwashing, wiping down counters, and polishing furniture. And they are durable enough to be reused multiple times.
A reusable K-cup is a great way to reduce your environmental impact while enjoying your favorite cup of joe.
Works perfectly in our house! Not only do they help you save money in the long run, but they also allow you to customize your coffee experience like never before. Plus, using a reusable k-cup is an easy way to reduce waste and help preserve our planet.
Frugal Green in the Kitchen & Table
There are a number of ways to save money and be frugal green in your kitchen.
Use a Reusable Coffee Mug. So simple and easy to do. Pick your favorite up here.
Skip plastic straws. This is a simple thing to do for the environment. Buy reusable straws. And don’t forget the cleaning brush (hint… the cleaning brush will save you from throwing away your reusable straws.)
Skip the Paper Plates and Plastic Utensils. You will be shocked to see the waste this creates. Invest in quality dishes you like and don’t be afraid to wash them up.
Invest in a Water Filter. If you’re looking for ways to improve your diet and save money, consider investing in a water filter. We upgraded to an under-the-sink mount water filter and it was the BEST choice ever! This is the exact one we bought.
Cook at Home. Making your own meals can save you a lot of money in the long run. You’ll be surprised at how much money you can save by cooking simple meals yourself.
Grow a Kitchen Garden. One way to reduce your food costs is to grow some of your own fruits and vegetables. You can start with a kitchen garden, which is a small plot of land near your house where you can plant fruits, vegetables, and herbs. if you don’t have space, check out these Aerogardens.
Stop Using Plastic Wrap. To reduce your reliance on plastic wrap is to invest in some beeswax food wraps. These work just as well as plastic wrap, but because they’re made of natural materials, you can reuse them over and over again!
Air dry dishes. This is because air-drying dishes use less energy than running a dishwasher and takes up less time.
Stick With Instant Pot. When you’re cooking, try to use a microwave or pressure cooker instead of your oven. Ovens produce a lot of heat and use up a lot of energy, so using these other appliances will help conserve resources. This is the Instant Pot/Air Fryer Combo I love (and use ALL.THE.TIME)!
Frugal Green Cooking & Menu Plan
This may not seem as environmentally conscious as other areas, however, it will help your wallet more.
Buy produce at the local market. Fruits and vegetables tend to be cheaper at the market than they are at the grocery store, so this is a great way to save some cash while also doing your part for the environment. Plus you save on the costs of trucking in the produce and support local.
Join a CSA. These community-supported agricultures have become popular ways for consumers to buy local and seasonal food directly from the farm. You normally have a dollar amount buy-in or a certain number of hours worked for food.
Enjoy Organic Foods. Organic foods may be worth the extra cost – organic food has a higher nutritional value than conventional food, plus it’s better for the environment because it doesn’t require pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
Go Meatless. Americans, on average, eat twice the recommended amount of meat. Meat production is one of the leading causes of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Consider your carbon footprint when making dietary decisions.
Shop Grocery Weekly Ads. Start by looking out for food sales at the grocery store. This can help you save money while also being more mindful of the environmental impact your food choices have.
Meal Plan. One great way to save money on groceries is to plan your meals ahead of time. This allows you to be more strategic in your shopping and can help you avoid buying items that you don’t need.
Use Leftovers. When you’re cooking a meal, always cook a little more than you need. This way, you’ll have leftovers that can be used to make another meal or stored in a glass jar for later use.
Pantry Challenge Time! One way to save money on your groceries is to consider doing a pantry cleanse. This means eating all the foods in your pantry that are sitting there. Then, only buy groceries that you know you’ll use. This can help you avoid overspending and wasting food.
Skip Pre-Made or Boxed Mixes. Making your own is a more affordable option, as pre-made or boxed mixes can be expensive. There are many recipes online that are healthy and affordable, and by planning ahead you can save time and money.
Shop the Perimeter of the Grocery Store. A lot of people want to save money and be more environmentally friendly, but don’t know where to start. One way to do both is to try to stick to the perimeter of the grocery store. This means avoiding the center aisles, where most processed foods and extra packaging are found.
Buy Generic Brands. Generic brands are less expensive than their name-brand counterparts. This is because generic brands do not have the same marketing and advertising costs as name-brand products. Many times the quality is the same or better!
Key Frugal Green Ideas While Shopping
These are environmentally friendly ways to improve your shopping habits. Many people may call this frugal minimalism.
Donate First. It’s easy to just dispose of something when it’s no longer needed, but sometimes that thing could be reused or recycled. For example, if you have an old TV that isn’t being used, try selling it or donating it before throwing it away. There are a lot of people who might need your old TV, and you can get some money for it if you sell it.
Buy Refurbished. On the other hand, if you’re in the market for a new TV, think about buying one that is refurbished instead of buying a brand-new one. Refurbished electronics often come with the same warranty as new ones and cost way less than buying a brand-new model.
Try Fixing First. Just because something is broken doesn’t mean you have to throw it away! Many times, things can be fixed very easily and cheaply. If your electronic device is leaking toxic chemicals, however, you should definitely not try to fix it yourself–take it to a professional recycler instead.
Reuse your own grocery bags. This will save both money and the environment, as disposable grocery bags often end up in landfills. Also, many stores are now charging for grocery bags, so save a few bucks at the store.
Do not buy new books. You can borrow books from the library or from friends, or you can buy them used. Buying new books wastes resources, and it’s often cheaper to buy them used.
Use the Library. The library has a wealth of books, movies, and music that you can borrow for free. Plus you can find access to tons of digital resources as well.
Shop Second-Hand Stores for your needs. These are great places to find clothes, furniture, and other household items at a fraction of the price.
Stop buying the paper version of the newspaper. Instead, get the daily news online for free. Not only will you save a few bucks each month, but you’ll also help reduce deforestation.
Shop at Sustainable Businesses. Thankfully, many companies focus on being sustainable businesses by making changes from production, to packing to shipping. As a whole, the industry could do better to create less waste. One sustainable company is the Everyone Store.
Think Twice on Gifts. Really consider what someone would want for a gift. Too many times we opt for quick and cheap gifts that are materialistic in nature and never be used. So, consider some of these money gift ideas instead.
Frugal Green Cleaning Products that Are Eco Friendly
You may not be environmentally aware of the hazards of using most cleaning products. In fact, you should check your normal cleaning products with EWG’s database and their standards.
DIY Baking Soda & Vinegar. Using green cleaning products is usually more expensive than traditional ones. Baking soda and vinegar are easy-to-find, cost-effective alternatives to environmentally unfriendly cleaners.
Use Microfiber Cloths. Personally, this is my favorite way to cut the expansive (and not-good-for-you) cleaning products. These microfiber cloths are just as effective at cleaning and will save you money in the long run.
Skip the Disposable Rags. Use up-cycled rags from old clothes to pick up spills.
Stop Using Air Fresheners. Reduce or eliminate the use of air fresheners, which release harmful chemicals into the air. Plus they are super costly!
Frugal Green & Energy Use in the Laundry Room
Use Detergent Powder. Washing your clothes in a washing powder uses less water than liquid tabs, which come in more plastic packaging. Also, the powder is a much better environmental solution and better for your body. This is the detergent powder we use and love (and those I recommended it to love it as well)!
Sniff Test. Implement the sniff test and only wash clothes when they fail the sniff test. Beware of this recommendation with teenagers!
Line Dry Clothes. Additionally, line drying clothes throughout the year can save a ton on your energy bill! Plus your clothes do not wear as quickly.
Watch Your Hot, Wash in Cold. One easy way to save money on your household bills is to reduce the amount of hot water you use. Heating water takes up a large percentage of the energy used in households, so by washing your clothes in cold water, you can cut down on your energy usage significantly.
Frugal Green in the Bathroom & Morning Routine
Use Less Shampoo or Soap. In order to save money on your grocery bill, you can use less shampoo than is recommended. If everyone did this, it would result in significant monetary and plastic savings.
Turn the water off while brushing your teeth. It is important to turn the tap off while brushing teeth in order to conserve water. Many people forget to do this, and as a result, millions of gallons of water are wasted every year.
If it’s yellow, let it mellow. If the toilet water is yellow, it’s ok to let it mellow. You don’t have to flush to turn it off every time. Thanks to auto-flush toilets in most places this is very common for people to forget to flush at home.
Take Cooler Showers. This may not be everyone’s favorite. But take a cool shower rather than a piping hot shower. Most of the energy used is the hot water heater warming up the water.
Use Every Last Drop! There are a few ways to get the most out of your products and conserve them- one way is to leave bottles upside down for a couple of hours after you’ve used them so that you can get the last bit of product out. You can also roll up toothpaste tubes to get the remaining paste out. Here is a great product to help you squeeze every expensive ounce out.
Related Reading: Billionaire Morning Routine: How To Achieve Success In Life
Green Lot with Frugal Green Landscaping
Xeroscape Your Lawn. Lawns are often seen as a status symbol, but they’re actually quite expensive and environmentally damaging. They require large amounts of water, fertilizer, and pesticides to maintain, which can leach into the groundwater and pollute the environment.
Change Mowing Schedule. Additionally, lawn mowing emits greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Water Less Often. While this sounds great in theory, you may not be able to fully switch to xeriscaping your yard. If you can’t switch, then check out this Rachio to lessen your dependence on water.
Frugal Green Home Ownership
There are many ways to save money and be more environmentally conscious at the same time when owning a home.
Your home is probably one of your biggest expenses, so it’s important to take measures to conserve energy and save money. Plus there are many ways to reduce the amount of energy your home consumes!
Home Improvement Math. When considering whether or not to make an improvement to your home in order to reduce your carbon footprint, always do the math to see if the improvement will actually pay for itself. Sometimes it will and sometimes it won’t so be sure to weigh all of the options before making a decision.
Downsize Your Home. If you live in a large house, consider moving into a smaller one. This will help you save on your energy bill and make your home more efficient.
Install low-flow fixtures. One way is to install low-flow fixtures, such as showerheads and faucets. This will reduce your energy use and, in turn, your monthly bills. You can also save water by taking shorter showers.
Hang UV Blocking Curtains. By stopping the sun from heating up your house with curtains during the day, you can save on cooling costs in the summer. Using UV blocking curtains is something we did and notice a significant difference in the summer and winter.
Run Appliances with Full Loads Only. Wait until you have a full load of dishes or laundry before running the dishwasher or washing machine. You would be surprised at the amount of energy and water it takes to run those appliances.
Be Reasonable with Air Conditioning Temperature. In the summer, don’t crank up the air conditioning to save on your energy bill. You can also set your thermostat a couple of degrees higher in the summer to save money. Also, you may want to start cooling your house earlier in the day to prevent your AC unit from working overtime and consuming more energy.
Program Your Winter Heating Temperature. In the UK, A/C is not as common as it is in other countries. Central heating is used more often and is set to a lower room temperature for the summer and a higher room temperature for the winter. This is because people want to save on their energy bills.
Open Windows to Cool House. When the weather is nice, open your windows to allow for natural cooling. This is a simple and cheap way to cool your house. Especially after a nice cool thunderstorm.
Buy Energy Efficient Appliances. Energy-efficient models might be more expensive in the short term, but they will save you money in the long run and help reduce your environmental impact. However, these products should only be bought when the older model is worn out–don’t replace something just because it’s energy-efficient!
Replace Windows. On the one hand, it’s a great idea to replace your windows with more energy-efficient models if you’re staying in your home for many years. However, if you plan on moving within a few years, it might not be worth the investment. You’ll need to weigh the cost of the windows against how much money you’ll save on your monthly energy bill.
Get a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats are a great way to save money on your energy bill. You can set them to turn off or down when you’re not at home, or during times of the day when you don’t need as much heating or cooling.
Look for Energy Leakage. The typical older home has enough energy leakage that it’s the equivalent of leaving your front door open all year long. You can combat this by installing weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows and adding insulation to your attic. Most utility companies offer an energy audit.
Weatherize your Home. Weatherizing your home is a great way to improve energy efficiency and save money on your energy bills. There are many things you can do this and varies on the area of the world you live in.
Sustainable Frugal Green Transportation
Ditch the Car Completely. One of the biggest expenses for many people is their car. Whether you’re paying for car payments, insurance, gas, or maintenance, it can be a lot of money. You can eliminate this expense by ditching the keys and taking public transportation. Not only will you save money on your monthly expenses, but you’ll also help the environment!
Buy Hybrid Cars. Hybrids cars are expensive but they could help you save money on fuel in the long run – hybrids tend to have lower emissions than conventional cars. So, it might be time to say bye to that beater car.
Drive Less and Play Your Route. Driving less is the biggest way to reduce fuel-guzzling trips. Take it a step further with UPS research on their strategic delivery methods and focus on making only right-hand turns.
Carpool Whenever Possible. carpooling is a much more green choice than driving alone.
Look Into Car Sharing. When you only need a car occasionally, or for short trips, it might be more convenient and affordable to use a car-sharing service. Car-sharing services offer the opportunity to have access to wheels when you need them, and they’re flexible and convenient for short trips.
Invest in Electric Scooter. This mode of transportation is the uber-popular. You don’t need cash for gas, money for registration fees, and completely reliable to get around quickly. Check out the best electric scooters on the market.
Ride a Bike. A commuter bike is much cheaper than a car. Plus you get the added benefits of exercise and no carbon waste. Or upgrade to an E-bike.
Telecommute. If you can do your work remotely, then telecommute more often than not. This will save on transportation costs as well as pollution.
Walk More Often. Plan your day around being able to walk places that take under 30 minutes to get there. Then, it is better to walk than drive. Plus you can hit your 10000 steps quicker. It is a triple for the win – health benefits, free exercise, and fresh air!
Don’t Run Your Engine Unnecessarily. Leaving your engine running unnecessarily while stationary can waste fuel and cause environmental damage. Make sure to turn your engine off when you’re not moving to save money and help the planet!
Drive More Efficient. When it comes to saving fuel, one of the best ways is to drive more slowly and efficiently. This will help you save petrol or diesel and reduce your carbon footprint. For example, slowly put your foot on the accelerate to maintain a speed.
Frugal Green Budgeting Per Month
Choose To Save Rather Than Spend. Every tie you actively choose to save your money rather than spend it. You help the environmental impact. We have plenty of popular money saving challenges to help you save more money today.
Pay Bills Online. When you pay bills online, you can save a lot of time, space, and money. You can also save paper by paying your bills online–instead of receiving paper statements in the mail, you can access them online.
Find Free Things to Do. This one is a win-win for frugality environmentalism. Focus on finding activities from this list of things to do with no money. Many of them are already frugal green wins.
Opt for Paperless. And finally, if you pay your bills online, you may automatically receive discounts on some of your monthly bills! Many companies now charge a $2-5 paper statement to be mailed.
Focus on Financial Independence. This may seem like a crazy idea, but it is true. The more you save, the faster you reach financial independence. In fact, this is with the Frugalwoods decided to be frugal in the first place.
Follow Simple Frugal Living Green Ideas – Way to Go Green
Reduce, reuse, recycle. This old mantra is more important than ever in today’s world. By recycling everything you can, you can help conserve resources and keep waste out of landfills.
Your Mindset is Everything. Just like with anything, if you decide to commit yourselves to become environmentally aware, then you are likely to succeed. You don’t have to become extremely frugal overnight. You just have to remember that mindset is everything in this process.
Turn off electronics when not in use. This includes televisions, computers, and other appliances. By turning them off, you’re conserving energy (and saving money). Plus some older appliances might be fire hazards if left plugged in.
Stop Junk Mail. One way to reduce the amount of junk mail you receive is to go through your postal mail and ask to be removed from lists you’re not interested in. This can be done by contacting the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) or specific companies that send you unsolicited mail.
Grab a Sweatershirt or Blanket when Cold. Instead of automatically adjusting the programmable thermostat higher, you can also save by wearing a sweater or using a blanket. Maybe turn on the fireplace before putting the heating on.
Invest in Renewable Energy. In today’s world, it is more important than ever to invest in renewable energy. There are many reasons for this:
First and foremost, using renewable energy helps to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, which are finite and contribute to climate change.
Renewable energy also creates jobs and supports local businesses.
And finally, investing in renewables reduces our greenhouse gas emissions, helping to fight climate change.
In the long run, renewable energy can save you money and reduce emissions by providing power more reliably, often more cheaply than a traditional power source.
Are You Ready Live Life Frugal Green?
Living a more frugal lifestyle is good for the environment because it costs less.
It doesn’t take much to make small changes in your life that will have a big impact on the planet. For example, consume less and you’ll be doing the most earth-friendly thing you can do.
There are dozens of ways to save money and be more environmentally conscious which we covered in this post.
Being frugal and being green often go hand in hand.
However, most people lose steam after just a couple of weeks. So, do not attempt to do each frugal green living habit.
Pick your top 3 with the biggest impact.
Add one another 1-3 frugal living tips every month or so.
Over time, you will be surprised to see how easy it is to live frugal green, while also helping you to save money while also protecting the environment.
You can be the frugal green girl or gal with a few of these simple habits. Or choose to follow a frugal blog or frugal forum.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
CHICAGO — You can catch a screening of a White Sox documentary, shop local at the Spring Cleaning Market, check out the Logan Square Farmers Market on its opening day and more.
Here’s 19 things to do in Chicago this weekend:
Credit: ProvidedThere is plenty to do this weekend, including a fest at the Chicago Fair Trade Museum, 1457 N. Halsted St.
1-7 p.m. Saturday
Chicago Fair Trade Museum, 1457 N. Halsted St.
The biggest World Fair Trade Day event is coming to Chicago this weekend. Learn how to grown your own greens at home, join a cross-cultural knitting project, compete in a bake-off using fair trade ingredients and more. There will also be tastings of fair trade chocolate, tea and wine. The event is meant to raise awareness of fair trade, a business model aimed at combating poverty, exploitation and climate change. You can buy tickets, enter the bake-off and donate online.
10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
Lincoln Avenue from Roscoe to School streets
Shop handmade paintings, sculptures, home decor, jewelry and more at this free North Side fair hosted by Special Service Area No. 27. Enjoy food, music, painting classes, selfie stations, interactive art activities for kids, Sunday morning yoga and more. Sign up online for a chance to win $100 in Art Bucks to spent at the fair. Attendees can also bring their gently used wall art to donate the Chicago Furniture Bank, a nonprofit that distributes furnishings and art to people who are leaving temporary shelters and moving into permanent housing.
5-11 p.m. Saturday
CHAOS Brew Club, 2417 W. Hubbard St.
Alongside a taco bar with all the fixings, birria and pastor, enjoy seasonal ales and lagers crafted by CHAOS brewers at this 10th annual Cerveza de Mayo. You’ll also be able to tour the brewhouse, listen to music by Brian Hoyt and sit by fire pits. Tickets are $45 online. Each ticket includes admission, unlimited food and drink and a 45-day membership to the brew club.
Spring Cleaning Market
1-5 p.m. Sunday
Easy Does It, 2354 N. Milwaukee Ave.
You can grab a glass of wine and oysters while buying art, ceramics, floral arrangements, vintage good and more from local artists. There will also be a motor shucker providing raw bar options and DJ at this market by Common Violet.
11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday
The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave.
“Last Comiskey” is a new documentary about the White Sox’s final season at Comiskey Park, the team’s old ballpark. This event includes a screening of portions of the film and a Q&A with producer and director Matt Flesch, White Sox pitchers Donn Pall and Wayne Edwards, longtime Chicago sportscaster Tom Shaer and White Sox organist Nancy Faust. Admission is a $25 donation benefitting the Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Alliance. You can buy tickets online.
6-11 p.m. Saturday
The Logan Theatre, 2646 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Presented by the Japanese Arts Foundation, “Melanated and Animated” is a 21-and-older event that highlights the intersections of Black and Japanese culture. Listen to a panel discussion with industry guests — including game designer, professor and digital artist Derrick Fields and Kotaku staff writer Isaiah Colbert — and watch the director’s cut of critically acclaimed anime series “Afro Samurai.” There will be music, Japanese spirits, onsite gaming and more. Tickets are $35 online.
Credit: Provided/Doug WoodThe annual Wicker Park Garden Club plant sale will run 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Saturday in the neighborhood’s namesake park.
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday
Wicker Park fieldhouse, 1425 N. Damen Ave.
Herbs, vegetables, flowers, hanging baskets and other plants hand-picked by Wicker Park Garden Club members will be for sale this weekend in Wicker Park’s namesake park. There will also be free native pollinator seeds and a children’s potting area, where volunteers will work with children to decorate pots, fill them with soil and plant seeds to take home and grow.
Doors and silent auction 7 p.m., music 8 p.m. Saturday
Bim Bom Lounge, 5226 W. Belmont Ave.
Bim Bom Lounge’s new owners have spent the past year transforming the former dive bar into an recording space. Construction is still underway, and the studio will be literally raising the space’s roof this month. To kick off renovations and raise money for the studio, there will be a BYOB roof-raising show with music and a silent auction with goods donated by local creators. Entry is $10-$20 on a sliding scale. RSVP online or pay with cash at the door to avoid processing fees.
Noon-2 p.m. Saturday
Wilson Abbey, 935 W. Wilson Ave.
The Lighthouse Foundation, a Black- and queer-led social justice nonprofit, is hosting a soul food brunch where people can learn more about the organization’s efforts to ensure equity for Black queer people in Chicago’s LGBTQ nonprofits. The event will feature live music performances, a panel discussion among Black LGBTQ+ workers and a presentation by Executive Director Jamie Frazier. Tickets are free and available online, and a $35-$100 donation is recommended.
Credit: Courtesy of Mandalyn RaelThe outdoor Logan Square Farmers Market.
9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday
3025-3113 W. Logan Blvd.
Shop from more than 100 vendors this weekend for the first Logan Square Farmers Market of the year. The beloved outdoor market will be along Logan Boulevard between Milwaukee Avenue and Whipple Street. Logan Boulevard from Milwaukee to Sacramento avenues will be shut down to drivers to make more room for shoppers and vendors. Alongside produce and farm products, there will be live music and informational booths helmed by local organizations. The Sunday markets take place through Oct. 29.
Noon-4 p.m. Saturday
Mahalia Jackson Court, 1 E. 79th St.
Meet local designers, see some of their fashion, paint flowerpots with your child and shop for Mother’s Day at this free fashion show. There will be food, music and more.
8-10 a.m. Sunday
Lincoln Park Zoo, 2400 N. Cannon Drive
Lincoln Park Zoo is offering a Sensory-Friendly Morning for guests this weekend so they can experience the zoo in a comfortable and inclusive way. The Sensory-Friendly Morning program is offered to visitors who are sensitive to their environments, including people with disabilities, chronic illness, autism, PTSD and dementia. Modifications include limited capacity and muted attractions. The gift shop will open 8 a.m. and Landmark Café will begin selling beverages at 8:30 a.m. Admission is free, but you must register in advance online.
7:15-8:15 p.m. Sunday
Cuddle Bunny – Club, Care & Community, 2901 N. Clark St.
Stretch and rest your mind with bunnies at this bring-your-own-mat yoga class. All skill levels are welcome, and it’s open to people 8 and older. Admission is $22. Sign up online.
Credit: ProvidedKalapriya is a nonprofit group that celebrates Indian performing arts.
2-9 p.m. Saturday
Kehrien Center for the Arts, 5628 W. Washington Blvd.
Local, national and global artists will perform new and ancient South Asian pieces using a variety of instruments and languages at this is event presented by Kalapriya, a nonprofit that celebrates Indian performing arts. There will be Indian food to buy. Tickets are free and donations are encouraged. You can get your ticket and donate online.
Noon Saturday
National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St.
Teens and young adults 13-25 are invited to a free printmaking workshop led by Marimacha Monarca Press, a queer and trans people of color collective of artists and educators based on the South Side. Attendees will create and carve an original design for a rubber block stamp, drawing inspiration from the “Giving Shape: Yollocalli Artistic Practice Through the Years” exhibition. Participants should bring their own items to print with their stamp, like a T-shirt or tote bag. Email [email protected] to register. Spaces are limited.
Bidi Bidi Boom Boom: The Selena Tribute Dance Party
6:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday
National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St.
Celebrate the legacy of Selena, the queen of Tejano and Cumbia music, at the National Museum of Mexican Art throughout the weekend. Dance the night away, sing your heart out to Selena’s music and enjoy drag performances by Chicago artists. This is a 21-and-older event. Tickets are $30 and include admission and adult beverages. You can buy tickets for Thursday here, Friday here and Saturday here.
Credit: ProvidedEpic Art House, 1850 N. Western Ave., is hosting a free, family-friendly mosaic workshop in honor of Mother’s Day this weekend.
2-4 p.m. Sunday
Epic Art House, 1850 N. Western Ave.
Create your own mosaic art from scratch this weekend at Epic Art House’s free Mother’s Day workshop for children and families. You will learn how to choose colors and materials, how to cut and arrange the pieces and how to adhere them to create your final piece of art. RSVP here.
Noon-3 p.m. Saturday
Rizzo’s Bar & Inn, 3658 N. Clark St.
Dress your pup in their best attire for Rizzo’s red carpet “Pup Prom.” There will be raffles, silent auctions and photo opportunities. The first 150 people to buy tickets will get a dog-friendly swag bag. All minors must be accompanied by an adult.
11 a.m. Saturday
Anne’s Haven, 5629 W. Irving Park Road
Anne’s Haven is a nonprofit where women, girls and nonbinary people of all ethnic, racial, sexual and religious identities can gather together, support and learn from one another. This weekend, the group is hosting a ribbon-cutting for Anne’s Haven Honor Tree, a piece of artwork honoring women. You can be part of the honor tree by buying a butterfly at the event, available on a sliding scale of $75-$150 or more. Pecan pie, cupcakes and champagne will be served. There will also be a pop-up market with women makers after the ribbon cutting.
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These lush gardens are accompanied by luxurious apartments. Find your favorite and fill out an application today.
It’s no secret, Tampa is a great place to be a renter. Filled with lakes and tropical vegetation, nearly every outdoor space throughout the city feels like something special. This lends itself to some otherworldly courtyards and gardens, among many other amenities you’ll find when you’re on the hunt for a new home in Tampa.
As you check out the high-end equipment in the gyms, those chic clubhouses situated beside glistening pools or even spa-style features like saunas, don’t forget about the rest of the outdoor area.
Finding excellent gardens in Tampa will make your next apartment that much better, and to get you started on your search, we’ve curated some of the best apartment courtyards and gardens in the city.
Source: Rent. / Bell Channelside
With lime green chairs blending into the surrounding greenery, the courtyard at Bell Channelside is a sweet spot to relax for a bit. Settle in under the pergola or get comfy on the couches, either way, you’re surrounded by lush grass and vibrant vegetation. Additional courtyards on the property include a space with an outdoor fireplace and patio furniture as well as a grilling area complete with two gas grills and a picnic area.
Living in the Channel District is like being in a small city in and of itself. Take time along the waterfront and grab a bite, go for a walk or just enjoy the view. There’s plenty to do in this fun area, from visiting the Florida Aquarium to watching the Tampa Bay Lightning take the ice. This area is a hot spot for locals and tourists alike and a great place to call home
Source: Rent. / Tempo at Encore
Serving double-duty, the courtyard at Tempo at Encore is also the community’s outdoor theater. Set into the wall beside the mailboxes, you’ll find a giant screen and big speakers, making it easy to lay out a blanket and catch a movie under the stars. During the day, two tables and chairs keep this space usable, and the close-clipped lawn is always a good spot to kick back and enjoy Tampa’s unrivaled weather.
A relatively small neighborhood, South Nebraska only takes up a few city blocks, but its central location puts this community in an excellent spot. Less than a mile from Downtown, you’re close to all the best Tampa has to offer, from restaurants to shops to entertainment and more. If an urban lifestyle is what you’re looking for, this little slice of the city is definitely for you.
Source: Rent. / Camden Westchase Park
A quaint community garden is a perfect space to claim a plot and watch something grow at Camden Westchase Park. Multiple rows of large, raised beds means there’s room for everyone to customize a plot with the herbs and veggies of your choosing. This kind of low-maintenance gardening is great for apartment dwellers: You get big results with minimal effort.
Outdoor spaces abound in this Tampa community. Residents can enjoy the dog park, outdoor terrace and playground. There’s also an outdoor retreat where you’ll find the grills and picnic area. The pool is also an impressive space with cabanas and plenty of umbrellas. Across the board, there’s no shortage of shade as well, meaning a comfortable escape from the Florida sun is never too far away.
Source: Rent. / Camden Preserve
It may not count as a courtyard or a garden, but this space in the center of Camden Preserve is something to behold. While the pond, and its fountain, take center stage, the surrounding tall trees, flowers and greenery make an impact too. This is one of the best views to have from your balcony, but also a great place for a walk after a long day on the clock.
You’ll find Camden Preserve in Sun Bay South, the heart of Tampa. Just a short distance from Downtown, living here also puts you close to popular spots like the Tampa Bay Riverwalk. This is a focal point within the city, with 2.6 miles of pedestrian trail and attractions to enjoy, along the Hillsborough River.
Source: Rent. / Camden Visconti
Gardens, even if they’re not full of flowers, are an ideal place to take a break. At Camden Visconti, you can indulge this sentiment thanks to the unique on-site hammock garden. Follow the path, around the big center tree, and settle into a restful spot among the plants. There’s also cornhole in this area for those who find a friendly game equally relaxing.
This garden is only one of the fabulous outdoor amenities within Camden Visconti. There are separate spaces for the beach volleyball court, tennis court and pool area. You also have a nice pond to look out onto from most of these areas, so you never feel like you’re trapped in the city.
Source: Rent. / Tuscany Pointe
The outdoor area surrounding Tuscany Pointe is more like an on-site park than it is anything else. The tall trees, clipped grass and tiny pond all come together to create a space that’s serene and beautiful.
If you want green spaces to extend beyond your home, you’ve come to the right place. Northwest Tampa is a neighborhood that’s covered in parks. Start along the leafy trails of Al Lopez Park. Move on to Cypress Point Park for a little greenery mixed with sandy beaches and the ocean. At Lowry Park, you’ll get wild animals over native trees.
Source: Rent. / Park Pointe Apartments
The courtyard at Park Pointe Apartments is quintessential Florida. This large lawn is the perfect divide between buildings, creating a green space that’s usable and comfortable. Make this area your go-to place for some frisbee or any other outdoor activities you enjoy with friends, family and neighbors.
Utilizing the outdoor space to the fullest, this Tampa community also has an outdoor fitness park, an excellent pool area and a state-of-the-art grilling space. There’s also a playground for when the kids need something more than having a catch on the grass to keep themselves occupied.
Source: Rent. / Mirela North
Giving you a small tropical garden on the way to the pool, Mirela North does an excellent job when it comes to landscaping. You’ll find flowers, trees and bushes intentionally placed to add pops of color and brightness. This welcoming space has a nice, large lawn and plenty of palm trees to enhance the tropical vibes.
Leaving Mirela North behind and getting deeper into the Temple Crest neighborhood, you’ll discover this chill area that sits right on the Hillsborough River. Its perfect location also keeps it close to Downtown, which means there’s no shortage of activities from fishing to hitting up the nightlife. This area boasts two parks and a nearby golf course to make it easy to stay outside and have fun under that shining Florida sun.
Source: Rent. / Innovo Living Hyde Park
Although it’s more of a thoroughfare than a garden, the landscaping makes it feel lush and rich. This small piece of Innovo Living Hyde Park is full of greenery and pops of color, showing off the diversity of plant life that thrives in Florida. An umbrella-covered picnic table makes it easy to sit and enjoy this little oasis, whether you’ve come to have an outdoor meal, or just want to sit and take in the view.
Situated close to the University of Tampa and downtown, the historic neighborhood of Hyde Park North is a great place to live. It’s close to the city’s business and cultural arts districts and is an easy drive to the beach. Highly walkable as well, living here puts you close to quaint shops and trendy restaurants.
Source: Rent. / WestShore Apartments
Within the bricked courtyard of Westshore Apartments, you’ll find a little island of greenery. A traditional fountain sits in the center, giving off the soothing sounds of trickling water. Hardscape and tropical greenery come together in the rest of this spot to round it out perfectly.
Encompassing everything you could want in a neighborhood, Westshore Palms puts you within a five-minute walk not only to plenty of restaurants but to excellent shopping at Westshore Plaza. The pristine beaches aren’t too far away either, giving you all the best of Tampa from right outside your door.
Grab an apartment with one of the best gardens in Tampa
Green space in Tampa isn’t hard to come by, but when you can find the best example of it right in your own backyard, you’ve won the apartment lottery. Make sure, as you hunt for the best Tampa apartment, you keep in mind what’s going on outside beyond the pool and the other fancy amenities.
Ever find yourself green with envy at other people’s gardens? No matter how small the space, growing your own is easy when you use containers. Even the smallest of apartments can grow herbs, fruits, veggies and flowers with a little know-how. Read on to find out how you can turn your apartment space into an urban oasis.
What’s going to grow best? Whether you’re considering diving into full-on farmer mode with a bumper crop of vegetables or taking the flowers and foliage route, knowing what grows best in your area can save you both time and hassle. For example, apartment balconies in Georgia may experience longer exposure to sunlight and heat, whereas apartments in Washington may have cooler temperatures and rain.
Top Tip: Do a quick search online to find out the best plants to grow in your area.
How much space do you have? Though you may have visions of harvesting endless tomatoes, the space you have is going to have a lot to do with what you can achieve. With container gardening, you can get creative with your space using hanging planters and shelves as well as available ground space. Additionally, plants such as fresh herbs and succulents can take up minimal room, and can even be grown in a windowsill.
Top Tip: Think vertical when planning your apartment garden, including hanging planters, shelves and larger windows.
What can you spend? Buying all the gear you need to start a garden can get expensive quickly, so thinking outside of the planting box can save you money. At the most basic, you’ll need a trowel, potting soil, containers and plants. However, you don’t need to make it expensive. Look to using buckets, discarded desk drawers or other pieces to create funky, inexpensive containers (make sure to create drainage holes though). Your apartment community may have gardening tools you can borrow or check out. Like a particular plant but can’t afford it yet? Ask the owner for a cutting, then place in water to sprout and replant.
Top Tip: Creativity is key with your garden. Look for ways to repurpose pieces for planters, sales on plants, or borrowing equipment.
What else do you need to know? It’s possible to have a great garden in almost any space as long as you’re willing to get innovative. Here are a few more tips that will help you to get the most out of your new space:
Most plants like to get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Check the label when you buy, or ask for advice from your garden center for suggestions based on how much light you get.
Some of the best vegetables for container gardening in a small apartment space are chard, lettuce, cherry and bush tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, green onions, Asian greens and herbs.
Not every plant needs its own separate container. Try pairing a climbing plant with a plant that’s lower to the ground, or create an herb garden by planting a variety of herbs in one large pot.
Be sure to water your plants regularly. Additionally, plant food can be extremely helpful to container garden plants.
Are you an experienced green thumb? What plants have worked out best in your apartment garden?
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