Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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25 Best Birds to Watch for in Hawaii
Hawaii is home to some of the most spectacular and rare birds in the world. Its remote island location in the Pacific has allowed unique bird species to evolve here, many of which exist nowhere else on Earth. Avian diversity is exceptionally high, with well over 100 endemic species as well as migrants from around…
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How to Get Rid of Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can do major damage to indoor and outdoor plants. These barely visible insects spin fine webs on the undersides of leaves, suck nutrients from plant cells, and cause leaves to turn yellow, brown, or gray and die. An infestation can quickly get out of control, decimating a plant in…
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30 Best Birds to Watch for in Michigan
Red-Winged Blackbird Red-winged blackbirds are a common sight in Michigan’s wetlands, meadows, and agricultural fields. The males are unmistakable with their jet-black bodies and bright red shoulder patches (“epaulets”) bordered by yellow. Listen for their melodious kon-ka-ree song. American Robin Robins are a familiar backyard bird in Michigan, recognized by their reddish-orange breast and cheery…
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How to Get Rid of Mealybugs Naturally
Inspect Plants Frequently Check plants, including under leaves and along stems, at least once a week for early detection of mealybugs. Adult female mealybugs attach themselves to plants and produce egg sacs. Removing adults, egg sacs, and colonies of mealybug nymphs early can help prevent major infestations. Signs of an infestation include white waxy deposits,…
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20 Best Birds to Watch for in Ohio
Ohio offers excellent birdwatching opportunities with its diverse habitats ranging from Lake Erie wetlands to Appalachian forests. Over 400 species of birds have been recorded in the state. Here are 20 of the best birds to watch for during a visit to Ohio: Scarlet Tanager With its brilliant red body contrasted against jet-black wings, the…
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Identifying and Fixing Plant Nutrient Deficiencies
Plants require adequate amounts of nutrients to thrive. An imbalance or deficiency in any of the essential plant nutrients can cause poor growth, low yields, and plant health issues. Identifying and correcting nutritional deficiencies is crucial for the health and productivity of plants. Recognizing Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms The first step in addressing plant nutrient deficiencies…
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Beetle Infestations and Pest Removal Advice
Beetles are common household pests that can quickly become a nuisance if left unchecked. While some beetle species are harmless, others can damage your home, possessions, and even food. Knowing how to identify, prevent, and safely remove beetle infestations is crucial for keeping your home pest-free. Identifying Beetles and Signs of Infestation The first step…
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Tips for Birdhouse Design and Building
Designing and building a birdhouse can be a fun and rewarding project for bird enthusiasts and woodworkers alike. With some basic carpentry skills and the right materials, you can create an attractive and functional birdhouse that will draw in feathered friends to your yard. Follow these tips to craft the perfect birdhouse from scratch. Choosing…
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How to Stop Cutworms with Toilet Paper Rolls
Cutworms can be a nuisance in the garden, destroying young vegetable and flower seedlings overnight. These crawling caterpillars chew through stems at or below the soil line, killing plants. One eco-friendly solution for controlling cutworms is creating barriers with toilet paper rolls. This straightforward technique prevents cutworms from reaching vulnerable seedlings. What Are Cutworms? Cutworms…
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Why Do Birds Migrate?
Bird migration is a fascinating phenomenon that involves certain species of birds undertaking long distance seasonal journeys. This remarkable behavior enables birds to move between their breeding and wintering grounds in order to find ideal habitats, food sources, and nesting locations during different times of the year. There are a number of key reasons why…
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