God, I can practically FEEL summer approaching. That delicious warmth on my skin, the longer evenings... and my garden looking like absolute rubbish after the winter months. Anyone else?
I popped into Aldi yesterday (my weekly ritual of spending way too much on things I didn't plan to buy) and spotted something that made me stop in my tracks. They've got these gorgeous petunias and pelargoniums for just £1.89 a pot! I literally texted my sister immediately: "Garden rescue mission possible after all."
What's actually on offer then?
For less than the price of a fancy coffee, Aldi's flogging 1-litre pots of the most beautiful blooms I've seen this season. Perfect timing too, as my flower beds look like they've been through some kind of apocalypse.
The choice is pretty impressive. You can grab Petunia Cascadia in various shades - that Rim Cherry one caught my eye immediately. There's also this gorgeous Bicolour Cabernet that would look stunning hanging from my pergola (the one my husband spent three weekends building back in 2019... poor man).
If geraniums are more your thing, they've got several varieties including Novelty Vancouver and Mrs Pollock. The pots are around 12cm according to teh website, which is a decent size to get started.
Fence panels that won't bankrupt you
Listen. While I was there, I noticed they've also started selling individual garden fence panels for £5.99. Absolute bargain compared to what I paid at the garden centre last summer (still feeling the pain from that particular credit card bill).
These aren't your boring standard panels either. They're made from powder-coated metal that's anti-rust and UV resistant - which, considering our unpredictable British weather, is pretty essential.
They measure about 91.19 x 71.12cm and have these clever little clips so you can join multiple panels together. I'm thinking of creating a little section to hide my embarrassing attempt at composting.
The fairytale garden of my dreams (finally affordable)
What I really love about these panels is the whimsical design. They'd give any garden that enchanted look that's all over my Pinterest boards. You know the ones... those gardens that make you wonder if the owners have a secret trust fund or something.
I've already bought their garden arch last month (which my neighbour immediately complimented - small victories!) and those solar stake lights that somehow survived the storm we had last week.
Everyone seems to be after privacy fences these days. Makes sense with us all spending more time in our gardens. B&Q and Lidl have jumped on this trend too, with options ranging from £8 to £22.
Why Aldi's garden stuff keeps going viral
It's no surprise Aldi keeps trending online for their garden range. Back in March, I bought their Workzone garden cable after my ancient extension cord finally gave up the ghost during my first lawn mowing attempt of the season.
And don't even get me started on their hedge trimmer! I spent ages comparing it with the Bosch one before realizing Aldi's version was £150 cheaper. My husband's response: "And you waited three weeks to decide this because...?"
I'm heading back this weekend to grab a few of those petunias before they sell out. If last year's plant sale was anything to go by, they'll be gone by Monday.
Summer garden paradise, here I come... assuming I don't kill everything within the first week.
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What is the role of central banks in the economy?
Central banks manage a nation's currency, money supply, and interest rates. They implement monetary policy to control inflation, stabilize the currency, and foster economic growth. They also serve as lenders of last resort to the banking system during financial crises.
How can I budget my money effectively?
To budget effectively, start by tracking your income and expenses to understand your spending habits. Set realistic financial goals, categorize your expenses, and allocate funds accordingly. Regularly review and adjust your budget to ensure it reflects your current financial situation and objectives.
What is the difference between saving and investing?
Saving typically involves setting aside money in a secure account for short-term needs or emergencies, while investing involves using money to purchase assets like stocks or real estate with the expectation of generating a return over the long term. Investing carries higher risks but offers the potential for greater rewards.
How can I start saving for retirement?
To start saving for retirement, begin by establishing clear retirement goals and determining how much you need to save. Contribute to employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as a 401(k), and consider opening an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Regular contributions and taking advantage of compounding interest can significantly boost your retirement savings over time.
What are the main functions of money?
The primary functions of money are as a medium of exchange, facilitating trade; a unit of account, which provides a standard measure of value; a store of value, allowing individuals to save and transfer purchasing power over time; and a standard of deferred payment, enabling credit transactions.
What are the benefits of having an emergency fund?
An emergency fund provides financial security by offering a safety net for unexpected expenses, such as medical emergencies or job loss. It helps prevent debt accumulation, reduces stress, and allows for better financial planning, ensuring that individuals can navigate unforeseen circumstances without significant hardship.
What are the risks associated with investing in the stock market?
Investing in the stock market involves several risks, including market volatility, economic downturns, and company-specific factors that can lead to losses. Investors may also face liquidity risk, where they cannot sell an investment quickly without incurring a loss. Diversification and thorough research can help mitigate these risks.
Statistics
- In 2020, the average retirement savings for Americans aged 60 to 69 was approximately $195,000, according to Fidelity.
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American spends about $1,500 per year on coffee.
- According to the Federal Reserve, approximately 39% of Americans do not have enough savings to cover a $400 emergency expense.
- A report by Bankrate indicated that only 29% of Americans have a written financial plan.
- A survey by the American Psychological Association found that 72% of Americans reported feeling stressed about money at some point in the past month.
- The average cost of raising a child in the U.S. is estimated to be around $233,610, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
- Research by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that individuals who receive financial education are 25% more likely to save than those who do not.
- According to a survey by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), about 66% of Americans could not correctly answer four basic financial literacy questions.
External Links
How To
How To Build an Emergency Fund Effectively
Building an emergency fund is essential for financial security. Start by determining how much you need; a common recommendation is to save three to six months' worth of living expenses. Open a separate savings account to keep your emergency funds easily accessible but separate from your regular spending. Automate your savings by setting up a monthly transfer from your checking to your emergency fund. Initially, focus on small, manageable contributions, gradually increasing them as your budget allows. Avoid using this fund for non-emergencies, and replenish it after any withdrawals to maintain your financial safety net.
Did you miss our previous article...
https://hellofaread.com/money/morrisons-shoppers-fuming-as-weekend-discount-tradition-gets-the-chop
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