Anna K. Cottrell
Anna is a professional writer with many years of experience. She has a passion for contemporary home decor and gardening. She covers a range of topics, from practical advice to interior and garden design.
Latest articles by Anna K. Cottrell
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10 plants that are toxic to cats: flowers to avoid in your yard and home
Have a feline friend? You might want to avoid these plants that are toxic to cats in your yard and home
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to get rid of carpenter bees: identification methods and natural ways to deter them
If you need to know how to get rid of carpenter bees, professional pest controllers say it's key to identify them properly, remove them humanely, and to try natural ways of deterring them from your propety above all else
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to pick a good watermelon according to food experts
Should you tap, sniff or inspect the markings on a watermelon? Food experts share how to pick a really good watermelon this summer
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to save to buy a house: 10 expert tips
These top expert tips will help you learn how to buy a house even if you’re starting your savings pot completely from scratch.
By Anna Cottrell Published
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8 dos and don'ts of watering plants in the heat
Experts debunk the myth that watering plants during the day is a mistake plus more ways to help your garden survive a hot summer
By Anna Cottrell Published
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16 ways to prepare and protect your entire garden in a heatwave
Find out how to prepare and protect garden plants and more in your yard when there's a heatwave
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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8 high maintenance plants to avoid, or at least think twice about before adding to your collection
If you take a more relaxed approach to gardening, you'll want to avoid growing these high-maintenance plants. As beautiful as they are, you'll have to work hard to keep them that way...
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How much does it cost to refinish hardwood floors?
Knowing how much it costs to refinish hardwood floors is essential to help you budget for this project. DIYing it is naturally, the more cost-effective option and will set you back somewhere between $600 and $1,000 according to experts
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to caulk a bathtub or shower for a flawless seal
Follow expert advice on how to caulk a bathtub or shower for professional-level, long-lasting results
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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10 full sun plants that love the heat and that are pretty low maintenance
Discover full sun plants that will add color and interest to a bakyard and don’t need much care
By Anna Cottrell Published
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15 front garden ideas – boost your home's kerb appeal with these gorgeous designs
These front garden ideas will transform your home, creating a smarter and more individual look
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How to fix a green pool fast
Properly cleaning and shocking your pool will help restore it to its former blue glory, fast. This is what to do to stop a green pool full of algae, spoiling your summer fun
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to dispose of paint properly
Learn how to dispose of paint safely to avoid polluting the environment and getting fined for improper paint disposal
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How much does it cost to install an in-ground pool?
Find out the cost to install an inground pool and budget accordingly for this cool home improvement project
By Anna Cottrell Published
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Sofa fabrics: 12 tips for choosing the best upholstery for your furniture
Not sure which sofa fabric to choose? Follow our expert guide on how to get the style, color and durability right
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to get makeup out of carpet: 8 swift ways to remove foundation and lipstick stains
Spilled foundation on the floor? Here's how to get makeup out of carpet and area rugs with eight tried-and-tested methods.
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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Garden trends 2022 – 13 lush backyard looks to copy for summer
These are the top garden trends for 2022, according to industry experts. Perfect for backyards big and small
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to keep plants alive while on vacation – care and watering tips
Knowing the best ways to care for and water plants while on vacation will ensure they are still alive and healthy for when you return. Try deep watering, irrigation systems and more methods as recommended by professional horticulturists
By Anna Cottrell Published
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Small deck ideas: 31 budget decking designs for tiny gardens
These small deck ideas will give your outdoor space the boost it deserves to look good in all seasons.
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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Bobby Berk's eco-friendly backyard upgrade we're copying for summer
This is the most sustainable backyard trend of 2022, according to designer Bobby Berk and it's super easy to install too
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to get rid of flies in the house using homemade traps and more
Learn how to get rid of flies in the house using homemade traps, apple cider vinegar and more clever ways to stop them coming inside, for good
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How to get rid of outside flies: 7 effective methods to try in summer
Find out how to get rid of outside flies to stop them from intruding on your patio parties throughout the summer. These tried and tested methods will help keep the most annoying flying pest away from your backyard or balcony
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How much does it cost to install air conditioning?
Find out how much it costs to install air conditioning if your unit is old and needs replacing. From average costs to additional factors that will affect the final price
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to store (and not to store) food in the summertime
Knowing how to store food in the summertime properly is key to keep herbs fresh, watermelon juicy, and fish, edible
By Anna Cottrell Published