Gardening
Perennials cost a little more than annuals, but with proper care they will last for many years. Research the type of perennials best suited for your region, soil type, and the amount of sun the chosen location receives. One way to get free perennials is to trade plants with friends, family, and neighbors. As your plants mature and spread, dig a few up to trade. Be sure to save the seeds from your plants to use the following spring. You can also trade seeds.
Most garden centers have perennials on clearance in early summer, after the spring rush. The plants may not be the prettiest, but with a little TLC they will look as beautiful in no time. Some annuals are easily grown from seeds - marigolds and zinnias are two.
Roses are beautiful flowers but are high-maintanance and often die after a few years. Minature roses are just as beautiful and require less maintanance and live much longer. An good source for minature roses is Nor East - www.noreast-miniroses.com.
Cleaning Supplies
Good old bleach and ammonia are two inexpensive cleaners. (Just don’t ever mix them!) Bleach is good for cleaning toilets and ammonia is good for counters and floors. Comet is an economical bathroom cleaner.
Decorations
Micheals craft store frequently has 40%-off-one-item coupons in the newspaper. Use these coupons when you need decorating items such as flower arrangements, wreaths, pictures, greenery, and vases.