With the weather getting balmy and warm in most parts of the country, it’s time to finally lift up the windows and let the fresh air in!

To create an appealing environment, one of the key aspects is appealing to the senses. And one of the key senses that can provide long-lasting appeal at home is smell.

Smell is a sense many people are sensitive to, and incorporating it into an environment should be done with thought and care. Often I suggest an environment that is odor-neutral — one that is fresh and clean, as opposed to one that is perfumed or overscented.

If you are looking for ways to involve scent into your environment I suggest natural scents, not plug-ins, incense or sprays.

Here are my top five scents:

• Fresh lavender: Lavender is a wonderful scent for the home. Place it in gauze spice bags (available in any grocery store in the spice aisle) or in open jars.

• Eucalyptus: This is a natural plant that packs a powerful aroma.

• Rosemary and mint: These traditional herbs are wonderful when placed around the home in creative ways.

• Fresh lemon or lime: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime in water for floating candles or freshly cut flowers, or have them on display.

• Soy-based candles: Soy-based candles are natural, they smell great and come in sumptuous varieties.