In the fall as the nights draw in and the days become shorter many people think that a quiet and restful time for the gardener is approaching and that it's almost time to put the garden tools away in the shed till spring. While this may be true for the lawn mower, there are many other garden tools whose services can still be required during the fall.
For the more serious gardener who wants to continue to grow as late in the season as possible or who wants to optimise his lawn and garden in preparation for next year. There is still much gardening that can be done, both in growing vegetables and preparing and planning your garden for next spring, until well into the fall.
With the constant possibility of early winter frosts many gardeners don't even consider fall gardening. This is a pity as with the right planning, planting the most suitable plants and at the right time of year, the rewards can be well worth the extra work. As often, for example, vegetables, produced in the fall can be sweeter and tastier than those grown in the height of the summer. This can bring a refreshing new dimension to some of the same old varieties of garden vegetables.
It is important, however, to choose vegetables with a short growing season to give the best chance of harvesting before the more severe frosts do make an appearance. Vegetables that can be ideal to grow well into the fall include carrots, beet, lettuce, broccoli, turnips and radish. They should be planted while the ground is still warm and in a place where they are likely to get a minimum of six hours of sunshine.
Fall is also the best time to plant your spring bulbs, especially the hardy varieties such as crocuses, daffodils, tulips and irises and these will do well in either containers or beds. They will flower in the spring so you can look forward to their colourful displays as an early sign of the arrival of spring, which should be ample reward for your additional work and planning in the fall.
Looking after and maintaining your lawn is another task you can be busy with in the fall to enhance your chances of a luscious lawn next spring. It is an ideal time to concentrate on factors like aeration of the soil and clearing debris accumulated over the summer growing season. You should remove any twigs, stones and fallen leaves from your lawns as these can harbour disease and encourage pests. A leaf blower or garden vacuum will make this task much easier and you should, of course, keep all of the organic material for composting.
Aerating disrupts the soil surface by making holes in the earth. This can be done manually with a garden fork or a number of tools can be used to make the work easier, or if you have a larger area to deal with. This allows more oxygen into the soil and water will also gain easier access, rather than simply running off. Earthworms will thrive better in this environment as well as a number of other beneficial organisms. Fertilizers and other top dressing substances will be more effective after aeration and it makes re-seeding, if necessary, more successful.
These are just a few of the tasks that can be keeping you busy in your garden during the fall. So if you want a beautiful garden in the spring it's not quite time to lock away those garden tools just yet.
About the Author
John McGuire is an active gardener and manages his own smallholding with extensive gardens and keeps a range of farm animals. He is also an internet marketer and runs his own gardening information and products website. http://www.TheGardenLovers.com
Monday, January 21, 2008
Six Ticks for Organic Gardening by Sam Tan
Organic gardening is the way of growing vegetables and fruits with the use of things only found in nature.
Why would one want to indulge in organic gardening?
1.One can easily make compost from garden and kitchen waste. Though this is a bit more time-consuming than buying prepared chemical pesticides and fertilizers, it certainly helps to put garbage to good use and so saves the environment.
2. Organic farming does not use chemicals that may have an adverse affect on your health. This is especially important when growing vegetables. Chemical companies tell us that the chemicals we use are safe if used according to direction, but research shows that even tiny amounts of poisons absorbed through the skin can cause such things as cancer, especially in children.
On the average, a child ingests four to five times more cancer-causing pesticides from foods than an adult. This can lead to various diseases later on in the child's life. With organic gardening, these incidents are lessened.
Remember, pesticides contain toxins that have only one purpose - to kill living things.
3. Less harm to the environment. Poisons are often washed into our waterways, causing death to the native fish and polluting their habitat.
4.Organic farming practices help prevent the loss of topsoil through erosion. The Soil Conservation Service says that an estimated 30 - 32 billion tons of soil erodes from United States farmlands every year.
4. Cost savings. One does not need to buy costly chemical fertilizers and pesticides with organic gardening. Many organic recipes for the control of pest and disease come straight from the kitchen cupboard. Sometimes other plants can be grown as companions to the main crop. An example of this is the marigold, which helps to repel aphids from vegetables.
Mixing 1 tablespoon of liquid dishwashing soap and 1 cup of cooking oil can make a cheap garden pest spray. Put 3 tablespoons of this mixture in 1 quart of water and spray on plants.
5.A simple mulch of pine needles will help to suppress the growth of weeds as well as keeping the moisture in.
6. Organic gardening practices help to keep the environment safe for future generations.
For more - Click Here http://www.organic.8799online.com
About the Author
Sam Tan - Internet Marketer http://www.8799online.com http://www.marketingsecretinfo.com http://8799.blogspot.com
Why would one want to indulge in organic gardening?
1.One can easily make compost from garden and kitchen waste. Though this is a bit more time-consuming than buying prepared chemical pesticides and fertilizers, it certainly helps to put garbage to good use and so saves the environment.
2. Organic farming does not use chemicals that may have an adverse affect on your health. This is especially important when growing vegetables. Chemical companies tell us that the chemicals we use are safe if used according to direction, but research shows that even tiny amounts of poisons absorbed through the skin can cause such things as cancer, especially in children.
On the average, a child ingests four to five times more cancer-causing pesticides from foods than an adult. This can lead to various diseases later on in the child's life. With organic gardening, these incidents are lessened.
Remember, pesticides contain toxins that have only one purpose - to kill living things.
3. Less harm to the environment. Poisons are often washed into our waterways, causing death to the native fish and polluting their habitat.
4.Organic farming practices help prevent the loss of topsoil through erosion. The Soil Conservation Service says that an estimated 30 - 32 billion tons of soil erodes from United States farmlands every year.
4. Cost savings. One does not need to buy costly chemical fertilizers and pesticides with organic gardening. Many organic recipes for the control of pest and disease come straight from the kitchen cupboard. Sometimes other plants can be grown as companions to the main crop. An example of this is the marigold, which helps to repel aphids from vegetables.
Mixing 1 tablespoon of liquid dishwashing soap and 1 cup of cooking oil can make a cheap garden pest spray. Put 3 tablespoons of this mixture in 1 quart of water and spray on plants.
5.A simple mulch of pine needles will help to suppress the growth of weeds as well as keeping the moisture in.
6. Organic gardening practices help to keep the environment safe for future generations.
For more - Click Here http://www.organic.8799online.com
About the Author
Sam Tan - Internet Marketer http://www.8799online.com http://www.marketingsecretinfo.com http://8799.blogspot.com
Staying Well - A Gardening And Health Revolution! by August Dunning
ASAP Plant Minerals is unique, compared to commonly available soil treatments. There is nothing like it on the market today. The formulation of ASAP Plant Minerals organic soil amendment contains all the critical 14 essential minerals plants need to flourish.
Water molecules hydrate the minerals once created by their proprietary process and protect them from degenerating into less bio-available forms. In dry forms, dehydrated minerals recombine into clusters and are far less available for absorption by roots of plants. The action on the minerals by the roots to chemically break them down into sizes that can be absorbed takes life energy and creates an energy deficit experienced by the plant.
Research has revealed a profound difference in the uptake and utilization of ASAP organic soil amendment in flower and crop plants. Their unique form of magnesium is the cause of the double foliage and flower sets, while other minerals move quickly from the soil up into the leaves to the chloroplasts to create phytochemicals to rapidly grow the plant and infuse the fruit with additional nutrients in the pulp and skin.
This is why ASAP is marketed to organic growers. Why offer a way to increase the nutrition in the skin of fruit and vegetables if you have to remove the skins and outer leaves because they are contaminated with petrochemical pesticide. This makes no sense. The consumer gets food that actually feeds them without risking cancers later in life. Disease and genetic aberrations causing cancer is far less confusing than medical science would like you to believe.
There are only three ways to get cancer: radiation, reduced oxygen pressure at the capillaries and environmental toxins. If you don't work in a radiological environment and don't smoke then the last way is the only one that you have to worry about. The individual genetic susceptibility to threshold levels of specific toxins is the tipping point into cancers. Everyone has a different set of sensitivities and is part of the evolved human survival mechanism. Detoxification in this chemical-age is critical and foods grown with ASAP may improve your chances especially by eating organically grown foods. Certainly the phytochemicals found in grape skins, blueberries, black raspberries, strawberries, carrots, aloe vera and cranberries have been identified to help and eliminate the antagonistic chemicals that cause the scales to tip. Why coat food with pesticides and introduce the antagonist with the cure?
Why hydration is so important: It has been shown experimentally that metal mineral water complexes can interact with chromosome DNA like magnesium minerals vibrating at specific frequencies in water.
Researchers in one particular experiment found that microwaves of around 3 gigahertz could resonantly drive a longitudinal vibration mode in DNA chains by electrically coupling with minerals residing on the hydrated backbone of the DNA helix. Therefore the operating theory at this time is that the correct metal minerals could transform a damaged configuration back into a normal configuration to maintain proper DNA function.
This is the exciting part of research. It is certain that ASAP soil treatment will increase yield and nutrient values in organically grown crops fed ASAP, it may also prove to provide foods to eat to help prevent cancers.
But beyond all that, the ASAP grown food just simply tastes better.
About the Author
August Dunning is the head Research Director at http://www.asaporganics.com
Water molecules hydrate the minerals once created by their proprietary process and protect them from degenerating into less bio-available forms. In dry forms, dehydrated minerals recombine into clusters and are far less available for absorption by roots of plants. The action on the minerals by the roots to chemically break them down into sizes that can be absorbed takes life energy and creates an energy deficit experienced by the plant.
Research has revealed a profound difference in the uptake and utilization of ASAP organic soil amendment in flower and crop plants. Their unique form of magnesium is the cause of the double foliage and flower sets, while other minerals move quickly from the soil up into the leaves to the chloroplasts to create phytochemicals to rapidly grow the plant and infuse the fruit with additional nutrients in the pulp and skin.
This is why ASAP is marketed to organic growers. Why offer a way to increase the nutrition in the skin of fruit and vegetables if you have to remove the skins and outer leaves because they are contaminated with petrochemical pesticide. This makes no sense. The consumer gets food that actually feeds them without risking cancers later in life. Disease and genetic aberrations causing cancer is far less confusing than medical science would like you to believe.
There are only three ways to get cancer: radiation, reduced oxygen pressure at the capillaries and environmental toxins. If you don't work in a radiological environment and don't smoke then the last way is the only one that you have to worry about. The individual genetic susceptibility to threshold levels of specific toxins is the tipping point into cancers. Everyone has a different set of sensitivities and is part of the evolved human survival mechanism. Detoxification in this chemical-age is critical and foods grown with ASAP may improve your chances especially by eating organically grown foods. Certainly the phytochemicals found in grape skins, blueberries, black raspberries, strawberries, carrots, aloe vera and cranberries have been identified to help and eliminate the antagonistic chemicals that cause the scales to tip. Why coat food with pesticides and introduce the antagonist with the cure?
Why hydration is so important: It has been shown experimentally that metal mineral water complexes can interact with chromosome DNA like magnesium minerals vibrating at specific frequencies in water.
Researchers in one particular experiment found that microwaves of around 3 gigahertz could resonantly drive a longitudinal vibration mode in DNA chains by electrically coupling with minerals residing on the hydrated backbone of the DNA helix. Therefore the operating theory at this time is that the correct metal minerals could transform a damaged configuration back into a normal configuration to maintain proper DNA function.
This is the exciting part of research. It is certain that ASAP soil treatment will increase yield and nutrient values in organically grown crops fed ASAP, it may also prove to provide foods to eat to help prevent cancers.
But beyond all that, the ASAP grown food just simply tastes better.
About the Author
August Dunning is the head Research Director at http://www.asaporganics.com
Why Mulching Needs To Be Part Of Your Organic Gardening System by Julie Williams
The word "mulch" comes from the old English word "melsc" - meaning rotten hay. In today's language it has come to mean any material that covers the soil to preserve moisture content, prevent soil erosion and inhibit weed growth. For organic gardening I choose materials that will break down over time, feeding my plants and contributing to the amount of humus in the soil.
Many materials are suitable to use as mulch, such as: leaves, straw / hay, sawdust, gravel / rocks, paper / cardboard, grass clippings, carpet underfelt and even plastic. Each one has its own benefits and disadvantages.
Dark mulches warm the soil, whereas light coloured mulches will keep the soul cooler. In a cool climate a light straw mulch will hold back the development of many hot season vegetables - so take care with your choice of mulch and the time of year you apply it.
I've heard it said that mulches can be a refuge for problem garden pests, but nature balances this with enough predators to consume any rise in pest numbers.
Leaves are the most natural mulch of all. However most of the nutritional content has been taken from the tree before the leaf falls to the ground. Many leaves contain tannins and some have growth suppressants (eucalypts & pine needles for example), so it's better to either add them to your compost heap or place them in a wire container and allow them to decompose for a year or so and become leaf mould, them use as mulch.
Straw / Hay is my preferred method of mulching in my organic food garden. The main advantage over many mulches is that it slowly releases nutrients to feed the plants it surrounds. One disadvantage is that hay may contain weed seeds, but they are usually easy to pull. That is why I prefer pea straw - usually the only weeds are peas and they add nitrogen to the soil. Another problem can be that it may become water repellent. But this is not a problem if you trickle or flood irrigate your food plots.
Sawdust is probably best used by composting it before laying as a mulch as it may rob the soil of nitrogen if your soil is poor to begin with. Also, it can become water repellent. However if you have a good supply it makes an excellent soft, natural looking covering for pathways.
Gravel / Rocks are best used outside of your veggie garden unless you live in a cool climate area and use them around warm climate plants, such as pumpkins and tomatoes. Rocks store heat from the sun during the day and slowly release it through the night.
They can also be used in arid areas around larger plants and trees. Water condenses on the underside of the rocks as they cool during the night helping to keep plants moist. The disadvantage with rocks is that weeds will grow around them.
Paper / Cardboard are both quite useful as mulches. I often use thick layers of newspaper (which I wet before laying) underneath pea-straw or pine bark. The layers need to overlap about 15cm to prevent weeds from coming through. Don't use pages with coloured ink as they may contain heavy metals.
Cardboard can make a great mulch under young trees. You can secure it with rocks in a decorative way in addition to straw or bark. Using cardboard beneath sawdust for your garden paths will prevent most weeds.
Grass clippings can be utilised as a thin mulch under trees and shrubs that will feed your plants as it breaks down. Take care not to pile on too thickly though as you will end up with a water repelling, smelly blob!
Carpet underfelt makes an excellent mulch in your organic garden. It won't blow away, it's easy to cut to insert your seedlings, it allows air to penetrate and it holds moisture very well. You must make sure that it is the older underfelt though, not the modern foam type.
Black plastic has the advantage of being cheap, easy to install and a great weed suppressor, but its disadvantages are many. It doesn't feed the soil, it deteriorates with direct sunlight and doesn't allow the natural gas exchanges between the air and soil.
Whatever your choice of mulch, your organic garden will be more productive and well balanced if you choose a feeding kind of mulch. Remember too that mulches should not come into contact with the stems of you plants as this may cause them to rot.
About the Author
Julie is an avid organic gardener and recycler, living on a small country property in South Australia. Her mission is to encourage as many people as possible to garden organically. Please visit her website for great info Beginners Organic Gardening or Companion Planting Guide
www.1stoporganicgardening.com
Many materials are suitable to use as mulch, such as: leaves, straw / hay, sawdust, gravel / rocks, paper / cardboard, grass clippings, carpet underfelt and even plastic. Each one has its own benefits and disadvantages.
Dark mulches warm the soil, whereas light coloured mulches will keep the soul cooler. In a cool climate a light straw mulch will hold back the development of many hot season vegetables - so take care with your choice of mulch and the time of year you apply it.
I've heard it said that mulches can be a refuge for problem garden pests, but nature balances this with enough predators to consume any rise in pest numbers.
Leaves are the most natural mulch of all. However most of the nutritional content has been taken from the tree before the leaf falls to the ground. Many leaves contain tannins and some have growth suppressants (eucalypts & pine needles for example), so it's better to either add them to your compost heap or place them in a wire container and allow them to decompose for a year or so and become leaf mould, them use as mulch.
Straw / Hay is my preferred method of mulching in my organic food garden. The main advantage over many mulches is that it slowly releases nutrients to feed the plants it surrounds. One disadvantage is that hay may contain weed seeds, but they are usually easy to pull. That is why I prefer pea straw - usually the only weeds are peas and they add nitrogen to the soil. Another problem can be that it may become water repellent. But this is not a problem if you trickle or flood irrigate your food plots.
Sawdust is probably best used by composting it before laying as a mulch as it may rob the soil of nitrogen if your soil is poor to begin with. Also, it can become water repellent. However if you have a good supply it makes an excellent soft, natural looking covering for pathways.
Gravel / Rocks are best used outside of your veggie garden unless you live in a cool climate area and use them around warm climate plants, such as pumpkins and tomatoes. Rocks store heat from the sun during the day and slowly release it through the night.
They can also be used in arid areas around larger plants and trees. Water condenses on the underside of the rocks as they cool during the night helping to keep plants moist. The disadvantage with rocks is that weeds will grow around them.
Paper / Cardboard are both quite useful as mulches. I often use thick layers of newspaper (which I wet before laying) underneath pea-straw or pine bark. The layers need to overlap about 15cm to prevent weeds from coming through. Don't use pages with coloured ink as they may contain heavy metals.
Cardboard can make a great mulch under young trees. You can secure it with rocks in a decorative way in addition to straw or bark. Using cardboard beneath sawdust for your garden paths will prevent most weeds.
Grass clippings can be utilised as a thin mulch under trees and shrubs that will feed your plants as it breaks down. Take care not to pile on too thickly though as you will end up with a water repelling, smelly blob!
Carpet underfelt makes an excellent mulch in your organic garden. It won't blow away, it's easy to cut to insert your seedlings, it allows air to penetrate and it holds moisture very well. You must make sure that it is the older underfelt though, not the modern foam type.
Black plastic has the advantage of being cheap, easy to install and a great weed suppressor, but its disadvantages are many. It doesn't feed the soil, it deteriorates with direct sunlight and doesn't allow the natural gas exchanges between the air and soil.
Whatever your choice of mulch, your organic garden will be more productive and well balanced if you choose a feeding kind of mulch. Remember too that mulches should not come into contact with the stems of you plants as this may cause them to rot.
About the Author
Julie is an avid organic gardener and recycler, living on a small country property in South Australia. Her mission is to encourage as many people as possible to garden organically. Please visit her website for great info Beginners Organic Gardening or Companion Planting Guide
www.1stoporganicgardening.com
Nevada Fall Gardening Checklist by Mark Hostetler
There are certain challenges when gardening in the Nevada climate, but don't despair; it doesn't mean you can't have a lush green lawn filled with vibrant annuals or spring bulbs. There are however, some maintenance and planting tips that need to be considered during the autumn months.
Here is a handy checklist for those fall gardening to do's:
Reseeding lawns - The hot summer temperatures can do a lot of damage to a lawn; late September is an ideal time for reseeding and repairing that damage. Make certain you don't purchase bargain varieties of lawn seed, such as Kentucky 31 or K31. Most people are disappointed with this grass due to its coarse texture.
A year round green lawn can be obtained by over seeding it with perennial ryegrass versus annual ryegrass.
Give your lawn one last feeding using a fertilizer containing potassium and cut back watering your lawn to once a week in the winter months.
Colorful annuals - Believe it or not, autumn planting is the time to get the most color and longevity from your annuals in the Las Vegas area. They thrive in the milder climate and with some loving care may bloom again next spring.
Here are some ideas for cool-season annuals:
African daisies, alyssum, asters, baby's breath, bachelor buttons, bells of Ireland, calendulas, candytuft, carnations, clarkia, columbine, delphinium, dianthus or sweet William, gaill ardia, hollyhock, larkspur, nirembergia, pansy, petunia, poppies, snapdragons, statice, stocks, sweet peas, verbena, viola, ornamental kale and cabbage.
Compost for your bedding plants - Our dry soil is scarce in organic matter, which needs to be supplemented in the form of compost or peat moss. It provides much needed drainage and oxygen as well as feeding nutrients to the plants.
A recipe for a healthy garden includes:
Spreading 3 to 4 inches of some form of organic material on the bed.
Add two to three pounds of 16-20-0 fertilizer and equal amounts of sulfur per 100 square feet. Work ingredients into the top 8 to 10 inches of the soil with a spade or rototiller.
Get those bulbs planted - Nothing is more uplifting on a cold winter day, then looking out and seeing a bed of brightly colored tulips providing hope for spring. Late October is the time to get those bulbs in the ground while the soil is cool. Normally these bulbs thrive in areas where the ground has been chilly for a long time, but this is a condition we can simulate. Place the bulbs in a paper bag and store them in your vegetable crisper for four to six weeks before planting.
Prepare your beds using plenty of organic matter and ensuring you have good drainage. Once they have bloomed, mulch with at least 2 inches of well-rotted manure. Don't forget that our winter temperatures may be quite warm, just make certain to occasionally dig into the soil to test it for moisture, they may need watering.
Roses - After the fall blooming is over, trim back the canes using a 45 degree angle cut, by about one-third. Do any heavy pruning in the early spring.
Garden clean-up - Make certain to compost any dead vegetables or foliage and rake up any fallen leaves.
Garden tool tune-up - Now is the time to ensure your tools are ready for next spring. Wash them off, sand down the wooden handles and metal parts, wiping them with an oiled rag to prevent rust. It's a bit of a chore, but you'll be glad you took the time.
Gardening in Nevada has its challenges, but a little bit of tender loving care at this time of year will result in happy, healthy plants next spring.
About the Author
Visit welcomehomenevada.com to find current and useful information regarding Las Vegas Real Estate. Don't forget to check the Las Vegas MLS search page for all of the areas MLS listings.
Your Ad on 100's of Engines
$4 per Month or less
Gardening,Organic,Tools,Tips
"Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Gardening...But Never Dared to Ask ..."
Here is a handy checklist for those fall gardening to do's:
Reseeding lawns - The hot summer temperatures can do a lot of damage to a lawn; late September is an ideal time for reseeding and repairing that damage. Make certain you don't purchase bargain varieties of lawn seed, such as Kentucky 31 or K31. Most people are disappointed with this grass due to its coarse texture.
A year round green lawn can be obtained by over seeding it with perennial ryegrass versus annual ryegrass.
Give your lawn one last feeding using a fertilizer containing potassium and cut back watering your lawn to once a week in the winter months.
Colorful annuals - Believe it or not, autumn planting is the time to get the most color and longevity from your annuals in the Las Vegas area. They thrive in the milder climate and with some loving care may bloom again next spring.
Here are some ideas for cool-season annuals:
African daisies, alyssum, asters, baby's breath, bachelor buttons, bells of Ireland, calendulas, candytuft, carnations, clarkia, columbine, delphinium, dianthus or sweet William, gaill ardia, hollyhock, larkspur, nirembergia, pansy, petunia, poppies, snapdragons, statice, stocks, sweet peas, verbena, viola, ornamental kale and cabbage.
Compost for your bedding plants - Our dry soil is scarce in organic matter, which needs to be supplemented in the form of compost or peat moss. It provides much needed drainage and oxygen as well as feeding nutrients to the plants.
A recipe for a healthy garden includes:
Spreading 3 to 4 inches of some form of organic material on the bed.
Add two to three pounds of 16-20-0 fertilizer and equal amounts of sulfur per 100 square feet. Work ingredients into the top 8 to 10 inches of the soil with a spade or rototiller.
Get those bulbs planted - Nothing is more uplifting on a cold winter day, then looking out and seeing a bed of brightly colored tulips providing hope for spring. Late October is the time to get those bulbs in the ground while the soil is cool. Normally these bulbs thrive in areas where the ground has been chilly for a long time, but this is a condition we can simulate. Place the bulbs in a paper bag and store them in your vegetable crisper for four to six weeks before planting.
Prepare your beds using plenty of organic matter and ensuring you have good drainage. Once they have bloomed, mulch with at least 2 inches of well-rotted manure. Don't forget that our winter temperatures may be quite warm, just make certain to occasionally dig into the soil to test it for moisture, they may need watering.
Roses - After the fall blooming is over, trim back the canes using a 45 degree angle cut, by about one-third. Do any heavy pruning in the early spring.
Garden clean-up - Make certain to compost any dead vegetables or foliage and rake up any fallen leaves.
Garden tool tune-up - Now is the time to ensure your tools are ready for next spring. Wash them off, sand down the wooden handles and metal parts, wiping them with an oiled rag to prevent rust. It's a bit of a chore, but you'll be glad you took the time.
Gardening in Nevada has its challenges, but a little bit of tender loving care at this time of year will result in happy, healthy plants next spring.
About the Author
Visit welcomehomenevada.com to find current and useful information regarding Las Vegas Real Estate. Don't forget to check the Las Vegas MLS search page for all of the areas MLS listings.
Your Ad on 100's of Engines
$4 per Month or less
Gardening,Organic,Tools,Tips
"Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Gardening...But Never Dared to Ask ..."
How To Make Organic Vegetable Gardening More Productive by Paul Courtney
Organic Vegetable gardening is very different from conventional gardening. A great deal of care and preparation must be undertaken before you get started. You will need to know how best to prepare soil and know how to enrich it and also provide it with adequate protection from insects that can often do a lot of harm to your vegetables.
Healthy soils usually produce healthy plants provided you incorporate the right Ingredients into your preparation there is no reason why you should not produce healthy abundant plants.
To get the right kind of fertile soil for your organic vegetables, you need to ensure that the soil will is as fertile as possible, and to ensure that you need to have proper amount of nitrogen, phosphorous and also potassium. Before doing anything else, you need to have drawn up detailed plans about how you are going to perform your organic vegetable gardening chores; obviously the type of soil that you use will be a major consideration as far as your plans to grow vegetables organically are concerned.
Your plan must decide what you wish to grow, know the space requirements, make a small scale plan and know where to place different vegetables, and also you will need to calculate the right distance between seeds and rows. Once you have your plans sorted out, you will be ready to get the full benefits of organic vegetable gardening which includes giving your taste buds a treat and being able to choose to sow your favorite vegetables.
In order to be successful in your organic vegetable gardening endeavors you should protect your garden from unwanted intrusion by pets or vermin and plan towards well and constantly cared for gardening this requires a strong will if you want to reap the many possible benefits. You will need to mix the soil well and do so at least three weeks before planting, the soil must have been well prepared to take the seeds and even maybe the transplants.
You also need to ensure that the soil has those materials that have plenty of nitrogen and the soil should have pH of approximately 7.0 and temperatures should hover close to fifty degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the soil must be properly aerated and to prevent soil from turning acidic there should be enough lime present. While irrigating the soil, care should be taken to make the soil thoroughly wet at least once in a week unless it has rained, which will ensure that the soil is moist especially around the root zone.
Go to your local garden supplier they will be able to assist you with local conditions and where to source your organic compost and manures lime and other soil inputs. When you start of with a well prepared patch you will find it easy to control weeds and provided your plants are well fed and healthy you should have no problems with insects and other parasites.. Before you realize it you will be harvestinf your first produce and from then on there is no looking back.
About the Author
Authors biography: Paul Courtney contributes articles to various publications pertaining to Alternative Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Herb Gardens and Organic Food. for more information please visit http://www.organiceandyou.com/index.php
Healthy soils usually produce healthy plants provided you incorporate the right Ingredients into your preparation there is no reason why you should not produce healthy abundant plants.
To get the right kind of fertile soil for your organic vegetables, you need to ensure that the soil will is as fertile as possible, and to ensure that you need to have proper amount of nitrogen, phosphorous and also potassium. Before doing anything else, you need to have drawn up detailed plans about how you are going to perform your organic vegetable gardening chores; obviously the type of soil that you use will be a major consideration as far as your plans to grow vegetables organically are concerned.
Your plan must decide what you wish to grow, know the space requirements, make a small scale plan and know where to place different vegetables, and also you will need to calculate the right distance between seeds and rows. Once you have your plans sorted out, you will be ready to get the full benefits of organic vegetable gardening which includes giving your taste buds a treat and being able to choose to sow your favorite vegetables.
In order to be successful in your organic vegetable gardening endeavors you should protect your garden from unwanted intrusion by pets or vermin and plan towards well and constantly cared for gardening this requires a strong will if you want to reap the many possible benefits. You will need to mix the soil well and do so at least three weeks before planting, the soil must have been well prepared to take the seeds and even maybe the transplants.
You also need to ensure that the soil has those materials that have plenty of nitrogen and the soil should have pH of approximately 7.0 and temperatures should hover close to fifty degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the soil must be properly aerated and to prevent soil from turning acidic there should be enough lime present. While irrigating the soil, care should be taken to make the soil thoroughly wet at least once in a week unless it has rained, which will ensure that the soil is moist especially around the root zone.
Go to your local garden supplier they will be able to assist you with local conditions and where to source your organic compost and manures lime and other soil inputs. When you start of with a well prepared patch you will find it easy to control weeds and provided your plants are well fed and healthy you should have no problems with insects and other parasites.. Before you realize it you will be harvestinf your first produce and from then on there is no looking back.
About the Author
Authors biography: Paul Courtney contributes articles to various publications pertaining to Alternative Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Herb Gardens and Organic Food. for more information please visit http://www.organiceandyou.com/index.php
Organic Foods and Supplements by Don George
Organic food and produce have become so popular, that organic farms are having a difficult time keeping up with the demand. Organic, cage free, fertile eggs are much higher in nutritional value than regular commercial eggs.
Organic foods are better because they have no chemicals, preservatives, or any potentially harmful ingredients. In addition, emerging information about the high nutritional content of grass-fed meat and milk products is raising consumer awareness about the benefits of grass farming.
Nobel Prize winning bio-chemist, Linus Pauling put his finger on the problem when he said "Every disease has a nutritional cause. What we need is "Pasture Perfect Food" where animals are born and raised naturally, they roam free range pasture and have never been confined in a feedlot. Use of artificial growth hormones, preservatives or additives are banned and there is no routine use of antibiotics.
We should eat beef, lamb, chicken, turkey and fish, the things that God intended. The notion of eating foods that have beneficial effects on consumer health above those of adequate nutrition is one that sits well.
Raw food and organic supplements are two of nature's keys to health. Organic supplements have little or no side effects. They are made from the best of what nature has to offer, and are both powerful and earth-friendly. Organic supplements are not common and are expensive, but they do make a difference in our diet.
Organic supplements are much better for you than conventional supplements, and are a great way to complete your diet. Contrary to prescription tablets, organic supplements have no adverse effects and can be obtained without a prescription or expensive doctor's office visit. Eating organic and properly supplementing your diet will ensure a firm foundation for health, and your diet will not lack anything essential. Most all foods today are produced on commercial soils deficient in essential nutrients, or from animals that provide only toxic inorganic sources of nutrients.
Alternative health care supplements have several advantages over traditional pharmaceutic drugs. Supplements are essential in therapeutic all-natural health care programs, but it is a prerequisite that we choose the proper type.
Beware of any health care professional who recommends synthetic supplements. Synthetic supplements benefit the company that produces them; not your health.
Supplements are usually categorized as either natural (organic) or synthetic (inorganic). Since the condition of our body, and the degree of our health reflects the quality of the foods we eat, whole food supplements can do many things for you, such as:
* Boost your energy level * Revitalize your body's natural defense system * Increase your powers of memory and concentration.
Alternative supplements come in different forms, such tablets, capsules, gel caps, syrups, and drinkable liquids. Most people prefer solid supplements because they do not like the taste of herbs, but liquid supplements are generally more efficient.
Common sense should tell us we don't need synthetic (inorganic) supplements any more than we need synthetic food for breakfast. Most synthetic supplements are found in drug stores, pharmacies, department stores, and mail order catalogs.
Natural (organic) supplements are usually found with all-natural health care professionals, health food stores, and some mail order companies. Purchase your supplements from people who know the difference between natural and synthetic.
Organic Gardening
Organic gardening is the practice of producing crops by avoiding the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, and growth regulators. Science is constantly discovering in the foods that we eat, new, beneficial substances that enhance wellness, especially if the foods are unprocessed and organic.
Organics For the Skin?
Organics have even made their way into skin-care and cosmetics. Organics keep skin more hydrated, supply more pure ingredients necessary to skin renewal, and give our skin a rest from having to filter out toxins and harmful ingredients. Most people who switch to an organic diet report a glow in their skin and their eyes, a smoother complexion, and fewer skin problems like allergies and break-outs.
The healthy option and the solution to avoiding toxin exposure from your cosmetics and skin care products is to adopt a certified organics approach. Long time exposure to chemicals that are absorbed into your skin can contribute to many health problems.
Buying and Eating Organic
Since organics have gained momentum in popularity, most grocers have devoted specific sections to organic products and carry organic the organic version of some fruits and vegetables.
No longer solely the domain of the granola set, organic food and personal care products have left the food co-op and hit the mainstream. Today, nearly all grocery stores boast organic food sections and consumers are taking notice. If you're new to organics and just want to get your feet wet, so to speak, it's a great time to start gradually overhauling your kitchen cupboards.
There's an organic replacement for almost everything in your cupboard. Many people think that going organic is more expensive, and while you may spend a little more at first, as organics have paved more of their way onto the scene, prices have consistently dropped. An organic diet gives your body the proper nourishment it needs without all the harmful and potentially dangerous additives.
Health
Everyone knows by now that fast-food is the opposite of health food, but many still think that if it shows up in our local super market it is made with ingredients that are harmless to our health.
Almost all foods in the grocery stores today, unless they are specifically certified as organic, come from the big conglomerate owned farms. The routinely use artificial, or inorganic fertilizers. These fertilizers are chemically produced, sometimes from petroleum products. The bottom line for the majority of commercial food companies is profit, not healthy foods for you and your children. Our health pays a high price for this, because each one of these chemicals comes with adverse side effects.
We can only solve this problem when we make life-affirming choices in eating organic nutritious food, drinking plenty of clean pure water, detoxifying and cleansing, exercising, breathing healthy air, and living in harmony with nature.
Minerals
Why All the Fuss About Calcium?
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, vital to the formation of strong bones and teeth and for the maintenance of healthy gums. Magnesium is an essential mineral that must be present in a calcium formula for the body to properly absorb the calcium. Calcium must be from a food source or an organic fossilized source with the proper vitamins and minerals necessary to digest, absorb, assimilate and utilize the calcium.
Bio-availability is an important property since the value of the mineral is wasted if it is not taken up and absorbed by the body. The bio-availability, or amount actually absorbed by the body, of minerals in supplements has been a long-standing concern, and forms of the minerals that are shown through testing to be more bio-available are highly valued by consumers.
Calcium from Other Food Sources
Asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, collards, dandelion greens, turnip greens, kale, and actually any leafy greens are vegetables high in calcium.
Selenium is an essential trace mineral and is present in all the tissues of the body as an activating component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which has been shown to protect cells from free radical damage.
Of all the nutrient allowances, the allowance for iron is the most difficult to obtain from dietary sources, which is why iron is the most common single mineral deficiency in the world. Zinc is an essential trace mineral that is required in relatively high doses and it is among the best selling individual trace minerals in the health food industry.
Despite the essential nature of zinc, the human body does not store this mineral, so the body is dependent upon a continual external supply. Manganese does not have an RDA, but is included in a number of mineral supplement products.
Vegetables
Of the 8,854 ads reviewed in a study, there were none for fruits or vegetables targeting children or teens. Fiber, an essential for good health, can be found in raw vegetables, fresh fruits, whole wheat bread (not bleached or enriched) and unprocessed grains. Fiber can easily be added by increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. To increase the amount of fiber in your diet, add more servings of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains to your daily diet.
Vitamins
Our body thrives on naturally occurring, whole, complex, real vitamins from foods, because vitamins in this form are more "potent" per milligram than synthetic laboratory fractions of vitamins.
Cleansing
If you're looking for an effective way to flush out toxins from your digestive system, relieve constipation and other lower intestinal problems, improve digestive function, increase your energy, lose weight, and just generally improve overall health, you should consider using a high-quality, organic colon cleanser.
Over time, as these toxins build up, we can gain weight, become chronically constipated, feel sluggish or lethargic, and experience yeast overgrowth, known as Candida. Common side effects associated with bad colon cleansers include:
* Nausea * Vomiting * Increased appetite * Weight gain * Bloating * Distention * Decreased frequency of bowel movements.
The back up of waste in your body can actually cause constipation weight gain even if you are eating less. Compaction can be caused by a number of conditions including:
* Failure to consume enough fiber * Failure to drink enough fluids * Use of pain relieving medication, antidepressants, anti-diarrhea medication, or antacids containing aluminum * Use of methadone typically used to treat drug addiction * Use of medications interfering with nerve and muscle function * Excessive use of laxatives * Undergoing extended bed rest * Kidney disease * Hemorrhoids * Heart disease * Cancer * Conditions limiting movement, such as cerebral palsy or dementia
Organic supplements are another option available for treating fecal compaction. You see, your colon can become quite clogged from years of eating bad foods (fatty meats, sweets, starchy side dishes, etc. But, the backed up waste will actually cause you to put on the pounds rather than lose them, even if you are eating less.
Cancer and Other Common Diseases
Cancer, obesity, allergies, asthma, arthritis, diabetes, alzheimers and heart disease are all symptoms of the 20th century diet. Higher intakes of selenium are needed to help fight heart disease and cancer, and some people, including those with chronic gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohns disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), have trouble absorbing this mineral.
Many scientists agree at least 80% of the 200 different types of cancer known today are related to toxins and carcinogens from toxic and synthetic chemicals. A UK study discovered in breast cancer tumors traces of methyl parabens, which is a synthetic chemical commonly used in washes, anti-perspirants, deodorants, body creams, and lotions. Glutathione is the body's master antioxidant which helps fight off diseases such as cancer, aids, Gulf War Syndrome, fatigue, arthritis.
New research shows vitamin D slashes risk of cancers by 77 percent; cancer industry refuses to support cancer prevention.
Our bodies need natural (organic) supplements as opposed to synthetic (inorganic). Do not be mislead in believing synthetic (inorganic) supplements, with the addition of animal glands and organs, can help correct your health problems.
Organic foods and organic supplements are as close as you can get to what God had in mind. Organic supplements are used by hundreds of health practitioners, clinics and individuals throughout the world.
About the Author
Don George is widely recognized as an authority in the alternative health field. He and his family own and operate http://lavenderisland.com, a popular online supply station for products that are good for you. You may visit there to get your copy of a Special Toxic Dangers Report.
Organic foods are better because they have no chemicals, preservatives, or any potentially harmful ingredients. In addition, emerging information about the high nutritional content of grass-fed meat and milk products is raising consumer awareness about the benefits of grass farming.
Nobel Prize winning bio-chemist, Linus Pauling put his finger on the problem when he said "Every disease has a nutritional cause. What we need is "Pasture Perfect Food" where animals are born and raised naturally, they roam free range pasture and have never been confined in a feedlot. Use of artificial growth hormones, preservatives or additives are banned and there is no routine use of antibiotics.
We should eat beef, lamb, chicken, turkey and fish, the things that God intended. The notion of eating foods that have beneficial effects on consumer health above those of adequate nutrition is one that sits well.
Raw food and organic supplements are two of nature's keys to health. Organic supplements have little or no side effects. They are made from the best of what nature has to offer, and are both powerful and earth-friendly. Organic supplements are not common and are expensive, but they do make a difference in our diet.
Organic supplements are much better for you than conventional supplements, and are a great way to complete your diet. Contrary to prescription tablets, organic supplements have no adverse effects and can be obtained without a prescription or expensive doctor's office visit. Eating organic and properly supplementing your diet will ensure a firm foundation for health, and your diet will not lack anything essential. Most all foods today are produced on commercial soils deficient in essential nutrients, or from animals that provide only toxic inorganic sources of nutrients.
Alternative health care supplements have several advantages over traditional pharmaceutic drugs. Supplements are essential in therapeutic all-natural health care programs, but it is a prerequisite that we choose the proper type.
Beware of any health care professional who recommends synthetic supplements. Synthetic supplements benefit the company that produces them; not your health.
Supplements are usually categorized as either natural (organic) or synthetic (inorganic). Since the condition of our body, and the degree of our health reflects the quality of the foods we eat, whole food supplements can do many things for you, such as:
* Boost your energy level * Revitalize your body's natural defense system * Increase your powers of memory and concentration.
Alternative supplements come in different forms, such tablets, capsules, gel caps, syrups, and drinkable liquids. Most people prefer solid supplements because they do not like the taste of herbs, but liquid supplements are generally more efficient.
Common sense should tell us we don't need synthetic (inorganic) supplements any more than we need synthetic food for breakfast. Most synthetic supplements are found in drug stores, pharmacies, department stores, and mail order catalogs.
Natural (organic) supplements are usually found with all-natural health care professionals, health food stores, and some mail order companies. Purchase your supplements from people who know the difference between natural and synthetic.
Organic Gardening
Organic gardening is the practice of producing crops by avoiding the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, and growth regulators. Science is constantly discovering in the foods that we eat, new, beneficial substances that enhance wellness, especially if the foods are unprocessed and organic.
Organics For the Skin?
Organics have even made their way into skin-care and cosmetics. Organics keep skin more hydrated, supply more pure ingredients necessary to skin renewal, and give our skin a rest from having to filter out toxins and harmful ingredients. Most people who switch to an organic diet report a glow in their skin and their eyes, a smoother complexion, and fewer skin problems like allergies and break-outs.
The healthy option and the solution to avoiding toxin exposure from your cosmetics and skin care products is to adopt a certified organics approach. Long time exposure to chemicals that are absorbed into your skin can contribute to many health problems.
Buying and Eating Organic
Since organics have gained momentum in popularity, most grocers have devoted specific sections to organic products and carry organic the organic version of some fruits and vegetables.
No longer solely the domain of the granola set, organic food and personal care products have left the food co-op and hit the mainstream. Today, nearly all grocery stores boast organic food sections and consumers are taking notice. If you're new to organics and just want to get your feet wet, so to speak, it's a great time to start gradually overhauling your kitchen cupboards.
There's an organic replacement for almost everything in your cupboard. Many people think that going organic is more expensive, and while you may spend a little more at first, as organics have paved more of their way onto the scene, prices have consistently dropped. An organic diet gives your body the proper nourishment it needs without all the harmful and potentially dangerous additives.
Health
Everyone knows by now that fast-food is the opposite of health food, but many still think that if it shows up in our local super market it is made with ingredients that are harmless to our health.
Almost all foods in the grocery stores today, unless they are specifically certified as organic, come from the big conglomerate owned farms. The routinely use artificial, or inorganic fertilizers. These fertilizers are chemically produced, sometimes from petroleum products. The bottom line for the majority of commercial food companies is profit, not healthy foods for you and your children. Our health pays a high price for this, because each one of these chemicals comes with adverse side effects.
We can only solve this problem when we make life-affirming choices in eating organic nutritious food, drinking plenty of clean pure water, detoxifying and cleansing, exercising, breathing healthy air, and living in harmony with nature.
Minerals
Why All the Fuss About Calcium?
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, vital to the formation of strong bones and teeth and for the maintenance of healthy gums. Magnesium is an essential mineral that must be present in a calcium formula for the body to properly absorb the calcium. Calcium must be from a food source or an organic fossilized source with the proper vitamins and minerals necessary to digest, absorb, assimilate and utilize the calcium.
Bio-availability is an important property since the value of the mineral is wasted if it is not taken up and absorbed by the body. The bio-availability, or amount actually absorbed by the body, of minerals in supplements has been a long-standing concern, and forms of the minerals that are shown through testing to be more bio-available are highly valued by consumers.
Calcium from Other Food Sources
Asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, collards, dandelion greens, turnip greens, kale, and actually any leafy greens are vegetables high in calcium.
Selenium is an essential trace mineral and is present in all the tissues of the body as an activating component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which has been shown to protect cells from free radical damage.
Of all the nutrient allowances, the allowance for iron is the most difficult to obtain from dietary sources, which is why iron is the most common single mineral deficiency in the world. Zinc is an essential trace mineral that is required in relatively high doses and it is among the best selling individual trace minerals in the health food industry.
Despite the essential nature of zinc, the human body does not store this mineral, so the body is dependent upon a continual external supply. Manganese does not have an RDA, but is included in a number of mineral supplement products.
Vegetables
Of the 8,854 ads reviewed in a study, there were none for fruits or vegetables targeting children or teens. Fiber, an essential for good health, can be found in raw vegetables, fresh fruits, whole wheat bread (not bleached or enriched) and unprocessed grains. Fiber can easily be added by increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. To increase the amount of fiber in your diet, add more servings of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains to your daily diet.
Vitamins
Our body thrives on naturally occurring, whole, complex, real vitamins from foods, because vitamins in this form are more "potent" per milligram than synthetic laboratory fractions of vitamins.
Cleansing
If you're looking for an effective way to flush out toxins from your digestive system, relieve constipation and other lower intestinal problems, improve digestive function, increase your energy, lose weight, and just generally improve overall health, you should consider using a high-quality, organic colon cleanser.
Over time, as these toxins build up, we can gain weight, become chronically constipated, feel sluggish or lethargic, and experience yeast overgrowth, known as Candida. Common side effects associated with bad colon cleansers include:
* Nausea * Vomiting * Increased appetite * Weight gain * Bloating * Distention * Decreased frequency of bowel movements.
The back up of waste in your body can actually cause constipation weight gain even if you are eating less. Compaction can be caused by a number of conditions including:
* Failure to consume enough fiber * Failure to drink enough fluids * Use of pain relieving medication, antidepressants, anti-diarrhea medication, or antacids containing aluminum * Use of methadone typically used to treat drug addiction * Use of medications interfering with nerve and muscle function * Excessive use of laxatives * Undergoing extended bed rest * Kidney disease * Hemorrhoids * Heart disease * Cancer * Conditions limiting movement, such as cerebral palsy or dementia
Organic supplements are another option available for treating fecal compaction. You see, your colon can become quite clogged from years of eating bad foods (fatty meats, sweets, starchy side dishes, etc. But, the backed up waste will actually cause you to put on the pounds rather than lose them, even if you are eating less.
Cancer and Other Common Diseases
Cancer, obesity, allergies, asthma, arthritis, diabetes, alzheimers and heart disease are all symptoms of the 20th century diet. Higher intakes of selenium are needed to help fight heart disease and cancer, and some people, including those with chronic gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohns disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), have trouble absorbing this mineral.
Many scientists agree at least 80% of the 200 different types of cancer known today are related to toxins and carcinogens from toxic and synthetic chemicals. A UK study discovered in breast cancer tumors traces of methyl parabens, which is a synthetic chemical commonly used in washes, anti-perspirants, deodorants, body creams, and lotions. Glutathione is the body's master antioxidant which helps fight off diseases such as cancer, aids, Gulf War Syndrome, fatigue, arthritis.
New research shows vitamin D slashes risk of cancers by 77 percent; cancer industry refuses to support cancer prevention.
Our bodies need natural (organic) supplements as opposed to synthetic (inorganic). Do not be mislead in believing synthetic (inorganic) supplements, with the addition of animal glands and organs, can help correct your health problems.
Organic foods and organic supplements are as close as you can get to what God had in mind. Organic supplements are used by hundreds of health practitioners, clinics and individuals throughout the world.
About the Author
Don George is widely recognized as an authority in the alternative health field. He and his family own and operate http://lavenderisland.com, a popular online supply station for products that are good for you. You may visit there to get your copy of a Special Toxic Dangers Report.
A Lawn is only as Good as its Soil by Ariel Rosen
A beautiful lawn does not come without some exertion. Depending upon what type of soil you have, the amount of effort will vary. For instance, lawn grasses grow continually throughout the growing season and need an ample supply of both nutrients and water. When growing trees and shrubs, sandy or a gravel base soil is great. Moreover, landscape plants like well drained soiled.
The most vital lawn care tip is watering and fertilizing regularly to keep a lawn beautiful. If you're lucky enough to have a lawn that was originally planted in good rich topsoil, you won't have to work nearly as hard as somebody who has a lawn that has been planted in sandy gravel. This type of soil has little nutritional value, nor does it have the ability to retain any amount of moisture.
Lawns are one part of gardening where a little clay in the soil is a good thing. Of course standing water is not good, but having soil that has the ability to retain some moisture is helpful. If you happen to be installing a new lawn, here's a news flash from my lawn care tips that will make all the difference in the world: Add lots of organic matter before you install your new lawn if you have sand or gravel type soil. The easiest way to do this is to find some good rich topsoil and spread that over your existing soil.
Because most lawn grasses grow so vigorously, they need additional amounts of nutrients added in order to stay looking nice. Just use one of the four step programs offered by the fertilizer companies. Most of these programs also include weed control along with the fertilizer. Here in the north we basically have two concerns with weeds in our lawns.
Homeowners who prize their lawns know that watering is often required. We recommend that you pick up an automatic hose reel to make the task easier. There are many different types of hose reels, we recommend choosing an automatic hose reel for maximum convenience. Implement a hose reel cart solution and you can increase the length of your hose by placing the hose reel cart in positions where it can reach all parts of your yard or garden.
To learn more about automatic hose reels or to get more gardening tips please visit http://www.mygardentips.net/
About the Author
Ariel is a writer for Compucall-USA.com. To learn more about hose reels, please visit http://www.no-crank.com
The most vital lawn care tip is watering and fertilizing regularly to keep a lawn beautiful. If you're lucky enough to have a lawn that was originally planted in good rich topsoil, you won't have to work nearly as hard as somebody who has a lawn that has been planted in sandy gravel. This type of soil has little nutritional value, nor does it have the ability to retain any amount of moisture.
Lawns are one part of gardening where a little clay in the soil is a good thing. Of course standing water is not good, but having soil that has the ability to retain some moisture is helpful. If you happen to be installing a new lawn, here's a news flash from my lawn care tips that will make all the difference in the world: Add lots of organic matter before you install your new lawn if you have sand or gravel type soil. The easiest way to do this is to find some good rich topsoil and spread that over your existing soil.
Because most lawn grasses grow so vigorously, they need additional amounts of nutrients added in order to stay looking nice. Just use one of the four step programs offered by the fertilizer companies. Most of these programs also include weed control along with the fertilizer. Here in the north we basically have two concerns with weeds in our lawns.
Homeowners who prize their lawns know that watering is often required. We recommend that you pick up an automatic hose reel to make the task easier. There are many different types of hose reels, we recommend choosing an automatic hose reel for maximum convenience. Implement a hose reel cart solution and you can increase the length of your hose by placing the hose reel cart in positions where it can reach all parts of your yard or garden.
To learn more about automatic hose reels or to get more gardening tips please visit http://www.mygardentips.net/
About the Author
Ariel is a writer for Compucall-USA.com. To learn more about hose reels, please visit http://www.no-crank.com
Think Green in Your Landscape - Organic Landscaping by Kent Higgins
With a growing population comes more pollution. People are beginning to notice, and they are trying to help in any way that they can. Using landscaping techniques that do not harm the environment is a great way to help. It is also cheap and healthier for you. Using pesticides or fertilizers can be harmful to your health or the health of your children. Organic gardening is safe for everyone. Also, organic gardening can be done with materials that you already have. You won't have to go out and buy chemicals.
Using native plants is a great way to begin organic landscaping. They are used to surviving naturally in the local conditions, so you will have to do less to try to make them survive. They have evolved to survive on their own. Bringing in exotic plants may require chemicals to help them to survive.
The most basic aspect of your landscaping is your lawn. Contrary to what you may believe, you do not need a lot of chemicals to keep pests away. Instead, simply caring for the grass and soil by giving them the proper nutrients and amount of water will be plenty. Organic fertilizer costs a little bit more, but it works so well that it lowers costs in the long run. You won't have to apply the fertilizer as often as synthetic fertilizer, and you will no longer need to buy chemicals.
Besides using organic fertilizer, taking care of the soil and roots through aeration helps grass to grow healthily. Aeration makes soil less compact by adding holes, so the roots will be able to grow deeper into the soil. Also, organisms such as earthworms will be able to live in the soil more easily. This is a good thing, since they create healthier soil and grass. With aeration, your grass will naturally be healthier and more resistant against pests and weeds.
A couple other techniques to organically improve the health of your lawn are top dressing and over seeding. Topdressing is when you mix compost and sand and apply it to your lawn. It strengthens your grass without using fertilizer. Over seeding is simply adding about 1.5 x the normal amount of grass seed. This will help your grass to grow thicker more quickly, which takes up more space in the soil and leaves less room for weeds to grow.
With aeration, topdressing, and over seeding, and composing, you may not need fertilizer at all, even organic. Also, if you create your own mulch out of grass clippings, raked leaves, and pine needles, the decomposition of them will create a very nutrient rich soil. Organic gardening, overall, is healthier for you and your lawn, imagine the smell of stephanotis flowers as you work outdoors. It is the most natural way to enjoy nature and landscape.
About the Author
The wonderful natural scent of stephanotis flowers blooming and climbing up a trellis is about as organic as you can get! It's nature at it's finest! What to discover more color accents and scents for your backyard landscape? Visit www.plant-care.com today!
Your Ad on 100's of Engines
$4 per Month or less
Gardening,Organic,Tools,Tips
"Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Gardening...But Never Dared to Ask ..."
Using native plants is a great way to begin organic landscaping. They are used to surviving naturally in the local conditions, so you will have to do less to try to make them survive. They have evolved to survive on their own. Bringing in exotic plants may require chemicals to help them to survive.
The most basic aspect of your landscaping is your lawn. Contrary to what you may believe, you do not need a lot of chemicals to keep pests away. Instead, simply caring for the grass and soil by giving them the proper nutrients and amount of water will be plenty. Organic fertilizer costs a little bit more, but it works so well that it lowers costs in the long run. You won't have to apply the fertilizer as often as synthetic fertilizer, and you will no longer need to buy chemicals.
Besides using organic fertilizer, taking care of the soil and roots through aeration helps grass to grow healthily. Aeration makes soil less compact by adding holes, so the roots will be able to grow deeper into the soil. Also, organisms such as earthworms will be able to live in the soil more easily. This is a good thing, since they create healthier soil and grass. With aeration, your grass will naturally be healthier and more resistant against pests and weeds.
A couple other techniques to organically improve the health of your lawn are top dressing and over seeding. Topdressing is when you mix compost and sand and apply it to your lawn. It strengthens your grass without using fertilizer. Over seeding is simply adding about 1.5 x the normal amount of grass seed. This will help your grass to grow thicker more quickly, which takes up more space in the soil and leaves less room for weeds to grow.
With aeration, topdressing, and over seeding, and composing, you may not need fertilizer at all, even organic. Also, if you create your own mulch out of grass clippings, raked leaves, and pine needles, the decomposition of them will create a very nutrient rich soil. Organic gardening, overall, is healthier for you and your lawn, imagine the smell of stephanotis flowers as you work outdoors. It is the most natural way to enjoy nature and landscape.
About the Author
The wonderful natural scent of stephanotis flowers blooming and climbing up a trellis is about as organic as you can get! It's nature at it's finest! What to discover more color accents and scents for your backyard landscape? Visit www.plant-care.com today!
Your Ad on 100's of Engines
$4 per Month or less
Gardening,Organic,Tools,Tips
"Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Gardening...But Never Dared to Ask ..."
Start Market Gardening Right - Right Away! by Scott Kelland
Are you a gardener? Have you ever dreamed of getting paid for it? More and more people are looking for fresh organic produce from someone they can trust. The Slow Food movement and the 100 Mile Diet have made local food a mainstream idea. There has never been a better time to start market gardening!
But success in market gardening depends on starting out the right way i.e. with a proven approach. Fortunately there is a way to launch a market garden business:
- without a lot of money
- without a lot of land
- and without a lot of expensive equipment
It can be done, but you need to start with the right information and the right model. What is the right model? I will let you in on a little 'secret' about an incredibly powerful method to start-up a market garden
- Community Supported Agriculture (CSA).
What is Community Supported Agriculture? In this model of a small farm or market garden, customers subscribe to the farm, paying in advance to receive a share of vegetables each week throughout the growing season.
Why is this a great model? Here's are some of the advantages:
- Since customers pay in advance for the season, the market gardener gets a guaranteed cash flow to help pay for start-up costs e.g. seed, supplies, equipment;
- Customers are 'locked in' for the season - once they sign up with your CSA, no other marketing required;
- This 'captive market' may also buy other products that you can provide;
- No price competition - it doesn't matter what your neighbouring gardener is selling his produce for - yours is already sold (in advance!)
This is an incredibly powerful approach to launching a market gardening business. The advance cash you receive from customers could allow you to bootstrap your business, with no money out of your pocket (except for the costs of finding those customers in the first place.)
What do you need to do to start a bootstrap market garden? Here are a few steps you should follow (before you throw some seed in the ground!)
- Plan your business - set targets for number of customers you want to have, your desired income, and estimate your start-up and operating expenses;
- Plan your garden - how much of each crop will you have to grow to satisfy your customers? How big will the garden have to be?
- Market your garden - find a likely pool of prospective customers, and get your message out;
- Manage your garden - put in place the tools, methods and labour to grow and harvest your crops;
- Manage your business - set up a system to keep good records, track income and expenses, and garden production. This will help with planning for next year.
If this is your first attempt at market gardening, its a good idea to 'start small'. Perhaps just approach a few friends and neighbours, and ask them if they would like to receive a basket of farm-fresh veggies from you every week. Then follow the steps above to start up your own bootstrap market garden!
About the Author
Scott Kelland is the owner of New Terra Farm and winner of the Premier's Award for Agri-food Innovation. For more valuable market gardening tips, subscribe to Bootstrap Market Gardening Secrets a free e-course.
But success in market gardening depends on starting out the right way i.e. with a proven approach. Fortunately there is a way to launch a market garden business:
- without a lot of money
- without a lot of land
- and without a lot of expensive equipment
It can be done, but you need to start with the right information and the right model. What is the right model? I will let you in on a little 'secret' about an incredibly powerful method to start-up a market garden
- Community Supported Agriculture (CSA).
What is Community Supported Agriculture? In this model of a small farm or market garden, customers subscribe to the farm, paying in advance to receive a share of vegetables each week throughout the growing season.
Why is this a great model? Here's are some of the advantages:
- Since customers pay in advance for the season, the market gardener gets a guaranteed cash flow to help pay for start-up costs e.g. seed, supplies, equipment;
- Customers are 'locked in' for the season - once they sign up with your CSA, no other marketing required;
- This 'captive market' may also buy other products that you can provide;
- No price competition - it doesn't matter what your neighbouring gardener is selling his produce for - yours is already sold (in advance!)
This is an incredibly powerful approach to launching a market gardening business. The advance cash you receive from customers could allow you to bootstrap your business, with no money out of your pocket (except for the costs of finding those customers in the first place.)
What do you need to do to start a bootstrap market garden? Here are a few steps you should follow (before you throw some seed in the ground!)
- Plan your business - set targets for number of customers you want to have, your desired income, and estimate your start-up and operating expenses;
- Plan your garden - how much of each crop will you have to grow to satisfy your customers? How big will the garden have to be?
- Market your garden - find a likely pool of prospective customers, and get your message out;
- Manage your garden - put in place the tools, methods and labour to grow and harvest your crops;
- Manage your business - set up a system to keep good records, track income and expenses, and garden production. This will help with planning for next year.
If this is your first attempt at market gardening, its a good idea to 'start small'. Perhaps just approach a few friends and neighbours, and ask them if they would like to receive a basket of farm-fresh veggies from you every week. Then follow the steps above to start up your own bootstrap market garden!
About the Author
Scott Kelland is the owner of New Terra Farm and winner of the Premier's Award for Agri-food Innovation. For more valuable market gardening tips, subscribe to Bootstrap Market Gardening Secrets a free e-course.
The Home Vegetable Garden by Roger Hardieway
Conventional or Organic?
If you are determined to go it alone, there is up-to-date and inexpensive literature existing in the library and on the internet on how to prepare and outline the home landscape. In truth, one of the neatest possible effects from visiting others in their gardens is the generation of new Ideas. Start your garden by partnering with some one at first. My experience with vegetable gardening was with my dad at age eleven. He was invited to use a ten acre tract of land from Ms Studts; a lady who needed someone to keep an eye on the property a few years until her family's estate became settled.
I found out among the most distasteful of the jobs facing a home gardener is that of eradicating weeds from the garden. However, the home grown tomatoes, greens, squash, melons, strawberries and others were great and were certainly worth the effort.
Tables in guides and catalog list the most serious pests that a home gardener is likely to encounter, along with recommendations for their management. A home gardener is relegated to the use of various plain hand tools for planting, cultivating and maintaining the plot.
I would choose organic gardening over conventional. I think it is the healthy choice.
Park Seed Company is one of a number of suppliers who more or less supplies certified organic seeds that are grown under conditions mandated by the National Standard for Organic Agriculture, performing rigorous soil testing and using only approved fertilizers and pest controls. Some offer fast service and organic seed. Some pay exclusive interest to the qualities a home gardener is looking for; flavor and ease of growing.
The prime gardening tool for a home gardener is a spade, unless your vegetable garden is very large. Then you may need a mechanical tiller or rotary hoe.
It is not just for the leisure class or hippies. Organic gardening is a new thing to me and I hope to learn and share. It is a Fun and Healthy Way to feed your family. It appears to be a Healthy, Safe, Fun, and Satisfying Experience.
Many people who are into vegetable gardening have been asked the question, "Why bother to grow vegetables in a garden when you can simply go to the grocery store and buy them.
It is definitely the way to go. It is the best way to feed your family. It is bringing the initial concept of pure gardening back, and it is obvious why. It is different from conventional gardening in several major ways. It is your one and only answer. It is cheap and easy. It is growing in popularity each year. It is a great way to provide healthy foods for your table. It is different from "conventional" gardening in the areas of fertilization and pest control. It is a way to grow plants without the use of chemicals. It is safer because you are not using pesticides and you are not exposing your crops to poisons. It is a lot of work but it is "fun" work.
Now that you have learned that it is safe, healthy, and a lot of fun, you must ask the question "what am I going to plant?" It is not quite the same as your usual gardening and there are a few differences including how fertilizers are used and how to control pests. With these simple tips, you should find that it is fun to do and will provide good results as well.
Plan Your Space. The first step to it is choosing your location. With some, it is a hobby; with others, especially in these days of high prices, a great help. My personal philosophy is to concentrate on the basic principles. Grow a great garden with fewer or no chemicals. My dad read and subscribed to The Farmers Almanac; one of North America's oldest and most treasured publications since 1818.
Please leave your comments.
my blog: http://roger-hobbytech.blogspot.com
Roger Hardieway is a retired Engineer and amateur radio operator
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Hardieway http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Home-Vegetable-Garden&id=721655
About the Author
Roger Hardieway is a retired Engineer and amateur radio operator http://www.onlineshopelectronics.com http://www.articletrader.com
If you are determined to go it alone, there is up-to-date and inexpensive literature existing in the library and on the internet on how to prepare and outline the home landscape. In truth, one of the neatest possible effects from visiting others in their gardens is the generation of new Ideas. Start your garden by partnering with some one at first. My experience with vegetable gardening was with my dad at age eleven. He was invited to use a ten acre tract of land from Ms Studts; a lady who needed someone to keep an eye on the property a few years until her family's estate became settled.
I found out among the most distasteful of the jobs facing a home gardener is that of eradicating weeds from the garden. However, the home grown tomatoes, greens, squash, melons, strawberries and others were great and were certainly worth the effort.
Tables in guides and catalog list the most serious pests that a home gardener is likely to encounter, along with recommendations for their management. A home gardener is relegated to the use of various plain hand tools for planting, cultivating and maintaining the plot.
I would choose organic gardening over conventional. I think it is the healthy choice.
Park Seed Company is one of a number of suppliers who more or less supplies certified organic seeds that are grown under conditions mandated by the National Standard for Organic Agriculture, performing rigorous soil testing and using only approved fertilizers and pest controls. Some offer fast service and organic seed. Some pay exclusive interest to the qualities a home gardener is looking for; flavor and ease of growing.
The prime gardening tool for a home gardener is a spade, unless your vegetable garden is very large. Then you may need a mechanical tiller or rotary hoe.
It is not just for the leisure class or hippies. Organic gardening is a new thing to me and I hope to learn and share. It is a Fun and Healthy Way to feed your family. It appears to be a Healthy, Safe, Fun, and Satisfying Experience.
Many people who are into vegetable gardening have been asked the question, "Why bother to grow vegetables in a garden when you can simply go to the grocery store and buy them.
It is definitely the way to go. It is the best way to feed your family. It is bringing the initial concept of pure gardening back, and it is obvious why. It is different from conventional gardening in several major ways. It is your one and only answer. It is cheap and easy. It is growing in popularity each year. It is a great way to provide healthy foods for your table. It is different from "conventional" gardening in the areas of fertilization and pest control. It is a way to grow plants without the use of chemicals. It is safer because you are not using pesticides and you are not exposing your crops to poisons. It is a lot of work but it is "fun" work.
Now that you have learned that it is safe, healthy, and a lot of fun, you must ask the question "what am I going to plant?" It is not quite the same as your usual gardening and there are a few differences including how fertilizers are used and how to control pests. With these simple tips, you should find that it is fun to do and will provide good results as well.
Plan Your Space. The first step to it is choosing your location. With some, it is a hobby; with others, especially in these days of high prices, a great help. My personal philosophy is to concentrate on the basic principles. Grow a great garden with fewer or no chemicals. My dad read and subscribed to The Farmers Almanac; one of North America's oldest and most treasured publications since 1818.
Please leave your comments.
my blog: http://roger-hobbytech.blogspot.com
Roger Hardieway is a retired Engineer and amateur radio operator
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Hardieway http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Home-Vegetable-Garden&id=721655
About the Author
Roger Hardieway is a retired Engineer and amateur radio operator http://www.onlineshopelectronics.com http://www.articletrader.com
Great Fall Landscape Tips for Fun and Maintenance
Invigorating fall .... tingling, misty mornings.... Ah! My favorite time of year for having fun with all the gorgeous colors and for "chores" that actually become enjoyable when the weather is crisp and beautiful!
I love all the charming container gardens you can make in the fall. One idea is to use a pumpkin as a planter for some brighly colored mums, putting small holes in the bottom for drainage (if you're in the cooler regions of the country where it won't go bad quickly). You can also use a pretty weather-friendly manufactured one in the hotter regions.
I also like to hang the pumpkin (or jack-o-lantern) planter on a shepherd's hook (again you can get this at your local gardening supply center) or place it on an extra birdbath. This is the one time I will use silk plants outside -- to place around the bottom of the pumpkin in the birdbath, hanging over the edges or surrounding the arrangement.
Another idea is to use a large, outdoor planter in which you put some sort of bottom filler such as chicken wire or peat moss and then on top of that, arrange maybe some of the beautiful colored winter gourds you can buy at your local market or some small pumpkins with small pots of winter flowers.
Lots of people really love scare crows for the fall -- either sitting on a bench, or used in an arrangement with perhaps a couple of hay bales with pumpkins and/or fall flowers.
__________________________________________________
Some of the "maintenance" items I consider fun are working with stepping stones to make a new walk or place in some of your gardens. Either regular stones from your garden center, or using kits to make your own! There are beautiful mosaic tiles and colored glass you can use just for a few examples of materials. I've seen lady bug stones, flower stones, and many other personalized ones of every type as well.
This is also a great time to build a new patio, arbor or bridge or to make new beds with borders and mulch so you're ready for your gorgeous new plantings when spring comes, and you can just have fun with your new plants!
I also like to do the things that are miserable to do in the summer, but theraputic in the fall months like painting or poly-coating your fences, cleaning out unwanted plants from your gardens to be ready for spring and replacing them with mulch, and anything else that can be unpleasant when the weather is warm or hot.
__________________________________________________
Finally, there are the mundane things you do to maintain a beautiful lawn year-round, such as:
# Mowing
to 1-1/2" to stimulate it's growth in the Spring
# Fertilizing
with a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in late September/early October and then again in November for a thick, beautiful turf, but also for cold-resistance during the winter months.
# Aeration
skip this step, and you will not have a gorgeous, carpet-like lawn in the spring no matter how much you fertilize!
Do this in September or October as well, and then once again in the Spring. Even just a Fall aeration can produce amazing results in your turf. You can rent or buy an aerator, or use an attachment found at your local garden supply store for your mower that will also work well. (Do be cautious with the mower attachment method as it can over-heat your mower if you don't let it rest periodically during the aeration process).
# Watering
It's best to water in three short five-ten minute cycles in the morning. I find that for problem areas or brown spots, hand-watering works best rather than more water.
# Mulching
Mulch is as important in the winter as in the summer. It can prevent root freezing (or burning in the summer), help drainage and water evaporation, and discourage weeds year-round. It also improves the soil quality which creates more nutrients for your plants.
One to three inches of organic mulch such as bark, straw, leaves, compost or even pine tree needles or grass clippings will do fine.
My personal favorite is the red-colored mulch -- especially for the fall months as is it is a deep reddish-burgandy (very fall-looking color), and makes a wonderful contrast for your evergreen hedges, trees and brightly colored fall flowers.
I hope you find these tips helpful and that you will find some things you can do from them that you will have fun with as well. Have a great fall and a magical winter holiday season!
Sharon
www.landscaping-your-own-beautiful-garden.com
About the Author
I'm Sharon, and I have over fifteen years experience in gardening and landscaping and a lifetime passion for beautiful gardens, flowers and landscape designs of every type.
Knowing nothing at all about building websites, I started to create my own site so I could share my passion, experience,and inspiring ideas with fellow gardeners all around the world.
I welcome your feedback, ideas, photos & discussions on my site forum. Come and see me there!
I love all the charming container gardens you can make in the fall. One idea is to use a pumpkin as a planter for some brighly colored mums, putting small holes in the bottom for drainage (if you're in the cooler regions of the country where it won't go bad quickly). You can also use a pretty weather-friendly manufactured one in the hotter regions.
I also like to hang the pumpkin (or jack-o-lantern) planter on a shepherd's hook (again you can get this at your local gardening supply center) or place it on an extra birdbath. This is the one time I will use silk plants outside -- to place around the bottom of the pumpkin in the birdbath, hanging over the edges or surrounding the arrangement.
Another idea is to use a large, outdoor planter in which you put some sort of bottom filler such as chicken wire or peat moss and then on top of that, arrange maybe some of the beautiful colored winter gourds you can buy at your local market or some small pumpkins with small pots of winter flowers.
Lots of people really love scare crows for the fall -- either sitting on a bench, or used in an arrangement with perhaps a couple of hay bales with pumpkins and/or fall flowers.
__________________________________________________
Some of the "maintenance" items I consider fun are working with stepping stones to make a new walk or place in some of your gardens. Either regular stones from your garden center, or using kits to make your own! There are beautiful mosaic tiles and colored glass you can use just for a few examples of materials. I've seen lady bug stones, flower stones, and many other personalized ones of every type as well.
This is also a great time to build a new patio, arbor or bridge or to make new beds with borders and mulch so you're ready for your gorgeous new plantings when spring comes, and you can just have fun with your new plants!
I also like to do the things that are miserable to do in the summer, but theraputic in the fall months like painting or poly-coating your fences, cleaning out unwanted plants from your gardens to be ready for spring and replacing them with mulch, and anything else that can be unpleasant when the weather is warm or hot.
__________________________________________________
Finally, there are the mundane things you do to maintain a beautiful lawn year-round, such as:
# Mowing
to 1-1/2" to stimulate it's growth in the Spring
# Fertilizing
with a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in late September/early October and then again in November for a thick, beautiful turf, but also for cold-resistance during the winter months.
# Aeration
skip this step, and you will not have a gorgeous, carpet-like lawn in the spring no matter how much you fertilize!
Do this in September or October as well, and then once again in the Spring. Even just a Fall aeration can produce amazing results in your turf. You can rent or buy an aerator, or use an attachment found at your local garden supply store for your mower that will also work well. (Do be cautious with the mower attachment method as it can over-heat your mower if you don't let it rest periodically during the aeration process).
# Watering
It's best to water in three short five-ten minute cycles in the morning. I find that for problem areas or brown spots, hand-watering works best rather than more water.
# Mulching
Mulch is as important in the winter as in the summer. It can prevent root freezing (or burning in the summer), help drainage and water evaporation, and discourage weeds year-round. It also improves the soil quality which creates more nutrients for your plants.
One to three inches of organic mulch such as bark, straw, leaves, compost or even pine tree needles or grass clippings will do fine.
My personal favorite is the red-colored mulch -- especially for the fall months as is it is a deep reddish-burgandy (very fall-looking color), and makes a wonderful contrast for your evergreen hedges, trees and brightly colored fall flowers.
I hope you find these tips helpful and that you will find some things you can do from them that you will have fun with as well. Have a great fall and a magical winter holiday season!
Sharon
www.landscaping-your-own-beautiful-garden.com
About the Author
I'm Sharon, and I have over fifteen years experience in gardening and landscaping and a lifetime passion for beautiful gardens, flowers and landscape designs of every type.
Knowing nothing at all about building websites, I started to create my own site so I could share my passion, experience,and inspiring ideas with fellow gardeners all around the world.
I welcome your feedback, ideas, photos & discussions on my site forum. Come and see me there!
Rose Gardening A Highly Rewarding Pastime by A.Causey
Rose gardening is an absorbing and highly rewarding pastime. Rose Gardening; is a true and effective way, to beautify your property and the world for that matter.Just think how the world would look if everyone took advantage of rose gardening.Going to work or to town; seeing the beauty of roses everywhere would place beauty in your eyes and even your heart.
Learn rose gardening and you can make a beautiful, and fragrant addition to any home or buisness.And growing roses is not nearly as difficult as you might think. What could be better than presenting a bouquet of roses to someone special, especially when you have not only grown them, but chosen the best, and freshly picked them yourself.So if you want learn rose gardening, start yourself off right with expert hints and tips,with very little effort, and very little expense.
Rose Gardening Tips:
1)It seems that even with the best of prevention techniques and caring for your roses, you cannot always stop diseases and problems from affecting your roses.
2)Check with your local gardening center; or florist for the best type of roses to grow in you climate.
3)There are literally hundreds of types of roses that you can grow in your garden.With such a selection to choose from, it can be extremely difficult to choose the rose that's right for you. When you have the right knowledge, there is no limit to how beautiful a garden or rosebush that you can create.
4)Rose gardening can be a challenging exercise but you don't have to be an expert to grow roses.
5)Roses are grown successfully in gardens in nearly every different type of climate and environmental condition.
6)For planting roses a good garden loam with organic matter is important.It must contain peat moss, leaf mold, compost, rotted or commercial manure, and the bed should be prepared as far ahead of planting as is feasible in order to all.
7)One rose that you may consider is Hybrid tea roses and the original tea rose are the worlds favourite roses; and are available in many gorgeous colors.Hybrid tea roses are among the most beautiful flowers in the world.
Rose Gardening doesn't have to be a complicated thing to do. When you have the right knowledge there is no limit to how beautiful a garden or rosebush that you can create. For more information in creating and learning steps to Rose Gardening go now to: http://www.acauzee.com/Roses/
About the Author
Rose Gardening doesn't have to be a complicated thing to do. When you have the right knowledge there is no limit to how beautiful a garden or rosebush that you can create. For more information in creating and learning steps to Rose Gardening go now to: http://www.acauzee.com/Roses/
Learn rose gardening and you can make a beautiful, and fragrant addition to any home or buisness.And growing roses is not nearly as difficult as you might think. What could be better than presenting a bouquet of roses to someone special, especially when you have not only grown them, but chosen the best, and freshly picked them yourself.So if you want learn rose gardening, start yourself off right with expert hints and tips,with very little effort, and very little expense.
Rose Gardening Tips:
1)It seems that even with the best of prevention techniques and caring for your roses, you cannot always stop diseases and problems from affecting your roses.
2)Check with your local gardening center; or florist for the best type of roses to grow in you climate.
3)There are literally hundreds of types of roses that you can grow in your garden.With such a selection to choose from, it can be extremely difficult to choose the rose that's right for you. When you have the right knowledge, there is no limit to how beautiful a garden or rosebush that you can create.
4)Rose gardening can be a challenging exercise but you don't have to be an expert to grow roses.
5)Roses are grown successfully in gardens in nearly every different type of climate and environmental condition.
6)For planting roses a good garden loam with organic matter is important.It must contain peat moss, leaf mold, compost, rotted or commercial manure, and the bed should be prepared as far ahead of planting as is feasible in order to all.
7)One rose that you may consider is Hybrid tea roses and the original tea rose are the worlds favourite roses; and are available in many gorgeous colors.Hybrid tea roses are among the most beautiful flowers in the world.
Rose Gardening doesn't have to be a complicated thing to do. When you have the right knowledge there is no limit to how beautiful a garden or rosebush that you can create. For more information in creating and learning steps to Rose Gardening go now to: http://www.acauzee.com/Roses/
About the Author
Rose Gardening doesn't have to be a complicated thing to do. When you have the right knowledge there is no limit to how beautiful a garden or rosebush that you can create. For more information in creating and learning steps to Rose Gardening go now to: http://www.acauzee.com/Roses/
Anaerobic Waste Recycling - Use of Gardening Bins and Others by Nowrecycle
Anaerobic waste recycling or anaerobic digestion is one of the most effective methods of waste disposal, actively using tools like the gardening bins and other types of storage products.
Anaerobic Waste Recycling - The Process
In this sustainable method of waste disposal, the waste is decomposed in an enclosed chamber, unlike in a landfill site, while the digestion takes place in an oxygen-free environment. Using the oxygen that is chemically combined with the waste, the bacteria thrive in this environment and decompose the waste by breaking down the molecules to form gaseous by-products and small quantities of solid residue. It is always helpful to use tools like the gardening bins for accumulation of material for such processes.
Anaerobic digester, the industrial system that harnesses these natural processes to treat waste, also produces biogas that can be further used to fuel electricity generators, provide heat and produce soil-improving material.
Experts point out that the biggest benefit of the anaerobic waste recycling lies in the fact that it has a potential of greatly reducing the amount of organic matter which other wise might be deposited in landfills or waste incinerators.
Application and Usage
The usage of anaerobic digesters has been increasing quite rapidly over the last few years. In fact, they have been quite frequently used for sewage treatment or for the management of animal waste.
Anaerobic waste recycling is an extremely popular and successful method used for disposal of large amounts of waste. Reports suggest that countries like Denmark treat as much as 1.1 million tonnes of waste by anaerobic digestion every year.
Though the use of anaerobic digestion as a sustainable method for waste disposal is quite limited in the UK, its application is now rapidly increasing.
Waster Material
As a method of waste disposal, anaerobic waste recycling can be effectively used to treat a large variety of organic waste, the majority of which can be stored using especially designed gardening bins and stylish bins. These primarily include biodegradable waste materials such as waste paper, grass clippings, leftover food, sewage and animal waste. In addition, for the purpose of increasing the biogas production, these anaerobic digesters can also be fed with especially grown energy crops which will further boost the biodegradable content.
The By-Products
The process of anaerobic waste recycling yields a series of useful by-products that can be further used for the benefit of the environment and economy in general.
These by-products mainly include:
1. Biogas: This is a gaseous mixture which comprises mostly of methane and carbon dioxide, but also contains a small amount of hydrogen and smaller levels of hydrogen suphide.
2. Acidogenic digestate: This is a stable organic material comprised largely of lignin and chitin and a variety of mineral components.
3. Methanogenic digestate: This material is rich in nutrients and can prove to be an excellent fertilizer, especially if the quality of the material being digested is higher.
Tools and products like the gardening bins and stylish bins play an important role in the effectiveness of waste disposal methods like anaerobic waste recycling.
Editors' notes:
NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. It is part of the International Plastic Omnium Group, a world leader in contract waste container solutions with worldwide sales of more than £1.8 billion. It employs over 9,000 people in 25 countries, across four continents, in manufacturing and service solutions for the automotive, environment and performance plastic products. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
About the Author
NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
Anaerobic Waste Recycling - The Process
In this sustainable method of waste disposal, the waste is decomposed in an enclosed chamber, unlike in a landfill site, while the digestion takes place in an oxygen-free environment. Using the oxygen that is chemically combined with the waste, the bacteria thrive in this environment and decompose the waste by breaking down the molecules to form gaseous by-products and small quantities of solid residue. It is always helpful to use tools like the gardening bins for accumulation of material for such processes.
Anaerobic digester, the industrial system that harnesses these natural processes to treat waste, also produces biogas that can be further used to fuel electricity generators, provide heat and produce soil-improving material.
Experts point out that the biggest benefit of the anaerobic waste recycling lies in the fact that it has a potential of greatly reducing the amount of organic matter which other wise might be deposited in landfills or waste incinerators.
Application and Usage
The usage of anaerobic digesters has been increasing quite rapidly over the last few years. In fact, they have been quite frequently used for sewage treatment or for the management of animal waste.
Anaerobic waste recycling is an extremely popular and successful method used for disposal of large amounts of waste. Reports suggest that countries like Denmark treat as much as 1.1 million tonnes of waste by anaerobic digestion every year.
Though the use of anaerobic digestion as a sustainable method for waste disposal is quite limited in the UK, its application is now rapidly increasing.
Waster Material
As a method of waste disposal, anaerobic waste recycling can be effectively used to treat a large variety of organic waste, the majority of which can be stored using especially designed gardening bins and stylish bins. These primarily include biodegradable waste materials such as waste paper, grass clippings, leftover food, sewage and animal waste. In addition, for the purpose of increasing the biogas production, these anaerobic digesters can also be fed with especially grown energy crops which will further boost the biodegradable content.
The By-Products
The process of anaerobic waste recycling yields a series of useful by-products that can be further used for the benefit of the environment and economy in general.
These by-products mainly include:
1. Biogas: This is a gaseous mixture which comprises mostly of methane and carbon dioxide, but also contains a small amount of hydrogen and smaller levels of hydrogen suphide.
2. Acidogenic digestate: This is a stable organic material comprised largely of lignin and chitin and a variety of mineral components.
3. Methanogenic digestate: This material is rich in nutrients and can prove to be an excellent fertilizer, especially if the quality of the material being digested is higher.
Tools and products like the gardening bins and stylish bins play an important role in the effectiveness of waste disposal methods like anaerobic waste recycling.
Editors' notes:
NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. It is part of the International Plastic Omnium Group, a world leader in contract waste container solutions with worldwide sales of more than £1.8 billion. It employs over 9,000 people in 25 countries, across four continents, in manufacturing and service solutions for the automotive, environment and performance plastic products. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
About the Author
NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
Create Great Compost By Learning What Works In A Gardening Bin by Nowrecycle
Using a gardening bin to create compost is a great way to get in on the recycling craze. The practice is fantastic for the environment, helps save landfill space and can even keep a gardener's wallet a little heavier. Making compost, however, requires a careful touch. Knowing what to toss into a gardening bin and what to avoid can make a huge difference.
The University of Oxford offers some great suggestions on what can and should go into a gardening bin meant for creating compost. The key to creating a good compost material is to be certain to mix up the variety of items in the bin. Too many grass clippings added at once, for example, can make the compost too wet and slow down the decomposition.
To ensure a solid mix in a gardening bin, Oxford suggests remembering that items beyond garden waste can go into compost. Some of its suggestions include coffee grounds, tea bags, fruit, vegetables, dryer lint, almost any type of string or twine with natural fibres and more.
Paper products are ideal for adding to wheeled containers used for composting. These too should not be overloaded in the mix, however. The types of paper that work wonders in compost include used paper hand towels, the inside of toilet paper rolls, scraps of paper, cardboard and any other non-plastic coated paper materials.
While some locations strongly urge against the use of certain materials in the mix, Oxford is quick to point out that modern gardening bin products help reduce and even eliminate worry about pests, such as rats. If a plastic, elevated gardening bin is used for composting, items such as left over meat products, eggs, cheese and so on can all go into the mix. This does not guarantee the smell level won't be high, but pests will likely be kept at bay. Personal discretion is advised by many on the potentially smellier additions.
Although modern composting enables a broader use of products in the mix, there are certain things to avoid when making compost. The key in creating a nutrient-rich compost material is ensuring the breakdown of the materials. With this in mind, items that are not organic in nature should not be tossed into the bin. This means anything plastic should not be thrown into the mix. In addition, look out for items that appear organic, but that might have plastic coating on them. Some wrapping papers, for example, might not break down as desired. Also, plastic bags used in lunches are a no-go, but paper lunch bags are ideal.
The process of taking organic waste and blending it into a valuable compost material can take some time to happen. Since compost is the result of the decomposition process, some materials are likely to take longer than others. A lot also depends on the heat, moisture level and ventilation involved.
If composting is done correctly, the benefits of the process are worth the effort. This material works well as a mulch, a soil fertilizer and it helps keep rubbish out of landfills. By assisting the process of natural recycling along, those who compost are generally doing themselves, their plants and the world around them a favour. While it might take a little time to realise the benefits of turning a gardening bin into a composting pile, the payoff can be rather large in the long run.
Editors' notes: NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. It is part of the International Plastic Omnium Group, a world leader in contract waste container solutions with worldwide sales of more than £1.8 billion. It employs over 9,000 people in 25 countries, across four continents, in manufacturing and service solutions for the automotive, environment and performance plastic products. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
About the Author
NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
The University of Oxford offers some great suggestions on what can and should go into a gardening bin meant for creating compost. The key to creating a good compost material is to be certain to mix up the variety of items in the bin. Too many grass clippings added at once, for example, can make the compost too wet and slow down the decomposition.
To ensure a solid mix in a gardening bin, Oxford suggests remembering that items beyond garden waste can go into compost. Some of its suggestions include coffee grounds, tea bags, fruit, vegetables, dryer lint, almost any type of string or twine with natural fibres and more.
Paper products are ideal for adding to wheeled containers used for composting. These too should not be overloaded in the mix, however. The types of paper that work wonders in compost include used paper hand towels, the inside of toilet paper rolls, scraps of paper, cardboard and any other non-plastic coated paper materials.
While some locations strongly urge against the use of certain materials in the mix, Oxford is quick to point out that modern gardening bin products help reduce and even eliminate worry about pests, such as rats. If a plastic, elevated gardening bin is used for composting, items such as left over meat products, eggs, cheese and so on can all go into the mix. This does not guarantee the smell level won't be high, but pests will likely be kept at bay. Personal discretion is advised by many on the potentially smellier additions.
Although modern composting enables a broader use of products in the mix, there are certain things to avoid when making compost. The key in creating a nutrient-rich compost material is ensuring the breakdown of the materials. With this in mind, items that are not organic in nature should not be tossed into the bin. This means anything plastic should not be thrown into the mix. In addition, look out for items that appear organic, but that might have plastic coating on them. Some wrapping papers, for example, might not break down as desired. Also, plastic bags used in lunches are a no-go, but paper lunch bags are ideal.
The process of taking organic waste and blending it into a valuable compost material can take some time to happen. Since compost is the result of the decomposition process, some materials are likely to take longer than others. A lot also depends on the heat, moisture level and ventilation involved.
If composting is done correctly, the benefits of the process are worth the effort. This material works well as a mulch, a soil fertilizer and it helps keep rubbish out of landfills. By assisting the process of natural recycling along, those who compost are generally doing themselves, their plants and the world around them a favour. While it might take a little time to realise the benefits of turning a gardening bin into a composting pile, the payoff can be rather large in the long run.
Editors' notes: NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. It is part of the International Plastic Omnium Group, a world leader in contract waste container solutions with worldwide sales of more than £1.8 billion. It employs over 9,000 people in 25 countries, across four continents, in manufacturing and service solutions for the automotive, environment and performance plastic products. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
About the Author
NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
Using Human Urine As A Liquid Fertilizer by Julie Williams
OK, so are you over the shock now??? In the not so distant past, we didn't have the luxury of having a small room in the house where we could flush away our number ones and twos. But did you ever wonder how we managed before the water closet? Not that I want to get into the history of it, but let's just say that before the times of our current throw-away society, people thought of multiple uses for just about everything. Well maybe you didn't know that human urine is the fastest acting, most excellent source of Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium and some trace elements. Not only that, but we all have a constant, year round supply of it - and it's free! There's not a lot of effort involved in creating this wonderful organic liquid fertilizer.
Some men I know are more than happy to oblige a tree, bush or lawn (out of view, of course).
Did you know that many toilets use between 50 and 100 litres of water a day to flush around 1.5litres of pee? And the high levels of nutrients in our effluent systems leads to the growth of algae, which ultimately causes the death of plants and animals throughout our waterways.
What are the advantages of using urine as an organic liquid fertilizer?
If you're not flushing this valuable liquid down the loo, you are reducing your water consumption - good for the environment and your pocket
You'll be reducing the amount of sewerage runoff
There'll be less nutrients in our waterways
Urine as a liquid fertilizer is available in an ideal chemical form for plants to use
Gardening costs are less as your liquid fertilizer is free
It is readily available all year round and there are no transportation costs
Just so that you know, fresh human urine is sterile (unless there is a urinary tract infection - this urine should not be used) and so free from bacteria.
I recommend that you dilute urine to 10-15 parts water to 1 part urine for application on plants in the growth stage. Dilute to 30-50 parts water to 1 part urine for use on pot plants as they are much more sensitive to fertilizers of any kind.
Trees, shrubs and lawn should cope well without dilution. Withhold the use of urine liquid fertilizer on all food plants at least two weeks before harvesting. Apply under fruiting plants, not directly on foliage.
Don't use urine older than 24hours on your plants as the urea turns into ammonia and will burn your plants. If it's not fresh, add it to your compost heap. Adding undiluted human urine to your compost heap will help heat it up quickly as it is an excellent activator and will add to the final nutrient value.
As far as antibiotics, vitamin supplements and other medications go, yes they will end up in your urine, but in such minute quantities that I believe to be negligible - especially when it is diluted.
So put this excellent source of free liquid fertilizer to good use in your garden, rather than add to the burden that we as humans cause to our environment.
About the Author
Julie is an avid organic gardener and recycler, living on a small country property in South Australia. Her mission is to encourage as many people as possible to garden organically. Please visit her website for great info Beginners Organic Gardening or Companion Planting Guide
www.1stoporganicgardening.com
Some men I know are more than happy to oblige a tree, bush or lawn (out of view, of course).
Did you know that many toilets use between 50 and 100 litres of water a day to flush around 1.5litres of pee? And the high levels of nutrients in our effluent systems leads to the growth of algae, which ultimately causes the death of plants and animals throughout our waterways.
What are the advantages of using urine as an organic liquid fertilizer?
If you're not flushing this valuable liquid down the loo, you are reducing your water consumption - good for the environment and your pocket
You'll be reducing the amount of sewerage runoff
There'll be less nutrients in our waterways
Urine as a liquid fertilizer is available in an ideal chemical form for plants to use
Gardening costs are less as your liquid fertilizer is free
It is readily available all year round and there are no transportation costs
Just so that you know, fresh human urine is sterile (unless there is a urinary tract infection - this urine should not be used) and so free from bacteria.
I recommend that you dilute urine to 10-15 parts water to 1 part urine for application on plants in the growth stage. Dilute to 30-50 parts water to 1 part urine for use on pot plants as they are much more sensitive to fertilizers of any kind.
Trees, shrubs and lawn should cope well without dilution. Withhold the use of urine liquid fertilizer on all food plants at least two weeks before harvesting. Apply under fruiting plants, not directly on foliage.
Don't use urine older than 24hours on your plants as the urea turns into ammonia and will burn your plants. If it's not fresh, add it to your compost heap. Adding undiluted human urine to your compost heap will help heat it up quickly as it is an excellent activator and will add to the final nutrient value.
As far as antibiotics, vitamin supplements and other medications go, yes they will end up in your urine, but in such minute quantities that I believe to be negligible - especially when it is diluted.
So put this excellent source of free liquid fertilizer to good use in your garden, rather than add to the burden that we as humans cause to our environment.
About the Author
Julie is an avid organic gardener and recycler, living on a small country property in South Australia. Her mission is to encourage as many people as possible to garden organically. Please visit her website for great info Beginners Organic Gardening or Companion Planting Guide
www.1stoporganicgardening.com
Make Your Garden Happy With A Composting Bin by Nowrecycle
There are a variety of ways to save money and enjoy great results in a garden, but one of the best involves nothing more than adding a composting bin into the mix. This simple addition and its resulting compost saves backyard gardeners money and time while protecting the environment and helping plants along the way.
The practice of creating compost at home is not all that terribly difficult to get started. All that is required is a special place to put organic scraps, such as kitchen discards and plant materials. A specifically designed composting bin serves this purpose well.
Once a place has been designated to make compost, be it a wheeled bin or a homemade box, the trick to making compost is rather easy to master. Just start tossing organic materials into the composting bin or box instead of the rubbish bin. The items that are ideal for making compost include vegetable scraps and skin, nut shells, plant material, paper, grass clippings and so on. Avoid using oils, dairy products and even meats, since these can attract pests, such as rodents.
For the organisms that aid in the creation of compost to do their jobs, the composting bin will need to be kept fairly warm, have ample air and remain moist. Texas A&M University describes the ideal environment as something akin to a wet sponge. If the conditions are correct, compost can be available for use within about six weeks or so.
When the composting bin is left to its own devices with the right recipe of regular, organic waste in the mix, the results can be very beneficial not only for the garden, but also the gardener and the environment. The perks of getting into composting can add up financially, as well.
Compost can be used in place of or as a mulching agent. This means compost fans may avoid having to buy bags of this in abundance. In addition, the practice of composting can also help keep garden and some kitchen waste out of landfills. Texas A&M estimates about 20 to 30 percent of all rubbish involves materials that could be better recycled in composting bins.
The benefits of using compost in a backyard garden are most noticeable with the plants, however. This nutrient-rich material is ideal for helping plants hold in their moisture while adding vital food to the soil. It is ideal for use with flowers, trees, shrubs and vegetables. Some gardeners go to great lengths to mix it into the soil of their potted plants as well. Those who are in love with their lawns sometimes spread compost carefully to assist in growth here, too.
Providing a free and virtually endless supply of mulch and natural fertilizer, composting is a practice highly encouraged in both the gardening and environmental arenas. By recycling organic materials, rather than tossing them into plastic rubbish bags, gardeners help the cycle of life continue, while ridding themselves of the need to spend a fortune on a lot of other products.
From growing roses to creating a backyard vegetable garden, compost can help the process along. All that is really required to get started is a little patience, a composting bin and the willingness to think before throwing out items that work well in a good compost mix.
Editors' notes: NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. It is part of the International Plastic Omnium Group, a world leader in contract waste container solutions with worldwide sales of more than £1.8 billion. It employs over 9,000 people in 25 countries, across four continents, in manufacturing and service solutions for the automotive, environment and performance plastic products. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
About the Author
NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
The practice of creating compost at home is not all that terribly difficult to get started. All that is required is a special place to put organic scraps, such as kitchen discards and plant materials. A specifically designed composting bin serves this purpose well.
Once a place has been designated to make compost, be it a wheeled bin or a homemade box, the trick to making compost is rather easy to master. Just start tossing organic materials into the composting bin or box instead of the rubbish bin. The items that are ideal for making compost include vegetable scraps and skin, nut shells, plant material, paper, grass clippings and so on. Avoid using oils, dairy products and even meats, since these can attract pests, such as rodents.
For the organisms that aid in the creation of compost to do their jobs, the composting bin will need to be kept fairly warm, have ample air and remain moist. Texas A&M University describes the ideal environment as something akin to a wet sponge. If the conditions are correct, compost can be available for use within about six weeks or so.
When the composting bin is left to its own devices with the right recipe of regular, organic waste in the mix, the results can be very beneficial not only for the garden, but also the gardener and the environment. The perks of getting into composting can add up financially, as well.
Compost can be used in place of or as a mulching agent. This means compost fans may avoid having to buy bags of this in abundance. In addition, the practice of composting can also help keep garden and some kitchen waste out of landfills. Texas A&M estimates about 20 to 30 percent of all rubbish involves materials that could be better recycled in composting bins.
The benefits of using compost in a backyard garden are most noticeable with the plants, however. This nutrient-rich material is ideal for helping plants hold in their moisture while adding vital food to the soil. It is ideal for use with flowers, trees, shrubs and vegetables. Some gardeners go to great lengths to mix it into the soil of their potted plants as well. Those who are in love with their lawns sometimes spread compost carefully to assist in growth here, too.
Providing a free and virtually endless supply of mulch and natural fertilizer, composting is a practice highly encouraged in both the gardening and environmental arenas. By recycling organic materials, rather than tossing them into plastic rubbish bags, gardeners help the cycle of life continue, while ridding themselves of the need to spend a fortune on a lot of other products.
From growing roses to creating a backyard vegetable garden, compost can help the process along. All that is really required to get started is a little patience, a composting bin and the willingness to think before throwing out items that work well in a good compost mix.
Editors' notes: NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. It is part of the International Plastic Omnium Group, a world leader in contract waste container solutions with worldwide sales of more than £1.8 billion. It employs over 9,000 people in 25 countries, across four continents, in manufacturing and service solutions for the automotive, environment and performance plastic products. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
About the Author
NowRecycle.co.uk is a trading style of Plastic Omnium Systems Ltd - a European market leader in waste containment solutions that provides a wide range of waste containers and services including wheeled bins, litter bins, banks, composters and sacks. Press Contact: Simon Dutta, N European Marketing Director, Plastic Omnium Urban Systems Ltd Telephone: 01952 582 583
Saving Water In The Garden by Jonathan Ya'akobi
If you live and have a garden in a dry climate you'll know doubt be wanting to conserve water for the usual reasons such as the amount of water available to you per annum being severely restricted by the local authority; or water use being metered and very expensive; or you just feel bad about wasting water
The third reason may be the most admirable, but it shares something in common with the other two. They are all negatives. It's important of course to be aware of undesirable things, but the trouble with focusing on the negative is that we're liable to do things begrudgingly. "If only we had enough water, we could have acres of lawn", or "I wish my garden was a tropical paradise, but they won't let us use enough water".
Actually, I think there is a very real design reason for dry climate gardeners to make every effort to conserve this precious resource. Let's think of the "standard" suburban garden, with the lawn taking up most of the space, a thin strip left round the perimeter for a hedge, a flower bed, and a fruit tree or two. Considering the water needs of the grass, there's no way that water can be conserved. But who says that a garden should look like that anyway? Whether the garden is in Ireland, Thailand or Southern California, it's just dreadful design, if indeed the term "design" can be applied at all in these cases. I myself choose to look on the lack of water not as a liability to be regretted, but as an opportunity to break the mold, indeed to break the paradigm of the standard garden. The cliché is not something to hanker after, but something to be liberated from, and we dry climate gardeners have been blessed with the incentive to stop copying, and to start designing!
So what are the basic principles on which water conserving gardening is based? Obviously, the amount of water consumed is a function of the type of plants grown and the area they take up. For instance, in a typically Mediterranean climate of say 500 mm annual rainfall, with long hot rainless summers, a lawn is going to require at the very least, 700 mm of additional water. That is 700 liters per square meter a year. Add to that fruit trees and annual flowers and we're talking about a crazy consumption rate.
You've been told, no doubt, to "water by drip irrigation" or to "put on the sprinklers at night", or to plant plants that need "less" water. These instructions should not be confused with principles, for by simply obeying them, either you won't save significant amounts of water, or you will, and the garden will look extremely poor, unless that is, you have some systematic understanding of the subject, and are then able to apply that understanding to your garden. Here is an approach to water conserving gardening, that if applied correctly makes it possible to have a beautiful garden on the one hand, but one that consumes water within pre-determined limits on the other. These principles can be summed up as follows:
* Define in terms of quantity the annual water needs of each group of plants (lawn, shrubs and trees, flowers etc)
* Determine the projected water consumption of the garden. If it's a garden to be, then the design should take this into account.
* Group plants with similar water needs together (crucial)
* Design and set up an irrigation system that supplies the required water to the plants on the one hand, but at an applied rate, which allows the soil to absorb the water, on the other. The system should allow for independent watering schedules for different plant groups.
Calculate the quantities to be applied for each separate group, and for each separate watering, and then set the irrigation controller, or timer in accordance with the amount calculated.
* The use of techniques which do indeed reduce water consumption, such as organic mulches, or collecting rain water.
About the Author
My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
The third reason may be the most admirable, but it shares something in common with the other two. They are all negatives. It's important of course to be aware of undesirable things, but the trouble with focusing on the negative is that we're liable to do things begrudgingly. "If only we had enough water, we could have acres of lawn", or "I wish my garden was a tropical paradise, but they won't let us use enough water".
Actually, I think there is a very real design reason for dry climate gardeners to make every effort to conserve this precious resource. Let's think of the "standard" suburban garden, with the lawn taking up most of the space, a thin strip left round the perimeter for a hedge, a flower bed, and a fruit tree or two. Considering the water needs of the grass, there's no way that water can be conserved. But who says that a garden should look like that anyway? Whether the garden is in Ireland, Thailand or Southern California, it's just dreadful design, if indeed the term "design" can be applied at all in these cases. I myself choose to look on the lack of water not as a liability to be regretted, but as an opportunity to break the mold, indeed to break the paradigm of the standard garden. The cliché is not something to hanker after, but something to be liberated from, and we dry climate gardeners have been blessed with the incentive to stop copying, and to start designing!
So what are the basic principles on which water conserving gardening is based? Obviously, the amount of water consumed is a function of the type of plants grown and the area they take up. For instance, in a typically Mediterranean climate of say 500 mm annual rainfall, with long hot rainless summers, a lawn is going to require at the very least, 700 mm of additional water. That is 700 liters per square meter a year. Add to that fruit trees and annual flowers and we're talking about a crazy consumption rate.
You've been told, no doubt, to "water by drip irrigation" or to "put on the sprinklers at night", or to plant plants that need "less" water. These instructions should not be confused with principles, for by simply obeying them, either you won't save significant amounts of water, or you will, and the garden will look extremely poor, unless that is, you have some systematic understanding of the subject, and are then able to apply that understanding to your garden. Here is an approach to water conserving gardening, that if applied correctly makes it possible to have a beautiful garden on the one hand, but one that consumes water within pre-determined limits on the other. These principles can be summed up as follows:
* Define in terms of quantity the annual water needs of each group of plants (lawn, shrubs and trees, flowers etc)
* Determine the projected water consumption of the garden. If it's a garden to be, then the design should take this into account.
* Group plants with similar water needs together (crucial)
* Design and set up an irrigation system that supplies the required water to the plants on the one hand, but at an applied rate, which allows the soil to absorb the water, on the other. The system should allow for independent watering schedules for different plant groups.
Calculate the quantities to be applied for each separate group, and for each separate watering, and then set the irrigation controller, or timer in accordance with the amount calculated.
* The use of techniques which do indeed reduce water consumption, such as organic mulches, or collecting rain water.
About the Author
My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
Fertilizer Pumps for your Garden. A few Points Worth Knowing by Jonathan Ya'akobi
The next time someone tries to convince you that you "have to" install an automatic fertilizer system to feed your garden plants, I would like to suggest that you take into account the following points.
* In many countries it is prohibited by law to pump liquid fertilizer through the drip system, without the installation of an approved back-flow prevention instrument. This instrument has to be checked by a qualified person on a regular basis - usually once per annum. Failure to do so, like driving a car with an out of date license, could lead to criminal proceedings. Please check where the law stands in your country.
* As the liquid fertilizer is usually poured into a 25 liter container (from which the solution is pumped into the drippers),this empties very quickly in anything but a very small area. In other words you spend more time messing about with feeding than if you were to apply compost and slow release fertilizer once or twice a year .
* The tendency for people who use fertilizer pumps is to think that there's no need to add organic matter to the soil. Nothing could be more mistaken in my view. It is essential to build up the percentage of humus in the soil, and this is generally done by the consistent adding of compost at least once a year. While composting, slow release fertilizer, organic or mineral, can be added, without spending significantly more time. Total reliance on chemical fertilizer is liable to cause soil degeneration, and increase disease and pest infestations, and by creating an undesirable soil pH, can actually make some microelements, such as iron for example, unavailable to your garden plants.
* From my experience, injecting liquid fertilizer does often result in more rapid growth in a newly planted garden, but gardens whose soil is enriched organically, catch up after a couple of years or so. Is quick, quick, quick, the last word in good horticultural practice? I don't think so. In fact the only circumstance in a small garden where automatic fertilizing may be intrinsically preferable, is for plants grown in pots and containers, excluding hydroponic culture. So other than container gardening, I suggest you save your money and leave the fertilizer pumps to the plant nurseries where their use is far more relevant.
About the Author
My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
* In many countries it is prohibited by law to pump liquid fertilizer through the drip system, without the installation of an approved back-flow prevention instrument. This instrument has to be checked by a qualified person on a regular basis - usually once per annum. Failure to do so, like driving a car with an out of date license, could lead to criminal proceedings. Please check where the law stands in your country.
* As the liquid fertilizer is usually poured into a 25 liter container (from which the solution is pumped into the drippers),this empties very quickly in anything but a very small area. In other words you spend more time messing about with feeding than if you were to apply compost and slow release fertilizer once or twice a year .
* The tendency for people who use fertilizer pumps is to think that there's no need to add organic matter to the soil. Nothing could be more mistaken in my view. It is essential to build up the percentage of humus in the soil, and this is generally done by the consistent adding of compost at least once a year. While composting, slow release fertilizer, organic or mineral, can be added, without spending significantly more time. Total reliance on chemical fertilizer is liable to cause soil degeneration, and increase disease and pest infestations, and by creating an undesirable soil pH, can actually make some microelements, such as iron for example, unavailable to your garden plants.
* From my experience, injecting liquid fertilizer does often result in more rapid growth in a newly planted garden, but gardens whose soil is enriched organically, catch up after a couple of years or so. Is quick, quick, quick, the last word in good horticultural practice? I don't think so. In fact the only circumstance in a small garden where automatic fertilizing may be intrinsically preferable, is for plants grown in pots and containers, excluding hydroponic culture. So other than container gardening, I suggest you save your money and leave the fertilizer pumps to the plant nurseries where their use is far more relevant.
About the Author
My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
How to Grow a Fabulous Landscaping Hedge by JonathanYa'akobi
Last week in my article "Landscaping hedges for a dry climate", I outlined the design reasons for growing a finely trimmed hedge. In many garden situations, an informal screen of shrubs is the best design solution, but in circumstances where the hedge has been decided upon as the desired option, it's important to recognize that maintaining it is no easy matter. So here are the principles behind successfully growing a hedge in your garden.
Pruning hedge bushes: When the plants that are to make up the hedge are young, it's vital to give them a light prune now and again, in order to develop dense, compact growth. If say the designated height of the mature hedge is to be 2 meters, then DO NOT wait for the bushes to reach that height before trimming them, rather they should arrive at their final height in stages.
Trimming an established hedge: Here are some crucial points. Trim the sides first before dealing with the top of the hedge. The hedge should taper inwards, meaning that the top should be narrower than the bottom, in order to prevent the higher parts of the hedge shading out the lower ones. Trim slowly in one direction only at a time. It's virtually impossible to trim straight if you clip the sides and the top in one continuous movement.
Watering and feeding: Remember that growing a hedge is highly intensive horticulture. Do not neglect the usual gardening tasks such as watering and feeding. On the contrary, the hedge will require more care than shrubs that are grown as informal screens. The plants should be composted at least once a year, and the application of an additional organic or slow release chemical fertilizer should be considered. Take care not to damage the roots when hoeing in the compost!
Mulching: The spreading of a suitable organic mulch, like wood chippings, is always a good bet for improving the growing conditions for the hedge bushes.
Pest and Diseases: This is more about choosing relatively pest resistant species for the hedge, than anything else. Avoid planting vulnerable plants, in order to keep your pest control regime down to a minimum.
About the Author
My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
Pruning hedge bushes: When the plants that are to make up the hedge are young, it's vital to give them a light prune now and again, in order to develop dense, compact growth. If say the designated height of the mature hedge is to be 2 meters, then DO NOT wait for the bushes to reach that height before trimming them, rather they should arrive at their final height in stages.
Trimming an established hedge: Here are some crucial points. Trim the sides first before dealing with the top of the hedge. The hedge should taper inwards, meaning that the top should be narrower than the bottom, in order to prevent the higher parts of the hedge shading out the lower ones. Trim slowly in one direction only at a time. It's virtually impossible to trim straight if you clip the sides and the top in one continuous movement.
Watering and feeding: Remember that growing a hedge is highly intensive horticulture. Do not neglect the usual gardening tasks such as watering and feeding. On the contrary, the hedge will require more care than shrubs that are grown as informal screens. The plants should be composted at least once a year, and the application of an additional organic or slow release chemical fertilizer should be considered. Take care not to damage the roots when hoeing in the compost!
Mulching: The spreading of a suitable organic mulch, like wood chippings, is always a good bet for improving the growing conditions for the hedge bushes.
Pest and Diseases: This is more about choosing relatively pest resistant species for the hedge, than anything else. Avoid planting vulnerable plants, in order to keep your pest control regime down to a minimum.
About the Author
My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
Top Vegetable Gardening Tips For Tomato Growing by Alison Stevens
Vegetable gardening tips for tomato growing are readily available. Most gardeners are happy to share their tomato growing tips and even non-gardeners who attempt to grow tomatoes every spring will offer advice. The difficulty for the novice tomato grower comes in trying so sort the valuable vegetable gardening tips for tomato growing from the old wives' tales.
One of the best sources for vegetable gardening help is a local nursery. Buying plants at a supermarket or a chain store with garden center may allow you to purchase plants at a cheaper price, but it is unlikely that the staff in these stores know a great deal about gardening. For reliable vegetable gardening help, visit a local nursery. Many nurseries carry plants that they themselves have grown from seed, and they will be knowledgeable about each variety of plant and can advise on local conditions.
Local Garden Club
Most towns have a local garden club and meeting together with other gardeners is a great way to obtain vegetable gardening help and improve your knowledge. Other gardeners from your locality will have abundant information about the requirements of vegetables in your zone. When you enlist the aid of gardeners that are local to your area, you will get vegetable gardening help that you can use because these gardeners understand the unique needs of your particular zone.
Local garden clubs often run workshops or classes on topics ranging from composting, to growing a particular variety of heirloom vegetable, to pest control in the garden. Many often sponsor projects such as community gardens which can provide gardening space to those who live in apartments and have no garden space of their own. and taking part in an altruistic endeavor with your fellow garden club members is a fantastic way to learn all sorts of gardening secrets and tips.
Even if you don't join a garden club taking part in some workshops will provide you with an opportunity to meet fellow gardeners and form friendships with people with a common interest.
The County Extension Office
Another top resource for vegetable gardening advice is your local county extension office. They specialize in solving the gardening problems unique to your local environment. They can perform soil tests, identify plants and diseases and sometimes supply free seeds or plants
Once you've gained some gardening knowledge it's time to get your hands dirty.
Tomatoes and other vegetables are easy to grow if you start with good soil. Before you plant your garden, till the soil to about a depth of ten inches and dig in some well rotted compost or other organic material. Complete this step several weeks before you want to plant your tomatoes.
For a larger garden, you can rent a tiller, but for a small garden space you can use a gardening fork to dig in the compost.
When risk of frost has passed, drive a ¾ inch stake into your prepared garden bed. Dig a hole a little deeper and wider than the size of the tomato plant's pot next to the stake, gently place the plant into the hole and firm it in. A trellis or tomato cage can also be used for support in lieu of a stake. These are readily available at nurseries and hardware stores. Use soft twine or tomato ties to tie the plant's stem loosely to the stake or trellis. As the tomato plant grows, check the ties regularly and loosen them occasionally to prevent stem damage. The tomato seedlings should be planted 18 inches apart to allow the sun to reach the ripening fruit.
Feed Your Tomato Plants
Feed your tomato plants regularly using a potassium-based plant food or you can create your own organic fertilizer mix. Planting basil adjacent to your tomato plants will assist in keeping pests at bay.
Watering is as important as feeding. Water your tomatoes regularly with a hand-held hose. Direct the water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the leaves which can lead to rot.
Never let your tomatoes dry out to the point that they wilt. Although you can usually save the wilted plant by watering it, the dry period will take its toll on the plant and affect the quality of the fruit. Extended dry spells may cause your tomatoes to crack.
Regularly nip out by hand any side shoots that develop between the leaf and the stem. This will help to channel the plant's energy into its fruit.
When your tomatoes have ripened, pick them by bending back the fruit at the notch on the stem. Ripe tomatoes can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Continue to water and feed the plant to help the remaining tomatoes to ripen and mature.
About the Author
Alison Stevens is an online author and maintains Grow Great Tomatoes website to assist anyone who wants to get started growing tomatoes and other vegetables.
One of the best sources for vegetable gardening help is a local nursery. Buying plants at a supermarket or a chain store with garden center may allow you to purchase plants at a cheaper price, but it is unlikely that the staff in these stores know a great deal about gardening. For reliable vegetable gardening help, visit a local nursery. Many nurseries carry plants that they themselves have grown from seed, and they will be knowledgeable about each variety of plant and can advise on local conditions.
Local Garden Club
Most towns have a local garden club and meeting together with other gardeners is a great way to obtain vegetable gardening help and improve your knowledge. Other gardeners from your locality will have abundant information about the requirements of vegetables in your zone. When you enlist the aid of gardeners that are local to your area, you will get vegetable gardening help that you can use because these gardeners understand the unique needs of your particular zone.
Local garden clubs often run workshops or classes on topics ranging from composting, to growing a particular variety of heirloom vegetable, to pest control in the garden. Many often sponsor projects such as community gardens which can provide gardening space to those who live in apartments and have no garden space of their own. and taking part in an altruistic endeavor with your fellow garden club members is a fantastic way to learn all sorts of gardening secrets and tips.
Even if you don't join a garden club taking part in some workshops will provide you with an opportunity to meet fellow gardeners and form friendships with people with a common interest.
The County Extension Office
Another top resource for vegetable gardening advice is your local county extension office. They specialize in solving the gardening problems unique to your local environment. They can perform soil tests, identify plants and diseases and sometimes supply free seeds or plants
Once you've gained some gardening knowledge it's time to get your hands dirty.
Tomatoes and other vegetables are easy to grow if you start with good soil. Before you plant your garden, till the soil to about a depth of ten inches and dig in some well rotted compost or other organic material. Complete this step several weeks before you want to plant your tomatoes.
For a larger garden, you can rent a tiller, but for a small garden space you can use a gardening fork to dig in the compost.
When risk of frost has passed, drive a ¾ inch stake into your prepared garden bed. Dig a hole a little deeper and wider than the size of the tomato plant's pot next to the stake, gently place the plant into the hole and firm it in. A trellis or tomato cage can also be used for support in lieu of a stake. These are readily available at nurseries and hardware stores. Use soft twine or tomato ties to tie the plant's stem loosely to the stake or trellis. As the tomato plant grows, check the ties regularly and loosen them occasionally to prevent stem damage. The tomato seedlings should be planted 18 inches apart to allow the sun to reach the ripening fruit.
Feed Your Tomato Plants
Feed your tomato plants regularly using a potassium-based plant food or you can create your own organic fertilizer mix. Planting basil adjacent to your tomato plants will assist in keeping pests at bay.
Watering is as important as feeding. Water your tomatoes regularly with a hand-held hose. Direct the water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the leaves which can lead to rot.
Never let your tomatoes dry out to the point that they wilt. Although you can usually save the wilted plant by watering it, the dry period will take its toll on the plant and affect the quality of the fruit. Extended dry spells may cause your tomatoes to crack.
Regularly nip out by hand any side shoots that develop between the leaf and the stem. This will help to channel the plant's energy into its fruit.
When your tomatoes have ripened, pick them by bending back the fruit at the notch on the stem. Ripe tomatoes can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Continue to water and feed the plant to help the remaining tomatoes to ripen and mature.
About the Author
Alison Stevens is an online author and maintains Grow Great Tomatoes website to assist anyone who wants to get started growing tomatoes and other vegetables.
Five Excellent Reasons For Mulching Your Garden Beds by Jonathan Ya'akobi
The use of some sort of material to be spread on the ground to a certain height, which acts as an insulating layer between the soil's surface and the atmosphere, or mulching in short, is a technique being increasingly employed by professional horticulturalists. Some home gardeners may still be insufficiently aware of its importance, so in this article I'll tell you why a mulch layer is so important, then I'll go into the different types of mulch, their various qualities and how they should be used. Amongst many benefits, a mulch on the soil -
* Significantly reduces weeds. This is true of annuals although mulching does not generally prevent the growth of perennial weeds
* Significantly reduces the evaporation of moisture from the soil surface and is therefore an essential part of water conserving gardening
* Reduces soil erosion caused by wind and rain. This is a fantastically important benefit
* Moderates the top-soil temperature. So in the winter a layer of mulch can prevent freezing, and in hot- summer climates, prevent the top soil reaching temperatures that inhibit plant growth
* Is aesthetically superior to the sight of bare soil and irrigation pipes
Taking aesthetic considerations into account, there are broadly speaking two types of mulch which are viable in a garden. Organic mulches such as wood chippings, and natural inorganic mulches such as pebbles. Which is preferable?
The use of decorative pebbles is often part of an overall design. They are particularly appropriate, associatively, in dry climate gardens. But there are a number of drawbacks involved. Some aggregates such as dark stones of volcanic origin have been found to actually increase the top-soil temperature. Furthermore, adding organic feeds to the soil, something that should be done once or twice a year, becomes difficult and tiresome. The use of a chemical fertilizer pump offers a way round this, but sets in train a number of problems. Relying on chemical fertilizers as the only method of feeding is dreadful gardening! For further discussion on the automatic fertilizer pumps, see a previous article of mine called "The truth about fertilizer pumps."
On the other hand, while wood chippings may in some cases be less attractive, they help to create a better habitat in which your garden plants grow. Organic mulches definitely moderate the soil's temperature, they provide raw material for essential organisms like earthworms, (see article called "The world's greatest gardener!") and as they break down they contribute humus to the soil. All these factors reduce pest and disease infestations, improve the soil's structure, and in the long run help to provide balanced nutriment for the plants
For organic mulches to be effective, they need to be spread to a depth of about 10 cm, after the initial quantity has settled. This means you need to spread about 15cm in order to end up with a layer of some 10 cm, and you'll need to add a bit each year as the chippings closest to the soil's surface break down. Be careful to keep the mulch away from tree trunks and shrub stems. It could cause rot to set in.
About the Author
My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
* Significantly reduces weeds. This is true of annuals although mulching does not generally prevent the growth of perennial weeds
* Significantly reduces the evaporation of moisture from the soil surface and is therefore an essential part of water conserving gardening
* Reduces soil erosion caused by wind and rain. This is a fantastically important benefit
* Moderates the top-soil temperature. So in the winter a layer of mulch can prevent freezing, and in hot- summer climates, prevent the top soil reaching temperatures that inhibit plant growth
* Is aesthetically superior to the sight of bare soil and irrigation pipes
Taking aesthetic considerations into account, there are broadly speaking two types of mulch which are viable in a garden. Organic mulches such as wood chippings, and natural inorganic mulches such as pebbles. Which is preferable?
The use of decorative pebbles is often part of an overall design. They are particularly appropriate, associatively, in dry climate gardens. But there are a number of drawbacks involved. Some aggregates such as dark stones of volcanic origin have been found to actually increase the top-soil temperature. Furthermore, adding organic feeds to the soil, something that should be done once or twice a year, becomes difficult and tiresome. The use of a chemical fertilizer pump offers a way round this, but sets in train a number of problems. Relying on chemical fertilizers as the only method of feeding is dreadful gardening! For further discussion on the automatic fertilizer pumps, see a previous article of mine called "The truth about fertilizer pumps."
On the other hand, while wood chippings may in some cases be less attractive, they help to create a better habitat in which your garden plants grow. Organic mulches definitely moderate the soil's temperature, they provide raw material for essential organisms like earthworms, (see article called "The world's greatest gardener!") and as they break down they contribute humus to the soil. All these factors reduce pest and disease infestations, improve the soil's structure, and in the long run help to provide balanced nutriment for the plants
For organic mulches to be effective, they need to be spread to a depth of about 10 cm, after the initial quantity has settled. This means you need to spread about 15cm in order to end up with a layer of some 10 cm, and you'll need to add a bit each year as the chippings closest to the soil's surface break down. Be careful to keep the mulch away from tree trunks and shrub stems. It could cause rot to set in.
About the Author
My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
Rose Garden And Other Flower Gardening by A .Causey
Rose gardening is becoming more and more popular every day.Roses can brighten everyone’s day, they smell nice, and are a great hobby. Rose gardening is simple, inexpensive, and loads of fun. Flower gardening can be done for yard decoration, simply as a hobby, or even professionally.
ROSE GARDENING: Rose Garden Tips for the novice and more advanced rose gardener: If you are a novice rose gardener and have never planted roses before, these basic rose garden tips will help you start of. Roses ultimately love sunshine, so provide them with the best spot possible and make sure they receive at least 6 hours of sunshine every day.
Climbing Roses: Climbing and rambling roses are ambitious climbers. You can completely cover a chain link fence with a plant every 2-3 feet. Start with bare-stemmed root stock, and train new growth along the chain links and support frames.
OTHER FLOWERS: There are some decisions that have to be made before even flower gardening can be started. You must decide if you want annuals that live for one season and must be replanted every year, or perennials that survive the winter and return again in the summer. When buying and planting, pay attention to what kind of flowers thrive in your climate as well ass the sun requirements. When flower gardening, you must decide what type of look you want before planting. For instance, mixing different heights, colors, and varieties of flowers together in a “wild-plant style†will give your garden a meadow look and can be very charming. If short flowers are planted in the front of your garden and work up to the tallest flowers in the back you will have a “stepping stone styleâ€. You can order seeds for flower gardening from catalogues or buy them from a nursery. Most people will go to the nursery and buy actual flowers and then transplant them. After you have prepared your garden area and bought flowers, it is a good idea to lay the flowers out in the bed to make sure you like the arrangement and that they will be spaced properly. One of the easiest processes in flower gardening is the planting/ if you have seeds just sprinkle them around in the flower bed. For planting transplants dig a hole just bigger than the flower, pull the container off, and set the flower in the hole right side up. Cover it with the loose soil and press down firmly, then water. Maintaining a flower garden is even easier than planting one. Although they might make it on their own, a bag of fertilizer applied in the early spring is a good idea. Pinch back any blooms after they start to fade and keep them good and watered. To save yourself work during the next season of flower gardening, rid your garden of all debris and spread out organic nutrients like peat moss or compost. Don’t forget to turn over the soil to properly mix in the fertilizer and rake smooth when finished. If you have perennials planted be careful not to disturb their roots in this process. Flower gardening is as easy as 1, 2, and 3: simply decide what to plant; plant it, and water, water, water! Flower gardening is undoubtedly gaining in popularity and gives anyone excellent reason to spend some outdoors and test out their green thumb. More Info Can Be Found At: http://www.acauzee.com/Roses/
About the Author
Rose Garden Tips for the novice and more advanced rose gardener: If you are a novice rose gardener and have never planted roses before, these basic rose garden tips will help you start of. Roses ultimately love sunshine, so provide them with the best spot possible and make sure they receive at least 6 hours of sunshine every day. http://www.acauzee.com/Roses/Rose-Garden-Tips.php
ROSE GARDENING: Rose Garden Tips for the novice and more advanced rose gardener: If you are a novice rose gardener and have never planted roses before, these basic rose garden tips will help you start of. Roses ultimately love sunshine, so provide them with the best spot possible and make sure they receive at least 6 hours of sunshine every day.
Climbing Roses: Climbing and rambling roses are ambitious climbers. You can completely cover a chain link fence with a plant every 2-3 feet. Start with bare-stemmed root stock, and train new growth along the chain links and support frames.
OTHER FLOWERS: There are some decisions that have to be made before even flower gardening can be started. You must decide if you want annuals that live for one season and must be replanted every year, or perennials that survive the winter and return again in the summer. When buying and planting, pay attention to what kind of flowers thrive in your climate as well ass the sun requirements. When flower gardening, you must decide what type of look you want before planting. For instance, mixing different heights, colors, and varieties of flowers together in a “wild-plant style†will give your garden a meadow look and can be very charming. If short flowers are planted in the front of your garden and work up to the tallest flowers in the back you will have a “stepping stone styleâ€. You can order seeds for flower gardening from catalogues or buy them from a nursery. Most people will go to the nursery and buy actual flowers and then transplant them. After you have prepared your garden area and bought flowers, it is a good idea to lay the flowers out in the bed to make sure you like the arrangement and that they will be spaced properly. One of the easiest processes in flower gardening is the planting/ if you have seeds just sprinkle them around in the flower bed. For planting transplants dig a hole just bigger than the flower, pull the container off, and set the flower in the hole right side up. Cover it with the loose soil and press down firmly, then water. Maintaining a flower garden is even easier than planting one. Although they might make it on their own, a bag of fertilizer applied in the early spring is a good idea. Pinch back any blooms after they start to fade and keep them good and watered. To save yourself work during the next season of flower gardening, rid your garden of all debris and spread out organic nutrients like peat moss or compost. Don’t forget to turn over the soil to properly mix in the fertilizer and rake smooth when finished. If you have perennials planted be careful not to disturb their roots in this process. Flower gardening is as easy as 1, 2, and 3: simply decide what to plant; plant it, and water, water, water! Flower gardening is undoubtedly gaining in popularity and gives anyone excellent reason to spend some outdoors and test out their green thumb. More Info Can Be Found At: http://www.acauzee.com/Roses/
About the Author
Rose Garden Tips for the novice and more advanced rose gardener: If you are a novice rose gardener and have never planted roses before, these basic rose garden tips will help you start of. Roses ultimately love sunshine, so provide them with the best spot possible and make sure they receive at least 6 hours of sunshine every day. http://www.acauzee.com/Roses/Rose-Garden-Tips.php
Revitalizing Your Body With Organic Whole Food Vitamins by Terry Schierer
Stressed out? No time for yourself? Your body needs organic whole food vitamins to you the optimum nutrition you need to keep going.
If you're like most people, your schedule is packed and your days are hectic. Healthy meals are often forsaken for the ease of fat-laden fast food and the convenience ingredients found on the shelves of the local supermarket lack many of the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs.
People today are at a higher risk than ever for a number of serious health complications, including several types of life-threatening cancer. The average adult often feels they lack the energy needed to complete their day. Why?
First, commercially produced foods are grown with the aid of pesticides and fertilizers that contain harmful chemicals. Chemical residue is responsible for a number of allergies and illnesses and can absorb the natural nutrient value of the farm soil, resulting in reduced levels of vitamins and minerals in the food.
Further processing of commercial food products detracts even more nutrient value. Most foods contain a very small percentage of the vitamins and minerals they would provide in their natural form. This is detrimental to the human body.
For your body to get optimum nutrition it needs these specific vitamins and minerals. To keep the body going strong nutrients are a must for a busy lifestyle.
With so many processed food choices available, how can you be sure that your family is getting all of the protein, must have nutrients and germ attacking enzymes you need for optimum nutrition?
Whole live foods are foods grown naturally, without the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemically enhanced gardening aids. Certified organic whole foods are loaded with the vitamins and minerals today's fresh foods are lacking and are packaged without additives or preservatives so those vital nutrients are retained for your consumption.
A fast paced lifestyle and rat race living make it almost impossible to get the 5 to 9 portions of fruits and veggies that a healthy body needs. The answer is organic whole food vitamins.
The secret is the use of live whole foods that are loaded with nutrients lacking in modern processed food.
Not only do these whole food ingredients supply a higher level of vitamins and minerals than commercial foods and supplements, organic vitamins can provide the benefits of hundreds of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains in one single serving.
I don't care how diligently you plan your schedule there are those times when convenience food substitutes have to make do. This leaves you body nutrient starved.
Between the teen years and the age of 50, the average American will rarely take in the recommended daily allowance of fruits and vegetables. Most will not eat 5 servings a day; many will not even consume 5 cups of fruits and vegetables in a week.
The small number of individuals who do eat their veggies will typically consume commercially processed foods, still leaving their body deficient in many crucial nutrients and ingesting a variety of chemical residues.
What if a healthy, vitamin packed diet was simpler and more convenient? What if there was a pill or a smooth, fruit flavored drink that would:
* Give you the pure, unprocessed benefits of more than 70 different power foods?
* Fortify the immune system by eliminating bacteria and germs that cause disease?
* Leverage 80+ must have minerals and essential enzymes?
* Significantly lower your risks of cancer, diabetes, and other ailments?
* Activate more energy allowing you to get more accomplished without feeling run down at the end of the day?
* Intensify your overall health by giving your body optimum nutrition, nutrients lacking in todays processed foods?
Organic whole food vitamins are the answer to modern nutrition deficiencies and the key to achieving a healthy, balanced, nutrient rich diet in today's hectic society.
Better than the typical nutrition supplement, organic whole food vitamins contain pure, unprocessed ingredients with thousands of enzymes, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients that can't be found in most available commercial products.
About the Author
To get the rest of the story on organic whole food vitamins go to the authors website: http://organicfood-guide.com/organic-whole-food-vitamins.html where the second half of the secret to optimum nutrition is revealed.
If you're like most people, your schedule is packed and your days are hectic. Healthy meals are often forsaken for the ease of fat-laden fast food and the convenience ingredients found on the shelves of the local supermarket lack many of the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs.
People today are at a higher risk than ever for a number of serious health complications, including several types of life-threatening cancer. The average adult often feels they lack the energy needed to complete their day. Why?
First, commercially produced foods are grown with the aid of pesticides and fertilizers that contain harmful chemicals. Chemical residue is responsible for a number of allergies and illnesses and can absorb the natural nutrient value of the farm soil, resulting in reduced levels of vitamins and minerals in the food.
Further processing of commercial food products detracts even more nutrient value. Most foods contain a very small percentage of the vitamins and minerals they would provide in their natural form. This is detrimental to the human body.
For your body to get optimum nutrition it needs these specific vitamins and minerals. To keep the body going strong nutrients are a must for a busy lifestyle.
With so many processed food choices available, how can you be sure that your family is getting all of the protein, must have nutrients and germ attacking enzymes you need for optimum nutrition?
Whole live foods are foods grown naturally, without the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemically enhanced gardening aids. Certified organic whole foods are loaded with the vitamins and minerals today's fresh foods are lacking and are packaged without additives or preservatives so those vital nutrients are retained for your consumption.
A fast paced lifestyle and rat race living make it almost impossible to get the 5 to 9 portions of fruits and veggies that a healthy body needs. The answer is organic whole food vitamins.
The secret is the use of live whole foods that are loaded with nutrients lacking in modern processed food.
Not only do these whole food ingredients supply a higher level of vitamins and minerals than commercial foods and supplements, organic vitamins can provide the benefits of hundreds of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains in one single serving.
I don't care how diligently you plan your schedule there are those times when convenience food substitutes have to make do. This leaves you body nutrient starved.
Between the teen years and the age of 50, the average American will rarely take in the recommended daily allowance of fruits and vegetables. Most will not eat 5 servings a day; many will not even consume 5 cups of fruits and vegetables in a week.
The small number of individuals who do eat their veggies will typically consume commercially processed foods, still leaving their body deficient in many crucial nutrients and ingesting a variety of chemical residues.
What if a healthy, vitamin packed diet was simpler and more convenient? What if there was a pill or a smooth, fruit flavored drink that would:
* Give you the pure, unprocessed benefits of more than 70 different power foods?
* Fortify the immune system by eliminating bacteria and germs that cause disease?
* Leverage 80+ must have minerals and essential enzymes?
* Significantly lower your risks of cancer, diabetes, and other ailments?
* Activate more energy allowing you to get more accomplished without feeling run down at the end of the day?
* Intensify your overall health by giving your body optimum nutrition, nutrients lacking in todays processed foods?
Organic whole food vitamins are the answer to modern nutrition deficiencies and the key to achieving a healthy, balanced, nutrient rich diet in today's hectic society.
Better than the typical nutrition supplement, organic whole food vitamins contain pure, unprocessed ingredients with thousands of enzymes, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients that can't be found in most available commercial products.
About the Author
To get the rest of the story on organic whole food vitamins go to the authors website: http://organicfood-guide.com/organic-whole-food-vitamins.html where the second half of the secret to optimum nutrition is revealed.
Do It Natural - Pest and Insect Control Organically by Kent Higgins
If there are flowers and vegetables in your garden, you can be sure that there are pests as well. Especially if you will be eating vegetables from the garden, you wonÃt want to use chemicals to kill the pests. Luckily, for every pest, you can use a natural means of repellent. Natural pest control is not only healthier for you, your family, your plants, and the environment�-it is cheaper too.
Approximately 136 million pounds of pesticides are used every year in the home lawn and gardens of North Americans. This is just for individuals, not even for farmers (who actually use 1/3 of the amount as the homeowners). Most contamination and poisonings that occur originate from single family homes. It is very important to use methods of pest control that are healthy to surrounding life and the environment in general.
To avoid adding more harmful chemicals to our soil, you can take the following natural pest control measures.
First, to keep insects from damaging your garden, you should check to see if your garden is healthy in the first place. Is the soil well prepared? Is the pH correctly adjusted? Is there adequate drainage? Is the soil getting proper nutrients from adding compost?
You should remove any weak plants as your garden matures. Dispose of them, any weeds, and compost away from the garden to help keep pests away that would otherwise be attracted to the decaying matter.
Keeping mulch and compost on the top of the garden beds will help plants to grow healthily.
A natural and healthy way to promote quick plant growth is to spray the plants with seaweed fertilizer spray. The spray contains iron, zinc, barium, calcium, sulfur, and magnesium--all which strengthen the soil and aid growth.
You need to keep your garden clean and clear of any debris or objects that can become a breeding ground for pests. Using clean mulch is important as well.
To kill insects that attack specific plants, you should interplant and rotate crops. This will keep insects from spreading and re-infesting the same area again.
Watering the garden early in the morning will give the plants plenty of time to dry. If the foliage is too wet for too long, insects and fungi will take over.
If a plant is infected with a fungus or disease, you should promptly remove the plant. Also, the problem is likely contagious, so you should disinfect your gardening tools before you use them on other plants.
Not all insects are pests. Some of them, like Brachonids, Chalcids, Ichneumon Wasps, Ladybugs, Lacewings, Praying Mantises, and Hover flies, are beneficial to your garden. They can be attracted to your garden or bought in a store and brought to your garden. They help to fight against the insects that are pests.
By using natural organic pest control, it is easy to keep your garden healthy through the whole year while keeping the environment healthy at the same time. Search the internet or ask for more information at your local organic gardening store for information specific to your garden.
About the Author
Taking advantage of organic pest control options helps keep the environment safer and less toxic. Discover a safe natural plant pest control method at http://www.plant-care.com/pest-control-without-pesticides.html
Approximately 136 million pounds of pesticides are used every year in the home lawn and gardens of North Americans. This is just for individuals, not even for farmers (who actually use 1/3 of the amount as the homeowners). Most contamination and poisonings that occur originate from single family homes. It is very important to use methods of pest control that are healthy to surrounding life and the environment in general.
To avoid adding more harmful chemicals to our soil, you can take the following natural pest control measures.
First, to keep insects from damaging your garden, you should check to see if your garden is healthy in the first place. Is the soil well prepared? Is the pH correctly adjusted? Is there adequate drainage? Is the soil getting proper nutrients from adding compost?
You should remove any weak plants as your garden matures. Dispose of them, any weeds, and compost away from the garden to help keep pests away that would otherwise be attracted to the decaying matter.
Keeping mulch and compost on the top of the garden beds will help plants to grow healthily.
A natural and healthy way to promote quick plant growth is to spray the plants with seaweed fertilizer spray. The spray contains iron, zinc, barium, calcium, sulfur, and magnesium--all which strengthen the soil and aid growth.
You need to keep your garden clean and clear of any debris or objects that can become a breeding ground for pests. Using clean mulch is important as well.
To kill insects that attack specific plants, you should interplant and rotate crops. This will keep insects from spreading and re-infesting the same area again.
Watering the garden early in the morning will give the plants plenty of time to dry. If the foliage is too wet for too long, insects and fungi will take over.
If a plant is infected with a fungus or disease, you should promptly remove the plant. Also, the problem is likely contagious, so you should disinfect your gardening tools before you use them on other plants.
Not all insects are pests. Some of them, like Brachonids, Chalcids, Ichneumon Wasps, Ladybugs, Lacewings, Praying Mantises, and Hover flies, are beneficial to your garden. They can be attracted to your garden or bought in a store and brought to your garden. They help to fight against the insects that are pests.
By using natural organic pest control, it is easy to keep your garden healthy through the whole year while keeping the environment healthy at the same time. Search the internet or ask for more information at your local organic gardening store for information specific to your garden.
About the Author
Taking advantage of organic pest control options helps keep the environment safer and less toxic. Discover a safe natural plant pest control method at http://www.plant-care.com/pest-control-without-pesticides.html
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