Home And Garden

The Use Of Water In Home Decor

2008-04-29T00:45:00.001-07:00

The Use Of Water In Home Decor
Submitted By: Roy Thomsitt

People the world over have a natural attraction to water, and it is not only because drinking water is essential to our survival; nor because it is very important for cleanliness. Water has a fascination that causes millions of people to visit, or want to live by, the sea, waterfalls, lakes and large ponds.

Both moving and still water are not just attractive to the human eye, but seem to have a therapeutic value. Moving water in particular is said to give off negative ions, which help to negate all the positive ions generated by modern living and can be harmful to our well being. Whatever the reasons, though, the fact is that people love water in nature. Closer to home, they like to bring those effects into their own gardens with water gardens, waterfalls, ponds and fountains.

What about within the home itself? Many of us bring nature and gardens into our home with plants, and decorative plant pots. It is therefore only one small step to bring in water features too. Water can, and does, play a very useful role in home decor; not on the grand scale in the average home, although it can do in a country mansion or more palatial home, but in miniature and in imaginative and decorative ways.

There are three main ways to use water features as home decor:

Indoor Waterfalls

By having an indoor waterfall in the home, you can bring to your home the sound of running water, which has such a relaxing effect. However, an indoor waterfall can do far more for your home. There are so many varied designs now, using quite a variety of materials, that you should be able to find a feature waterfall for the home that suits your decor, whether modern, traditional, or olde worlde.

There are basically two types of indoor waterfall: wall hanging, and free (or floor) standing. So, as far as the placing of the waterfalls is concerned, you have plenty of choice to fit in with your interior design. They come in many sizes, too, from very small right up to a very grand size of 6 feet plus in height and width. For the larger wall hanging waterfalls, you do need a substantially built wall on which to fix them. However, they can and do look very impressive; and the larger the size, the more potential you have for the sounds of flowing water.

The materials and finishes used can be chosen to fit in with either a modern or more traditional decor. Some of the most popular frames are stainless steel and copper, with a range of finishes to give either a shiny modern look, or an antique look with an aged finish. As in natural waterfalls, natural stone is often a feature of the indoor equivalent, as are pebbles. Slate, in many colours, is especially effective in indoor waterfalls.

Indoor Fountains

Indoor fountains are much like the waterfalls in terms of materials used. In fact, the names waterfall and fountain are often interchangeable when it comes to home decor. However, what you probably imagine as a water fountain can be found, and are often available in table top size. These can be very small, but still a delightful use of flowing water in the home, whether used on a table as a centrepiece, or as an ornamental feature on a sideboard.

Designs of the table top fountains can be quite delicate, and utilize decorative materials, such as jade and bamboo, in some unique ways. These table top fountains can go well in even a small modern home.

Fish Aquarium

While many people keep an aquarium because they like fish, and do so as a hobby, there is also a lot of potential to use an aquarium as a home decor feature. The sound of the water comes from the bubbling of the filter, while much additional movement and colour comes from the fish themselves. When you add some attractive lighting to the tank, you can create a very soothing water feature for the home.

As with fountains and waterfalls, an aquarium can be in a very wide range of sizes, free standing or built into a wall. The maintenance, of course, is much higher than for that of a waterfall or fountain, but you may well consider that worthwhile for all the pleasure the fish may bring.

If you have space, there is no reason why you should not combine all three of these types of water features. They are all attractive in their own way, and can complement each other in a larger home.

Traditional Home Decor In Your Log Home

2008-04-29T00:44:00.004-07:00

Traditional Home Decor In Your Log Home
Submitted By: Adam Peters

Traditional home decor in log homes does not mean that you have to use animal and scenery themed items. There are many different ways that you can choose to decorate this home, depending upon your personal preferences and personality.

When looking at the outside of a log home, you would assume that the inside is natural and traditional like the outside, but you could be wrong. The inside of these buildings are as different as families are, due to the fact that each family is different. Traditional home decor does not have to mean animals and trees. There are ways that you can use this decor without sacrificing style and design. Where should you begin in traditional home décor?

Traditional home décor takes into account the basic design of the home, including the wall designs. In a log home, there are not normally flat walls that you have to paint or otherwise decorate, because they are wooden logs. The floors are most commonly wooden, too. This can be quite a challenge in finding traditional home décor, because the décor needs to enhance and complement the wooden logs, so that the interiors will be beautiful and appealing.

The shade of the wood that makes up your home will dictate some of your choices in traditional home décor. Different hues of blue with white accents are a very popular color choice for log homes, because they work well with many different shades of wood. If you have a particularly dark wood, then you may want to consider using bolder colors, including deep reds and dark greens in your traditional home décor.

Choosing your color scheme is not the only decision that you will have to make, however. Traditional home décor for a log home would include shorter curtains, very little carpeting, and few wall decorations. Area rugs are sometimes used to add a touch of softness and color, however. Furniture is normally comfortable, overstuffed chairs that have fabric cushions that go well with the log home design and décor.

The traditional home décor that you choose should take into consideration your own personal preferences and personality, too. Without considering this, your room will not feel as welcoming and comfortable for you and your family and that is the main goal. Look through magazines, on websites, and in home stores to see what pieces appeal to you, so that you will have some idea of what you want and need for your home. Your log home should be a place of comfort and refuge for you and your family. By carefully choosing your décor pieces, you will create an inviting and welcoming home for you, your friends, and your family.

Log Home Style

Although log homes can be built in practically any style, most log home owners prefer the traditional "cabin" or "lodge" style. This style is often distinguished by such features as wood flooring, wood interior, stone fireplace and chimney, porch, loft, rustic staircase, open floorplan, raised-seam metal roof, cathedral ceilings, and exposed interior beams.

Home Lighting: An Essential In Home Decor

2008-04-29T00:44:00.003-07:00

Home Lighting: An Essential In Home Decor
Submitted By: Pamela Tice

Many people spare no expense when it comes to filling their home with expensive furnishings, draperies, carpeting and artwork. They know that creating a comfortable, stylish home is an effort to be truly proud of and take their job seriously no matter whether they are decorating the interior or exterior spaces of their home. Sadly, though, all of their hard work often goes unnoticed or unappreciated by most if they fail to pay attention to the most important element of home décor: home lighting.

Choosing the proper home lighting is perhaps one of the most important facets of decorating your home and creating an atmosphere of warmth and comfort. With the right home lighting you can make a poorly decorated room look extravagant and make large, cold spaces seem warm and cozy. There is just no end to what you can accomplish with the proper home lighting. That is why it is so important to invest in good quality lamps for your home’s interior spaces.

When decorating a room it takes several different types of home lighting to truly complete the look. In the ideal room, general home lighting, task home lighting and accent home lighting work in harmony to create an overall effect that is comfortable and engaging. For these reasons, serious thought needs to be given to the home home lighting design process, especially when it comes to lamps, which are usually classified as task home lighting. While lamps can be decorative and add an element of style to the room, they also need to be practical and able to handle the majority of your home lighting issues.

There are numerous different types of quality lamps that you can purchase for your home. Which ones you choose will depend largely on your existing décor, home lighting needs and the overall home lighting affect you wish to create. The types of lamps include floor lamps, table lamps, desk lamps and buffet lamps.

In addition to considering which types of lamps to incorporate into your décor, you should also consider and compare manufacturers according to quality, style and price. Two premier lamp manufacturers that you might wish to consider are Uttermost and Feiss. Each of these top-name manufacturers deliver decorative lamps of superior quality and style. In their inventory you can find lamps to compliment any décor no matter whether it is Formal, Country, Contemporary or Eclectic.

After deciding which lamps are suited to your particular tastes, budget and existing décor, you should carefully consider the placement of your lamps and which types of lamps to include in your interior spaces. Choose lamps that work with your lifestyle and the way you live in your home. For example: use desk lamps for delicate tasks such as a hobby and table lamps for more general tasks such as reading and place them where you are most likely to engage in these activities.

Do not make the same mistake that many do and underestimate the importance of purchasing quality lamps and home lighting fixtures for your home’s interior. You will see that it is only after all of your home’s design elements come together, that a truly beautiful and comfortable home is created.

How To Add Interest To Your Home With Oriental Home Decor

2008-04-29T00:44:00.001-07:00

How To Add Interest To Your Home With Oriental Home Decor
Submitted By: Lee Dobbins

The decor that is used to decorate an oriental style home is very ornate and colorful. Traditions from the Orient are displayed throughout these pieces. The pieces themselves can be found on walls in the form of artwork, displayed as statues or other “show” pieces, or the designs could be shown through the very furniture that is placed throughout the home.

Panel pieces in threes are very popular for displaying artwork in the oriental tradition. The artwork itself varies by what is displayed on the panels, but it is typically very traditional and colorful. There is a lot of gold, red, and black used as colors in this artwork. Large, wall-sized fans are also popular for decorating in the oriental tradition. Again, the artwork displayed will vary, but the colors will be similar to those used in panel paintings. The displays may include traditional oriental women complete with hair pulled back and wearing traditional clothing, likewise for Oriental males. They may also display the mythological creature so often seen in oriental design, the dragon, often breathing fire from its mouth.

Colors of walls in an oriental decorated home are most typically white. The red, gold, and black are most often reserved for the complimentary pieces. Clean lines are important to the Oriental home, so the walls will enhance those clean lines by having been painted either white or very light beige. Those walls will be lined on the bottom by wood grained shoe moulding and trim around doorways in the home. This further adds to those clean lines displayed throughout the home.

Knickknacks will be sparse. They will be well chosen after much contemplation. Not all Oriental pieces are red, black, and gold. Some use blues, blacks, and yellows too, but the first are the most typical. These traditional colors will be found in a lot of the knickknacks that will be displayed throughout the home. There will be only a few chosen and they will compliment one another. Plants will also be sparse. An orchid is a popular choice for Oriental decorating, but many green leafy plants will be appropriate too. Orchids can be hard to care for, so some may choose a simply ivy instead.

Artwork, other than fans and panels, will compliment the color choices of the knickknacks displayed. They will compliment the gold in a statue or the red sprinkled throughout the serving dish. There will never be too much color in the artwork, it should be simple, just like everything else discussed here.

Furnishings will be lower than typical to enhance the Zen tradition originated in the Orient. Some furnishing may not have legs at all, they may be nothing much more than cushions on the floor. Coffee tables and end tables will also be placed lower than their American counterparts. Again, this is to compliment the furnishings that are set lower. Often the legs of the furniture and coffee and end tables turn in. This shape goes along with the Oriental tradition.

An Oriental home is a clean one that displays its cleanliness through the undisturbed lines in the home. There will never be clutter in this style home. All pieces will have been chosen with much effort. The homes become pieces of artwork themselves and bring peace and serenity to those that are living among them.

Home Décor: How To Create An Awe-inspiring Home

2008-04-29T00:43:00.002-07:00

Home Décor: How To Create An Awe-inspiring Home
Submitted By: Gabriel Adams

Have you ever been in a home that has just awed you because of how beautiful it looks? Well, achieving a beautiful look out of your own home isn’t such a far fetched idea. With the right kind of furniture you can achieve a state of awed brilliance out of your own home.

The first and most important part of redecorating your room is to figure out what color scheme you want to go with. It is possible to make your room fit the furniture but the best way is to build the furniture around the room.

Your goal when designing your room should be to find the right combination of elegance and comfort. Elegance serves to make your room look better while comfort will allow you to actually sit and enjoy the room.

The first and most important thing about elegance is to not make your room an eye sore. This can mean one of two things. Either you have colors that don’t go well together or you have too much stuff in your room. The best combination is to find neutral browns, tans, greens, and maybe some reds (for contrast).

If you decide to go with a lighter theme get tables that have a nice, dark stain to them. If you decide to go with lighter colors find a good light stain. The color of the wood will greatly affect how your room looks.

The next thing to consider is comfort. Find a couch and chair set that won’t break the budget but will be nice to sit on for a few hours. Also try to find some good overstuffed pillows for the couch. Another popular thing is a throw blanked. If you drape it gracefully over a chair it can be used when you’re cold and still look nice when it’s not being used.

Finding the right furniture and colors will vary from house to house. However, there is one piece of advice that everyone should follow. Build your room to what you enjoy. Yes, others may see it and stay around but the homeowner will have to live with that room for as long as they live there.

Create A Peaceful Sanctuary In Your Home With Asian Home Décor

2008-04-29T00:43:00.001-07:00

Create A Peaceful Sanctuary In Your Home With Asian Home Décor
Submitted By: Abby Mckinsley

Let’s Face it. Your day is filled with stress. From family matters to work to traffic, your time is spent in a constant state of motion and there’s no time to stop. Even your home life is stressful, with all that cooking and cleaning on your to-do list. Wouldn’t it be nice if your home could be a place where you can escape all of the stressors in life? Well, it can be. All it takes is a bit of redecorating with Asian Home Décor.

Why Asian Home Décor?

For centuries, people throughout Asia have decorated their homes to live in harmony with the environment. The pieces they choose to have in their homes are earth inspired and include stones, water and wood. These elements have a calming effect on people and create an instant sensation of peace.

Asian-inspired design also emphasizes a clutter-free lifestyle. Clutter is considered a stressor because it fills the home and creates a feeling of claustrophobia in the people living there.

How to Design with Asian Home Décor

When attempting to decorate your home’s interior with Asian Home Décor, it is important to remember the importance of color, design and texture. Quiet, peaceful colors in natural tones should be used on the walls and floors. Furniture should have an emphasis on horizontal lines and should blend in to the other décor whenever possible. Textures are also important because they create a dynamic feeling in rooms otherwise devoid of strong colors.

Décor in the home should also emphasize a clutter-free image. Natural storage units along with streamlined tables and appliances should boast simple lines and remain hidden whenever possible.

Asian Home Décor Can Be Fun, Too

Asian Home Décor also promotes the use of artwork in the home. However, it is important to have functional artwork. Many Asian people choose to decorate their homes with statues to promote health, wealth and prosperity.

Buddha meditating statues are a perfect example of art with function. A Buddha is considered a being that has achieved peace and total Nirvana. Because of this, Buddhas are believed to bring happiness and luck. A Buddha meditating statue is usually sitting in the lotus position with both hands in his lap. This placement symbolizes meditation. thus evoking calm and tranquility.

Placing a Buddha meditating statue in your home is believed to ward off evil and bring the calm and peace that people look for when designing with Asian Home Décor. People also commonly place Buddha garden statues outside their home. Buddha garden statues are placed there for protection and are thought to ward off negative vibes. These Buddha garden statues are also routinely placed in the lotus position, the most common position for Buddha statues.

Create Your Own Peace

Asian Home Décor can help you create a sense of control in a world without control. Using ancient Asian Home Décor techniques will not only increase your own inner peace, it will help your loved ones as well. Couldn’t you and your family use a little less stress in your lives?

Working With An Interior Decorator: Incorporating Home Appliances Into Your Home Décor

2008-04-29T00:42:00.002-07:00

Working With An Interior Decorator: Incorporating Home Appliances Into Your Home Décor
Submitted By: Dana Bradley

If you have hired an interior decorator to assist you in the design of your home, you should maintain regular contact with your decorator to make certain that the man or woman understands where you would like to head in regard to the design of your living space. This includes the manner in which you include and incorporate home appliances into your home and living space.

For some people, the kitchen is the last place on the world that they want to spend time. Of course, on the other hand there are people who absolutely love spending time in the kitchen. Because of this variance, the manner in which a kitchen ultimately is designed depends in no small manner on the way a person approaches and utilizes that particular space in the household.

Depending on what you want to do with and in your kitchen will be the key and foundation upon which the area and space should be designed and decorated by your interior design professional.

In working with an interior designer, you will want to make certain that the designer understands exactly what you want to spend when it comes to all elements of the home -- including the amount of money that you wish to spend on such things as home appliances. Without paying very close attention to purchases, it is very easy to run over budget when it comes to decorating your home, including when it comes to the purchase of various types of home appliances that you will want for your residence.

Generally speaking, when you are in the process of designing a home or remodeling a residence, you should layout and define your budget up front. Within this budget, you should include the realistic costs you anticipate for the home appliances that you will want to purchase as part of the overall decorating program. As with keeping an eye on the decorating progress, by laying out a budget up front and in advance, you will be better able to control the costs associated with a decorating project.

In the end, by working with a home designer or interior decorator, you can end up with an absolutely spectacular home. Professional assistance can help you make your dream home become a perfect reality. You will have the exact kind of home that you want both today and on into the future.

Home Wall Decor - Interior Design With Home Wall Decor

2008-04-29T00:42:00.001-07:00

Home Wall Decor - Interior Design With Home Wall Decor
Submitted By: Shrinivas Vaidya

Home wall decor is one of he many major elements in home interiors that decide the kind of mood, the space will finally create when it gets finished. The reason for this is quite obvious. Wall occupies a major visual field in the interiors of any building.

Wall decor can be carried out in every imaginable way, you can think of. However some of the most common ways to decorating a wall are.

1) Plastering and painting the wall

2) Applying a wallpaper on the wall

3) Cladding the wall with tiles

4) Keeping the wall exposed (exposed brick walls)

5) Keeping the wall without plastering

6) Creating a mural on the wall

Which type you want to go for, largely depends upon what end effect you want to create. It must be noted that every wall decor finish will have a major impact on the interior design theme of your home.

But how to really choose the best finish for wall decor?

To solve this problem you can think from different perspectives. Wall surfaces are vertical surfaces and help in two ways. The first and the most obvious function of a wall is to act as a divider between two rooms and create privacy.

Secondly walls help to reflect direct sunlight into deeper areas of the interior spaces creating an even lighting atmosphere. For this to happen it is necessary to finish the wall with the kind of decor that will help easy dispersion of light into internal areas.

Another important point to consider is budget. All the finishes mentioned above will have a different set of execution costs and those must be planned before you think about adding them on the wall. However you can easily cut down the cost of wall decor if you design your home wall decor and other interior design elements into a "decorating theme". A decorating theme helps to organize the design and saves cost if you consider it from point of view of the entire project.

So home wall decor if planned at the design stage will have a major impact on your home interior style. To save your cost you can even go for a combination of various forms of available wall decor ideas.

Copyright Shrinivas Vaidya.

Tropical Home Décor - The Latest Trend In Home Décor.

2008-04-29T00:41:00.000-07:00

Tropical Home Décor - The Latest Trend In Home Décor.
Submitted By: Adam Peters

The introduction of the beauty and elegance of the tropics in the home decor range has been proved to be a boon to the home decor market. Its style, elegance of this range has made it the jewel in the crown of home decor. It can be rightly said that this trend has changed the world of home decor for ever.

The latest trend that’s gaining popularity in the market is the tropical home décor. The number of fans of this trend has grown tremendously within a short period of time. The ever increasing demand has made the manufacturers double their production. If you’ve been to the tropics you will exactly know as to why this style is being preferred for home décor rather than any other popular trends. This trend is a perfect blend of beautiful colors and fabulous designs to create a masterpiece of home décor, the combination of color and design creates a pleasant and cozy ambiance in your home as well as the heart of those who dwell in it.

The tropical home décor is offered to the customer in such a vide range that most of the some find it difficult to make a choice. But some customers are known to be choosy by nature but even these choosy customers can be sure to find something that suits their liking and at the same time are satisfied by the price at which these ranges are available. Fancy and trendy home décor has always been known to be the stuff for the higher class people, who are ready to spend huge amount to latest and the best for their homes. But with the introduction of the Tropical home décor range this notion has changed as these are much within the reach of the common man.

The Tropical home décor has grown so popular due its magnificent style and low cost, that it is available in almost every shop that deals in home décor items. But the most commonly faced problem is that the growing demand for this range of home decors cannot be met with constant supplies and thus it hardly stays on the stands in the market. The characteristic that makes this style so unbeatable it that, no matter which line of creation you choose the Tropical Home décor it goes well with the other items in your décor.

If your surf the net you will find quite a number of sites which offer you assistance in buying and selling of original tropical home decorations. One very commonly visited site is http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com

Hydroponic Gardening Versus Regular Gardening

2008-04-08T20:28:00.002-07:00

Hydroponic Gardening Versus Regular Gardening
Submitted By: Mark Sheppler

Hydroponic gardening has been hyped as a better alternative for years. Inground gardening is basically simpler and more straightforward than hydroponic gardening. The necessary condition for engaging in regular gardening is having garden space and soil for planting. The soil, in its natural state, supplies the nutrients that your plants need.

Hydroponics eliminates the soil as a necessary precondition for gardening. In hydroponic gardening, many materials like coconut fiber, sand, gravel, etc, may be used as a medium for growing plant life. You remove the dependence of plants on soil by giving these plants their required nutrients through specially formulated fertilizer that easily mixes with water and is readily absorbed by plants and crops.

The hydroponics process is, of course, much more complex in practice. Because your plants do not have a naturally occurring nutrient source, you have to be extra careful about monitoring all aspects of raising your plants. You have to follow strict and regular water cycles. As such, you may even use advanced applications and computing paraphernalia which could automate the processes for you and leave little room for gross errors.

Hydroponic and Field Gardening Square-off

Inground and hydroponic gardening mainly differ in the method by which the plants receive nutrients. Regular gardening makes use of what’s readily abundant in nature, soil. Hydroponic gardening makes use of whatever medium is available and just makes sure that the plant receives sufficient amount of nourishment through the use of specially formulated fertilizers. Both regular gardening and hydroponic gardening, however, still require the right amount of sunlight and the right pH level for the plants to survive.

Advantages of Hydroponic Gardening

Hydroponics allows for a precise and scientific system through which the amount of water, the nutrients in water, the frequency of hydration, and the amount of sunlight the plants receive can be strictly monitored and controlled. Hydroponics therefore does not leave much room for error and thus endows the gardener control over the outcome of his gardening efforts. If you are interested in a horticultural or agricultural career, you may wish to try hydroponic gardening methods. Or maybe you want to make better use of a hobby greenhouse? Square foot production and overall quality can both be improved with hydropnics.

Regular gardening is more of a hit-and-miss thing because you rely on the soil’s natural nutrients to support your plants. You can only try to increase the soil’s nutrients using fertilizers, but there’s no assurance on whether the nutrients you’re supplying is too little or too much. Regular gardening therefore, provides little stability in the crop produce.

Advantages of Regular Gardening

In a nutshell, regular gardening is preferable if you are a hobbyist who likes puttering in your backyard garden. You also do not need much money and expensive gadgetry to experience the benefits of regular gardening. Nature has a way of balancing things out, even given some natural disadvantages and deficiencies.

All About Gardening

2008-04-08T20:28:00.001-07:00

All About Gardening
Submitted By: Lisa Marx

Gardening is perhaps one of the best hobbies that a more laborious nature lover can take up. The reason why I choose to call this hobby laborious is because it surely does involve a good deal of physical activity. This hobby is not meant for those nature lovers who simply want to bask in the natural beauty that already exists. Rather it is an ideal pass time for those who want to make their own contribution to the nature.

In order to be successful in gardening one must have the following qualities: -

1.) Besides having a love for gardening you should also have the will and determination to pursue your hobby.

2.) You must be physically fit and agile. Laziness and gardening are anonymous to each other.

3.) Learn to exchange your ideas and information with like-minded people who can show an equal passion for gardening.

4.) Try laying your hands on almost any books, magazines or articles that can enhance your knowledge on gardening.

5.) Be prepared to invest a small amount of your earnings in purchasing the “Can’t do without”, gardening tools.

The world of gardening is wide and it has immense possibilities for those who want to explore it with the right zeal and enthusiasm. You can choose from indoor gardening, outdoor gardening, landscaping, cultivating exotic herbs, growing bonsais and thus the list is endless. However it is important to do a fair amount of research work before delving into any of the above fields. You should master up the art of choosing the right plants and also learn the techniques favorable for their productivity and growth.

Growing plants is not enough. Deciding where the plants should grow is also an important aspect of gardening. Nothing can be more distasteful than a garden which has color clashing flowers growing all around in a haphazardly manner. So be careful about allocating the plants their respective locations. Arrange the assortments of flowers in accordance with their heights, textures and colors so that they complement each other without diminishing the beauty of your garden.

Keep aside one day from the entire week to be your gardening day. Generally week -ends would be a good choice. On this day, equip your self with all the essential gardening tools and accessories and get down to your work. If you have children or friends who are equally interested in gardening call for their assistance. The more the merrier!

Once you are done for the day clean your tools well and store them in their right place. Be sure to maintain your gardening tools because well maintained tools can give you years of good performance. After all tools aren’t something that you can afford to buy every week.

Whether you are an efficient gardener or not can be best proved by your garden itself. So stop twiddling your thumbs and put your green fingers to use. As far as gardening is concerned, if you have really put in hard work your efforts will never go futile.

Star Gardening: A Guide To Gardening By Starlight

2008-04-08T20:27:00.002-07:00

Star Gardening: A Guide To Gardening By Starlight
Submitted By: Gene DeFazzio

Gardening by the signs of the zodiac

The first farmers were probably the first practical astrologers. Their crops seemed to respond to the signs in the heavens and this became a convenient method of ensuring good harvests and provided a functional approach to husbandry.

Modern agriculture echoes many of these ancient principles. Certain seasons brought changing conditions which seemed to either help or hinder the growth of crops. Each season presented different alignments in the constellations and these patterns would evolve into horticultural astrology as it is often practiced today. The following is a brief outline of the zodiacal roots of gardening by the stars and signs of the zodiac.

Pruning

It was believed that in order to insure against infestations when pruning vine crops, trees and woody growths the following formula applied. The Moon must be full in the constellations of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, or Sagittarius. When pruning is done during this period the plants will not suffer from parasites nor disease.

Grafting

Ancient gardeners were believers in never grafting plants or trees when the moon was waning or not visible. Decreasing moonlight or the total absence of moonlight was considered crucial in the successful propagation and grafting of all types of vegetation.

Harvesting

Crops and other plants that were to be preserved for future use were always cut while the light of the moon was decreasing. This was believed to aid in the length of time that produce could be stored without spoiling. This was especially true of timber which was to be used in construction. If wood is cut at the end of the winter and during the decline in moonlight it will be hard and durable.

Plant Regeneration

When cutting or gleaning crops and plants that produce more than one yield the moon should be waxing and in its first quarter. Also, the moon must be high in the sky at this time and in conjunction with the planets Venus or Jupiter. When this equation is followed yields will increase and new growth will be rapid.

Sowing

Sow or plant your garden when the moon is in Taurus, Virgo or Scorpio and is near Saturn. This is the time of maximum benefit for seeds and transplants which, if planted now, will grow with strength and vitality. Also, when the moon is in Libra or Capricorn it is a good time to weed your garden and trim trees and shrubs.

When to Avoid Planting

Never plant any type of vegetation when Saturn is in one of the fixed signs of the zodiac. This will cause poor crops and limited harvests. In ancient times this stellar alignment was associated with famine and death.

The Stellar Gardener

Planting and husbandry by astrological signs should be examined by any gardener as an insightful way to round out ones knowledge of horticulture. The ancients studied the natural order of things. It worked for them and it will still work for us if we care to heed these echoes from the past.

Home Gardening Can Encompass A Variety Of Different Gardening Styles

2008-04-08T20:27:00.001-07:00

Home Gardening Can Encompass A Variety Of Different Gardening Styles
Submitted By: Ngullen Rivera

For a lot of people, home gardening means the ability to grow your own fresh fruits and vegetables, the ability to control what pesticides enter your domain, and most of all just how fresh your food will be when you take it to the table. Home gardening can encompass a variety of different gardening styles, ranging from simple indoor gardening, to hydroponics gardening, to anything else that you can think of.

Bugs are an ever growing problem, sorry for the pun, and need to be watched for vigilantly. And especially in a vegetable or fruit garden, you will have to be extra careful of such cute, and cuddly creatures as rabbits, and other burrowing animals. Rodents are always a problem, and need to dealt with immediately so as not pass on any disease.

But is this really all that home gardening can accomplish? Shouldn’t there be more to it than the growing of vegetables and fruits? Those were my thoughts at one time when I came upon the concept of home gardening. There is a lot more to home gardening than initially meets the eye however.

Fruits and vegetables aside, you have your flowering plants, your leafy plants, and even your shade giving trees. All of these need to be placed within the design of you garden in such a way that you get the most of them. Next, if you liked you could always design an irrigation system worthy of a bigger garden, or you could keep it simple and just spray the hose when you need to.

It’s undeniable really just how tasty a freshly picked tomato will taste, or peas fresh out of the pod. And the fragrance you get from a handful of newly plucked berries, or freshly cut rosemary. This then is what the home gardener lives for.

Soil needs to be fresh, and aerated so as not to become compacted, thus hindering root growth. Worms and other like insects need to be welcomed into the overall scheme of your home gardening project.

And last but not least, you will need to make it a place that you feel welcome in, and that your visitors can feel welcome in. A place that invites you to explore all the nooks and crannies to see exactly what it is you’ve done with the place. And that’s what home gardening should be all about.

Water drainage, soil erosion, landscape maintenance, tools and equipment, the gallons of lemonade you’ll be consuming in your quest to make perfect your home gardening project. The list is nigh on endless, and I could go on forever, just suffice it to say that home gardening isn’t as cut and dried as it may seem.

The Orchid-More Than Just An Exotic Flower

2008-02-29T11:51:00.001-08:00

The Orchid-More Than Just An Exotic Flower
Submitted By: Liz Norman

Next to the rose, orchids are the flowers most in demand in both the private and commercial marketplace. No plant family has as many different flowers as the orchid family. Orchids are known to grow in most every part of the world with the exception of Antarctica and the deserts.

Most African orchids are white, while Asian orchids are generally multicolored. Some orchids grow only one flower on each stem, while others can have more than a hundred blooms on a single spike.

When not in bloom, orchids very much resemble wild grasses and or palms. They can be grouped according to the way they retrieve their nutrients. The majority of the species are found in tropical, moist broad leaf forests or mountains. These orchids anchor themselves onto other plants, mostly trees. However, they are not considered to be a parasite.

Then there are a few species that grow naturally on rocks or on very rocky soil. Both of these species gets their nutrients from the atmosphere. Such as rain water, litter, humus, and even from their own dead tissue. Orchids are also one of the most adaptable plant groups on earth. Some Australian orchids grow entirely underground.

Those orchids we plant in our gardens are known as terrestrial plants and are planted in the soil just like most any other flower. If your area isn't conducive to growing orchids, you can still grow them in a hothouse. Be patient, however. The seeds of an orchid are extremely tiny. Under natural circumstances, the seeds can only germinate with the use of a special fungi. It takes anywhere from one to ten years for an orchid seedling to mature.

The ideal place in the home for growing orchids is a bright window, free from drafts, where your plants receive indirect sunlight both morning and afternoon. (A south window is best.) In winter, give orchids all the light possible. the equivalent to a bright south-facing window. With extra large windows or especially intense sunlight, the light may be adjusted downward by moving plants 18 to 36 inches from the window. Plants in the home require a greater light intensity because they receive light from only one direction, while in a greenhouse they receive light from many sides.

One orchid genre is commercially important other than for the value of the flowers. The vanilla orchid is used as a flavoring, and indeed is the source of vanilla. The underground tubers of terrestrial orchids are ground to a powder and used for cooking. Interestingly enough, the Coca-Cola Company is the world's largest user of vanilla. Because vanilla is such a labor intensive crop due to having to hand-pollinate the flowers, it is most suited to small family farms.

The scent of orchids is frequently used by perfumists. With these exceptions, orchids have virtually no commercial value other than for the enjoyment of the flowers.

Both tropical and subtropical orchids are available at nurseries and through orchid clubs across the world. There are also quite a few orchids which grow in colder climates, although these may be more difficult to find. The National Orchid Garden in Singapore is considered by some to be among the finest collections of orchids in cultivation open to the public.

Orchids have now become a major market throughout the world. Buyers bid hundreds of dollars on new or improved hybrids. As mentioned earlier, they are now one of the most popular cut-flowers on the market. Though orchid hybridization has been happening for many years, only recently has new technology made it into what it is today. Thailand is presently the leading country in the orchid-buying world, with one of the few pure white orchids.

Orchid Plants

2008-02-29T11:50:00.002-08:00

Orchid Plants
Submitted By: Robin Storms

Orchids are the favorites of horticulturists’ world over, due to the intricate and colorful designs of their blossoms. So intricate are orchid blossoms that they have long been compared to snowflakes. To date, there have been at least 35000 orchid species identified and many more may be discovered.

While orchids are tremendously popular, maintaining live orchids can be very demanding. Temperature, humidity and light are the main factors to take into account. Although orchids are usually thought of as tropical, most orchids will die if they are watered too often.

The hard work involved in growing live orchids leads many enthusiasts to the silk varieties instead. The most popular varieties of artificial orchids are: Phalaenopsis orchids, Dendrobium orchids, Cattleya orchids, Vanda orchids and Cymbidium orchids.

Silk Phalaenopsis orchids have a long, tapering stem with large, flat flower. The two most popular varieties are the Royal and the Deluxe. The Royal Phalaenopsis is typically available as a 36” specimen in white or lavender. The Deluxe Phalaenopsis generally exhibits a richer color and is available as a 34” specimen. Smaller 27” artificial silk specimens are also available, typically ranging in price from $17 to $25.

Dendrobium orchids are one of the versatile varieties. These orchids tend to favor trees or rocks and are well-known for their striking colors. Popular artificial silk varieties are 25” in height and come in an exquisite white or purple. The red variety is also quite lovely in a decorative arrangement.

Cattleya orchids are slow-flowering, typically taking anywhere between 5 to 7 years to produce their first dramatic bloom. This makes them very popular as an artificial silk variety. A very fashionable variety is the 14” mini Cattleya which comes in a wide range of colors but is most striking in purple or gold. This orchid is also available in yellow, orange and white.

Vanda orchids can definitely be considered as the most sought after type because of their exotic colors. These artificial silk orchids are typically sold as silk flowers arrangements but 30” single orchids are available. The top sellers in this particular variety are the purple and burgundy artificial silk specimens.

Cymbidium orchids are one of the first varieties to be identified very early and retain their appeal even to this day. While they are typically tall, with a stalk that can reach up to 2 feet in height, beautiful miniature artificial silk varieties are available. The intricacy of the Cymbidium blooms is unmatched by most other varieties. Arrangements typically retail at $80 while individual miniature specimens range from $15 to $20.

Our silk orchids need not be watered and require minimum attention. They have an added advantage in that they are hypoallergenic as there are no seeds or pollen to contend with. Artificial silk orchids retain their color much longer than the natural varieties and, as they are not dependent on sunlight so they can be moved to any area of the home or office.

Orchid Flowers - An Introduction

2008-02-29T11:50:00.001-08:00

Orchid Flowers - An Introduction
Submitted By: Jeffery Rush

Many people think the orchid plant cannot be grown indoors. When grown in the wild, the orchid plant often forms a symbiotic relationship with other plants in order to get the nutrients that it needs. The orchid plant, like most other plants, must live in the proper conditions in order for it to bloom. The three major conditions that must be controlled in order for the orchid plant to bloom are water, light, and temperature. The orchid plant receives moisture through its roots like all other plants. Avoid planting the orchid in potting soil, because it does not like to be in standing water. The orchid thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. The orchid will continue to grow without this change, but it will not bloom.

Orchids can be a difficult flower to grow indoors because they are usually found growing in nature. As long as you are familiar with the living conditions that orchids need to grow, then you can grow orchids indoors. Orchids should be grown in a similar way. If wholesale orchids are left in standing water, they will eventually die. Wholesale orchids also need to have the temperature variations of the plants that are grown in the wild. The leaf color of wholesale orchids will indicate whether or not the orchid is getting the right amount of light. Yellowish color leaves mean the plant is getting too much light.

The orchid is a perennial plant that usually has three petals. There are about 30,000 different species of orchids wildly growing worldwide. There three basic types of orchid: epiphytic, terrestrial, and saprophytic. The first of the types of different orchids, the epiphytic orchid, grows mostly in tropic and subtopic regions. The epiphytic types of orchid are the most popular for growing indoors. The terrestrial orchid is the second of the major types of orchid. Many people who try to grow terrestrial orchids attempt to grow them in potting soil. The third of the types of orchid is saprophytic. The saprophytic orchid has underground roots just as the terrestrial orchid does. Some species of saprophytic orchids grow completely underground and never come above. If a person can understand how to grow other plants inside the home, then they can understand how to grow orchids.

Orchid Flowers Basics

2008-02-29T11:49:00.000-08:00

Orchid Flowers Basics
Submitted By: Daniel Roshard

Orchids are a thing of beauty, one of the most impressive flowers you can have at home is an orchid. Because Orchids come from a very large family there is a huge variation in the different types of Orchids available on the market. Orchids are not the most difficult flowers to take care of, but they do need some attention, you can have a significant effect on the orchids you grow.

Wild orchid is simply a wonderful flower that everyone should own, a wild orchid has a unique look and style of growth. Wild orchids have an amazing verity of species, each with its own beautiful shape and coloring. Orchids in general and wild orchids in particular require that you decide where you think you will place the orchids before you actually buy them, the care needed for orchids demands that you provide them with enough humidity and air flow, and there is a huge difference between placing an orchid at home or have a wild orchid in your garden.

As a person who knows the importance of flowers for stress relief and house decoration I can absolutely say with confidence that orchids provide an abundance of pleasure just from watching them, even a person that is completely indifferent to flowers will enjoy looking at a blooming orchid, the vast variety of the orchid family makes it almost impossible for the regular person to get familiar with a kind of orchid.

Orchid have about 35,000 different species, originally this flower grow on trees and used them as hosts, this doesn’t mean that orchids can not bloom and grow without a tree host. The orchid family, because of its diversity is a extremely adaptable flower, contrast to popular belief, the orchids are a very well adjusted family of flowers.

Orchids are “planned” to lure insects for reproduction means, by getting the insect to land on the flower, it sticks some of the orchid “signature” on the insect and when this insect than leaves the orchid it bares with it the markings of that particular orchid.

Orchids have a well documented history, because of the orchids popularity in almost all parts of the world, many written books and articles had mentioned the orchid flower and the variety of the orchid family in flowers. The earliest written evidence of their presence if in the form of Chinese and Japanese drawing and literature of the circa 700 B.C. in past times the orchid was believed to have healing powers and was used, by many cultures, as a sort of a herbal or natural remedy.

today it is very easy and simple to purchase an orchid at the floweriest, most florist even have orchid flowers which they use in their flower arrangements. The orchids bought at a florist will not last long, but a rooted orchid could be a lot of fun to take care of at home, you just need to find the right spot for the orchid, with plenty of humidity and air flow, not exposed to wind and cold, there is a usual trial and error phase in which you discover what your orchid likes and dislikes, it is a very interesting sort of communication between a flower and a human.

Enjoy orchids, they are a spectacular family of flowers!

Designing the Perfect Home

2008-01-08T04:23:00.000-08:00

Designing the Perfect Home
By Mikael Rieck

Home decor is the most essential part of what makes your home into a real “home” at last, and not just the place that you live. Your home decor is always a work in progress evolving as your family and lifestyle goes through changes. To give your home a modern decor you could always refer to a fashionable home decor magazine, you will observe that modern home decor is all about using minimum furniture to decorate the room. One of the most beautiful touches you can add to your overall home decor is a luxurious drapery.

Furniture
In our present day stressed life one would prefer to come home and relax rather than get more stressed in a house cramped with furniture, more than it can accommodate so the minimalist concept of less furniture more space is used in modern home decors. Space planning, flooring, lighting, furniture, and window treatments are just a few. Chances are you already have some furniture and decor items in your home, so if you're looking to create a new look you may not be facing that big a challenge.

Design
The ability to create an interior design scheme that combines timeless elegance with contemporary day-to-day living will place you at the forefront of most people. The type of home decor you choose will impact the entire look and feel of your living space, and selecting just the right design can be an overwhelming decision. Lighting for the home is just one of the incredibly important factors of home decor when decorating and/or designing any room in your home. You may be looking for a specific design, or you may be just browsing around for something to fit with the home decor you have already chosen for the room. Even if you live in an apartment, the interior design of your home is very important to the way you feel when you are at home.

From casual to traditional to cutting-edge contemporary, home decor is available in a wide array of styles. Cheap home decor is just what you need if you're working on a budget. Since one person's cheap home decor is not the same as another person's cheap home decor you will have to make up your own mind on what constitutes as cheap home decor. The best way for you to get good cheap home decor is through the internet where you can browse through thousands of web pages.

The author runs a niche website about area rugs with focus on oval shag area rugs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mikael_Rieck

Planning a Water Garden...

2007-12-20T19:59:00.003-08:00

Planning a Water Garden...
By Gordon Goh

A water garden is the area of your landscape that will provide you with relaxing sounds of the water, while adding to the overall details of your landscape. The water garden is a project that you must 'plan' for continued success. If you are lucky enough to have the room in your lawn for a water garden, you are already one step ahead of many gardeners! Let's talk a little about how to plan for your water garden. A few important factors about placement of a water garden that often are forgotten are:

Do you have children in the neighborhood? If you have or live near children, you will want to keep your water garden in an area that will be close to your home. You will want to be able to see what is 'going on' by the water. Children are curious and they love water! Being able to see your water garden will save you worry later after the creation of your water garden even if the children are in the yard.

Do you have a natural spring in your lawn area? When planning a waterfall in the water garden, the use of a natural spring or water source is going to make the continued success of your water garden much easier. A water garden is possible with a waterfall even if you do not have a natural spring or water source, but it is a little more 'work' to create that special effect. You can find more information about this in another article on this site.

The lay of your land is important. While we will discuss this in other articles as well, planning your water garden around the lay of your land is important. If you are lucky enough to have a flat lawn, you can plan your water garden in various areas. The landscape that includes hills and slopes are a little tricky but using the slope in your lawn, you can create the water garden that takes care of that little 'wet patch' at the bottom of the yard!

Most water gardens are an addition or extension of the natural landscape. To encourage and invite your guests to the water garden for picnics, for chats, and for just sitting in pleasure: Plan the water garden so it's visible from the walkway to your home. The water garden that your visitors and guests see while entering your home adds value to your home and to your conversation!

In planning your water garden, use a sheet of paper to write down what you want to gain from your water garden. Start your list by using personal reasons, value reasoning, enhancing, or changing the overall look of your landscape. Alternately, you may simply want a place for solitude. These are the desires you'll write on your list. From this list, you can better plan 'where' your water garden will suit you and your ideas.

Gordon Goh is author of the free, informative website Simply Flower Garden offering quality useful tips for flower garden lovers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gordon_Goh

Garden Landscape Design - 10 Tips To Design A Beautiful Garden Landscape

2007-12-20T19:59:00.001-08:00

Garden Landscape Design - 10 Tips To Design A Beautiful Garden Landscape
By Richard Titmas

1. When coming up with a garden landscape design, you should consider the size, shape, and style of your home during the landscape design phase. The landscape design of your garden should blend with the house, not distract from it. You should be trying to enhance the property as well as the existing structures with your landscape design A good garden landscape design should flow smoothly with your home by creating repeat design details, textures, colors and smooth transitions.

2. When designing your garden landscape, make sure you have a plan in mind. A garden design should incorporate height and width restrictions of the area you plan on planting your garden, especially when dealing with trees. The garden may become unmanageable blocking views or pathways.

3. A successful garden landscape design will include proper soil requirements for the types of plants that you choose within your garden. Drainage requirements have to be taken into consideration when designing you garden. Poor drainage will doom your garden from the start

4. When designing your garden landscape, make sure that you plan for future growth. Your landscape design at maturity may change how the garden receives sun and shade throughout the day. Garden plants bought with the sun in mind may end up in the shade.

5. A vital key to a great garden landscape design is to create a focal point. Whether your focal point is a tree or an oddly shaped plant or garden color, create a garden landscape around it.

6. Consider the curb appeal that your garden landscape design will bring. The backyard garden may be where you hang out, but the rest of the world will see the garden design in the front yard. A good landscape design technique is to plan curves into the garden design; nature does not work in just straight lines. This type of landscape design will increase the look and curbside appeal of your garden, adding value to your house.

7. The future needs of the family should be taken into consideration when designing your garden landscape. If you have children, design your garden with them in mind. Each member of the family will use the garden design differently.

8. One of the most overlooked elements of the landscape design is lighting, both natural and artificial. Lighting plays a very important role in any good garden landscape design. Garden lighting sets the tone for how the garden will be used during the day as well as at night.

9. Your garden landscape design does not have to be expensive, but make sure that you are being realistic about costs. It's very easy to misjudge landscaping design costs, especially if you hire contractors.

10. When planning your garden landscape design, make sure and create it around your personality, desires and maintenance requirements. If you really like an oriental garden design, why plant a rose garden. The future maintenance of your landscape design should be a major decision during the landscape design. If you do not have the time or the ability to keep up on the maintenance, your landscape design is doomed for failure.

http://www.garden-landscape-design.com is your source for inexpensive products to teach you how to design that perfect garden landscape design. Whether you just want a beautiful lawn, or a garden bursting with flowers, plants, and vegetables let garden-landscape-design show you how.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Titmas

Japanese Garden Benches

2007-12-20T19:58:00.004-08:00

Japanese Garden Benches
By Jennifer Bailey

Garden benches are found all over the world and are usually decorative as well as functional. They not just provide a comfortable resting option for walkers but also add to the aesthetic charm of a garden.

The benches in Japanese gardens are seen as an extraordinary piece of work. The most important consideration while choosing Japanese garden benches is to keep in mind the garden styling, as these benches can be adapted according to the garden. In the Japanese concept of gardens the benches are fashioned to suit the ambiance and not vice versa.

Regular wooden benches can be used in different ways in Japanese gardens. The materials used for these benches are quite immaterial, as in fact any type of bench can be converted into a Japanese garden bench by placing it in a suitable Japanese garden. These benches do not necessarily have to be made of stone or have a rustic look. The prime importance while choosing a Japanese garden bench is to pay attention to that the fact that is it comfortable and surrounded by natural beauty, and that it does not look out of place.

To give the Japanese garden benches an authentic look, certain accessories can also be used. Such accessories include garden ornaments, garden supplies, Japanese pond ornaments and garden accents among other things. Some other such garden accessories are granite lanterns, rain chains, bamboo fountains, stone lanterns, iron lanterns and other such items. Japanese garden benches are usually fashioned according to such accessories so that they fall in line with the rest of the pieces in the gardens. Japanese garden benches are usually found easily as anything that is simple and comfortable, and not too exquisite in itself can be classified as one.

Garden Bench provides detailed information on garden benches, discount garden benches, how to build a garden bench, metal garden benches and more. Garden Bench is affiliated with Outdoor Garden Furniture.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Bailey

Garden Design

2007-12-20T19:58:00.003-08:00

Garden Design
By Elizabeth Morgan

Generally, gardens are the greatest attractions in any landscape. Gardens are maintained in residential as well as in non residential areas like parks, theme parks, amusement parks, and restaurants. Both residential and non residential gardens need good designing to make them look attractive.

Most garden owners wish to design their gardens using expert garden designers. A garden designer must have hands-on experience in gardening. A trained garden designer should have a sound knowledge in horticulture and architecture. Many institutions, colleges, and universities offer courses on garden designing.

The landform, water features, water fountains, garden pools, garden planting, garden buildings, garden lighting, garden statues, garden ornaments, garden furniture, and landscape materials are some of the elements of garden designing. These elements will play a big role in making the garden look fabulous. The important aspect of making a sophisticated garden is the knowledge of how to go about combining these designing elements.

Trying to include all the designing elements won?t be nice for good designing. Have a theme with your garden designing and include only related designing elements in your garden.

The element landscape is the geomorphologic unit. It is classified according to its characteristics like orientation, slope, rock exposure, soil type, and other things. The water feature elements like ponds, pools, fountains, cascades, and splashes are included in the design to make the garden look lively.

Replenishing and pruning the plants to desired sizes and shapes is the latest trend in gardening. By using various plants, you can design the gardens with themes. You can include some miniature models of famous monuments or buildings in your garden?s pavilion to make it look unique.

Fire light and oil light are common garden lighting elements used to illuminate your garden. Garden statues will add a streak of life to your garden. Some of the statues may come with fountains in them.

Design your garden by trained garden designers with sophisticated designing elements to add that touch of elegance and give your garden a sense of uniqueness.

Design provides detailed information on Design, Logo Design, Web Site Design, Interior Design and more. Design is affiliated with Bedroom Decorating.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_Morgan

Home Garden Decor

2007-12-20T19:58:00.001-08:00

Home Garden Decor
By Bill Doane

When decorating a garden area, you should first choose a garden theme. There are several garden themes to choose from, some of which include formal, English or cottage, Japanese or oriental, and Mediterranean. After choosing the garden theme, you can then choose the proper flowers and other plants to fit with the theme of the garden. With proper planning and care, your home garden can be a very welcoming outdoor living area. In addition to the plants and flowers in your garden, there are many other home garden décor items, such as ornaments, accessories, fountains, bird feeders, pots, vases, and garden statues that you can add to your garden.

One of the most important additions to a garden is seating. Having a garden bench, swing, and/or comfortable chairs will allow you, your family, and your visitors to relax and enjoy the garden. A decorative garden bench will provide a perfect place to unwind after an especially stressful day. You may also want to consider adding an outdoor eating area to your garden.

Focal points, such as fountains, bird baths, and other water features, can provide beauty along with the calming effects of the trickling water. Water will also cool the air and perhaps bring in some birds or other visitors from nature.

Arches, trellises and arbors will provide support for plants and also add a nice architectural feature to the garden. You may also want to add a garden sculpture or sculptures. There are many to choose from. You may want to choose sculptures that go with your garden theme or maybe some elegant or even some funny or whimsical ones.

Lighting is another thing that you may want to consider for your garden. There are several choices of lighting appropriate for gardens at home improvement stores. Lighting in the garden will allow you and your family to enjoy your garden any time of the day or night. There are also outdoor heaters such as chimineas or outdoor clay fireplaces and outdoor wood burning fire pits.

Creating a home garden does not have to be expensive. There are many garden décor items that you can make yourself, such as fountains and other water features, stepping stones, etc. By comparison shopping, you can find the best deals on garden décor items. With careful planning and care, your home garden can provide the perfect place for you and your family to relax and enjoy nature.

Bill Doane is a regular contributor to modern-japanese-gardens.com and is currently landscaping his gardens. Visit Modern Japanese Gardens, Home Garden Designs, and Garden and Lawn Sprinklers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Doane

Decorating Your Garden with Wrought Iron

2007-12-20T19:57:00.002-08:00

Decorating Your Garden with Wrought Iron
By Amanda Taylor

Home decorating outdoors has never been easier with the help of wrought iron. If you are looking for the perfect garden décor, consider wrought iron. An entire garden can be accessorized solely with wrought iron items including, garden gates and fences, arbors, plant stands and benches.

No garden has a better feel to it than one that is enclosed by a wrought iron fence. This type of fencing gives your garden a simple yet elegant look. What better way to enter your garden than with a complimentary wrought iron gate that has the beautiful curves and designs that are exclusive to wrought iron material. Or, give your garden an inviting look by leaving it without a gate and using a wrought iron arbor instead, providing a beautiful entrance with flowering vine plants.

Smaller accessories for a garden that compliment your wrought iron enclosure and entrance are a must. A wrought iron garden bench located in the midst of your garden provides a comfortable place for relaxing and watching nature around you. Wrought iron plant stands positioned at just the right places in your garden make it possible to raise the height of smaller potted plants to add visual interest.

So if you are looking for garden décor that is simple yet elegant, consider wrought iron. Using wrought iron throughout your garden is an easy way to unify the area and make it more visually interesting.

Get started home decorating with Wrought Iron today. Wrought Iron Depot can help you find the perfect wrought iron for your indoor or outdoor living area including information about wrought iron furniture, wrought iron railing, wrought iron chandelier, wrought iron home decor. Get the facts and info at http://www.wrought-iron-depot.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Taylor

A Beginners Guide To Garden Bridges

2007-12-20T19:57:00.001-08:00

A Beginners Guide To Garden Bridges
By Charles Truett

Just because you don’t have huge, elaborate gardens does not mean you can’t accentuate what you do have with l garden bridges. Garden bridges could be just what you need to turn those mediocre garden areas into something quite splendid.

Garden bridges can add a touch of country or formal design to a garden. Small garden bridges are easy to find. There are many garden bridges that you can find in garden centers or home improvement centers. One of the best places to find small garden bridges may be online. There are lots of sites that have many ideas for small garden bridges.

If you are good with a hammer and nails you may even be able to make your own garden bridge. Plans are available at building stores and at online sites. You will find many choices for garden bridges at these online sites and you can also see photos of many different bridge styles.

A garden bridge can be a big benefit for your garden space. A small garden bridge will look attractive in a smaller garden and draw attention to a specific area.

You can choose the right small garden bridge if you do a little planning ahead of time. If you have a smaller garden you will want a smaller garden bridge. Look at the space you have and decide where a bridge would fit in. Consider more than one area and then choose your favorite.

There are some lovely gardens that are small in size but large in beauty because garden bridges have been added in just the right places.

We have a large number of styles and varieties of garden
bridges available online. For more information and to learn
more about garden bridges, visit:
Garden Bridges Online

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charles_Truett

Home and Garden Decor

2007-12-20T19:55:00.000-08:00

Home and Garden Decor
By Ken Marlborough

Installing home and garden decor is a great way to make your home and garden attractive, appealing and a relaxing place to stay. Before you enter your home, you see the garden. By creating a welcoming and pleasantly inviting atmosphere in your garden, you are creating a welcoming introduction to your home. Not only that – there are times when you just want to spend time entertaining or relaxing in your garden, so it’s fun to keep it pleasing to everyone’s eyes

In choosing home and garden décor, first you have to know what you want and what style you are looking for. One way of determining which décor to buy is by setting a theme to your garden. Thin about what you would like your garden to look like – what accessories you would like to see, and what plants and trees you’d like to add. Here are some of the theme ideas that you can incorporate with your home and garden décor: butterfly, temple, sundial, Japanese, water, winter, and jungle.

After you choose your theme, you can now make a list of products that are wonderful items to compliment your home garden. Some of these items can be flowers and flowerpots, planter pots, birdhouses, fountains, wind chimes, garden shelves, incense, garden angels, plant stands, flower vases, and statues.

Decorating your home and garden can be very challenging and you have to use your aesthetic ability to come up with a truly pleasing home garden. But before you make any purchase, see to it that your home and garden décor items will be good together so that you will not waste money, time, and effort.

Home Decor provides detailed information on Home Decor, Home and Garden Decor, Home Decor Ideas, Home Decor Stores and more. Home Decor is affiliated with Discount Home Furnishings.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Marlborough

3 Flower Gardening Tips

2007-12-10T21:57:00.000-08:00

3 Flower Gardening Tips
By Ricky Lim

Flower gardening is a simple and rewarding hobby for many people. It does require hard work and dedication but the rewards are far better. Here are a few flower gardening tips that will keep your flower garden in tiptop condition and in the process enjoy yourself.

Flower Gardening Tip #1 : Planting

One of the most important steps in flower gardening is deciding where to do your planting. If you decide to plant it in a container, you can pretty much replicate the soil conditions you wanted. It is easier and much simpler to manage.

If you decide to plant it in your backyard, you should do a soil test first to determine the type of soil in your backyard. You can grab a test soil kit from your neighborhood gardening store which should be readily available.

Ideally, you want the soil to be composed of equal parts clay and sand. Too much of either clay or sand is not suitable for flower gardening. Clay does not drain well and roots cannot get hold easily in clay. Sand does not retain nutrients and elements well and does not hold together easily therefore it is impossible to grow flowers on sand.

Flower Gardening Tip #2 : Gardening Journal

A gardening journal can help you keep track of your flower garden progress and is recommended. With a gardening journal, you can keep track of the success and failure you have with the type of flowers you have grown in your pot or backyard. Doing so can reduce the amount of time you need to grow your next flower garden. You can use any notepad to keep track. There are even professional software available on the market that does this.

Flower Gardening Tip #3 : Organic Materials

All flowers require fertilizers to grow well. A suitable amount of organic matter or fertilizer in the soil makes it fertile and nutrient rich. It would be easier to grow flowers on such soil.

If your soil does not have much organic matter, it is still pretty easy to change the soil by adding compost to it. Compost is the remains of plants and animals and you can get it easily from your gardening supply store.

Compost provides nutrients and can help in drainage and hold moisture, conditions necessary for flower gardening.

There are other flower gardening tips as well but the above 3 flower gardening tips are in my opinion the most important to growing a flower garden.

Ricky is the online editor of a flower gardening site. Visit his site today for more info such as perennial flower gardening and wild flower gardening.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ricky_Lim

Beginner Bonsai Trees: The 5 Easiest To Care For

2007-12-06T00:25:00.003-08:00

Beginner Bonsai Trees: The 5 Easiest To Care For
By April Kerr

Beginner bonsai trees should all have one thing in common - they should all be easy to look after. Although the art of the bonsai is often seen as one which is extremely difficult and takes many years to master, this should not put off anyone new to bonsai growing. There are a number of species which are very hardy, can withstand various light conditions and don't need to be monitored as if it were a hospital patient. These include:

Cherry Blossom - Many bonsai trees are considered to be either indoor or outdoor species, however the cherry blossom is one bonsai which can fit into both categories. Not only that but they are especially beautiful.

Azalea - The most common species you will find are the satkuzi azalea and the kurume azalea. They also have very beautiful flowers which will brighten up any garden.

Cotoneaster - There are over 200 varieties of cotoneaster however the most popular for bonsai purposes are horizontalis, Microphyllus and Compacta Nana. These plants should be kept outdoors, and although they are generally very hardy plant, you will need to protect them from the winter frost.

Juniper - Whenever most people think of a bonsai tree it is the juniper plant to springs to mind and is commonly referred to as the "Karate Kid".

Japanese Maple - Although this is not a flowering bonsai, the leaves more than make up for it, ranging from tones of gold to red.

This article is simply an introduction to anyone thinking of growing bonsai trees. It is important that you read up as much as possible on each variety to make sure you are buying the bonsai that is right for you. Just because they are the easiest of bonsai to care for does not mean you should neglect them. They will still need watering, feeding, pruning and re-potting, however this should be easy enough for any beginner bonsai grower.

April Kerr writes for internet site Bonsai Tree Care. Her favourite bonsai is the Cherry Blosom however she also has written descriptions on how to care for many other bonsai trees.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=April_Kerr

How To Be Certain On Choosing The Right Bonsai Pot

2007-12-06T00:25:00.001-08:00

How To Be Certain On Choosing The Right Bonsai Pot
By Robert Funge

When it comes to buying a Bonsai pot or tray you maybe forgiven for thinking that an old flowerpot or plastic container will suffice. This is the trap that most Bonsai beginners fall into and is likely to seriously effect your Bonsai tree.

The art of Bonsai is to replicate as closely as possible a naturally growing tree, but with one major difference, its got to be in miniature. So its extremely important that your Bonsai pot or tray complements your Bonsai tree as closely as possible.

Here are a few things to consider when buying a Bonsai pot:

Ideally your Bonsai pot should be understated. The last thing you want to do is draw attention away from you tree with some lavish designed pot. Keep it simple, neutral and symmetrical and you won't go far wrong.

When it comes to choosing your Bonsai pot make sure the internal surface isn't shinny or glazed. These types of pots are notoriously bad for growing a bonsai tree in as they can interfere with drainage, which in turn may lead to many more problems. Glazed surfaces are fine on the outside; just remember though if you are storing your Bonsai tree outside make sure the pot is frost-proof. Glazed pots unless treated prior may crack in cold weather.

Size is critical too. You need to make sure your Bonsai tree has enough room for growth. However, the pot needs to be small enough to provide just the right amount of water the tree needs. If the pot is too large there is a danger that you may inadvertently over water your tree, which can rot the roots if left for long durations. Your Bonsai pot also needs to be large enough to support the tree.

Your Bonsai pot must have enough drainage holes too. Most Bonsai trees prefer that the soil is kept moist at all times. Therefore, proper drainage is essential when deciding which pot to purchase. Not enough drainage holes may lead your Bonsai tree to become too wet, whereas too many could result in the soil becoming too dry. Its certainly a fine balancing act to get right, so its important to know how quickly your Bonsai pot drains.

Of course you can buy a dedicated Bonsai pot from a specialist, and to be honest its likely to save you money in the long run if you do. The Internet is the most obvious place start your search. Just remember the points mentioned above and you will be fine.

For more tops tips on choosing a Bonsai ceramic pot why not visit http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk today for essiential help and advice on basic Bonsai.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

New to Bonsai? Read Here & Find Out the Best Way for a Bonsai Newbie to Get the Most from this Hobby

2007-12-06T00:24:00.003-08:00

New to Bonsai? Read Here & Find Out the Best Way for a Bonsai Newbie to Get the Most from this Hobby
By Charlotte Alice

I first got into Bonsai trees when I was about twelve years old, I remember being fascinated by them when we found a small dedicated bonsai tree hidden around the back of a garden centre. I could not understand why such beautiful, ornamental trees were not placed somewhere for everyone to appreciate. There were a huge number of specimens on show, from the smaller younger bonsai trees, right up to the ancient Japanese palms which were trained to about three foot high with a splendidly decorated bowl.

Since that day I have collected a number of different Bonsai trees, I have attempted to grow them myself and I have traded with other Bonsai enthusiasts. Unfortunately, a number of bonsai trees have also died on my watch. This is always awful when this happens, but the truth is that it is actually very hard to look after and nurture bonsai trees. Which often means that people new to this hobby do not get the most from the experience.

So I though that I would provide a number of tips to newbie bonsai fans about how to enjoy this great way to relax.

Try not to own too many bonsai trees at the same time. If you’re anything like me you will fall instantly in love with new trees in shops and snap them up immediately. Unfortunately, this means that you will have more caring and nurturing than before. It is best to concentrate on as few as possible.

Try to buy bonsai plants from specialist stores, during the last few years as the craze for all things bonsai intensified they have popped up in supermarkets, corner shops and DIY stores amongst others, these are never as good quality or as well looked after than from a specialist store. Have a go at growing your own bonsai tree, it is possible to buy special kits which includes all of the seeds and necessary apparatus to do this. If anything, it will give you a sense of exactly how difficult and time consuming it is to grow a bonsai. If you succeed, you will have an enormous amount of satisfaction.

Charlotte Alice is a professional author for Bonsai Tree Guide and full time Content Writer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charlotte_Alice

Save Your Bonsai Tree By Replacing Your Bonsai Pot

2007-12-06T00:24:00.001-08:00

Save Your Bonsai Tree By Replacing Your Bonsai Pot
By Robert Funge

So you've got a Bonsai tree. Either, you've grown it from seed; unlikely. Bought it from a specialist or garden centre; more likely, or been given one as a present; a lot more likely.

The trouble is unless your Bonsai tree was bought from a specialist who is dedicated in growing these beautiful trees, you may just find that your Bonsai tree is not looking too healthy. Sure it would of looked great in the shop, but when you got it home did things start to change?

The reason for this is most Bonsai trees purchased from a non specialist are deliberately ‘brought on'. Not only that you will seldom find a Bonsai tree that has been paired to a pot specifically catered for it. This is probably to do with keeping the overall cost of the Bonsai tree down, but can be the cause of lots of problems.

If your Bonsai could do with a little TLC then it maybe time to change its pot...

A ceramic Bonsai pot should first be the right size for your Bonsai tree. If it's too small it will easily be knocked over, but perhaps more importantly could drastically effect the root system which is the life blood of your tree. Whereas, if the pot is too large your Bonsai tree will appear dwarfed in appearance. Also, gauging water amounts correctly can prove problematical.

A ceramic Bonsai pot should just be large enough to fully support your Bonsai tree and provide room for a little growth. Choose a pot that complements your tree and not steals focus from it. The art of Bonsai is to replicate a naturally growing tree as closely as possible, but on a much smaller scale. Therefore, make sure your Bonsai pot is proportionate to your tree, is symmetrical in design, and neutral in colour.

Another important aspect to consider is to ensure the Bonsai pot has enough holes underneath for drainage. All too often Bonsai trees become waterlogged or dried out due to varying water levels or inadequate water draw off.

You will also be well advised to choose a ceramic bonsai pot that is not glazed internally. A Bonsai pot that is shinny inside can cause major problems with heat retention in the soil, and again can effect watering. However, its fine to choose a Bonsai pot that is glazed externally. Just be certain that if your Bonsai tree lives outside that the pot is frost-proof. Shinny surface Bonsai pots that have not been designed for inclement weather are notorious for cracking.

So now you have a little more knowledge about choosing a Bonsai pot why not treat your tree to a new home today?

For more information on ceramic Bonsai pots including specialists in your area why not visit us today at http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk You will also discover essential tips on caring for your Bonsai tree

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

Are You A Bonsai Master? Learn How To Grow Your Own Bonsai Tree

2007-12-06T00:23:00.002-08:00

Are You A Bonsai Master? Learn How To Grow Your Own Bonsai Tree
By Robert Funge

You may have thought that growing a Bonsai tree should be left to a professional who specializes in growing miniature trees? While it is true that the art of Bonsai is a hobby where you are constantly learning and developing new skills the fact that anyone can grow a Bonsai tree may surprise you.

In fact if you are new to the hobby, its probably best to start from scratch by planting your very own Bonsai tree. That way you will learn as your Bonsai grows and costly mistakes will be kept to a minimum.

So where do you start?

Growing a bonsai tree is pretty much the same as growing any other tree. Its only the pruning of roots and the sculpting of branches that maintains that miniature look and defines a Bonsai tree compared to a tree freely growing in its natural habitat.

If you've already looked at buying a Bonsai tree you would have noticed that some are quite pricey. However, as we are going to grow our Bonsai from scratch, the cost doesn't really concern us, as hopefully you will be able to find a seed or sapling much cheaper.

So what makes a good Bonsai tree?

A good Bonsai tree to start with should be something that is relatively slow growing and has small leaves. This will ensure that when your Bonsai is confined to a pot the roots can easily provide nutrients to the rest of the tree. You should also consider how much light your Bonsai is likely to need and then decide a suitable tree accordingly.

Unless otherwise stated you should initially grow your Bonsai seed or sapling outside. After all, trees have been growing naturally for millions of years without human intervention. What better way to give your Bonsai tree the best possible start than planting it into its natural environment.

Timing is crucial here and it's a good idea to plant your Bonsai-to-be during the warmer months; the closer to spring the better. The soil and temperatures are warmer and should cause rapid growth. Be prepared for a much longer wait if you plant your Bonsai during the colder months when its likely your tree will be dormant. Of course you can always plant your seed or sapling in pot and artificially stimulate its natural environment if you don't what to wait for Mother Nature.

Whether you planted your Bonsai in a pot or in the ground hopefully you should now be seeing signs of early growth. This is a good sign and shows your Bonsai is happy with its new environment. Once you are confident that your Bonsai is becoming established you can think about moving it to a designated Bonsai pot permanently...

For more information on pruning a bonsai tree including caring for a bonsai tree make sure you visit http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk today

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

Top Tips On Caring For Your Bonsai Tree

2007-12-06T00:23:00.001-08:00

Top Tips On Caring For Your Bonsai Tree
By Robert Funge

When it comes to caring for your Bonsai tree there are a few common pitfalls you should avoid in order to maintain the health of your miniature tree.

In this article we will discuss the most common problems experienced and ways to keep your Bonsai tree healthy.

The Leaves On Your Bonsai Tree:

Depending on whether you Bonsai tree is deciduous or not will determine if it should naturally shred it leaves during autumn and the winter months. Obviously, if your Bonsai tree is an Evergreen then it should have leaves all year round

If you are concerned take a look at the colour of the leaves. Generally speaking, if they are yellow in appearance and brittle to the touch this signifies a lack of water. If however they are yellow and falling you may find that you have been over watering your Bonsai Tree.

Watering Your Bonsai Tree:

Depending on its environment a Bonsai tree should be watered regularly. You should never let your Bonsai tree wither or become dehydrated. Similarly your Bonsai tree should never be saturated with water. Therefore adequate drainage holes at the base of your Bonsai pot or container should be made available so as not to rot or damage the fragile root system. It's a good ideal then to get into the habit of watering your Bonsai tree a little everyday. Generally the soil should be moist, never dry and never saturated.

Bonsai Tree Pot Or Container.

Your Bonsai Tree pot or container should be relative to the size of your tree. You don't have to use a dedicated Bonsai tree pot or tray as these can be expensive, but its important to ensure the size is right for your type of tree. It's best to steer clear of any pot or container that are internally glazed or shinny inside. These are renown for not being well suited to a growing a Bonsai tree.

Pruning Your Bonsai Tree

Don't be afraid to prune your Bonsai tree when you want to control the way its growing. Pruning is good is what the art of Bonsai is all about. Just make sure that there is plenty of new growth occurring before you sculpt your tree. Any unwanted branches should be pruned using a sharp pair of secateurs and cut back to a bud. Any new branch will then take the direction the bud is facing, thereby enabling you to sculpt and shape your Bonsai tree exactly how you wanted.

Just one word of warning. The art of Bonsai is to mimic the appearance of a naturally growing tree, but on a miniature scale. So don't be tempted to sculpt your Bonsai tree into some sort of unorthodox shape or pattern. You may just regret doing so...

Bonsai tree care is fundemental in keeping your tree healthy.

If you're really serious about looking after your miniature tree why not visit http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk today for essiential help and advice.

You'll also discover top tips on pruning a Bonsai tree

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

Azalea Bonsai Care

2007-12-06T00:22:00.000-08:00

Azalea Bonsai Care
By Kevin J. Riley

The azalea bonsai tree is not actually a tree, but a shrub. The thick base of the plant makes it a good candidate for a bonsai because it resembles a miniature full grown tree trunk. These bonsai usually only flower once a year but their blossoms can very colorful and beautiful. The care azaleas require is minimal and can be maintained with a little effort.

The azalea bonsai do not care for direct sunlight and it is preferable to place the bonsai in an area that has some indirect light. Azalea bonsai require water twice a day and should be kept in a container that allows proper drainage. Azaleas do not care for a damp or wet soil and a mix of sand, gravel, and clay should be used when potting. Take care to ensure the holes in the bottom of the container are lined with screen to prevent the loose soil from draining out.

Azalea bonsai should have their flowers and leaves removed right after they die to promote proper health and growth. Care should be taken when pruning to remove only the new growth every year after they flower and again in the middle of summer when new sprouts appear. Azalea bonsai care for an acidic soil and should be fertilized every 6 weeks.

The roots of the azalea bonsai should be inspected once a year and trimmed to keep the root ball the same size as the container. The azalea bonsai needs to be repotted every 3 to 5 years when more than 1/5 of the root ball would need to be trimmed to fit the container. Care should be taken when repotting to insure all air pockets are filled with soil.

Proper care of the azalea bonsai for the winter is to keep the plant out of the harsh elements of snow and ice but the azalea should be allowed to go dormant. An unheated room with a little sunlight would be a good place to care for the the plant and should be watered once a week to ensure proper azalea bonsai care.

Kevin J. Riley has studied and observed the art of bonsai for 20 years with his father James J. Riley. He is the host of the website http://www.theartofbonsaitrees.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_J._Riley

Essentail Advice On Choosing The Right Bonsai Tree Pot

2007-12-06T00:21:00.003-08:00

Essentail Advice On Choosing The Right Bonsai Tree Pot
By Robert Funge

The word "wa", loosely means "harmony in Japanese and is the relationship between nature and man. However, it can also signify a work of art. In the case of Bonsai or Bonsai art this concept is about striking a balance between the type of tree used, the style its pruned or shaped too and the container or pot that the Bonsai tree lives in.

The Bonsai pot or container is a fundamental aspect of Bonsai art and should be given proper consideration. The material used color and of course the size and shape all need to be researched when marrying a Bonsai tree to a pot or container. There are no real hard and fast rules here, as your decision is likely to come down to your own personal preference. However, it's a good idea to keep with the Bonsai art tradition and ensure your pot has a sense of symmetry and above all will complement your Bonsai tree and thereby is likely to be pleasing to the eye.

Here a few factors you need to consider when choosing a Bonsai tree pot or container:

Its important to gauge the correct size your Bonsai pot needs to be to physically hold the weight of the moist Bonsai soil and support the tree. As your Bonsai tree is likely to be in a prominent place the last thing you what is for it to be tipped over due to the Bonsai pot being too light or small. Therefore make sure your Bonsai pot is large enough to easily support itself and the tree, but also small enough to ensure everything is symmetrically balanced.

Your Bonsai pot also needs to hold enough soil to ensure enough nutrients are provided to the root system as well as plenty of space for further growth.

Its vitally important that your Bonsai pot has adequate holes in the base for drainage. The last thing you want is for your pot to retain too much water and therefore over time is likely to rot your Bonsai trees root system. A good pointer here is too use a wire mesh grill designed to fit over the drainage hole. This will allow for proper water drainage.

When it comes to it though experience and your own personal aesthetics will determine the right pot for your Bonsai tree. If you feel quite literally overwhelmed by the prospect of finding your own Bonsai tree pot it may be worth you buying a dedicated one specifically designed for your tree. Just remember the points above and you shouldn't go far wrong...

For more top tips on choosing a bonsai tree pot why not visit http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk today for essiential help and advice on anything Bonsai. We also review the best Bonsai tree books & products

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

Chinese Elm Bonsai

2007-12-06T00:21:00.001-08:00

Chinese Elm Bonsai
By Kevin J. Riley

The Chinese Elm is native to China, Korea, and northern Vietnam and was introduced to Japan as a tree that was ideal for bonsai. The Chinese elm makes a good bonsai tree for beginners because it is hardy and forgiving to pruning mistakes.

An interesting feature of the Chinese elm is that it has small tightly arranged leaves making it a good candidate for bonsai. The bark of the Chinese elm also varies from smooth to rough with unique and interesting textures. Bonsai that have a smoother bark need more care than a Chinese elm with a more rough bark and should be kept in mind when choosing a bonsai tree for beginners.

Bonsai created from the Chinese elm can do well in full sunlight to shade making it ideal for beginners who need more flexibility with their garden plant placements. During the winter the Chinese elm should be sheltered from the elements but allowed to go dormant.

The Chinese elm needs to be kept moist and should be watered year-round with special attention during the spring and summer months. Care should be taken in the summer months to ensure the bonsai does not dry out. The Chinese elm should be placed in a shaded area during this time.

Pruning should be done in the early spring. When cutting back new growth on a Chinese elm care should be taken to leave a couple of buds just below where the bonsai pruned. This will help promote new growth and assist in the training of new branches.

Repotting of the Chinese elm is only needed about every three years when the bonsai tree out grows the container. The Chinese elm should not be pruned less a month before until or after the repotting to avoid damage to the bonsai. Care should be taken not to remove more than about ¼ of the root ball to ensure proper health of the Chinese elm bonsai.

Kevin J. Riley has studied and observed the art of bonsai for 20 years with his father James J. Riley. He hosts the website http://www.theartofbonsaitrees.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_J._Riley

10 Steps To A Perfect Bonsai Garden

2007-12-06T00:20:00.003-08:00

10 Steps To A Perfect Bonsai Garden
By Lilly Jones

If it could be properly narrowed down to ten steps in terms of getting the perfect bonsai garden, it would probably end up being a lot easier than it actually is to take care of the bonsai trees that make up your bonsai garden. Instead, however, limiting the practice of bonsai to a mere ten steps seems a little bit of a parlour trick for some because the art of bonsai is significantly more complicated than any step by step treatment could offer. Instead, a simple tip or two should be able to open the doors on what is a practical and personal art form.

Bonsai is basically Japanese for “tray gardening” and is the art of miniature trees and the care of them in containers. The origin of bonsai is, however, traced back to ancient China where the Tang Dynasty was believed to practice the art of bonsai. It is believed that the art form somehow evolved from using the same technology that the medicine men used to carry the healing plants from town to town. The early focus of the bonsai garden was the stylish trunks and containers that the plants could be stored in, but as time evolved so to did the art of bonsai.

Learning Effective Bonsai Maintenance

It is important to realize that the bonsai is not a genetically warped plant. Knowing this should affect the care you give the plant and should cause you to practice a form of bonsai garden maintenance that will, in fact, create a great looking garden for you to enjoy. Bonsai care is quite difficult and the shallow containers limit the root systems. In turn, this makes proper watering of your bonsai garden quite the difficult art form in and of itself. Some species of bonsai can handle long periods of dryness, but others require an almost constant soaking. Consult your plant’s guide for more information on what your plant requires.

Sun, wind, and heat can dry a bonsai out to the point of no return so it is important to realize what type of watering plan your bonsai garden needs to survive. Watering too frequently can cause as many problems as not watering enough. The soil can become soggy and this can prevent growth in your bonsai garden, so ensure that you have taken care as to water to the exact specifications of your bonsai trees and plants. The soil, in most cases, should never be allowed to become bone dry. Instead, monitor the plant on a daily basis to see what it needs for proper care.

For more bonsai tips, visit EverythingBonsai.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lilly_Jones

The Fine Art of Bonsai: Beautiful and Unique Decor

2007-12-06T00:20:00.001-08:00

The Fine Art of Bonsai: Beautiful and Unique Decor
By Anne Clarke

The bonsai is a very delicate plant; bonsai can be shaped and molded into any for you want, most people use wire and gently let the tree grow and shape itself according to the will of the gardener. Bonsai are a rare and stunning addition to any home, patio, garden or yard. And the bonsai can be long lasting if it is well cared for.

If you are looking for a new gift idea, one that no one else is likely to have—check out the many kinds of bonsai trees available on the market. Especially for a housewarming present or any other present—and of course, as a gift for yourself if you want this elegant look that only bonsai can create in your own home.

The art of bonsai originated in Asia many centuries ago, the literal translation of the Japanese, means “tray planting”. As most gardening, growing bonsai is a truly artistic endeavor, there must be a similarity, or striking appropriateness of the pot in which you plant your bonsai. The tree must compliment the pot as the pot compliments the tree. Of course, as I mentioned before, the tree is then shaped. In fact, the tree, if not shaped by the gardener, will not live long and will grow, surprisingly enough, looking unlike a tree. Each branch and limb of a bonsai tree is shaped or clipped and molded into the perfect design.

Bonsai is the fine art of dwarfing trees and other kinds of plants to create a picturesque shape, when trained using the proper growing methods.

A successfully well-designed and well-maintained bonsai is a delicacy among the gardening arts. It is an ancient horticultural phenomenon and a perfect gift for any dedicated gardener you may know. And the bonsai make a lovely addition to any home, garden, patio, yard, office etc. It will be an impressive part of the overall look of your décor, as well as a unique touch that is certain to draw the eye and be the center of attention.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on gardening ideas please visit Garden Decor, or Garden Answers, or Garden Gifts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Clarke

4 Top Tips For Stunning Bonsai

2007-12-06T00:19:00.004-08:00

4 Top Tips For Stunning Bonsai
By Niall Mehaffey

Many people think that growing bonsai is very hard but in actual fact, it is only hard if you do not have the correct knowledge and guidance, when you have those things, it is easy.

Here are five tips to help you grow better looking bonsai:

1) Choose the right pot. The pot you put your bonsai tree into is important as it needs to support the tree and also it can make a difference to how it looks. Take into consideration the size and shape of your tree when choosing a pot for it.

2) Remember that different seasons have different affects. Different times of the year will play a role in how your bonsai trees develop and grow, make sure you know what conditions require additional care.

3) Know in advance what outcome you would like for your trees. Bonsai can be shaped and manipulated in order to appear differently and take on different shapes, you should know what way you would like your trees to look before growing them too large.

4) The display is everything. When you take the time and effort to grow a bonsai tree, you get a nice sense of satisfaction, however, that can be ruined be not giving your tree perfect placement in order to let it's beauty shine through.

There you are, four top tips to help you grow stunning bonsai trees. Growing bonsai is not as hard as you may think, if you have the right information, you can grow them juts as easily as anyone else.

Start growing your own bonsai today!

Niall Mehaffey is a bonsai enthusiast and runs a website that will show you exactly how you can grow stunningly beautiful bonsai trees, just like the experts do, click here - bonsai tree care

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Niall_Mehaffey

Spider Mites And Your Bonsai Tree

2007-12-06T00:19:00.003-08:00

Spider Mites And Your Bonsai Tree
By David Mello

If you notice a fine webbing between your bonsai plant leaves you may have spider mites. Outdoor bonsai such as Juniper are more susceptible to this than indoor bonsai. Spider mites can be seen with the naked eye. Inspect the web to see if you see movement. They will look like very tiny spiders or micro spiders as I like to call them.

Why they are bad for your bonsai

Spider mites feed off of your bonsai using their tiny mouth parts to suck out the plant cell contents. You may notice white or yellow areas in your foliage as a result. Leaves may fall off as a result of the damage. Your bonsai may lose its color, have its growth stunted, or die as a result of the damage if there are a significant amount of mites.

Life Cycle

Spider mites hatch from eggs laid on the bonsai. They generally hatch into larva within the first 3-7 days after being deposited onto your bonsai.

Prevention

Carefully inspect any new bonsai purchases for mites by looking at the tops and bottoms of their leaves. They are about the size of a period on a typewriter and can be introduced from contaminated soil as well.

Treatment

Predators

If you would like to control the situation naturally, introducing predator insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites are your best solution.

Pesticides

If you go the pesticide route, make sure you get a miticide. Insecticides that aren't specifically miticides don't work very well on spider mites.

Conclusion

Spider mites can be detrimental to your bonsai, but if caught early the damage will be minimal.

Written by David Mello for http://www.mellobonsai.com - Premium bonsai trees, supplies, and care information Alternative to chemical pesticides
For a more natural method you can try this http://www.mellobonsai.com/care/Miticide.aspx that uses household items.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Mello

Bonsai - What And What Not To Do

2007-12-06T00:19:00.001-08:00

Bonsai - What And What Not To Do
By Patrick Desnoyers

Bonsai plants are all tree. By definition, a bonsai tree is a tree in a pot if we literally translate the word bonsai from Japanese to English. A few elements are essential to a great bonsai tree and here is a list of the elements I consider the most important.

* - A well developed, rounded crown with delicate branches

* - Trunk must have a gradual taper, an interesting shape and a smooth bark without any marks or scars

* - Excellent branching structure with detailed ramification (short internodes.)

* - Healthy and vigorous green foliage or needles

* - Branches need to start at roughly one-third of the trunk eight

* - Strong buttress and realistic surface roots to make the tree seem solid and stable

* - Natural appearance of the soil with moss or fine rock

* - Pot must complement the trunk color and be a suitable size and shape

However, some characteristics are considered a fault to bonsai appearance that must be avoided at all cost since they are pretty hard to correct, and aesthetically they are breaking the balanced look of a great bonsai tree. Here they are:

* - Inverse taper of the trunk big on top to small on bottom

* - One sided or inexistent surface roots

* - Branches that are too thick or thicker then the trunk

* - Totally symmetric branches on both side of the trunk

* - Cluster of branches creating a swelling

As noted, these are pretty hard to correct and leaves an impression of imperfection and unbalance from the exposed bonsai tree.Without being the absolute truth about bonsai, with these pointers in mind, you should be able to increase the bonsai look a-of your tree in a pot.

Avid full time hobby bonsai grower. As been practicing bonsai and gardening for more then 8 years. Owner of http://www.mishobonsai.com, a website with ressource for Bonsai seeds and bonsai tree care.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Desnoyers

Indoor Bonsai Care

2007-12-06T00:18:00.002-08:00

Indoor Bonsai Care
By Sam G Jackson

Indoor bonsai care is one of the most difficult things to ever face the normal gardener. Virtually every bonsai grower has horror stories to tell of their prized bonsai trees dying all of a sudden, even when it seemed like the tree was being cared for properly. Today I will briefly outline the main steps that need to be taken for successful indoor bonsai care so you can avoid having your bonsai trees die!

1. Watering

Watering is the most important step in indoor bonsai care. Most of the time, bonsai trees die because they are not watered properly and start to suffer from dehydration. To ensure that you are watering your bonsai tree correctly, wait for the soil to begin dry out then water until excess water comes out of the bottom of the pot. Leave the bonsai until the soil begins to dry out again, then water again. Remember that over watering your bonsai is just as bad as allowing it to dehydrate. To help prevent dehydration try to place your bonsai tree in a reasonably humid environment.

2. Pruning

The process of pruning a bonsai tree is done two different ways. There is "branch pruning" and "root pruning". Branch pruning should occur near the start of spring and you should select which branches you want to keep and then remove all others. Root pruning should occur once the bonsai's roots have become bound in the container.

3. Soil and fertilizer

Seeing as up to half of a bonsai tree is covered in soil it makes sense to pick the right soil to give optimum growth. Bonsai trees should be given a water soluble fertilizer either once or twice a month during the growing season and you should remember that bonsai trees need to have their fertilizer applied when the soil is wet.

4. To sum up

In this brief article I have covered the three most basic aspects of indoor bonsai care and growing good bonsai trees. There are more advanced techniques for growing bonsai trees out there, however, it is important to start with the basics first! Only once you have mastered these and can successfully grow a great looking bonsai tree should you start practicing more advanced techniques!

Samuel G. Jackson is an avid bonsai grower and has a passion for indoor bonsai care. You can find out more about growing great bonsai trees that will impress your friends and family at http://www.squidoo.com/indoor-bonsai-care

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_G_Jackson

Bonsai Tree Care - Mixing Your Own Soil

2007-12-06T00:18:00.001-08:00

Bonsai Tree Care - Mixing Your Own Soil
By Jennifer Gormly

Bonsai tree care is an art. It takes a great deal of dedication and patience, but also some know how. One of the most important elements in looking after your bonsai is using the correct soil. Many beginners will purchase ready-made soil mixtures but as you advance, you may decide you would like to start mixing your own.

When mixing your own soil, you must make sure you create the right mix of ingredients. Your bonsai needs the right balance to ensure it gets all the nutrients it requires to thrive.

The species of bonsai you have will determine the ingredients you need to include in your soil mixture. The quality of the soil is vital to the tree’s health and survival. The soil needs to have good water retention in order to retain moisture between watering. It must also have good drainage so that excess water can run out immediately and to prevent the build up of salt.

Good aeration is also important as the roots of your bonsai tree will need access to oxygen. Well-aerated particle-based soils have tiny air pockets between the soil particles that provide the roots with oxygen and allow fresh air to continually enter the soil.

The ideal soil combination is specific to your bonsai and must be learned overtime by trial and error. Talk to someone at your local nursery with knowledge of your type of bonsai for a good starting point. You can then tweak your formula as your bonsai grows and your understanding of its species and bonsai tree care practices increases.

Jennifer Gormly loves to share her interest in and experiences of looking after bonsai with others. Visit her Bonsai Tree Care Blog for lots of great information and tips on bonsai tree care.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Gormly

The Juniper Bonsai Illusion

2007-12-06T00:17:00.003-08:00

The Juniper Bonsai Illusion
By Patrick Desnoyers

I think the biggest misconception I have faced while trying to explain what bonsai are, is breaking the idea that a bonsai is what people have seen in Karate Kid.

People in my entourage are now informed about what bonsai are. But, when I meet new people and talk about my interest in bonsai, I am always asked if I got those juniper as bonsai, just like the one's in Karate kid. I say that I have one, along the fifty others. I always get the same comment: "they are no bonsai, but trees"

Don't get me wrong, Karate kid was a great push for the bonsai community in America. It help put bonsai into a mainstream market, but also created some misconceptions. Bonsai are not only juniper as seen in Karate Kid. In fact, literally translated from Japanese to English, bonsai means a tree in a pot. So, may we conclude that every tree in a pot is a bonsai, and not just juniper? Aside from the purist bonsaiist who would call a tree in a pot a mere "stick in a pot" since it lacks the strict art guideline of bonsai, I like to say that every tree in a pot is a bonsai.

The bonsai's seen in the Karate kid's movies are named "Juniperus procumbens nana" scientifically. They are dwarf garden juniper. They are sold in almost every garden store in America. In their bonsai form, even Kmart and Walmart sell some bonsai in a bag/box. Other then being mistreated and in poor health, these tree don't have much offer.

Bonsai, as previously said, can be made up with any type of tree. Of course, some species are more popular, because they are easier to dwarf, more tolerant to training techniques and provide a better display of colors and form.

The best question to ask yourself when choosing a species to grow, it is not what species you would prefer, but what species can you grow in your area. Trees are susceptible to climate and temperature. Heat and cold, not all trees support either cold or heat.

Avid full time hobby bonsai grower. As been practicing bonsai for more then 10 years. Owner of http://www.mishobonsai.com, a website with ressource for Bonsai seeds such as juniperus bonsai.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Desnoyers

The Art of Bonsai Trees

2007-12-06T00:17:00.001-08:00

The Art of Bonsai Trees
By Kevin J. Riley

The art of bonsai trees is an ancient and intriguing skill of training and growing trees into unique and beautiful miniature versions of the full size plants. The word bonsai comes from the Japanese words meaning “tray landscape”, but the art itself originated in China.

The Chinese were the first to master the art of bonsai trees as a way of growing small versions of medicinal plants that could be easily transported for epidemics and into battle. The Japanese adopted the art in the 8th century after Buddhist monks brought them to the country. The art of bonsai trees was practiced almost exclusively by the upper class for many years before developing into what it is today. The art of bonsai trees is now practiced around the world by millions of people from all walks of life.

Bonsai are traditionally thought of as trees; however bonsai may include plants, mosses, and even rocks known as “suiseki”. Just about any plant or tree can be trained to become a bonsai. Plants and trees with smaller leaves, flowers, and fruit make the best choices as their proportions are more aesthetically appealing because of their scale.

Some of the most popular choices for bonsai trees are the Chinese elm, Japanese juniper, and azaleas. There are two categories of bonsai trees to consider. The evergreens include the pines and hemlocks which keep their foliage year-round. The other type of bonsai trees is the deciduous trees like the elms and maples which lose their foliage in the fall.

Other bonsai trees are chosen for their flowers and fruits. They are grown to highlight their blossoms and fruits. These types of bonsai trees include the cherry blossom, crabapple, azalea, and the apricot.

Many people consider the art of bonsai trees to be ancient and mysterious. Like any art, these techniques can be learned and mastered by anyone who takes the time to learn and practice this art. The most special and personalized gift a person can give or receive is the gift of a bonsai tree as a piece of art.

Kevin J. Riley has studied and observed the art of bonsai for 20 years with his father James J. Riley. He is the host of the website http://www.theartofbonsaitrees.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_J._Riley

Bonsai - What Does It Mean, Anyway?

2007-12-06T00:16:00.004-08:00

Bonsai - What Does It Mean, Anyway?
By Connitta Bowers

Say the word, "Bonsai" to people and they will usually think of a type of tree.

Bonsai is a Japanese word meaning "tray-planted," and can refer to either the dwarf trees or to the art of training and growing the miniaturized trees in containers.

The most important Bonsai skills include the knowledge of when and how much to cut the roots, how much fertilizer and water is ideal, and which branches should be pruned to give the plant a pleasing look. Bonsai trees are able to bear fruit and to drop their leaves in season, thereby producing nature in miniature.

The idea of a bonsai is to balance the pot with the plant and make the plant look like a miniature tree. Selecting the right pot has a lot to do with the desired size and style of the plant. The pot must be large enough to allow enough soil to cover the roots of the plant. You will kill the plant if you do not have a large enough pot.

While there are many excellent tree species for bonsai, the Chinese Elm is one of the most popular. A skillful bonsai artist can prune, bend, and shape branches to suggest trees standing tall and upright in a field or bent and gnarled by age or weather.

Bonsai trees have long been popular additions to offices and homes because of their small size, aesthetic appeal, and minimal upkeep requirements. Growing bonsai is a great hobby. With a little patience and care, the results you achieve can last many years.

Connitta Bowers has been interested in Bonsai trees for many years and has spent considerable time researching their care. For more information about these beautiful and creative trees please visit us at: http://www.bon-sai.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Connitta_Bowers

Bonsai Trees

2007-12-06T00:16:00.003-08:00

Bonsai Trees
By Elizabeth Morgan

Bonsai is a Japanese technique of growing miniature trees in containers. These plants are primarily used for aesthetic purposes. Many people take up bonsai cultivation as an interesting hobby. Bonsai trees have always been popular as they make great showpieces and rare gift items. Bonsai trees are very small and the height can vary anywhere between 2 inches to 3 feet. These trees are grown in decorative containers and the size is maintained by pruning roots and branches regularly. The shape of the bonsai trees can be modified by wiring the branches and trunk of the tree. Generally, bonsai trees can live for many years if they are maintained well. Some of the most common bonsai trees include bamboo, plum, camellia, pine, and azalea. The evolution of modern techniques have led to five major styles of bonsai trees, which are cascade, semi-cascade, slanting, informal upright and formal upright.

To maintain bonsai, a good set of tools such as pliers, root trimmers, shears, and branch cutters are required. Beginners can grow bonsai with the guidance of a skilled professional who can teach them the art of training and pruning a bonsai. Beginners can initially start with a small plant of a common variety such as hibiscus, azalea, camellia, boxwood, gardenia, or cotoneaster. The plant can be trimmed using bypass pruners. The roots are to be trimmed to reduce the size. Bonsai trees require appropriate fertilizers to grow well and look healthy. However, over watering the bonsai tree must be avoided.

Braided bonsai money plant tree is highly popular among bonsai growers. Each tree is a group of four to five trees whose trunks are braided together. It can be 10 to 18 inches in height. According to Feng shui practitioners, the braided bonsai money plant is believed to bring good fortune and is often given to others as a gift. It makes a great indoor plant as it can thrive well in low light.

Bonsai trees can bear flowers, fruits, and seeds like any other tree. Little care can go a long way in growing beautiful bonsai trees.

Trees provides detailed information on Trees, Palm Trees, Christmas Trees, Tree Houses and more. Trees is affiliated with Silk Palm Trees.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_Morgan

Mini Bonsai – How They Differ from Regular Bonsai

2007-12-06T00:16:00.001-08:00

Mini Bonsai – How They Differ from Regular Bonsai
By April Kerr

In ancient Japan, the art of bonsai sculpting emerged. Normally we think the bonsai trees are small by their nature, however this is not the case. The bonsai tree artist has to prune and train these ordinary trees and plants to achieve the desired effect. The mini bonsai takes this concept even further and is so small could fit in your pocket.

It may be a surprise to know that to create a miniature bonsai you do not need to use a traditional bonsai plant. If you do your research you will find there are lots of other species that are suitable

Caring for your Mini Bonsai

Looking after your mini bonsai needn’t be more difficult to look after than a regular bonsai. Keep caring for the mini bonsai in the same way as a regular bonsai. For instance, don’t treat your mini deciduous bonsai any differently from your regular deciduous bonsai. Keep the same watering habits and use the exact same soil.

The only real difference between caring for your mini bonsai is you require a much smaller pot. This does not mean you should neglect your repotting duties however. Remember that if you are repotting you should avoid doing this within a month either side of pruning. Your don’t want to cause your bonsai any shock.

Make sure you have read up on how much sun your bonsai variety needs. If they are given too much or too little sun this could cause them to become unhealthy or even die. Make sure that the soil does not dry out during the hotter months by giving them more shade.

If you enjoy growing and looking after bonsai trees, it is suggested that you read up as much as you can on the subject. Joining a club is a great way to share tips and make friends. If you there are no bonsai clubs in your area, why not start one?

If you already are experienced in caring for bonsai plants, looking after a mini bonsai could give you that extra little challenge. Make sure you look after your mini bonsai as it will help you develop your pruning skills further than you can with a regular sized bonsai.

http://www.bonsaitreecare.org provides care hints and tips to people who want to learn more about the art of the bonsai tree.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=April_Kerr

Watering Care Tips For Bonsai Growing

2007-12-06T00:15:00.003-08:00

Watering Care Tips For Bonsai Growing
By Patrick Desnoyers

The most important aspect of a successful Bonsai gardening is the proper watering care given to Bonsai plants. Proper water supply and watering schedule could spell the Bonsai's continued life or caused their death. The lack of ample supply of water would cause the Bonsai plants to lose energy or dispose waste properly. Just like a human being, Bonsai plants need water to survive. Too much water will drown the Bonsai and too less water will cause the Bonsai to dehydrate. Bonsai artists should learn the proper steps and facts about watering Bonsai plants in order to become successful Bonsai artists or gardeners.

When providing water to Bonsai plants, there are two major things to consider. One is the amount of water to give to Bonsai plants. And the other is when to water the plants. When determining the amount of water to give the Bonsai plants, bonsai artists especially those who are new to the art of Bonsai gardening must not give too much or too less water. To know the amount of water to give the Bonsai plants, the Bonsai artists must know several factors about the Bonsai plants. These are size and specie of the Bonsai, size and shape of the pot, the soil mixture used and the weather conditions where the Bonsai plant is to be grown.

Smaller Bonsai waters need less water than bigger Bonsai. For Bonsais that are planted on smaller pot, less water should be supplied as compared to a Bonsai planted in a given pot since the water supplied is sipped in by more soil mixtures. Thus, the soil mixture dries up quickly.

The other factor to consider when caring for Bonsai plants is the watering schedule. The best time to water Bonsai plants is in the morning where the weather is colder. And the frequency of watering Bonsai plants depends on the season. During winter, Bonsai plants should be watered periodically to prevent the soil from drying up. During spring, summer or fall, Bonsais should be watered daily. During rainy season, the Bonsai artists must make sure that Bonsai plants, especially located outdoors gets ample supply of water from the rain.

Additionally, for better supply of water, watering containers should also be considered. As a general rule, use watering sprinkles which have holes that when the water passes through can create droplets that is similar to soft rain showers. Too much or too strong droplets will damage the soil mixture where the Bonsai is planted. And lastly, when watering the Bonsai make sure the water is completely drained to avoid over flooding the soil mixture. There are various water sprinkles available in the market that have built in holes that are specifically meant for watering Bonsai.

Avid full time hobby bonsai grower. As been practicing bonsai and gardening for more then 8 years. Owner of http://www.mishobonsai.com, a website with resources for Bonsai seeds and tree seeds.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Desnoyers

Silk Bonsai Trees

2007-12-06T00:15:00.001-08:00

Silk Bonsai Trees
By Kent Pinkerton

A silk bonsai tree is an effective alternative to a live bonsai tree. Silk bonsai trees are artificial, hand-made artifacts that are made to fit the highest standards. Since they need no wiring, pruning, or other maintenance, silk bonsai trees have now become a popular option to adorn the indoors and outdoors of homes, office settings, restaurants, and other commercial places.

Noted for their versatility and durability, silk bonsai trees are complete with silk screened foliages and trunks made of natural birch, maple, or vine wood. Chinese silk and synthetic materials such as polyester are the raw materials most commonly used for making silk bonsai trees. Materials such as Luna clay, fiberglass, and steel are also used in the creation of the trunks of silk bonsai trees. Silk bonsai trees are generally potted into containers made of terracotta, clay, or plastic, to provide a high quality, realistic look. Sometimes, silk bonsai trees come with attractive display tables, apart from containers. To avoid fabric dye fading, it is best to keep silk bonsai trees in areas with medium light.

Silk bonsai trees are available in every possible styles, shapes, and tree species such as pines, palms, maples, plums, elms, and golden ficus. Silk bonsai trees set over beautiful granite stone are perfect additions to your home decor. If one wants to decorate interiors or outdoors with flowering type bonsai trees, then silk bonsai trees graced with artificial cherry or azalea can be used. To give a gorgeous look to your bookcase, mantelpiece, entertainment center or sideboard, silk bonsai pine trees finely crafted from preserved tree trunks are an ideal option. Likewise, bonsai ficus silk tree plants designed in the bonsai tradition make an excellent gift for special occasions. Wonderfully crafted Chinese elm silk bonsai trees, crabapple silk bonsai trees, and Japanese red maple trees are also popular.

Quality, size, realistic appearance, and naturalness of various parts determine the price of silk bonsai trees. You can buy silk trees from any of the local outlets as well as from online shops.

Silk Trees provides detailed information on silk trees, silk palm trees, silk mimosa trees, silk ficus trees and more. Silk Trees is affiliated with Silk Floor Plants.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton

The Art of Japanese Bonsai

2007-12-06T00:14:00.001-08:00

The Art of Japanese Bonsai
By Fran Black

The Japanese refined and developed Bonsai techniques and evolved the art form it is today. For the Japanese, bonsai represents a fusion of strong ancient beliefs with the Eastern philosophies of the harmony between man, the soul and nature. The major aspects of Japanese bonsai, has not changed significantly over time.

Bonsai initially originated in Egypt thousands of years ago and moved to China. From China bonsai moved to Japan. Where the Japanese perfected the art of bonsai.

Japanese use azaleas to create magnificent bonsai following years of pruning, wiring and careful attention. The Japanese art of bonsai, and its precursor, the Chinese art of penjing, are rooted in the traditions of Asian culture.

The art of raising bonsai dwarfed potted trees has enabled the Japanese to admire nature in an indoor setting. The art of bonsai, as developed in America, is much freer in concept and style than Japanese bonsai.

The quality of a bonsai tree is measured on how well it portrays nature in miniature form. A bonsai should have a well tapered trunk and have branches all around the tree to give the bonsai visual depth. The art of bonsai involves the bringing together of tree and pot in visual harmony. "Bonsai" simply means "potted tree." But many of the really fine specimens have been pruned for more than 100 years.

Requiring many years of devoted attention and care to produce, the bonsai extends beauty and expresses the significance of life. The care involved in creating and shaping a bonsai is considered a form of meditation in and of itself.

Over time, bonsai began to take on different styles, each which varied immensely from one another. Today, hardy as well as tropical indoor bonsai are trained in classic styles, including windswept, slanted trunk, rock clinging, and forest.

Bonsai are highly regarded as a symbol of Japanese culture and ideals. Contrary to popular belief, bonsai are not tortured trees. A bonsai may have areas of dead wood to give an impression of age. There are several techniques available to the bonsai grower to increase the apparent age.

No longer exclusively an oriental art form, today bonsai is practiced by thousands of people around the world, on every continent. The art of bonsai is the art of imitating the spirit of nature. A bonsai industry of considerable size exists in certain sections of Japan.

Francesca Black works in marketing at Bonsai Garden http://www.bonsai-garden.com and Pilates Shop http://www.pilates-shop.net leading portals for bonsai gardening and natural exercise.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Fran_Black

3 Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree

2007-12-05T23:59:00.000-08:00

3 Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree
By Daniel Delott

Bonsai trees are a lot of fun, but if you don’t know anything on taking care of Bonsai trees, then you’re going to have a hard time growing them. So here are a few tips on taking care and growing Bonsai trees.

Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree #1:

Shaping. This is a big part of getting your dream Bonsai tree to look how you had thought it would. So if you get some metal wire, you will be able to grow your Bonsai tree in the direction you want much quicker than other methods.

Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree #2:

Wires. Aluminum works best because it is gentle and soft on branches. The wire will need to be thick, since thin wire has a tendency to scratch the tree’s bark. When you need to, you can use copper wire. (Since it is stronger than aluminum.)

Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree #3:

When wiring the Bonsai tree, start with the thicker branches, then work out towards the thinner ones.

There are just a few tips on taking care of Bonsai trees, there are many aspects to growing and maintaining them, but a lot of this comes from experience.

Dan has been growing Bonsai trees for over 15 years. He was a botany major. If you want to grow Bonsai trees, and don't know how, this may be the most important guide you read - Bonsai Training Manual

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_Delott

Gardening Safety

2007-11-25T05:38:00.003-08:00

Gardening Safety
By Jason Albright

When you learn the art of gardening, there are few safety considerations that you need to address. No matter what type of gardening project you are undertaking, be it a bloom of flowers, a bounty of vegetables or an entire backyard landscape, you will encounter many common safety issues.

One of the most common risks in gardening is exposing yourself to pollen, and activating pollen allergies. Most people suffer from some type of allergy, and when pollen is in the air and plants and flowers are blooming, it can be hard to spend any length of time gardening. If you know for a fact that you have pollen allergies, you need to consider them when you start gardening. People with particularly severe pollen allergies should probably avoid gardening all together.

Another allergy, although not as common, is an allergy to bee stings. Many people are so allergic to bee stings that they require medication to relieve the swelling and allergic reaction. If you are gardening during the late summer and early autumn, bees are especially prevalent outdoors. If you are gardening during this time, and are allergic to bees, limit your gardening time and take necessary precautions.

Sunburn is a very common risk while gardening. To protect yourself from sun damage, wear lightweight long sleeved shirts and long pants, if weather permits. Wearing long sleeved clothes will also prevent mosquito bites. Make sure to apply sunscreen on all areas that will be exposed during your gardening time. Don’t forget to cover the back of your neck and ears.

To avoid the heat when you are gardening, try to get most of your tasks done in the early morning. Keep in mind that the hottest part of the day is between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, so plan your gardening activity accordingly. Although it may not seem like it, gardening is a terrific form of exercise. Knowing this, you should always include a bottle of water nearby while you are gardening so you can remain hydrated.

© Cookgroup Marketing LLC – All Rights Reserved. This article brought to you by http://Grow-Your-Garden.com/gardeningtips. You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice, author name, and URL remain intact.

Jason Albright is a contributing editor at Cookgroup Marketing LLC. His background is with lifestyle topics including: Gardening, Outdoor Living, Home Decor, Travel Destinations and Food and Wine.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Albright

National Home Gardening Club

2007-11-25T05:38:00.001-08:00

National Home Gardening Club
By Bill McRea

Do you want to know more about Garden Clubs? Let's see if we can fill in some of the gaps with the latest info from Gardening Club experts.

What's in Store for National Home Gardening Club Members?

The National Home Gardening Club offer many benefits to its members.

It is said to be the largest home gardening organization with paid membership. For a nominal fee, various benefits are available.

If you choose to become a member the National Home Gardening club, you will be entitled to the following perks.

1. Members can enter competitions to win free gardening products such as gardening accessories, tools, and other gardening supplies.

2. A coupon will be given to members to claim a free gardening shears.

3. Members can also access a free trial subscription of the Gardening How-To Magazine.

4. They may be eligible to test and keep gardening tools such as pruning shears. These are some of the products tested by members in the past two issues of the Gardening How-To magazine:

- Honda Harmony Lawn Mower
- Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer
- Sunflower Garden
- Cobra Head Precision Weeder and Cultivator
- Preen 'n Green

See how much you can learn about Gardening Club when you take a little time to read a well-researched article? Don't miss out on the rest of this great information.

5. Members can enjoy a free directory of public gardens, which contains information about lush gardens, arboretums, and conservatories throughout the US.

6. They can interact and talk about tips, ideas and methods with other members.

7. Members can obtain gardening and landscaping tips and plans for the completion of various gardening projects.

8. They have access to the members-only gardening website.

9. Members can also preview gardening books, gardening videos, etc.

Indeed, the for-members-only benefits are that grandiose. They are all for the gardening enthusiasts to grab.

After the 30-day trial, you can continue your membership for only $1 per month.

Many garden-lovers think this is a small price to pay for all these privileges.

That's the latest from the Gardening Club authorities. Once you're familiar with these ideas, you'll be ready to move to the next level.

Bill McRea is the publisher of Garden Facts also Garden Decor and Landscape Trees Landscaping and Gardening with information and products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_McRea

Home Depot Gardening

2007-11-25T05:37:00.004-08:00

Home Depot Gardening
By Ricky Lim

The home depot gardening section offers a wide variety of gardening products that will meet the needs of any home gardening enthusiast. Home depot carries a wide inventory of gardening equipment such as mowers, clippers, cultivators and tillers.

There are also a wide range of home depot gardening supplies such as seeds, pest control products and fertilizers available. For the landscape gardening enthusiasts, there are many landscape gardening tools available as well such as water equipment, greenhouses and garden decorations.

Home depot gardening also provides home gardening tips to help you maximize the gardening products that you purchased at home depot.

For example, one home gardening tip recommended by home depot is not to plant on a warm, sunny day. Instead plant it on a dark, overcast day when it is expected to rain. The reason being a new plant needs plenty of showers when it is young.

You also will want to choose your new plants carefully. Choose only short and sturdy plants with only a few flowers. Look at the leaves of the plant to determine it’s condition. If it is discolored and wilted, then don’t buy it.

The flower bed is also equally important. Try to put at least one inch of compost or organic matter on the flower bed once a year. You should also loosen the soil to about 12 inches depth for annuals and about 18 inches depth for perennial plants. Try to use a ground rake to loosen and smoothen the soil.

There are also home depot gardening tips as well such as how to start a new lawn, more tips on planting trees etc. Why not drop by home depot the next time and explore.

Ricky Lim is the online editor of a home gardening site. Visit his website today for more info on national home gardening club as well as home remedies from the garden.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ricky_Lim

Hydroponic Gardening Systems

2007-11-25T05:37:00.003-08:00

Hydroponic Gardening Systems
By Eric Hartwell

What is an indoor hydroponic gardening system? Indoor hydroponic gardening systems are methods by which plants can be groomed without the need for soil. Instead of using soil, indoor hydroponic gardening systems use nutrient solutions instead. This nutrient system is fed to the plants directly and avoids the need for other plants to compete with the scarce nutrients in soil.

Hydroponic gardening systems can be a great way to grow plants. They take up relatively little space and can be used in a clean environmentally friendly way. With most hydroponic gardening systems, your plants will grow quicker and be more healthy. They take the nutrients directly from the solution. Moreover, hydroponic gardening systems can be used throughout the whole year; there is no seasonal variation. You can use your gardening system almost anywhere in the house; there is little restriction. It will not cause much dirt or mess and it is quite environmentally friendly. The way hydroponic gardening systems work mean that the plants are able to get a hold of their nutrients directly without relying on the growth of other plants nearby. You can even use hydroponic gardening systems in areas where there is very little useful soil.

In fact, hydroponic gardening systems can make you the envy of your neighbor. In door hydroponic gardening systems require very little work or input. They are usually relatively clean and most indoor hydroponic gardening systems can be used with very little light and in small places such as cupboards and other small areas. I would certainly recommend indoor hydroponic gardening systems for those who do not wish to get hot, sticky, dirty, and wet outside and you wish to avoid the manual labor associated with normal gardening.

Visit us or share your opinions at the worlds best homepage or free content resource. Do you want to quit smoking? Visit Smokefree England for further information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Hartwell

Gardening With Containers

2007-11-25T05:37:00.001-08:00

Gardening With Containers
By Gina Reay

Gardening is the practice of growing flowering plants, vegetables, and fruits. Gardening is an excellent means of diverting the mind from work, family conflicts, or other issues, hence relieving stress and providing mental relaxation. Gardening is a relaxing activity, great for unwinding after a difficult day at work, especially when gardening on a small, personal scale. Gardening is fun, even sounds fun doesn't it. Gardening is good for the soul too.

Gardening

Gardening is as good for you or better than traditional exercises. Gardening is now a multi-billion-dollar industry, and what the industry creates and sells is products, ninety percent of which you don't need. Gardening is more difficult than surfing and scuba diving, and ranks about even with fly-fishing. Gardening involves a number of different kinds of exercises, including stretching, weightlifting, and a moderate cardiovascular workout. Gardening therapy, as vocational horticulture curriculum, can be a tool to improve social bonding in addition to developing improved attitudes about personal success and a new awareness of personal job preparedness.

Container

Container gardening is usually used in atriums and on balconies, patios, and roof tops. Container gardening is a great way to garden, no matter how much space you have. Containers that are used for container gardening can be anything from gallon milk jugs with the tops cut off to terracotta pots, plastic window boxes to half barrels. Containers can be custom-made for an individual, giving everyone an opportunity to exercise their green thumb.

Gardening is a great way to get kids outside, active, and interested in the natural world, no matter whether your garden is a few deck planters or a backyard or community plot. In respect to its food producing purpose, gardening is distinguished from farming chiefly by scale and intent. One of the most attractive features of container gardening is the versatility. The key to container gardening is in knowing the characteristics of the container.

Gina has been writing articles for some time now. She writes on many different topics. Be sure to View her most current articles:
Container Gardening
The Importance of Good Nutrition At Any Age

http://www.gardening-infosheet.com/gardening

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gina_Reay

Lawn Care - It's All About That Green Green Grass

2007-11-19T22:52:00.001-08:00

Lawn Care - It's All About That Green Green Grass
By Martin Haworth

Lawn watering is something that is very basic when it comes to lawn care. If you are not watering the grass on a consistent basis then you might be wasting any other efforts you have been making.

Do you want this to happen to you? If you want to keep your lawn healthy then you have to keep watering it. Even though many types of grass are very hardy, there is no way where it can survive and look good without water.

Water Your Lawn With Care

Yet, when it comes to lawn watering, you should not also over-water your lawn. There is such a thing called drowning. You can also drown the grass shoots in your lawn if you water it too much. You should only water lawn with the right amount of water or else you are going to end up with a dead lawn.

If you think that lawn watering is simple then you may be right and you may be wrong. There are several factors to consider when you are lawn watering. First, you have to make sure that you have a good watering system in the first place.

You have to buy one of those very effective sprinklers and make sure that it works properly. If you want your lawn watering to be hassle free then you have to make sure that you get the right equipment for the job.

What Sort Of Grass Is It Anyway?

You have to understand the type of grass that makes up your lawn. You see, whilst all grasses need a certain amount of water and sunlight everyday some need additional help to look good. They may also need lawn fertilizer as part of the lawn care you give.

Understanding the type of grass that you have will determine the way you should be creating a lawn watering plan of action, incorporating the lawn treatments that are recommended for it. If you understand your grass and act accordingly, then lawn care should not be a problem at all.

Common Problems With Getting Lawn Watering Just Right

Why do a lot of people out there have a hard time with their lawn watering activities? First of all, people are so busy with their lives nowadays. In order to make ends meet, you might even have had to take on two jobs. Which, of course, means that you might have had to neglect time at home.

If you are having a hard time lawn watering then maybe you should hire a gardener to do your lawn care for you. Outsourcing is a very important aspect of daily life and it is one of the more important business models in the world today.

For example, if you had to take off three hours a week to care for your lawn, might it even be less expensive to hire someone to do it for you. It's all a calculation you might take into account.

Time To Get Outside Help With Your Lawn

If you want to have a healthy lawn then you might have to outsource the lawn watering to a gardener (or even a student, who could do the job just as well and be much less expensive). If you are having a hard time keeping your grass green then you could consider this option.

Outsourcing your lawn watering may be the best option that you are going to consider in today's times.

Whatever you decide, getting all of your lawn care activities sorted out will provide you with much pleasure as you sit and admire with a cooling drink in the evening. Lawn watering is a no-brainer activity that you can get sorted out right away!

(c) 2007 Lawn Care Guidelines. All you need to know to make the right decisions to get a great looking lawn. There's all the information you could ask for, at Martin Haworth's website, http://www.LawnCareGuidelines.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martin_Haworth

Rose Gardening - Tips on How to Grow Roses in Your Garden

2007-11-19T22:51:00.002-08:00

Rose Gardening - Tips on How to Grow Roses in Your Garden
By Tracy Ballisager

The ancient Muslim poet, jurist, and theologian, Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, may not have stumbled madly upon the very first rose back in 13th century Persia but he certainly immortalized it poignantly in his writing.

Roses are believed to have originated in ancient Persia but their cultivation quickly spread across the Northern Hemisphere, first from China to Europe and finally to North America. Rose enthusiasts throughout time and geography have helped to spread the cultivation and the adoration of this lovely flowers to the point that, today, there are more than 20,000 varieties available.

They run the gamut of the color spectrum. They come in every color, including the elusive blue and black ones that have dogged rose breeders for ages. Every shade of every color is represented, too, with many rose blossoms sporting multiple colors or shades. These enchanting plants have been bred to grow straight and tall or trail over slopes and fences. Some roses grow close to the ground while others become bushy. Many rosebushes bloom once in the spring or summer, others bloom again in the fall, and others still bloom from early spring until winter.

Diversity aside, a few rose gardening tips might improve your rose-growing success.

Planting is the first step to consider when compiling a list of rose gardening tips. Folklore tells us to plant flowering plants when the moon is in a waxing phase. Indeed all plants that produce their most desirable growth above ground are said to be best planted during the time the moon is growing into its biggest, most visible, phase. (In turn, plant carrots, potatoes, and other plants where underground action is most desirable when the moon is waning, or becoming less visible.)

Trim your hair, visit your barber, or comb your dog the day before planting your roses. This, another of folklore rose gardening tips, ensures you have a bit of hair to mix in with the soil in which you plant your roses. Decomposing hair is said to provide excellent fertilizer for thriving roses.

Sunshine is one of the most important rose gardening tips. Make sure to plant your roses, always during their dormant phase, in a spot where they can get at lease six hours of full sun every day. These tips include trees, too. Keep your roses away from tree roots, especially deciduous trees, or they will divert the nutrients of the soil from your hungry roses

Tracy Ballisager is stays at home mum, with 7years of gardening experiences. To read more about gardening tips and idea go to http://www.gardening-tips-idea.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tracy_Ballisager

Top Ten Hand Forged Stainless Steel Garden Tools

2007-11-19T22:51:00.001-08:00

Top Ten Hand Forged Stainless Steel Garden Tools
By Eudora DeWynter

For the highest quality of garden tools, purchase hand forged stainless steel. Why? Because they are the most durable and they won't rust... One company here in the United States and many in the United Kingdom still make tools the old fashioned way, with a Blacksmith a forged fire and an anvil. Hand forging makes tools much more durable, lasting longer and of better quality. Here are my picks for the finest in my opinion of the best in hand forged garden stainless steel garden tools.

Red Pig: producer of hand forged garden implements for over fifteen years. Located in the state of Oregon in the United States it's the only blacksmith shop that specializes in hand forged garden tools for the home gardener, nurserymen, landscaper and farmer. All tools are made by hand on a forged fire and with a hammered anvil using the finest steel available. This company will also custom make tools in their blacksmith shop. Services also include repair, re - handling and sharpening of tools that are built stronger to last longer for a lifetime of service.

Corona: regarded by some as the cream of the crop, with its re - sharpen able forged steel alloy blades that are heat treated for strength giving them scissor cutting action with non- slip grips.

Radius: Ultra light and super strong, made with professional quality stainless steel the blades are heat tempered for strength and with an advanced ergonomic design they maximize power and minimize stress and strain on the wrist and hands.

Sneeboer Tools: Hand forged and crafted in Holland, they are the makers of a standard range of forged garden tools a will customized if needed. Blades are well made from the finest stainless steel and handles from the finest wood.

Rollins Bulldog: English makers of fine high quality garden tools for over 200 years that are hand forged fro strength.

Snow& Nealley: Makers of high quality garden tools since 1864. European designed and made of high quality carbon steel with Ash wood handles, the hand forging ensures durability.

Sheaths Gardening Tools: Made from hot rolled British Steel, each tool is lightweight and each blade has a unique cutting action, handles are made from German Beechwood and fitted to the blades with rivets and washers, providing excellent balance.

Rittenhouse: Over 85 years of providing high quality professional stainless steel tools and equipment.

Hortus Ornemeld: makers of fine hand made high quality garden tools and accessories, their antique designs give remembrance of by - gone eras.

Ryobi: exceptional tools and performance for the money

Eudora DeWynter offers her picks of the top ten hand forged stainless steel garden tools on her blog at www.gardentoolguru.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eudora_DeWynter

Fixing Bare Spots In Your Lawn

2007-11-19T22:50:00.002-08:00

Fixing Bare Spots In Your Lawn
By Jay L Lotz

Fall is the ideal time to repair any bare spots in your otherwise perfect lawn. Bare spots in your lawn may be caused by heavy foot traffic (compaction), drought, disease, chemical burn and weed or insect infestation.

Your grass holds soil in place to prevent more damage. When bare spots occur where grass is not growing, your lawn becomes susceptible to ruts which may increase in size. If grass is not growing in a particular area, weeds probably will, since they easily adapt conditions causing the bare spots.

The important thing in repairing a lawn is to match the new grass with what you already have in place so it's a nice blend. For example, you live in the north and you have a blend of Kentucky bluegrass and you've got a few dead spots that didn't green up this year, you'll want to plant more Kentucky bluegrass blend. Don't put in tall turf type fescue because you heard it's really great (it is). They are two different types of grass that shouldn't be mixed.

If the spot is really small, say a foot or less in diameter, you can either ignore it and allow it to fill in over time, or you can go ahead and fix it now. If the spot is larger than that, you'll want to repair it. Here's how:

Step One: remove the old dead areas with a shovel. Trim up the sides of the area being removed so they're straight. Fill in the area with new top soil, so the new is level with the old. Now plant your seed (follow label directions). In the south, put in matching sprigs or plugs. For seeds, you can cover with some straw, which is good for areas that might be damaged by a heavy rain. Otherwise, just a little peat moss on top will work just fine.

When planting the seeds, don't bury them in the ground. Use just enough top soil to barely cover the seeds (no more than ¼", with less being preferable). After covering, press down on the dry soil with the back of a hoe, or use your shoe and lightly tamp it down, but don't stomp on it.

Options: There are some products out there that combine a few steps and make it a little easier. Scotts PatchMaster contains just about everything you need: seed at a predetermined rate, fertilizer, and mulch to help keep the seeds properly moist. This works great if you happen to have the same grass type as the package. If not, then don't use it.

Another option is if you can find sod that matches your lawn, you can quickly repair the damaged areas. Follow all of the directions up to the point of planting seed, except for the added top soil. Only add enough topsoil so that with the sod, it matches your existing level. Sod takes about 2 weeks to get established. Keep it watered and don't let it dry out during those first 2 weeks.

Step Two: Apply a light application of fertilizer over the area (follow label directions) that is designated as a "starter fertilizer."

Step Three: Cover the patch with a thin layer of straw. This will help hold in moisture until the seeds germinate. Keep the soil evenly moist using a fine mist setting. Avoid strong directional spraying as this will dislodge the seeds and cause an uneven growth pattern. For seeds, only the top surface needs to stay moist, but it can't be allowed to dry out completely, particularly in the last half of the first 2 weeks after planting.

Once seeds germinate, continue to keep the soil evenly moist and increase the amount of water, but cut back on the number of times you water. In other words, keep the soil moist at a deeper level. You want it moist, but not wet.

Step Four: In a few weeks things will start to pop. If possible, don't walk on the areas, and don't mow the areas until the grass is about 2-3″ tall, about 3 weeks after the seeds first germinate. Then you can forget about it and just treat it like the rest of the area. Don't use any weed controls on the new grass for a couple of months until it gets really established and hardened off.

Jay Lotz is a blogger at http://www.drinkmowgrill.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay_L_Lotz

Jay L Lotz - EzineArticles Expert Author

How To Maintain A Compost Heap

2007-11-19T22:50:00.001-08:00

How To Maintain A Compost Heap
By Warren Peters

There's so much waste that is generated in gardens every day. You'll find leaves, dead plants, twigs and grass clippings. It takes too long and probably involves a lot to take it to a landfill so what do you do?

The simplest solution is to start a compost heap saving a lot of time and money, not only yours but others as well if you were thinking of paying the garbage disposal people and getting them to take it away. Especially when all this waste can be converted into excellent food for your plants.

Food that's better as far as your plants go than any fertilizer you can buy. The great thing is that every bit of all that stuff that you consider waste can be turned into nutritional and beneficial food. You get the best fertilizer going without having to buy it paying so much for it.

Unfortunately, compost usually means rotting heaps and awful odors to most peoples minds. This need not be the case if you mange your compost heap well. You need to maintain it so that it gives you great compost without smelling to high heaven.

What you need to make sure of is to see that the heap gets enough oxygen. For this, you will have to turn it over periodically. If you don't, you'll probably have the neighbors banging on your door or worse still, you could have the authorities coming to check what you're up to.

When you start off with your compost heap, try and make sure the area you allot for it is shallow and covering a larger area that a deep and smaller area. This is because there are more chances that the deeper it is, the less likely that the bottom portions will be turned out so that they get exposed to the air.

The best thing would be if you had some kind of a flat surface like the roof over your shed to spread it out on. This way, you get it spread over a large area.

Now, what goes into the compost heap? Any kind of organic waste from your kitchen or garden. So you could put in your vegetable peels, leftovers, leaves, grass, twigs and even newspaper ? but remember not too much of newspaper, just one-fifth of the total volume or it will take longer to compost. This is the easy part ? getting everything together. Now you need to get the compost going and that?s a little tricky till you get the hang of it.

Once you have piled up a whole lot of stuff in your compost pile or bin, you should wet it. It?s easier for the material to get moist if they have all been broken up or ripped up into small pieces. Soon, you'll find this moist mass beginning to meld together.

You need to prod it along by turning it over once in a while with a shovel and making sure it stays wet. You could also use one of those aeration tools you get and poke it into the mass, making holes in it. This is to get the oxygen into the pile as that makes for quicker decomposing.

Interested? Then start off by deciding where in your garden you would like your compost heap to be. It shouldn't be a source of intrusion or take away from the beauty of your garden in any way. Find a place where it is tucked out of sight and you are ready to begin.

Warren has put together a very informative site detailing the concise elements of worm farming for personal use and or your own business. Detailing benefits of home composting and many other aspects of worm composting.

More information: Worms Composting

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Warren_Peters

Grass Compost - Natures Secret For A Flourishing Garden

2007-11-19T22:49:00.004-08:00

Grass Compost - Natures Secret For A Flourishing Garden
By Warren Peters

The best organic fertilizer comes from your garden. Don't throw out the grass. If managed properly, grass can be the answer to your composting problems. With a little effort and care, you can keep the grass from rotting. All you have to do is take a few precautionary measures to succeed in your goal of making the perfect compost heap.

When you trim your lawn, allow the blades of grass to fall on the lawn. Your lawn mower can do it for you if you make a slight alteration. Detach the grass catcher and mow your lawn as you usually do. The grass automatically falls out wherever it's been cut. Ensure that the mower blade is sharp and the grass is absolutely dry before you begin your operation, else the lawn mower will get clogged.

You now have your own natural fertilizer. This process is known as grasscycling. It is economical and saves you the time and bother of clearing the grass or putting the blades of grass into bags. However, this strategy may not be viable if you have toddlers and pets.

If you wish to do things in a more conservative way rather than resort to grasscycling, here's how you go about making an effective grass compost heap. Fresh mown grass contains moisture and is rich in nitrogen. There is a tendency for the moist grass to stick together, thus preventing the oxygen from penetrating.

If you simply pile up the grass, it will turn slimy and rot. The smell is offensive, to say the least. The best way to prevent the grass from caking up is to layer it with materials that have high carbon content. These browns comprise leaves, twigs or wood chips. These are placed in between the layers of grass and give the heap a looseness that allows the oxygen to penetrate.

In order to help the oxygen circulate, it would be wise to aerate the pile by turning the contents over, frequently. You don't want the heap to turn into a slimy, putrid mass!

If you have more grass than other materials, you should avoid stacking up the grass to form one huge unmanageable pile that could go bad simply because of the abundance of grass. You could have many piles that are easier to manage. When you regularly turn each over through the summer, you will notice them turn into compost at which time you could lessen the number of piles by combining them.

If space is your constraint and you find it difficult to manage a number of heaps at once, dry the newly cut grass in the sun. Spread the grass anywhere in your yard and allow it to sun-bake the whole day. Once the moisture and the sourness go out of it, you can start your compost heap.

The one thing to avoid is to have chemically treated grass on your compost heap. In case you have used pesticides or herbicides to promote grass growth on your lawn, don't cut the grass for fertilizer, unless a good shower of rain has washed the residue out.

Adding lime to the heap of grass for compost is a good idea to hasten the breaking down process. This is also the surest way to prevent mold formation, which is responsible for the foul smell.

With these tips, you could make your own fertilizer out of grass clippings. Not only is the method economical but it also gives you a sense of achievement when you see your garden flourish.

Warren has put together a very informative site detailing the concise elements of worm farming for personal use and or your own business. Detailing benefits of home composting and many other aspects of worm composting.

Worms Composting

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Warren_Peters

Growing Vines In A Dry Climate Garden

2007-11-19T22:49:00.003-08:00

Growing Vines In A Dry Climate Garden
By Jonathan Ya'akobi

Plants commonly known as climbers are vine like in their habit, growing by virtue of long, thin and generally flexible branches. They often grow naturally in forests and woods, where their "aim" is to reach out of the darkness of the forest's floor towards the sufficient light levels found at the trees' canopy. The various growth habits typical of different climbing plants, have developed over time in response to the need to grow on trees and large shrubs, as a means to reach upwards. Growing vines, provides the gardener with a variety of solutions for a number of situations. The question is, which plants are suitable, and for which circumstances?

Self-clinging climbers: These are plants that have organs allowing them to cling on to relatively smooth surfaces such as walls. In gardening terms they are virtually maintenance-free but over time can cause damage to windows and other parts of a building. Another problem is when trying to remove them from a wall, the attempt often resulting in extensive and expensive repair work being required. Examples are Ivy, the deciduous Boston Ivy, (Parthenossisus sp) Ficus pumila, and trumpet vine. (Campsis radicans) These plants though can be an excellent choice for free- standing and retaining walls. The mature foliage of both Ivy and Ficus differs from, and is much less attractive than the often delicate and interesting juvenile foliage. Pruning and clipping encourages new growth, and therefore the re-appearance of the young leaf shapes.

Twining climbers: These are the ones that can really create havoc, especially in small gardens. They should not be planted closely behind other plants like roses and other ornamental bushes, or herbaceous perennials. Maintenance simply becomes unmanageable as the twines encroach upon and wind themselves around the neighboring plants. Rampant twiners are best reserved to cover unsightly objects like garden sheds or wire fences, on condition that other plants are some distance apart. Common examples are Passion fruit, the phenomenal flame vine, (Pyrostegia venusta) and Podranea. I seriously recommend not planting species like Thunbergia grandiflora, it's stunning floral display notwithstanding. In small spaces it becomes a dreadful mess and tangle. There are twining plants that are a bit less aggressive and should be considered like honeysuckle, star jasmine, (Trachelospermum jasminoides) the delightfully fragrant Quisqualis indica and various species of jasmine itself.

Climbers requiring support: Plants in this category obviously demand work, care and attention, by way of training, tying and pruning, but ultimately, allow for a more controlled maintenance regime, and for a neater garden. Climbing roses and Bougainvillea are but two examples common to Mediterranean and dry climate gardens. Bougainvillea should not really be considered as a bush or shrub. It is a very poor choice indeed as a free standing shrub, particularly in small spaces, and ought to be trained on a wall or some other supporting structure, or dwarfed in a pot.

To read recent and related articles on these topics, click on the link below and then by clicking on the "Articles" page you can find the following articles:

* What Type of Plant is Best To Grow On A Wire Fence

* Beware! Climbing Plants Could Lower The Value of Your Property

About the author - 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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Ya'akobi

Benefits of Ergonomic Garden Tools

2007-11-19T22:49:00.001-08:00

Benefits of Ergonomic Garden Tools
By Eudora DeWynter

To be able to get a full understanding of ergonomic garden tools, its best to know what the word ergonomic means. The word itself is Greek, Ergo means Work, Nomos means Natural Laws, therefore: Ergo + Nomos = The Natural Laws of a Working Design, also known as the re-designing of a product optimizing its use by Humans or Human factored engineering with the body proportions, weight and height in mind.

Any type of work activity should permit a worker to have several different safe, healthy postures for different tasks. For instance, when muscle force is needed the largest muscle group should be utilized. Work tasks requiring the head, trunk and upper limbs should use joints at the mid joint of their movement.

With these facts in mind choosing proper gardening tools will guarantee you a successful garden. Always make sure that your tools have the right size grip, larger grip tools are easier to hold on to. Depressions in the handles for your thumb or ridge grips will also help keep your hands in proper alignment. Whenever possible use tools with extra long handles so there is less of a need to bend over, ands always keep your tools sharp and in good working condition and please avoid slippery surfaces.

Gardening is to soothing and relaxing to be troubled with joint stiffness and pain, so try changing your tools and making an extremely worth while investment in a pair of Bionic Gardening Gloves. These gloves were designed by a hand surgeon with the palm, finger, thumb and the high points of their bones in mind.

When friction from prolonged use of tools presses them, these bones can cause hand fatigue along with blisters and calluses. Pads placed in the exact anatomic locations and at specific points reduces pressure and friction caused by gripping tools and giving your hands extra improved comfort without interfering with the natural design of your hand.

These gloves come in variety of sizes and colors for both men and women and they are hand washable or machine washable (I prefer hand washing). Washing will only enhance the durability and help maintain the softness of the leather. Please Air Dry

Women's sizes are 61/4 to 81/4 (S to XL) and Men's 73/4 to 91/2 plus (S to XXXL)

Bionic Gloves have received the Arthritis Foundation's Ease of Use Commendation, for more information or to shop for Bionic Gloves, and Ergonomic Garden Tools go to:

Radius Garden Tool

OxO garden Tools

Yard Butler Store

Clean Air

Hand Helpers

Eudora DeWynter gives advice on Ergonomic Garden Tools and offers basic gardening tips on her blog at www.gardentoolguru.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eudora_DeWynter

How to Take Care for Indoor Bamboo Plants

2007-11-19T22:48:00.000-08:00

How to Take Care for Indoor Bamboo Plants
By Jason Hobbs

Care for indoor bamboo plants ensures in healthy growth of bamboo plant. It includes proper fertilization, nourishment and sapping. These in reality are wild long grass that grows in the tropical region amidst the warm climate. Due to its easiness and ornamental look they are usually grown indoors. Alphonse Kerr and Japonica are some of the fabulous plants that are usually grown at home. Since these are sturdy plants various steps have to be implemented to ensure their growth. Caring of these plants becomes easier as an individual gets familiar to it.

Maintaining tips:

1. Care for indoor bamboo plants can be done by embedding the them in a pot with soil containing mix of fragmented rocks, pebbles and clay. This helps in proper drainage. Otherwise water gets saturated resulting into rotting of roots.

2. Watering needs to be done keeping in mind the climatic conditions of the area. Normally, soil speedily dries out when kept indoors. Coiling of leaves shows that it is not getting water properly whereas, sagging signifies over watering.

3. Place the plant in area where it can get adequate sunlight and enough shade.

4. Care for them also depends upon regular organic feeding of chicken manure, N: 10, P: 6 and K: 5 done in small quantities.

5. Misting is another important step. It is spraying spurt of water on plant. It is used to imitate the damp conditions that bamboo is habitat to. Use of Vaporizer can be done for misting.

6. Bamboos are usually resistant to pests but sometimes they might get infected by fungus, insects and microbes that cause spots on it. So, pesticides have to be sprayed.

7. Care for indoor bamboo plants hugely depends on the time of its planting.If it is planted in winter season then dense protection is required so that soil remains loose deep down even in frigid neighboring.

Caring of Taller Plants:

If an individual wants to grow tall bamboo plants, then routine trimming and tapering has to be done, so that its branches don't over spread. Discard away the shrunken stems of the plant by cutting it at the soil bed level. Care for them also includes restricting its height. It can be controlled by cutting it above nodes. Bamboo sometimes extends till ceiling of house in such case, cut out the stalk off the uppermost branch. If lower stems have less or no branches, then cut it from its lower third and reduce the branches till second node of every branch. This encourages growing of new, tender branches. An individual can also surround the pot with barricade, to accentuate the spreading of plant. Soil near the barrier has to be hard without any air pockets.

If you would like to learn more about Indoor Plants and receive a FREE Newsletter on the subject visit the authors site http://www.indoorplantsadvice.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Hobbs

Origination of Orchid

2007-11-19T22:47:00.003-08:00

Origination of Orchid
By Jason Hobbs

Orchid is one of the most assorted genes of plants. Basically, it derives its expression from the term Greek Orchis testicle through its emergence from the pseudobulbs in certain worldly genus. By far, around 30,000 genus of this plant have been discovered, and around 60,000 additional types are on the verge of discovery through various horticulturalists. Normally, they are referred as monocotlydons, with blossoms compiled of a total of 6 petals, in which one is customized into a "lip". Majorities of Orchid derive the moisture and nutrients directly from the sunlight and grow on other plants without parasitic residuals on those plants.

The attractiveness, the dimensions and classiness of this particular species has fascinated humans through centuries. Certain kinds of this diversified species also feed on earth quite frequently under specified sheltered atmosphere. Approximately, every kind of this species closely depends on mycorhizal connections, along with a variety of crumbled fungi adjoined to it releasing water-soluble nutrient contents. The seeds of Orchid are exceptionally very minute, without any food storages and are not tend to nurture, until all these connections provide it the necessary nutrients under a suitable natural environment.

Varieties:

Now-a-days, several methods have been formulated by mankind to successively sprout the seeds in a coagulated nutrient liquid, for eradicating the need of essential fungi. This technique significantly assists the breeding of this exceptional and scarce genus. The credit for the glowing feature of Orchid goes to their regenerative routines. One of finest variety of this species is the Paphiopedilums, possessing a profound sack that firmly attracts the spectator's attention with only one outlet that escorts it for pollination.

A Large numbers of male bees are appealingly attracted towards a Eurasian kind of this species, because of its flowers that somewhat resembles the female bumble bees. A typical form of this species in Australia never gives a glimpse to the sunlight. However, it fools the ants to protect itself from pollinating by the ants. Another kind of Orchid known as the Masdevalia that smells similar to a decayed Carcas, and the woodland flies are drawn towards it greatly helps in its reproduction process. One of the amazing kinds of this species is the Darwin, which opens its pollen bags with provocative strength, when it is pressed.

Availability:

In Malaysia, a unique kind of this species can be found known as Phalaenopsis that utilizes fine climatic conditions for harmonizing bunches of flowers. The Orchid comes in large varieties of both subtropical as well as tropical forms and these also are the most usual available form of this species. Hence, they are frequently available in various societies of orchids and garden center across the entire globe. Certain varieties of this species are capable to blossom in severe freezing climatic atmosphere, though there availability in the market is quite rare.

If you would like to learn more about Growing Orchid and receive a FREE Newsletter on the subject visit the authors site http://www.growingorchidhelp.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Hobbs

Grow Lights Guide

2007-11-19T22:47:00.001-08:00

Grow Lights Guide
By Susan Slobac

If you are starting out with indoor gardening, there is a lot to learn. One of the important environmental factors that you will need to provide for your plants is appropriate light. Plants need light for photosynthesis. Plants have the amazing ability to change light energy through photosynthesis into glucose and oxygen, which they need to thrive and grow. You will want to consider the grow lights you use in your indoor growing area very carefully, because it is a major aspect that will affect the success of your gardening venture. There are several new grow lights, and very popular ones include HID lights, HPS grow lights, LED grow lights, and MH grow lights. These are all hydroponic gardening grow lights, and all can be used with plants grown in soil as well.

HID lights go by the full name of high-intensity discharge lights. MH grow lights and HPS grow lights are also high-intensity discharge lamps. HID lights produce a great deal of light that more closely resembles sunlight than the light produced by either incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs, which is better for plant growth and reproduction. The way light is produced by HID lamps is when you turn the electricity on, the current runs through a ballast, which regulates the electrical flow to the electrodes, which are inside an arc tube, along with various gases and metals. When an electrical arc is produced, the gas in the tube helps start the light bulb, and the metals, once they reach the appropriate temperature, evaporate and produce the light that you see.

HPS grow lights make excellent hydroponic lights. HPS stands for high-pressure sodium, and these are used by professional growers to produce vegetables and flowers indoors commercially. HPS lamps use mercury in the arc tube, as well as sodium, and this makes for good color rendering, or colors showing up accurately when lit by the bulb. The spectrum color that a bulb gives off is important, because plants thrive under different colors depending on their stage of maturity. If you are trying to grow lettuce, for example, you will want to use the blue light spectrum under which it thrives. If you have mature tomato plants that you want to produce fruit and flowers, then you will want to use a red/orange spectrum to induce the plant to behave appropriately.

LED grow lights are called this due to a light-emitting diode that allows the lamp to produce light. These lights are handy because they come in an array of colors used in growing plants, and they produce a lot of light that is easily focused where you need it. They have a very long life as well.

MH grow lights are metal halide lamps. The arc tubes of these compact and efficient bulbs contain argon gas, mercury and a mix of metal halides. Like other HID lights, these lights require the use of a ballast in order to function properly.

Susan Slobac works at a Hydroponics supply store and is knowledgeable about grow lights. She has been taught by industry professionals about the details of hydroponic lights and shares her insights on the many varieties of grow lights for indoor gardening.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_Slobac

Do It Naturally - Control Pest and Garden Insects Organically

2007-11-19T22:46:00.001-08:00

Do It Naturally - Control Pest and Garden Insects 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 won't 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.

Many plant lovers take advantage of organic pest control solutions to battle the bugs in their gardens and landscape. Learn of a safe natural plant pest control option at http://www.plant-care.com/pest-control-without-pesticides.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Higgins

Information on Orchid Greenhouse

2007-11-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

Information on Orchid Greenhouse
By Jason Hobbs

An individual, who desires to nurture the orchids indoors in the orchid greenhouse, just requires trying initially a simple and petite greenhouse indoors. In which the nurturers can nurture a small variety of the species, along with tiny palms and ferns in a humid and damp environment surroundings. The ideal dimension for a greenhouse indoor is that it needs to be one foot wide, two foot lengthy and again one foot tall. The nurturer can decide the dimension of the orchid greenhouse on its own depending upon ones requirements.

The Creation:

Firstly, the nurturer is required to create a frame of slim sticks of wood attached or spiked with each other, or other alternative is to create frame with the use of potential cords, a streaked cord used for hanging clothes will work. The frame needs to cover the peak completely with protected base, powerful coat, sides, apparent plastic coating. Fix the coating to the frame with a powerful sultry tape. The facet of the orchid greenhouse needs to be open with a dimension of around 3/8 inches over the plastic coating to permit the air for admitting into the greenhouse. Further, the nurturer needs to crux the lid to the rear with tape for creating an access for watering it and its leaves. They are also capable to nurture in the absence of a greenhouse, as they can be simply nourished with filtered sunlight, a well sapped vessel utilizing frayed bark or a special mixture that is accessible in certain garden hoards of them. The lady slipper is one of the simplest species that is nurtured under orchid greenhouse, similarly the vanilla variety also possess a sugary scent of vanilla.

Other Techniques:

They are quite demandable with valuable price cost as their bloom survives for about three to four months. Hence, it is a good option by certain novice to study about the nurturing of them through the greenhouse process. There are three amazingly scripted books pertained to the orchid greenhouse that are: "A Passion for Orchids" written by Jack Cramer, "Orchid Fever - A Horticultural Tale of Love, Lust and Lunacy" and "The Orchid Thief" scripted by Susan Orlean, that glistens with the wisdom of orchid with worthy scientific actuality of the greenhouse. An individual may think a lot prior to trying an orchid ice cream, but it can be formulated with small orchid greenhouse of ones own. There are certain greenhouse nurturers that implants the seeds of the plants on wet, hygienic agar, sugar-enriched, or they incise the development of bunches of the cells of the plant, which is later on consigned on the agar.

If you would like to learn more about Growing Orchid and receive a FREE Newsletter on the subject visit the authors site http://www.growingorchidhelp.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Hobbs

Hay! That's a Garden

2007-11-19T22:44:00.003-08:00

Hay! That's a Garden
By Cassaundra Flores

Do you know someone who has always loved gardening but has physical restrictions? Why not throw a couple of bales of straw their way! Hay or straw bale gardening is gaining in popularity because there is no tilling or digging. What's more, the garden is off the ground, so there is no bending. (Is that the sound of your sore muscles thanking you?) If you've got soil on your property that doesn't want to grow anything, or you have limited space, this type of gardening might be your answer. This type of gardening is so fun and easy. You can have your bale garden ready to grow in just ten days. Here's how:

Days 1 through 3 Pick hay or straw that has been tightly baled. Decide where you want your bales to go and place them with the twine off the ground. They'll be too heavy to move after you've soaked them. Soaker hoses are really handy with this type of garden because you want to get your straw bales good and soggy. Getting the straw all wet is what wakes up the microscopic life that is living in the straw. Once they are awake, they'll be hungry and will start working their way up looking for bacteria to munch on. The waste that results from all this is what provides your garden with nourishment. Nature provides the hay bale garden with fertilizer. All you have to do is to maintain the moisture. Days 4 to 7 You can add compost to the tops of your hay bale garden. This will give the paramecia food. If you want to add humus to the top of your garden, it will speed along the whole fertilizing process. Of course, you'll be keeping the bales nice and soggy. Don't worry about over-watering. This type of gardening is so foolproof, excess water will drain out.

Days 8 to 10 (if needed) are planting days. Here is where the ease and fun of this type of gardening really begins! You can seed your garden into your humus covering or take whole plants, add a bit of soil and plant them right into the bales. To transplant tomato plants, cut a slit in the bale and put your plant in, tightly, planting up to the first leaf. Two tomato plants per bale are recommended. Don't forget to add stakes, and make them high- tomatoes seem to love growing in bales. Bumper crops have been reported.

Hay bales usually last for two years. After that, they make a wonderful compost spread. Many people plant flowers around the outer corners to make the bales more attractive. All types of flowers grow well in bale gardens as well as a host of vegetables and herbs. Best of all, physical restrictions don't have to get in the way of your love of gardening.

Article written by Cassaundra Flores, owner of http://www.skyfireproducts.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cassaundra_Flores

Care Of Orchids - Five Ways To Get Started Caring For Orchids At Home

2007-11-19T22:44:00.001-08:00

Care Of Orchids - Five Ways To Get Started Caring For Orchids At Home
By Suzanne Atkinson

Are you intimidated by the thought of buying your first orchid? Are you afraid that you will be unable to take care of your orchid once you bring it home? There are plenty of online resources and articles about orchids care. But sometimes you need more than words on a page to get you started. Try these five simple steps to get started with your very first orchid.

1) Visit a local plant store

Small local shops offer personal service and expertise that you won't find in the big box stores. In addition, the orchids in stock are usually grown at a nearby local greenhouse, rather than a large commercial orchid greenhouse that services the large retail distributors. The last time I went into a local flower shop, I was greeted immediately with a smile and an offer to help answer any questions I had about the plants. It's unlikely that you'll get this kind of personal attention in a Home Supplies store.

The owner of the shop will know all about the orchid varieties in the store and can give you individualized recommendations regarding the orchid care once you get the plant into your home or apartment. While much of this information is available online, you'll save yourself hours of searching by going directly to the expert from the beginning. Buy purchasing from your local grower, you support local small business and have a built in orchid growing consultant just about any time you need one.

2) Go to an orchid show

Orchid shows are going on all the time throughout the country, just do an internet search for "orchid show" and add your city name to the end of the search string. At a local orchid show , you will meet dozens of hobby growers and orchid enthusiasts who were all beginners at one point, just like you. Ask a few questions about their orchid collection and you'll have a new orchid buddy for life! By talking with people at the show you'll learn just how easy it is to get started growing orchids at home.

Almost all orchid shows also have orchids for sale, potting mediums, pots and hanging baskets along with orchid watering supplies, misters and humidity trays. Many shows even have a pest and disease specialist who can help diagnose your orchid problems. Do you have an orchid that is in need of re-potting? Check the schedule for the show and see if there is a potting class. You may just be able to re-pot your orchid while learning from experts in the field.

3) Subscribe to an Orchid Magazine

...like the one published by the American Orchid Society. Not only will you be inspired by seeing colorful photos of orchids in bloom, but you'll have regular excellent articles on caring for orchids delivered right to your mailbox. there is nothing like a great magazine and a cup of Earl Grey at a sunny breakfast nook to start off your day. You'll have visions of orchids in your head all day and be ready to go shopping for your own before the weekend is over!

4) Join your local orchid club

Local orchid shows are frequently hosted by your local orchid club. If you can't find an upcoming show, try the nearest greenhouse or conservatory; they should have contact information for any nearby orchid societies. if you live in a rural area that is far from any nurseries, greenhouses or conservatories, check in the nearest major city. If the club meets once a month, plan to attend the next meeting. You'll meet a number of new friends that will all be more than happy to help you get started.

5) Talk to other orchid growers

If you've done steps 1 through 4, you will have met many people in your community that are growing orchids and taking care of orchids in their own home. All of them are most likely very interested in seeing you succeed with your first orchid experience.

If you've followed these five tips on becoming an orchid owner, you'll have discovered that orchids are surprisingly easy to care for by meeting just a few basic needs of the plants. You'll probably discover that orchids are the easiest houseplant you own! Learning to take care of orchids and buing your first plant is a simple matter of staring with baby steps and meeting a few people who share your passion. Soon you will be the expert that others are calling!

Suzanne Atkinson, called GuruOrchid by her friends, has been growing orchids at home for over 10 years. She got her start by visiting local plant stores and talking orchid growers with experience. Suzanne write a blog that contains orchid care tips for beginners at http://takingcareoforchids.blogsome.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Atkinson

Tips for Growing Orchids at Home

2007-11-19T22:43:00.002-08:00

Tips for Growing Orchids at Home
By Jason Hobbs

Orchids are increasingly becoming more famous as plants of home, owing to its enhanced cultivars as well as affordability. Growing orchids at home was once associated with the hobby of rich and elite people, but not anymore. Orchids are more reasonable now due to the latest progression in the propagation strategies. Growing Orchids at home was first witnessed in the middle of 1700 century, since then this task is accompanied with the reputation of being extremely difficult. Although, there are numerous orchids available that are very simple to grow in home. The orchid hails from the most assorted family of the plants ever known to human beings. In all, there are more than 880 varieties, 28000 species, as well as more than 30,000 recorded cultivars at present. These impressive figures indicate the successful chronicles of present day orchids.

Useful Suggestions:

Orchids are evidenced to be the most fastly modifying plant groups existing on earth, whose increased number of newer species are discovered at a meteoric speed. They are the most adaptable group of plants surviving in the world. The three fundamental requirements for growing orchids at home are temperature, light and humidity. Even if 2 of these criterions are fulfilled ideally, the plant will bloom and flourish. The two simplest kinds of orchids that can be grown in the vicinity of home are Phalaenopsis, and Dendrobium hybrids. These orchid plants typically bloom well, only if good care of them is undertaken. Both these kinds of orchids are available in several ranges of colors, however the common ones are pink, purple, white and lavender. These plants are quiet inexpensive and can be purchased by any novice fancier for growing orchids at home.

Light is considered to be the most crucial reason behind failure of orchid blooming. The orchid plant may appear to be in the pink of health, but due to inadequate light it will perhaps not flower. For growing orchids at home, the best place to position the plant is near the window sill. A window facing south ward direction will be ideal to generate most favorable results. East facing is the next option followed by north face window. Artificial light help can be taken, if window sill is not able to provide sufficient amount of light.

Points to Remember:

For growing orchids at home, it is very crucial to remember to clean the windows very often in order to generate proper transmission of light. The progress of orchid plant itself indicates the appropriate levels of light. Temperature is the next criteria, according to temperature the orchids are segregated into 4 categories: warm, immediate growing, cool growing and hardy. As far as watering is concerned, it is suggested to insert the finger in soil for nearly 1 inch. If soil is dry, then plant requires water.

If you would like to learn more about Growing Orchid and receive a FREE Newsletter on the subject visit the authors site http://www.growingorchidhelp.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Hobbs

Types of Cactus Species

2007-11-19T22:43:00.001-08:00

Types of Cactus Species
By Jason Hobbs

Cacti for plural use and Cactus for general are the specific plants of the Cactaceae family. The Cactaceae are the biggest existing family of the tender cactus plants. There are around 2000 recognized types of cactus species in the world, especially in the regions of Central, South, and North America. A huge amount of cactuses, but not entire, are fine habitant to the desert climatic conditions, utilizing their trunks for accumulation of water during long durational dry seasons. Several various cactus species of the barrel cacti shares the bodily attributes of a bony layered barrel shaped trunk. In terms of comparison, several types of the cactus species of barrel are of average length of about 4-10 feet. This physical feature makes the barrel cacti tinier than the huge columnar cactus and bigger than the pincushion cactus species. The barrel cacti mostly stand as a lone trunk cacti rather than huddled in factions, with blooms on the top. The barrel cactus species are one of the most admired countryside species of the cactus family.

Major Species:

One of the major distinctive cactus species is the Claret Cup cactus with attractive reddish and cup shaped flowers. This particular cactus species illustrates the tale behind the actual name of the cactus family. The shades and the surface between the stream and the remaining plant, makes it a popular snappy cactus species for several people residing in its habitant, mostly in the southern regions of the deserts in the extreme Southwest extending from California to Texas. Certain landscapers and garden keepers also admire utilizing it as a hummingbird cactus. This is because a wide range of hummingbird species such as the Magnificent, Black-chinned hummingbird, and the Broad-tailed hummingbird nourishes on the Claret cup cactus flower nectar and assists it in pollination process. Basically, the Claret cup cactus species is a small and spiny cactus that most often nurtures in groups of trunks. Another most admired cactus species is the Organ pipe cactus that are big grooved cactus that nurtures frequently in groups representing the organ pipes. The organ pipe cactus is inhabitant of the Sonoran Desert area of the Southern Arizona and Northern Mexico. One unique features of this cactus species is that they are nighttime bloomers and are mostly pollinated by bats.

Other Secondary Species:

The name of Pincushion is provided to loads of cactus species existing in the world. The Pincushion cactus is a tiny circular plant with small thorns. It appears as if someone has fussed pins in a cushion. The Pincushion cacti are quite adjustable types of cactus nurturing in an array of habitations. In the year of 1986, Arizona, the Pincushion cactus was declared as one of the endangered species of the cactus family.

If you would like to learn more about Indoor Plants and receive a FREE Newsletter on the subject visit the authors site http://www.indoorplantsadvice.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Hobbs

Chinch Bugs

2007-11-19T22:42:00.002-08:00

Chinch Bugs
By Chad P Kimball

Adult Chinch Bugs usually appear in your lawn in March, but their life cycle in the turf begins long before that as larvae. They have black bodies and legs, white wings with a black triangular spot on each wing. Also known as Blissus leucopterus leucopterus, and B. insularis, Lygaeidae, a Chinch Bug is a beetle that the size of a grain of rice, and the larvae can be as small as the head of a pin. But don't let their small size fool you, the power of an infestation to destroy your lawn should not be underestimated, especially if your grass is currently experiencing a drought or consistently dry conditions year round. These pests live deep in the thatch throughout the fall and winter and steadily eat away the root system of your grass and other plants.

But it gets worse. Much worse.

Chinch Bugs don't just eat your grass, they actually inject poison into the plant as they eat, causing your grass to turn yellow and die in large patches. These patches are usually circular, with the center looking much worse than the outer perimeter.

You can test your lawn for Chinch Bugs by simply going to the center of one of the circular yellow patches of grass and look for small red and black beetles, or their red larvae. If you need another confirmation, take a large aluminum can and cut off both ends. Push one end of the can down into the turf, and then fill the can with water. In around 15 minutes the water will kill any of them inside and they will float to the surface where you can see them clearly.

How to get rid of Chinch Bugs:

-Water your lawn regularly. They thrive in dry, sunny lawns, or drought conditions, so regular watering can greatly reduce your infestation.

-Encourage your lawn to develop a deep root system by applying appropriate doses of fertilizer, and watering regularly (do not over water, this can actually produce a shallow root system).

-Do not cut your grass too low. Taller blades of grass produce deeper roots.

-Have a lawn care company apply the proper pesticides. It is crucial that you have a professional evaluate your lawn and determine what plan of attack is best.

The disadvantage of chemical controls is that they can be a danger to pets, humans, other bugs, birds, and the environment in general. Ask your lawn care company if they can choose organic, non-toxic controls instead of chemicals. Some lawn care companies will broadly apply harmful pesticides without properly informing you of the risks to your family, pets, and surrounding wildlife.

If you are in southeastern Michigan, please contact Natural Way Lawn Care to have your Chinch Bug problem evaluated by one of our professionals. We can apply the correct tactics for Chinch Bug control, depending on your specific situation. Our methods are effective, and most of all, safe for your family and the environment!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chad_P_Kimball

Using Crop Rotation In Your Organic Garden - For Healthy Plants & Higher Yields

2007-11-19T22:42:00.001-08:00

Using Crop Rotation In Your Organic Garden - For Healthy Plants & Higher Yields
By Julie Williams

Crop rotation is the age old practice of rotating plants to different growing areas in your vegetable garden. Plants that belong to the same family are rotated or moved each season. This aids plants with their nutrient needs and helps avoid pest and disease problems.

Giving a little extra thought at your planning stage by including a crop rotation system will save you time, money and effort. You will need to spend less on organic fertilizers if you incorporate soil-building cover crops along with nitrogen fixing plants. By using crop rotation you will prevent many pest and disease issues that you would have needed to find solutions for.

Say you decide to grow potatoes in the same plot each season. As you lovingly water your potatoes (or it rains) the nutrients are slowly leached from the soil. Your potatoes have specific nutrient requirements. Once they have used all available nutrients you will start to notice problems such as poor yields or pest infestation.

Each season, as you grow your potatoes in the same plot, they will have less disease resistance and will be inferior quality and yield.

This is why there was a potato famine in Ireland many years ago. A single variety of potato was grown year in - year out and eventually grew weaker and prone to disease.

When you use a well thought out crop rotation system you will enjoy heavier yields and healthier plants and soil.

Below is an example of a good crop rotation:-

* Year 1 - Grow legumes (peas, beans - broad, runner or French) or a cover crop ex. rye
* Year 2 - grow brassicas (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, swede, turnip, brussels sprouts)
* Year 3 - grow tomatoes
* Year 4 - grow alliums (onions, leeks, spring onions, bunching onions, chives, garlic)
* Year 5 - grow root vegetables (carrots, parsnip, potatoes, beetroot)

Then you can start your crop rotation system again. Of course you can interplant with other vegetables that haven't been mentioned here to further improve on your system.

By combining companion planting with crop rotation you are going to see even greater results in your organic food garden and greatly reducing pest and disease problems.

Different crops have different soil and nutrient requirements. By changing your crops from year to year, you minimise any deficiencies and allow the soil to replenish. Also, when you alternate between deep-rooted plants and fibrous-rooted plants you improve soil structure.

Hi, I am an avid organic gardener and am known by my friends as the recycling queen. I live on a small country property in South Australia. It is my mission to encourage as many people as possible to start organic gardening. This will improve both our individual lives and the wellbeing of our personal and global environments. Beginners to Organic Gardening take a look here. For more organic gardening info click here.

Happy gardening, healthy living...
Julie Williams
http://www.1stoporganicgardening.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Williams

Earthworms - The Gardener's Best Friend

2007-11-19T22:41:00.002-08:00

Earthworms - The Gardener's Best Friend
By Warren Peters

When we see a garden at its best, it means the earthworms are at work making the soil rich in nutrients. The organic substances in the soil are broken down by these creatures and changed into nutrients that the plants absorb easily.

As the earthworms burrow into the ground, they loosen the earth helping the roots penetrate, making for a healthy plant. The loose earth absorbs the water and retains it while allowing it to permeate. In addition, the air has room to circulate. The earthworms movements churn up life-supporting nutrients which are deep down in the earth. They are brought to the top soil where the plants have better access to them.

Besides what they do for plants, earthworms serve as food for birds. Early in spring, when the garden is filled with the chirruping of birds, it's the worms they are after, since there are no fruit or seeds to be had at that part of the year. If earthworms are put into a container where no light penetrates, they can be preserved alive for a fortnight provided they have damp peat moss to sustain them.

Earthworms are myriad. They are categorized according to their features and location. They may be classified as rain worms, red wrigglers, field worms, red worms, night crawlers and red hybrid. One garden may be home to many different species.

Earthworms come in varied hues and sizes. Gray or black, red or maroon, earthworms come in all these colors and different shades of these. Their length could run from a couple of inches to almost a foot and in some cases an unbelievable twelve feet like a few species found in Australia. Damp soil rich in organic nutrients are ideal conditions for worms.

Earthworms live off insects, parts of rotting animals, manure, lettuce and the rind of the watermelon. In the main, they avoid extremely alkaline or acidic substances. However, their food preference depends on what species they are. Night crawlers, as the name suggests, collect food from the surface after dark.

Blades of grass and organic substances form their diet. On locating their food, they simply drag their spoil into the burrow from the surface by hanging on to their fare with their mouth. This, combined with the soil, is what they relish. Many earthworms like the red wrigglers, come to the surface for a meal.

Gardeners can help earthworms multiply by constantly adding organic substances to the soil. When the organic content in the soil goes down, the earthworms go in search of soil that is more sustaining or they will die. The proteins from their dead bodies that are converted into nitrogen help nourish the plants. However, the benefit is short lived. The death of earthworms means the end to a healthy garden, so important are they in nourishing the soil.

The food consumed by the earthworm is ground in the gizzard and passed to the intestine. Here the digestive process takes place with the help of enzymes. Some of the nourishment provides energy and helps in the growth of the worms. The remainder is excreted as granules. The soluble nutrients in these granular droppings are more nutritious than what the worms fed on in the first place. The deposits are rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and nitrogen.

In winter, earthworms are dormant. Since frost kills them within minutes of their exposure to it, they burrow deeper where the frost can't reach them. With spring, when the temperatures reach a comfortable level and the earth is soaked with spring showers, the earthworm is at its active best. This is the mating season.

They multiply quickly producing offspring by the hundred, annually. In summer, they are not as active. Food is scarce and the soil bereft of moisture can cause many to die. Autumn sees the earthworms stir into activity again. Reproduction takes place again until winter sets in.

Earthworms have a comparatively long life span. Some live for a decade if they can survive predators like birds and moles. Other threats to their life come from pesticides, used so freely today. Some fall prey to extreme heat or cold. Others succumb when the soil is parched and when food is deficient. These conditions shorten the lives of earthworms, which otherwise prove to be the gardeners best friend.

Warren has put together a very informative site detailing the concise elements of worm farming for personal use and or your own business. Detailing benefits of home composting and many other aspects of worm composting.

More interesting stuff can be found here: Worms Composting

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Warren_Peters

The Making Of Compost Is Easy Enough

2007-11-19T22:41:00.001-08:00

The Making Of Compost Is Easy Enough
By Warren Peters

Compost is basically organic matter. It is garden debris that is allowed to decay with time and is then put back into the soil as it has a lot of nutrient value and helps in the growth of plants. This process may take months to a year. If you want to be an organic gardener who is successful then you must learn the benefits of compost. Compost is very useful as it helps in improving the texture and fertility of soil and planting beds and it is a very essential constituent of potting soils and greenhouse. It nutritive value is mainly dependent on the nutrient-containing materials and fertilizers that are added to the piles in the process of decomposition.

The value of compost to the average gardener is difficult to ascertain as an amateur gardener too will in some form or another, use compost. Compost helps plants grow better and keeps them healthy and green. Compost that is nutritive is generally used in the form of rotten manure and compost that is not enriched is humus.

One of the best quality soil used by gardeners contains one-third humus. Humus makes the soil light, airy and spongy, retentive of moisture. In sandy soils that do not have humus, the rainfall washes all the nutritive ingredients and clay soil in the absence of humus will become very hard and impervious to water.

Any materials that are organic and left to the elements will decompose. Grass clippings, old hay, straw, leaves, plant tops and sod are materials that could be use for making compost. A lot of gardeners add humus, that is raw organic materials like weeds to the soil around plantings without composting them.

Adding of raw organic material to the soil speeds the activities of the bacteria and this takes away nitrogen from the soil and causes the leaves of the plants to become yellow. Hence it is not advisable to add raw organic materials to the soil directly.

It is better if weeds are added to the compost pile and then put back into the soil when they have decomposed. Without composting, peat moss and leaf mold can be added directly to the soil, as they are composted already.

There are various methods that are used in the building of a compost pile. The size of your pile will depend on the area that is available to you. An ordinary leaf pile or a number of them may be located at different convenient points in your garden and may be covered with show fencing wire made into a circle. In two years? time, depending on the climatic conditions, the leaves will become compost with not much effort from your side.

This is the easiest method to compost leaves. This leaf compost is an excellent source of supplements for the soil and potting humus. But it is not very rich in nutrients. Oak and beech leaves are acid. They are very good humus that can be placed around wide leaved evergreens that love acid.

Warren has put together a very informative site detailing the concise elements of worm farming for personal use and or your own business. Detailing benefits of home composting and many other aspects of worm composting. More interesting stuff can be found here.

Worms Composting

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Warren_Peters

Worms Compost - Simple, Fun And Ecologically Sane

2007-11-19T22:40:00.004-08:00

Worms Compost - Simple, Fun And Ecologically Sane
By Warren Peters

The easiest way to get started on your own backyard worm farm is to buy a ready made plastic worm farm. Setup is very easy. Just a few steps to follow. The most important step in setting up a worm farm is selecting the right bedding material.

The very first step is to gather all of your materials.

A light spray of fresh water when the farm is first constructed will generally provide sufficient moisture for the farm.

Place it in a shady location. Make sure to have plenty of drainage. If you notice ordinary flies buzzing around, it usually means too much water.

Make sure that the worm farm is covered so that it doesn't get too wet in the rain.

Up to half of all household waste is compostable, so starting your own worm compost is a great way to reduce waste to landfill.

Worms compost is a fantastic way to help reduce the amount of waste that accumalates in your kitchen.

Using the worm farm is a fun and educational exercise the whole family can participate in.

Rubbish will generate it's own heat if piled too high, so make sure the layer put into your worm farm is a thin, manageable one.

The ideal size for a worm farm is 60cm [24 in.] wide by 90cm [35 in.] long by 30cm. [about 12 in.] If your worm farm is on legs, place each leg in a container of water to stop pests from getting in.

Ensuring that the temperature of your compost is around 24 degrees celcius [75 degrees] will also improve the overall performance of your system.

You will have a continual supply of free fertilizer once your farm is working properly. If the worm farm is covered to reduce moisture loss then the worms can be left up to three weeks.

The farm should be divided into two areas, the worm bed/waste receival area and the vermicast storage/ post processing area.

If it is too dry and has ants, then add vegetable matter that rots down and some water to ensure it isn't too dry.

A worm farm is odourless, requires very little maintenance and produces a rich fertilizer for your potted plants or balcony garden. If things start getting smelly, there may be too much food.

Maintenance is simple, but needs to be done regularly to keep your worms fed and happy. The only smell associated with a well maintained wormery is a pleasant earthy smell.

This is a great way to recycle your kitchen scraps and create rich, organic fertilizer for your garden.

If your worm farm is maintained correctly you should not have any problems, however occasionally things can go wrong. Too wet, too dry. One farm is enough to compost the kitchen scraps of an average sized family. Your worm farm is a very eco-friendly way of using up the vegetable scraps but what do you get - dirt. The best dirt you can get. Have fun.

Warren has put together a very informative site detailing the concise elements of worm farming for personal use and or your own business. Detailing benefits of home composting and many other aspects of worm composting.

More information:
Worms Composting

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Warren_Peters

How To Do Vermicomposting

2007-11-19T22:40:00.003-08:00

How To Do Vermicomposting
By Warren Peters

What is vermicomposting? Vermicomposting means using worms to make compost. This is very easy to do and needs just a little bit of garden space and you can even do it in your basement or your garage. This is one great way to use up your kitchen waste and not let it go to waste. Let's show you how easy it is. All you need to do is follow these very easy steps.

First of all, you need to get yourself a storage bin, a plastic one is best. If yours is a family of six, you need a size that's around 1' x 2' x 3.5'. At the bottom of the bin, drill around 10 holes, each one to facilitate drainage and place a tray underneath the bin to hold the drainage.

Now put in some nylon mesh at the bottom of the bin so the worms don't escape through these holes. Now you need some bedding and for this, you will require some newspaper. Shred them and wet them well. You should make sure they stay moist and don't get dry.

Now add the worms to the bin, preferably red worms which are thought to be the best as far as composting is concerned. These are the most common worms you are likely to find in most gardens and lawns so you can just collect them from your garden or order them from a gardening store.

Make sure the bedding and the worms are on one side of the bin and put in vegetable peels and other kitchen waste, taking care not to put in any meat or fat products. Don't put in too much or you'll find that the stuff tends to rot. Now keep the bin in a cool, dark place.

It should take around 3 months for the worms to turn the waste and the bedding into compost. Now put in the bedding and more waste on the other side of the bin. The worms tend to migrate to the new food supply. Put the bin out in the sun and the worms will go right into the bedding and you can take out your compost from one side of the bin. You can put it for your plants or save it for later.

Now how do you use this compost that you have made? Compost is organic matter that is really great for your plants. You can add it to your lawn, your plants in the garden or your potted plants. You'll find the soil improving with better aeration and moisture-holding properties.

This is where your plants will get their nutrients from and thrive. You can also use it as mulch, spreading it on top of the soil after mixing it with a bit of topsoil. You'll find compost helps prevent many diseases.

You'll find in your garden that all the organic matter does decompose eventually. However, vermicomposting hastens the process and gives you garden soil that is fertile, moist and rich in nutrients. So your plants grow better, look better and survive better. All it takes for organic matter to decompose are ideal conditions in which earthworms, bacteria, fungi and bugs can work.

They need moisture, oxygen, carbon and nitrogen. So if you were to mix in nitrogen-rich substances like grass clippings or manure from livestock, you'll find decomposing happening quicker. Carbon can be had from leaves and twigs. Or you could fling in a handful of lawn fertilizer which will provide the carbon-nitrogen needs.

Do remember to water it a bit in case it doesn't rain and the mix gets dry. A bit of turning around once in a while gives it the oxygen it needs. Just a little bit of care and you are well on your way to great compost!

Warren has put together a very informative site detailing the concise elements of worm farming for personal use and or your own business. Detailing benefits of home composting and many other aspects of worm composting.

More information:

Worms Composting

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Warren_Peters

Italian Garden Design - The Dahlia's Relationship With Italy

2007-11-19T22:40:00.001-08:00

Italian Garden Design - The Dahlia's Relationship With Italy
By Jonathan Radford

THE DAHLIA AND IT'S UNIQUE RELATIONSHIP WITH ITALY

A Floral Symbol of a New World

The Dahlia has been used in Italian gardens as a fine cut flower from the Renaissance onwards, however, it is also as strong a symbol of the discovery of the Americas as is the tomato, potato or the pineapple.

A plant from the family Composite and with stunning flowers, ranging from 2" (5.08cm) diameter to 1' (30.48cm) the Dahlia provides the cut-flower garden with virtually every colour in the colour range and in the very last season of the year- late autumn. In this dull season, with it's absence of strong flower colour, the Dahlia can provide the garden with striking, almost black flowers, shocking red and electric yellow blooms and even charming, delicate pastels.

During the Renaissance period (15th to 17th Centuries) in Italy the Dahlia flower was used as a cut flower in the houses of the aristocracy and symbolised somewhat the discovery of the New World.

Italian born Christopher Columbus not only brought back tomatoes and potatoes but also interesting new flower varieties with him on his return from the Americas in the late 1400's.

The primary aim of Columbus's voyage was to discover new crop varieties and, of course, gold, silver and coffee/cacao for the Spanish sovereignty. The Dahlia was brought back for the new Renaissance interest in garden design, like the garden of Lorenzo de Medici at Careggi, owing to the flower's obvious beauty and originality.

However the tubers of the Dahlia were also considered to be a possible, edible substitute for the potato with it's large tubers, which do resemble potato tubers. A letter, dated just 60 years after Columbus' return, stated that the Aztecs used the dahlia as a cure for epilepsy and various other ailments. Indeed to this day extracts from the Dahlia are used to establish the functioning of the liver and kidneys.

A challenging and demanding plant to cultivate, the Dahlia requires a free draining, fertile soil and full sun to thrive. The flower stems require pinching out when they reach 1' (30.48) tall, in order to encourage bushy growth and the taller varieties then need staking to support their heavy blooms. The most awkward part of their cultivation is the removing from the soil that the Dahlia tubers need in order to over winter them in a dry, frost-free environment.

The tubers should be dug up gently with a digging fork when the foliage shows the first signs of frost damage, washed, left to dry and placed in sawdust, peat or vermiculite etc and placed in a cool shed for the winter. In spring they can be re-planted, watered and fed and the application of an organic mulch will retain moisture, without water logging the tubers.

There are very few plants that flower in the latter stages of the year and the Dahlia can provide our gardens with a range of colour and sensual flower form that is unrivalled by any other cut flower. Lasting up to a week as a cut flower the Dahlia also one of the most durable of the flowers from the cut-flower garden and is well worth the investment and, after all, from hard work to trans-Atlantic voyages, beauty has always come at a high price in the Italian garden!

By Jonathan Radford www.ecologicagardens.com
See some wonderfully original abstract images of the glorious Dahlia flower at www.italmacro.com

Jonathan Radford is an English landscape designer, dedicated to creating ecological, Italian-style gardens from his base in Siena, Tuscany.

Contact him at info@web-ecologica.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Radford

Top Vegetable Gardening Tips For Tomato Growing

2007-11-19T22:39:00.002-08:00

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.

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.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Stevens

Preventing Weeds In A Winter Mediterranean Garden

2007-11-19T22:39:00.001-08:00

Preventing Weeds In A Winter Mediterranean Garden
By Jonathan Ya'akobi

There are a number of ways by which garden weeds can be controlled. In very small garden beds, they can always be hand-picked, a somewhat laborious job admittedly, but not especially so in small scale situations. However, where larger areas are concerned, it is often necessary to seek alternative methods, particularly during the winter/spring seasons in Mediterranean climates, as this is the time of year that vast quantities of annual weed seeds germinate. As in most aspects of life, prevention is better than cure. So how can weeds be prevented in the first place, and what are the pros and cons of the various methods?

One option, is to apply a pre-emergent herbicide, by spraying the ground before it becomes covered in weeds. While this might have its place in large scale situations, it is undesirable in a private garden. The pre-emergent weed killers possess residual properties allowing it to kill seedlings as they emerge over a certain period of time. While being in some ways a convenient method, they can grant you "freedom" from weeds for about 4-6 months, they effectively poison the top layer of soil while in an active state. If applied improperly, especially by untrained persons, they can cause serious damage to the soil and to neighboring garden plants.

A far safer and eco-friendly weed control strategy, is to spread a layer of mulch, usually about 10cm deep, over the soil between the plants. Organic mulches such as wood chippings, provide better growing conditions for the plants than inorganic ones like pebbles, and by slowly degrading, enrich the soil with humus. As far as weed control is concerned, wood chippings are as effective as pebbles provided they are spread to an adequate depth. It should be pointed out though, that mulching is generally ineffective against perennial weeds, its relevance being restricted to annuals.

Sometimes, decorative pebbles or some other type of aggregate, are used as part of the overall garden design. In dry climate and Mediterranean gardens they help to save water by offering an alternative to lawns and flower beds. For example, a bed adjoining the house can be sparsely planted with some interesting sculptural plants, the spaces between them covered by pebbles. A few decorative pots containing flowers can be added, while a climbing rose is trained on the wall as an espalier.

In a circumstance similar to this, it is common for landscape fabrics to be laid on the ground before the pebbles are spread. Portions of fabric are simply cut away where a planted is to be put in the ground. Landscape fabrics, prevent seeds in the ground from germinating, and are therefore considered by many to be an essential tool in weed prevention. There are however, some serious problems associated with their use, of which you may not be aware. Firstly, impermeable plastic sheets, are liable to direct rainwater towards the house, thereby being a source of damp in future years. For this reason, only semi-impermeable materials should be used, but even with these, rain water does not drain evenly through the soil, but instead, tends to collect at certain points. A second consequence, is that sufficient rainwater is prevented from washing away, or leaching the salts that inevitably build up in the irrigated soil of a dry climate garden. In time, the soil salinity could rise to levels that retard plant growth and seriously damage the soil. Therefore, instead of spreading a fabric, I recommend adding the aggregates to a further depth of say 2-3 cm, to ensure that the weed prevention properties of the mulch are not lost.

About the author - 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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Ya'akobi

The Symbolism of Favorite Garden Flowers

2007-11-15T00:30:00.004-08:00

The Symbolism of Favorite Garden Flowers
By Kathleen Karlsen

Some of the most common garden flowers have fascinating histories and symbolic meanings. Flowers have been associated with symbolism for thousands of years. Flowers are a significant part of our lives from birth to death. Many popular garden flowers including foxglove, lupines, poppies, sunflowers, sweet peas, tulips and zinnias are associated with a treasure trove of stories and mythologies.

Foxglove flowers have both positive and negative symbolic meanings. They are said to sometimes hurt and sometimes heal. In the language of flowers, foxglove flowers are associated with insincerity. On the positive side, the common name is said to come from "folk's gloves," with "folk" referring to helpful fairy folk.

In medieval gardens dedicated to Mother Mary, foxglove was called "Our Lady's Gloves" or "Gloves of the Virgin." The scientific name is digitalis, a reference to the presence of powerful chemicals that can heal heart conditions if taken correctly but can kill if taken in large amounts.

Foxglove thrives in soils that are rich in iron and coal. New coalfields can sometimes be located by finding masses of foxgloves growing together. Foxgloves are perennials that thrive in temperate zones and like shade, part shade and sun.

Foxgloves come in white, yellow, pink, rose, red, lavender and purple. Foxglove can be grown either through seeds or divisions of plant clumps. The plants range from 2-6' high depending on the variety.

The flowers look best in the back of a garden and bloom in a pyramid shape with the lowest blossoms opening first and the buds remaining closed at the top. Add some foxgloves to your garden this year to invite the fairy folk to take up residence in your yard!

Lupines are symbolic of imagination. The name "lupinus" actually means "of wolves" due to the mistaken belief that ancient peoples had that lupines robbed the soil of nutrients. The fact is that lupines add nitrogen to the soil. The Romans used lupines for fertilizer and ate the high-protein seeds.

In the United States, lupines grow well in the Pacific Northwest, the West Coast, New England and other northern states. They are both cultivated lowers and wildflowers. Lupines also grow abundantly throughout Europe as far north as Norway.

Lupines come in blue, pink, white, yellow and purple. The flowers are useful for dyeing cloth. The seeds are said to aid digestion and have been used in skin care for removing spots from the face. The Romans used the flat seeds for theater money.

Lupines are the only food for the Karner blue butterfly's caterpillar. The larvae crawl up the stems of wild lupines to feed on the new leaves in mid-April.

The scent from lupine blossoms is like that of honey, a nice addition to any garden. The magnificent flower spikes can be from 36-60 inches high. Lupines need full sun, rich soil and lots of moisture. They can grow in poor soils if the soil is not too alkaline. Add some imagination to your garden with a full array of colorful, stately lupines!

Poppies are symbolic of beauty, magic, consolation, fertility and eternal life. The Egyptians included poppies at funerals and in burial tombs. The Greeks used poppies in the shrines of Demeter, goddess of fertility, and Diana, goddess of the hunt. Poppies denote sleep, rest and repose. In modern times, poppies have been associated with Flanders fields as an emblem of those who died in World War I.

Poppies do best in cool climates. They are both a cultivated flower and a hearty wildflower. Although poppies are perennials, they are often grown as annuals. Poppies grow through Europe, the Orient and the Americas. Poppies are the state flower of California.

Poppies have been used for centuries in seasonings, medicine and health tonics. Tea from poppies has been used for its calming effect. The Oriental poppy is the only poppy that contains opium, but other poppies do have mildly sedative effects, too. Water made from poppies is said to remove wrinkles and freshen the skin. Poppies can also be used for dye and for adding flavor and texture to breads and pastries.

Poppies should be watered moderately and kept in full sun. Poppies grow between 2' and 5' tall with blooms up to 12 inches across. Colors include scarlet red, deep orange, light orange, white, yellow, purple and pink with black centers. There a single leaf and double leaf forms. For a bright, striking addition to your garden, add a border of bright poppies.

Sunflowers are symbolic of adoration. Sunflowers turn their heads to the sun, which is the origin of their common name. Sunflowers belong to the genus helianthus, a reference to Helios, the sun god.

Sunflowers are native to the Americas and are the state flower of Kansas. The sunflower generally grows in scrubland and dry areas. Sunflowers vary widely in size depending on their adaptive genetic make up, but can reach maximums heights of about 10'.

Sunflowers have recently been bred to produce shorter varieties for garden use. The petals were originally quite small and irregular, so efforts have also been made to increase the size and number of petals. Some double petal varieties have also been created as well as variations in the color of the center (brown to black) and even of the petals (honey, beige, pinkish cream, soft yellow, pale russet).

Sunflower seeds are packed with healthy fats, vitamin E, protein, fiber and minerals. Sunflower oil can be used for cooking. Sunflowers serve as animal food, too, mainly for cattle and birds. The seeds of sunflowers have also been used by Native Americans for blue or black dye and the petals for yellow dye. Smaller sunflower varieties are often used as cut flowers for bouquets and flower arrangements.

Try planting sunflowers along a fence or at the back of your garden for a beautiful, highly useful addition to your garden.

The language of flowers associates the following meanings with sweet peas: blissful pleasure, delicate pleasure, good-bye, departure, adieu and thank you for a lovely time. Sweet peas were very popular in the late 1800s and are often considered the floral emblem for Edwardian England. Sweet peas are the flowers most closely connected to the month of April.

Sweet peas come in over 250 varieties. Annual varieties prefer full sun, regular watering and soil with plenty of humus. Perennial sweet peas survive in average soils with moderate watering. Sweet peas are wonderfully fragrant and were originally grown in the fields of Sicily. Most types grow from 1-5' tall, though some may reach 6'.

Sweet peas can be used successfully as cut flowers and in corsages and boutonnieres. The most famous, and perhaps most important use of sweet peas was the extensive genetics studies performed by Gregor Mendel.

Tulips are generally symbolic of fame and perfect love. The symbolic meanings also change with the color of the tulips. Red tulips mean "believe me" and are a declaration of love. Variegated tulips mean "you have beautiful eyes." Yellow tulips mean "there's sunshine in your smile." And cream colored tulips mean "I will love you forever." Tulips are the foremost national symbol of Holland, rivaling wooden shoes and windmills!

Tulips are originally from Persia and were brought to the Netherlands in the 17th century. Approximately 150 varieties of tulips grow in the wild, especially in mountainous, cold regions. Once the tulip was hybrid, a vast array of colors and petal forms were created.

The name for tulips comes from the headdress worn by many Middle Eastern peoples known as a turban or taliban. In Latin, this translates to "tulipa."

In the years 1636-37, tulipmania ruled in the Netherlands. Tulips were a symbol of wealth and status and were traded like currency. A bed of tulips could buy a small house. Some highly prized tulips were even more valuable and a single bulb could be traded for a large house and all of the land, furniture and other accessories.

When the tulip market crashed, it was similar to the stock market crash in the 20th century. Thousands of businessmen were ruined when the bubble burst.

Today, the tulip remains as a favorite flower heralding of spring. Almost any garden can be graced with this beautiful, easily recognizable flower.

The symbolic meanings associated with zinnias are thoughts of absent friends, lasting affection, constancy, goodness and daily remembrance. Zinnias are the state flower of Indiana.

The original zinnias were found in the early 1500s in the wilds of Mexico. They were so dull and unattractive that the Aztec name for them meant "eyesore." When they were introduced in Europe, they were just as disdained and referred to as "everybody's flower' and "poorhouse flower." The zinnia was named for Dr. Gottfried Zinn, a German whose hobby was breeding wildflowers.

The common name, garden Cinderella, indicates the level of the zinnia's later transformation. In the late 1800s a French botanist produced the first double zinnias with bright colors. In the early 20th century, Luther Burbank created the first dahlia like zinnia. Today the number of colors and flower forms available is astonishing.

Zinnias thrive in hot climates and will not grow in cool weather. Zinnias should not be over watered and do not like mildew. A wonderful feature of zinnias is that the flowers that open first stay fresh as new flowers open and begin to bloom.

The next time you decide what flowers to plant in your garden, keep the amazing symbolism of flowers in mind!

Kathleen Karlsen is a professional artist, writer and design consultant residing in Bozeman, Montana. Her original art and fine art gifts can be seen at http://www.livingartsoriginals.com Kathleen is best known for her contemporary impressionism style, her colorful flower paintings and her unique small framed art for gifts which can be seen at http://www.livingartsoriginals.com/smallframed5x7.htm For more articles, including extensive information about flower symbolism, see http://www.livingartsoriginals.com/infoflowersymbolism.htm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathleen_Karlsen

Flower Symbolism - More Favorite Flowers

2007-11-15T00:30:00.003-08:00

Flower Symbolism - More Favorite Flowers
By Kathleen Karlsen

Flower symbolism is a fascinating and ancient means of communicating a very personal message. The symbolism of flowers gives us a glimpse into the cultures and histories of people who have gathered and cultivated them. Amazing stories are associated with many flowers, including bluebells, marigolds, impatiens and poinsettias.

Bluebells are symbolic of humility and gratitude. They are associated with constancy, gratitude and everlasting love. Bluebells are also closely linked to the realm of fairies and are sometimes referred to as "fairy thimbles." To call fairies to a convention, the bluebells would be rung.

Bluebells can be found in North America, Western Europe and North Africa. In some areas they are referred to as wild hyacinths. Bluebells grow in forests, grasslands, mountainsides, along the ocean and in brush areas. Bluebells are members of the lily family and native to Portugal and Spain. A favorite flower around the world for many centuries, the bluebell is a particularly beloved flower in Britain.

Bluebells are easy to grow, can handle both sun and shade and even thrive in neglected gardens. Bluebells are usually grown from bulbs and reproduce by creating smaller offset bulbs as well as seeds. Bluebells will also grow in pots, tubs and urns.

Bluebells normally flower early in the year from April through June. The delicate flowers hang from a central stem. The plant also features narrow leaves in light to medium green. Many butterflies just leaving winter hibernation are fans of the bluebell's nectar. To add some fairy charm to your garden, try growing a few of these unique and beloved flowers!

Marigolds are known as the "Herb of the Sun" and are symbolic of passion and creativity. The Welsh believed that if marigolds were not open early in the morning, then a storm was on the way. Marigolds have been used as love charms and incorporated into wedding garlands. Water made from marigolds was thought to induce psychic visions of fairies if rubbed on the eyelids. In some cultures, marigold flowers have been added to pillows to encourage prophetic or psychic dreams.

The marigold is also associated with the lion and the astrological sign Leo. Early Christians named the flower "Mary's Gold" and offered the blossoms in place of money at the foot of her statues. The Portuguese introduced marigolds into India. Eventually the flower was offered to the Hindu gods Vishnu and Lakshmi. The marigold is also considered to be sacred among the Aztec Indians, who decorate their temples with the flower.

The marigold was once thought to protect against the plague and to be effective in stopping gossip. Interestingly, the marigold can also symbolize cruelty and jealousy. When used in combination with spells, however, the marigold is an anti-dote for the sharp-tongued and promotes cheery conversations.

Marigolds can be found in Europe, Africa and the Americas. Marigolds can adapt to a wide range of conditions, but prefer full sun and rich soils.

The leaves of marigolds have been used to remove warts. Marigolds are also grown and harvested in Mexico to be added to chicken feed. Chickens eating marigold-enriched feed produce eggs with a deep yellow color. The flesh of chickens fed marigolds also take on a rich color to make them more appealing for human consumption.

The blossoms themselves are quite edible for humans, too, and are often used in egg and cheese dishes. The blossoms can be used to make a yellow dye for fabric.

The marigold is a hardy plant with yellow, orange or rusty red blooms. Marigolds are grown from seeds and range in height from 6 to 36 inches. The blossoms can be from 1/2 inch to 5 inches across.

Marigolds have what many people consider to be a disagreeable odor. Some varieties have been bred to be odor-free, but this negates their use as a plant that wards off insects in gardens. Marigolds are a favorite garden flower with men and a useful, cheerful addition to many types of gardens.

Impatiens flowers come in a wide variety of forms including flat flowers and orchid-like shapes. Impatiens flowers are traditionally symbolic of motherly love. In the medieval Mary gardens devoted to the Virgin Mary, impatiens plants were called "Our Lady's earrings."

Many species of impatiens grow only in very narrow climatic ranges and will not grow in other geographical locations. There are approximately 1,000 species of impatiens flowers, but only a few are normally grown in modern gardens. Impatiens flowers come in many different colors from reds to blues to near blacks and browns. Many species are difficult to grow from seed. Instead, impatiens flowers are often grown from cuttings.

Impatiens plants have a strange ability to change sex. The impatiens flower is male when it first opens. After a few days the pollen cap is shed and reveals female organs. This process is to keep the plant from self-pollination. However, it doesn't always work. Some species naturally set seed without even opening their flowers. Other species are self-sterile.

Another unique features of the impatiens plant is the explosive nature of the seed pods. Under extreme pressure, the ripe pods explode when they are disturbed. This scatters the seeds as much as twenty feet from the parent plant!

Impatiens flowers grow in highly specific ecological niches. Some forms epiphytes in trees. The plants rely on the tree for mechanical support but not nutrients, which they produce themselves. The plants are therefore not truly parasitic. Other impatiens plants are hardy perennials with underground rhizomes and tubers. This allows them to survive bitter freezing temperatures in arctic climates. Some impatiens plants are semi-aquatics that grow in edges of streams.

Perhaps the most well known symbolic flower is the poinsettia. The ancient Aztecs considered the poinsettia to be a symbol of purity. Today, poinsettias are the most easily recognized flower symbolic of Christmas. Poinsettias are also known as the "Christmas flower" and "Mexican flame leaf."

Poinsettias originally came from Mexico and Central America. According to legend, one day near Christmas a child who was too poor to buy a present for the Christ child picked a weed from the side of the road. When he reached the church, the plant blossomed in red and green flowers.

The bright petals of poinsettias are actually leaves or bracts, and the flowers themselves are very small and yellow. The Mexican poinsettia is bright red, but poinsettias also come in cream, yellow, pink and peach.

Poinsettias are named after Dr. Joel R. Poinsett, a US ambassador to Mexico who introduced the plant to the United States. Recent research has shown that poinsettias are not poisonous, as they were long believed to be. Poinsettias can grow to a height of 16' and thrive in climates where the temperature remains between 50 and 70F.

All of these unique flowers can be beautiful additions to your home or garden, and knowing their interesting stories and the symbolism associated with them can make them great conversation pieces, too!

Kathleen Karlsen is a professional artist, writer and design consultant residing in Bozeman, Montana. Her original art and fine art gifts can be seen at http://www.livingartsoriginals.com Kathleen is best known for her contemporary impressionism style, her colorful flower paintings and her unique small framed art for gifts which can be seen at http://www.livingartsoriginals.com/smallframed5x7.htm For more articles, including extensive information about flower symbolism, see http://www.livingartsoriginals.com/infoflowersymbolism.htm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathleen_Karlsen

Organic Vegetable Gardening - A Time For Change

2007-11-15T00:30:00.001-08:00

Organic Vegetable Gardening - A Time For Change
By Chris Dailey

One of the greatest nightmares in our modern times is what decades of chemical and pesticide use on our crops have done to our land and to the aquifers beneath the ground that supply the water for the food that we eat. Organic vegetable gardening, once thought to be only done by a handful of nature loving people has gone mainstream due to the toxic after affects that people have seen on the mainstream news on vegetables that are sold in our local marketplace. Here are a few tips on how you can begin to start your own organic vegetable garden at home and provide your self and your family with better vegetables to eat.

If you're tired of wondering what kind of toxins may be in the vegetables that you are currently eating, and what kind of after effects it may have on you and your children after eating them, it is time for you to begin organic vegetable gardening. It is really not all that different from regular gardening except for a few differences that can make your food more healthy and tasty.

In fact, by eating organic vegetables, it is believed that the accumulated toxins within our body can slowly been removed by eating vegetables that are not tainted. This kind of natural healing occurs by eating chemical free food allowing the body to naturally remove the toxins that were once consistently imposed by our regular diets.

There is also an increase in antioxidants in the naturally grown vegetables that is not prevalent in local grocery store bought produce. Allowing organic vegetables into your diet will not only increase the antioxidants that flow through your body, but will also help your immune system and make you more healthy as you continue to eat these natural vegetables.

Other studies have shown that organic vegetables not only tastes better but have higher mineral contents such as calcium, magnesium, and other essential vitamins that add to their ability to help prevent diseases such as allergies, heart attacks, and even hyper activity that is seen in many children today.

The key to organic vegetable gardening is to prepare a plot of land on your own property and begin to fertilize it in a natural way. A small plot is all that's necessary and taking care of a small area is very easy. By simply removing weeds on a daily basis and adding certain insects that will protect your plants such as ladybugs and the praying mantis, you will have healthy organic vegetables in no time at all. Organic vegetable gardening is the wave of the future and is an insurance policy for you and your family's health.

If you are looking for information on organic vegetable gardening please visit: http://www.gardeningorganicsupply.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Dailey

Gardening - Late Fall Gardening

2007-11-15T00:29:00.005-08:00

Gardening - Late Fall Gardening
By Hilary Basile

Fall brings about a new adventure in gardening. It's a time to focus on elimination and conservation. Colors will fade, allowing for other parts of the garden to shine. Proper pruning is necessary to accent seed pods, winter foliage and stems. Fall is a great time to add dimensions to your garden in the form of texture, shapes and colors. Following are gardening tips for pruning and planting in during the fall.

Fall Pruning

Following are tips for fall pruning:

* Cut most low growing perennials to the ground unless they have evergreen foliage such as Creeping Phlox, Thyme and Veronica.
* Prune plants with sloppy fall foliage like Irises, Daylilies and Shasta Daisies.
* Leave stems with interesting seed pods standing, like Purple Coneflower, Black-Eyed Susan and dried Iris seed pods.
* Remove clutter by thinning or cutting down plants that remain in clumps like Bee Balm or Obedient Plant.
* Clean up broken and bent stems.
* Strip stems of browned leaves to accent seed heads.
* Throw out annuals as they decline.
* Cut back fussy grasses like Panic Grass. Upright varieties such as Feather Reed may last until spring but may require some staking.
* Clean up and stake evergreen shrubs, grasses and perennials as needed.
* Use anti-desiccants to help plants survive the winter.
* Mulch roses with 12 inches of coarse bark. Don't prune roses too heavily until springtime.
* Do a thorough fall weeding to prevent unwanted spring surprises.
* Level your garden by filling holes, raking up dead leaves and reducing high spots.
* Apply a thin layer of compost for winter nutrients.

Fall Planting

Following are tips for planting fall annuals:

* Add Pansies and flowering kale in drifts or clumps to add extra color and interest. They will diminish in winter but will come back in the spring.
* Use a slow-release granular fertilizer when planting.
* Use a liquid fertilizer weekly until there is a killing frost.
* Water all garden plants regularly through the winter to keep them alive.

Use these gardening tips to prune and winterize your garden, and to plant flowers that will add color and interest through the fall and winter.

Hilary Basile is a writer for MyGuidesUSA.com - http://www.myguidesusa.com you will find valuable tips and resources for handling life's major events. Whether you're planning a wedding, buying your first home, anxiously awaiting the birth of a child, contending with a divorce, searching for a new job, or planning for your retirement, you'll find answers to your questions at MyGuidesUSA.com

Find lawn and garden tips and resources at http://www.myguidesusa.com/lawnandgarden

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hilary_Basile

Helpful Advice For Creating Your Perfect Garden

2007-11-15T00:29:00.003-08:00

Helpful Advice For Creating Your Perfect Garden
By Dawn Smith

How would you go about creating your perfect garden? What ideas do you have that you would like to see come alive. Do you fancy the idea of a country style cottage garden with narrow winding pathways and fruit trees or would you rather see a grand splendour of lights, colour and clean-cut modern lines? Regardless of style, the best garden designs stem from those who inject personality into their landscaping ideas.

The first step is learning how to utilise the space you have. As the saying goes - it's the size you have but what you do with it that counts. There couldn't be a better statement in gardening terms. Many small town gardens have some truly stunning designs. In fact, in my town there is an annual 'secret gardens' day where local people open up their gardens for anyone to come and take a peak. There is also a prize for best three at the end of the day. It's a large affair and although the number grows each year, there are usually around 200 participants and many more visitors.

Gardening is often described as an art form. I am no artist but I do love to look out of my window and see my work in all its glory. I consider myself very lucky as I live in a small village near the town that overlooks nothing but fields and a few houses dotted around. My garden is not particularly large and is a rather boring rectangular shape but this didn't stop me creating a design that I am proud of. By using a rockery, a waterfall, curved flowerbeds, and small trees or bushes, it's very easy to add shape to your garden and disguise any boring lines. Color is a matter of personal choice but in my design I have opted for a just a small amount of color as I prefer a modern look with gravel, potted plants, and of course my herb garden. I wanted to create the perfect yet practical place to invite friends around for a barbeque or garden party. It is for this reason I chose to add my color in the form of lighting which I can use all year round and not worry about which plants will be in bloom.

When planning your garden design, start by writing a list of all the things you like. Are you one for barbeques? Do you like to cook with fresh herbs? Do you need a low maintenance option? Do you prefer dainty flowers or clean-cut modern lines with an organised look? If you have a family with young children you will obviously need to keep your garden design practical and allow somewhere for them to play.

After doing this, split your garden into at least two sections to incorporate all of your ideas. Just to note here, a good way of joining different sections of your garden seamlessly is with a pergola. They can usually be constructed by a competent D.I.Y'er, and a great look can be achieved at a reasonable price.

Next, talk to experts at your local garden center to find out about any specifics such as when to plant and soil types etc. Alternatively buy yourself a good gardening book (you can find some good recommendations at www.perfectgardendesign.com).

Getting all of your ideas and plans in place all comes down to imagination. It may be hard work in the beginning but your time and patience will be more than worth the wait.

If you're designing a garden then you will know that there is far more to it than getting out your fork and spade. You can find out more on how you can create your perfect outdoor bliss now, visit Garden Designs and learn about everything from building a pergola to Zen Gardens.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dawn_Smith

How To Grow Orchids

2007-11-15T00:29:00.001-08:00

How To Grow Orchids
By Sefi Jay

You could be questioning yourself often how to grow orchids, so let me give you some of advice. For one thing, orchids are attention seekers and will happily grow into a nice, healthy orchid so long as you let them bask in enough sunlight. Just make sure to do this because sooner or later it WILL bloom - beautifully!

So how much sunlight is enough sunlight?

Depending on the type of orchids you want to grow, it will either be easy or less easy to care for. A moderate amount to a high amount of sunlight is required for many orchids with thin leaves. The leaves tend to change into medium-green to light-green in color. For this result, it is totally normal.

What about watering the orchids?

Water temperatures should be at Luke-warm. Drenching the orchid isn't a bad thought, as long as the pot isn't overflowing. Make sure to keep the water level right beneath the rim of the pot. Only water and feed your orchids when the potting mix is hardly moist, because I discovered that most orchids don't prefer their feet always being wet.

How can you make the orchids comfortable with their surrounding?

It's better that the temperatures surrounding the orchids are between 60ºF and 85ºF. This temperature is just right because it allows the right amount of air movement around them. However, make it a priority not to leave orchids in a corner - its better to leave them on a window sill with a slightly open window.

So, I hope I have been of great help and thrust you to pursue becoming great at growing orchids. When you're applying these tips remember to have fun!! If you have read up to here then you probably want to know more.

http://www.howtogroworchids.net - A great source for growing tips on various orchid types!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sefi_Jay

Gardening In Hanging Baskets

2007-11-15T00:28:00.003-08:00

Gardening In Hanging Baskets
By Lynne Wilson

Hi Fellow Gardeners,

I am very excited about growing veggies and herbs in hanging baskets. I know you can grow absolutely stunning displays of very colourful flowering plants in baskets. They really brighten up an area, and also become a talking point. I know people who hang the baskets just as a divider, and even those who want to hide from their neighbours.

I recently was talking to a lady, who was a teacher at a school for gifted children. She was growing all her vegetables in baskets on her flat balcony on the Gold Coast of Queensland. I must admit I was really taken with the idea and so I tried some different veggies and herb in my hanging baskets.

They do need feeding and watering regularly, but provided I didn't get to carried away with too many of them, which I am incline to do, I could manage to produce some really nice capsicums and chillies, particularly.

I found the chillies probably the easiest as they didn't seem to mind a bit of drying out. Other plants I tried were potatoes, tomatoes, watercress, chives, mint, parsley (this was also very successful), even comfrey and rhubarb. There were many others that I grow now as well. I used a tiered hanging basket system so I could have as many as 6 baskets one underneath the other, and also I used a new recycled plastic basket liner I have discovered, which just lasts and lasts. This was recycled from plastic soft drink bottles. I also rigged up a drip watering system for the baskets. As the top one gets watered, it filters down and waters the next one and so on. I hang these around the sides of my carport, mainly to close the area in and protect it from the weather as it was larger than I needed for my car.

I did find the side where early morning sun on the plants was the best, as our afternoon sun tends to get very hot and drying. So if you want to try growing some of your veggies and herbs in hanging baskets do remember the light conditions. It will save you moving things around later on. There are more tips and savings ideas associated with growing plants, either leafy, flowering plants or veggies and herbs in hanging baskets, such as reducing the weight and retaining the water.

I heard of one family whose fern was over a hundred years old. It had been past down from generation to generation, of course it was needing a bigger basket. I thought that was fantastic, my friend grows ferns in her baskets inside on her patio and she claims they are over 25 years old. I think growing plants in hanging baskets is a fun and easy way to grow plants. No bending down, they may still need a little weeding unless the basket is crammed full of plants. And yes they still are subject to pests, but it is much easier to just pick off caterpillars or the like, because of the height they are at, than spraying them.

Have fun, try it out.

Balcony Gardening 101 - Beginners Tips

2007-11-15T00:28:00.001-08:00

Balcony Gardening 101 - Beginners Tips
By Keith Markensen

If you live in an apartment with a balcony, and also love to garden, you'll be happy to know that it is very feasible to create a garden despite not having your own yard. Your garden won't be the same as a regular one, but a peaceful area can still be formed by adding plants to the area. The following guidelines will help to show you how you need to think of balcony gardening differently than a regular garden. The guidelines will help your garden be healthy and look great.

Think Safety

It is very important to find out how much weight it is possible for your balcony to hold. You should check with your landlord to make sure there are no restrictions against having a garden on your balcony. Without any setbacks, you can begin working on your garden after this initial safety phase.

Think Small

Since you only have a small area to work with, not an entire yard, you will need to be space conscious. When you are purchasing plants for your garden, make sure that the employee knows that the plant will be going in a balcony garden. They will be able to tell you which plants are best and which ones to avoid.

You will want to avoid plants that grow too big too quickly, for example. The plants will also be at least partially outdoors, so they should be able to handle potentially harsh elements. A good option is to use small Alpine plants on your balcony. They remain small, and are hardy plants.

You should also think of the aroma of the plants that you choose. The breeze will likely fill your home with the garden smells often, so you'll want to make sure that they are pleasant.

Besides choosing small plants, you can make the best use of space by adding hanging baskets. You will likely have to drill into the outside walls for this, so check to make sure that is allowed before drilling.

Because of the small space, you will not want to be working on your garden all the time. It can be a hassle to move around all the plants continuously. To avoid this, you can choose to plant perennials in decorative plant containers. They last longer, so you will have to replace plants less often.

Think Furniture

It is nice to be able to sit in your garden to enjoy it. With all of the plants though, how will you have comfortable space to do this? The best option is probably to have lightweight furniture that you can bring out only when you want to use it.

You should be able to fold and store the pieces when you do not wish to use them. If your balcony is very close to that of neighbors, you may want to add a screen for privacy, or you can rely on all of your plants to enclose your space.

Dressing up a small space like a balcony can be made easier with some decorative plant containers. There are lots of styles to choose from. Learn more about your plant container options at http://www.plant-care.com/decorative-containers.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_Markensen

Want To Grow Herbs? Gardening Tips For Herbs Growing

2007-11-15T00:27:00.004-08:00

Want To Grow Herbs? Gardening Tips For Herbs Growing
By Angelica Gigas

Herbs have been grown for numerous years, for a variety of reasons and there are hundreds of different varieties of herbs. Gardening by monks and nuns in medieval times, always included a number of herbs.

Growing them then was mainly for medicinal purposes and for their smell, especially as air fresheners, As time progressed, they began to be grown for culinary and decorative purposes, often to disguise the flavour of none too fresh food.

Today, it is possible in many shops and supermarkets to buy both fresh and dried herbs. Gardening and growing your own however, ensures that they really are fresh, and that you have the choices that you want, as well as being a lot less expensive.

As more and more of us move towards healthy living, herbs are once again becoming more important in our lives, Whether they are grown for medicinal, culinary or just decorative reasons, it really is quite simple to grow herbs.

Gardening does not always need to be on a large scale, and growing herbs is the perfect example for small scale gardening. They can even be grown successfully in pots on the window sill. In fact, unless you use a vast amount of herbs, gardening on this scale, really is the best way.Not only will you be able to have a succession of young, fresh herbs, but you wont even have to go outside to pick them.

However, if you want to grow herbs on a larger scale, perhaps to use as decoration, it is essential that you choose the correct location. As most of them originated in Mediterranean climates, you will need a warm, sunny position for your herbs. Gardening with such plants, is like any other form, positioning is everything.

Remember, that some herbs such as mint, will spread far and wide, it has always been said, that mint will either be one side of a fence or the other. Remember this, and don't fall out with your neighbour, if you want mint sauce for your lamb, when it's growing on their side. It is a good idea to plant mint in a bucket in the ground, to prevent this.

Make sure that your herb garden is well drained, and do not over water them. Unless you live in a desert, once they are established there is little need to water your herbs.

Gardening really will only consist of trimming back and a little weeding, and if you have some annual herbs such as Basil, planting out new plants when conditions are right. It may also be necessary to grow a few cuttings, to replace any plants which have gone too straggly.

Most herbs can be grown from seed, but it is far easier to begin with plants. This will also allow you to see exactly how your herb garden is going to look, without having to wait too long. Whichever method you choose, enjoy your herbs gardening.

Are you looking for more help with gardening? Do you need advice on landscaping, wildflower gardens or any other aspect? Then why not visit Perennial Flower Garden Ideas

Do you know which perennials are which? Did you know that you can get free help, hints and suggestions at: Perennial Flower Garden Ideas

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Angelica_Gigas

The Essence of Flowers

2007-11-15T00:27:00.003-08:00

The Essence of Flowers
By Primoz Borovnik

The enchanting essence and ethereal beauty of flowers has fascinated humans since time immemorial. Somewhere along the way people began saying it with flowers when they couldn't find the words to explain how they felt. Even today people turn to flowers when unable to express their deepest emotions. A gift of flowers is greatly appreciated not just for its beauty but because it has the power to lift one's spirits.

Flowers are an integral part of life in every culture around the world. No wedding is complete without flowers. In the West the wedding venue is flooded with flowers. The bride and her bridesmaids carry bouquets while the groom and others in the wedding party wear flowers as boutonnieres and corsages. In some Eastern cultures the bride and groom are wedded under a canopy of flowers. Most brides wear floral garlands or have flowers in their hair.

The red rose is universally considered the enduring symbol of love. When a man hands a woman a red rose, he doesn't need to explain how he feels. Also frequently used to express love and admiration are red carnations, chrysanthemums and tulips. Gifting flowers is the preferred way to share in the happiness of someone celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, a wedding or the birth of a child. White flowers, which are associated with purity, are commonly used to express condolences on someone's death.

Each flower carries a subtle message - some flattering and others not. The language of flowers is complicated and there is little agreement on their meanings. A daisy is believed to represent innocence and a single daffodil misfortune. But a bunch of daffodils represents happiness. Except a few though, most flowers are today chosen merely for their beauty.

There are also birthflowers associated with each month. Carnation and snowdrop representing constancy are the birthflowers for January; violet and primrose denoting sincerity for February; jonquil and daffodil representing courage for March; sweet pea and daisy denoting innocence for April; lily of the valley representing love for May; rose and honeysuckle denoting health for June; larkspur and water lily representing contentment for July; gladiolus and poppy denoting happiness for August; aster and morning glory representing clear thinking for September; marigold denoting hope for October; chrysanthemum representing fidelity for November; and finally narcissus and holly denoting prosperity for December.

Whether you pick flowers for their beauty or symbolism, they make perfect gifts for your loved ones.

MORE INFO

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Primoz_Borovnik

What To Do In The Mediterranean Winter Garden

2007-11-15T00:27:00.001-08:00

What To Do In The Mediterranean Winter Garden
By Jonathan Ya'akobi

The late autumn and early winter is a time of year when the gardener may be inclined to rest somewhat, believing that the garden tasks have largely been completed and that there is not too much to do until preparations for spring commence. This may be true to some extent in cold winter climates, but in Mediterranean regions, typified by mild winters, there is no shortage of necessary garden jobs to carry out. Furthermore, there is still time to complete some tasks which perhaps should have been performed in the autumn.

Feeding: Ideally, feeding should have been done at the beginning of the autumn, in order to take advantage of the brief resurgence of plant growth in the fall. If you neglected to do so, I recommend at this time, using organic compost without adding chemical fertilizer. As opposed to harsh winter regions, many plants do in fact grow considerably during the mild winter, even if this is not always apparent visually. The low nutriment concentrations released to the soil by compost should be entirely adequate to supply the requirements of the ornamental plans, while the adding of organic matter to the soil, is in any case a necessary, indeed vitally important thing in itself.

Lawn Care: If you failed to fertilize your lawn at the end of the summer, then it would be advisable to apply now a potassium rich fertilizer. High potassium levels through the winter, improve the lawn's hardiness to cold, and seem to allow for a better start when the grass renews its growth in the spring. Applying high doses of nitrogen is at best superfluous at this time of year. My preference is for slow or controlled release fertilizer, as opposed to readily dissolvable fertilizer like potassium chloride. All this is relevant of course to those who grow the perennial grass lawns common to hot summer/mild winter areas, such as Bermuda, Zoysia, Kikuya or St. Augustine grass. Mowing should be performed taking particular care not to scalp the lawn.

Dividing Perennials: This is probably the best season for lifting up, dividing and transplanting herbaceous perennials like Agapanthus, Achillea, or Coreopsis. In hot weather, the plants are liable to wither and die, because as root systems are inevitably damaged during transplanting, a time gap is created between replanting and the capacity of the uprooted plants to take up moisture from the soil. Plants should be pruned back before being up lifted, in order to reduce water loss, and kept in the shade until being replanted. This must be carried out as rapidly as possible, and then the plants should be hand watered immediately. The top soil must not be permitted to dry out until the plants have established themselves. Contrary to popular opinion, the winter is a perfectly appropriate season for planting, very tender species excepted, even where temperatures sink below 0c now and again.

Pruning is not generally recommended now. Cold sensitive plants should not be touched until all possibility of frost has passed, and those cold hardy plants which are normally pruned during their dormant season, should also not be pruned until the latter half of the winter. Nonetheless, ornamental grasses that look poor during the winter can be cut to the ground, on condition that they are not cold sensitive species. If in doubt, wait till the spring. The whole question of pruning in the winter will be dealt with in a future article. You can also click on the link below, and by clicking on the articles page of my site, find recent, related articles such as:

* Pruning In The Autumn - What You Should And Should Not Do

* Irrigation - How To Look After The Watering Needs Of Your Plants In The Winter

* What to do for your Lawn in the Spring/Autumn

About the author - 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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Ya'akobi

The Essentials of Indoor Gardening

2007-11-15T00:26:00.004-08:00

The Essentials of Indoor Gardening
By Jonathan Ya'akobi

Although the art of indoor gardening is not dry climate specific, the subject is particularly relevant to us arid country gardeners, as there's often greater scope for "going to town" in doors, than out. Growing plants indoors requires adopting a number of techniques which are different from those the home gardener may be used to when working in the outdoor garden, although there are things in common between the two. So here are some general points on the subject.

The principles of good design are the same whether indoors or out. Simplicity, variety, scale, balance, unity and emphasis, are issues that have to be addressed. Just as landscaping elements such as raised beds or water features are as an integral part of the outdoor garden as ornamental plants, so are the pots and containers one uses in the sitting room. Try to invest in decent looking pots and don't save money by buying plastic containers. Would you buy a plastic table for the sitting room for instance?

What are the differences then? These become apparent when one examines what plants need for healthy growth. Plants require adequate light in order to perform the most basic, energy creating function of photosynthesis. Plants that can be grown indoors are those that can tolerate low-level light intensity. There's no point trying to grow a rose bush in your living room! Therefore, the placing of your plants is crucial. Remember that the light levels drop exponentially the further the plant is from the window. In places without natural light, it's necessary to provide at the very least, the light of two 150 Watt bulbs.

All plants require water of course. Less obvious but no less crucial is the fact that the roots also require adequate oxygen for respiration. There are two main factors which determine whether the plant has access to the right balance between the two: One is the potting soil in which the plant grows and the other is the way the plants are watered. Never use ordinary soil in a pot. Always use an artificial potting medium. They are readily available at plant nurseries. Secondly, irrigate till excess water flows out of the drainage hole and then wait until the top 2 cm or so of "soil" have dried out before the next watering. The term "over watering" does not refer to excess water draining away, rather to a state whereby the potting mixture is perpetually saturated because of over frequent irrigating. Furthermore, watering to excess prevents an unhealthy salt build up in the soil, by the periodic leaching of the salts. This rule of thumb method holds good for most plants.

Plants grown in pots are absolutely dependent on fertilizer as a source of the mineral nutrient essential for their development. Excluding flowering plants perhaps, (which are not easy to grow indoors anyway) an annual feed with a 12 month slow release fertilizer is often enough.

So what plants are worth buying? The range of flowering plants is very restricted. African Violets are difficult to maintain beyond a year or two. Poinsettas are reasonably easy to grow. In my opinion, its better to create form and color interest by use of foliage plants such as Epiremnum Shefflera, Dracaena, Spathipyllum (also provides white flowers) and Aglaonema. For vertical emphasis one can try Ficus benjamina,(never to be planted out doors because of its aggressive roots) and palms such as Chamaedorea. Ferns, such as the mainstay Nephrolepis are effective when massed. They are particularly sensitive to the lack of humidity caused by heaters and air conditioners, so remember to spray them with water regularly.

An alternative method to ordinary containers (i.e. containers which allow water to drain out) is the hydroponic method, where the plants are grown in a sealed container. A specific water level is maintained in order to create the necessary balance between air and water. The primary drawback of hydroponics is the initial expense involved. However the ease of maintenance, especially regarding watering and feeding is such, that growing indoor plants hydroponically is well worth considering.

About the author - 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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Ya'akobi

Kids, Nature, Gardening and Landscape - A Communication Connection

2007-11-15T00:26:00.003-08:00

Kids, Nature, Gardening and Landscape - A Communication Connection
By Keith Markensen

The best way to ensure having as healthy of an environment as possible is to educate children about it. If children are involved each day in activities where they directly involved with the environment, they will gain respect for nature. A great activity for this is gardening. Your children should get involved with gardening for the following reasons:

Science

When a child sees a seed grow into a plant, they are taught in a direct way how nature works. They will learn about the plants life cycle and how it won't live if humans neglect it. Children will be curious and enjoy this experience very much.

Life

Life should be treated with care. Through gardening, watching a tree grow from a seed into maturity, for example, can help teach kids this. You can explain to them the similarities between the trees growth and their own, or the growth of people in general. In addition, they will see that plants need water, sunlight, air, and soil to live. Through this, they will gain an understanding that in order to live, humans need food, water, shelter, and air. Pulling weeds can show them how to stay away from bad influences that can overtake their lives.

Relaxation

No matter how old a person is, gardening can reduce stress because of its calming effect. It's a quiet, natural place that stimulates all five senses. If a child is from a broken home or has been abused, gardening can be a great form of therapy. It can help to build their self-esteem.

Quality Time with the Family

The time spent working on your garden with your family will definitely be quality time. While you are working, you can talk to each other about what you are doing or about life in general. Even working quietly near each other is beneficial. You can learn a lot about each other in this environment. Include the kids in your garden and landscape design plan at your home.

Through gardening, a child can learn how to care for and respect life, while at the same time giving them a chance to bond with you. They will remember and appreciate the lessons learned in the garden forever.

Teaching kids to appreciate nature is a wonderful legacy to pass on. Simply making them a part of your home landscape design plan. is a great starting point. Find out the steps to start planning your landscape at http://www.plant-care.com/landscape-design-plans.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_Markensen

Organic Rose Fertilizer - 2 "Magic" Ingredients You Should Include!

2007-11-15T00:26:00.001-08:00

Organic Rose Fertilizer - 2 "Magic" Ingredients You Should Include!
By David LeAche

The very mention of "organic rose fertilizer", brings back some early memories.

Many years ago, a friend of my grandmothers gave me some advice concerning the planting of rose bushes. Her advice concluded with a simple post-script, "...and don't forget to put a banana peel and a used tea-bag in the hole before you place the bush!" The banana peel was obviously organic material high in potassium, but the tea-bag?

Roses are heavy feeders and, with a few exceptions, will use almost as much fertilizer as you can give them. That's not to say that you should use huge doses, but smaller doses more often. As a rose show exhibitor I come across many rosarians who fertilize almost every day! The average gardener doesn't have the time to do this of course, so once a week becomes a great way to plan your rose bush feeding, using a mix of organic and chemical.

Most rosarians, when pressed, will own up to using their own special organic mix, which they consider to be their own "special secret". The mix that is going to produce the biggest, healthiest blooms you would ever see! Well, whatever fertilizer mix you plan on using, it should contain the two "magic" ingredients the rose growers in the "know" are using. If you want good healthy bushes and an armful of glowing blooms, then you need to include these two ingredients in your fertilizing program.

The first is finely ground alfalfa. Rose exhibitors claim this to be the secret to greener foliage and larger flowers, and it's cheap! Alfalfa, as it disintegrates, produces an alcohol called triacontanol to which roses have a very positive response. A drink of this in early spring and it's like a "kick in the pants", a wake up call to jump into action. Basal breaks are formed from the bud union and these produce the new canes. New canes mean new growth, increased vigor and a strong new bush. The alfalfa should be sugar free, not the sort you would feed rabbits for example, and finely ground, for it to act quickly. Two large cupfuls around each bush twice a year will do the trick, with the first one put down in early spring. Two tablespoonfuls would be enough for a container grown rose.

The second is Kelp, either in liquid form or granular. Kelp is an excellent source of many trace elements and rosarians will swear it has magical growth properties. It is made from the flat, rubbery looking seaweed that tangles boat motors, but free from salt and applied to our rose beds once a year in the spring, it becomes one of the miracle, organic rose bush stimulants. It is high in potassium and provides an abundant supply of growth enzymes, hormones and minerals. (About 60!) It strengthens stem cell walls so that your roses don't give up water so easily and get stressed during times of drought and are much hardier in colder climes. Kelp also feeds the micro-organisms in the soil, stimulating the soil bacteria which will allow the other organic soil additives to thrive. A very small handful per bush in early spring is all you need of this "magic" stimulant.

Don't forget that all fertilizers require biological activity and moisture to release the nutrients: mix your magic ingredients into the dirt and water deeply. Don't worry, they are also self-regulating, releasing nutrients faster in the warm weather and slowing down in the cold: truly magic!

To quote my Grandmothers friend again, "manure by the shovel and organics by the spoonful!" .....and please do not forget the banana peel and the tea bag. I said "organic rose fertilizer" would bring back some memories...magic eh?

About the Author: David LeAche is author of http://www.rose-works.com, where you can find out about rose types, rose growing and using petals, hips and rose-water. Find out all about this site at http://www.rose-works.com/about-us.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_LeAche

Landscaping Ideas For Green Solutions

2007-11-15T00:25:00.003-08:00

Landscaping Ideas For Green Solutions
By Susan Schlenger

There are certain areas of the United States that are moving forward with green solutions. New homes are being constructed, concentrating on green construction, necessities and amenities. Energy efficient appliances, green roofs, solar heating, and using materials from renewable forests are all elements the direction our country is going in.

But there is another area which can greatly impact our planet. That is the outdoor environment, or the landscape.

There are numerous ways that outdoor elements can be addressed.

One way is to use native plants. Native plants require less maintenance than other types of plants. They need less water. They are more resistant to pests and disease, and therefore don't require pesticides. Little or no fertilizing is necessary. They keep out undesirable invasive species, which can take over a landscape.

Many natives are quite beautiful. The Flowering Dogwood tree has beautiful pink or white flowers. It also has wonderful berries in the Fall, which birds love. Viburnums will take the shade, flowers and also produce berries. Winterberry Holly becomes absolutely covered with berries in the winter too. Red Twig Dogwood has bright red stems which are showy against evergreens during the winter months. White Pine is a native evergreen which is majestic in later years. There are many, many others. These mentioned are just a few that come to mind.

Another landscaping idea that is helpful to the environment is to create rain gardens. Although native plants are often used in these types of areas, non-native plants that are wet site tolerant can be included. Rain gardens are areas that are especially created so that water is directed to them. They are located in a low lying area. Wet site tolerant plants are used and do well here. Rain gardens help with storm water management. Water draining to this area goes back into the ground and helps supply the water sources. Rain gardens eliminate runoff and also the need for expensive piping of excess water elsewhere.

Xeriscaping is another green method of landscaping. Here, plants that are drought tolerant are used in the landscape. As with native plants, less water is needed for survival. Many native plants are drought tolerant although some non-native ones can be also. Many herbs and perennials are part of this group that can easily survive in dry conditions. Less water is used from our homes to keep drought tolerant plants alive. Lavender, Catmint, Thyme, Japanese Holly, and Junipers are all examples of these types of plants.

Lighting designs and fixtures that use less energy is also a positive way to help out environment. Low voltage lighting is one choice. An even better one is solar lighting. Solar lights depend on the energy of the sun during the day to provide lighting at night. Eight hours of sunlight is required to get the full benefits. No electricity is used and installations are simple.

I have touched on just a few ways to help the environment with some good landscaping ideas. Hopefully you might use some or all of them in your landscaping projects. Every little bit helps.

Susan Schlenger is a professional Landscape Designer with a degree in Landscape Architecture. To read more landscaping ideas, visit http://www.landscape-design-advice.com/landscaping-ideas.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_Schlenger

Garden Perennials Provide a Riot of Color

2007-11-15T00:25:00.001-08:00

Garden Perennials Provide a Riot of Color
By Colin Clifford

Garden perennials are popular with many gardeners, though there is a danger that the new gardener will over-plant them as they wait for those already planted to mature. The secret with perennials is patience, and if you want something to add color to your garden while you wait, then plant some annuals for the first year until the perennials really show their true colors.

A perennial needs at least a year before it flowers properly and that is when some gardeners get impatient. In year two, although you get some show of flowers, you will still not be impressed and might start to wonder why you chose perennials. That feeling totally changes, however, with the explosion of color in year three. That is when you will start to regret the extra plants you put in because the first ones did not seem to be doing anything.

Once your perennials are established it will seem very easy just to sit back and admire your work, but you will have no time for that. Perennials do not last for ever, and the definition of the term is one that lasts for more than two years. As some die away you will have to remove and replace them with fresh plants. You can even move them about the garden since perennials are ideal for replanting. In fact many gardeners have a space set aside for starting off new garden perennials in a variety of colors that they can use later for filling in gaps as plants die. This avoids them having to wait until the plants mature.

It is not easy to fill an empty space in a row of flowers if you have to wait two or three years for a plant to flower, and a small personal nursery area is a good idea and quite common with gardeners experienced in growing perennials. Others fill spaces with annuals, but they never quite look as though they belong.

Growing perennials takes experience. Perhaps not so much the growing, but the planning and envisaging what your garden will look like in three years time. It is not easy to space your plants correctly since they will spread out a great deal more than you think as they mature, and some such as asters, can continue to bloom when others have died out. The overall plan of a garden should take several aspects of the plant into consideration, such as height, spread, color, whether it prefers shade or direct sunlight, and how long they flower for.

As mentioned, the aster can bloom past September into the fall, and you don't want to plant asters together with summer blooms that die off in August. You will then be left with some asters all on their own and, while asters are lovely plants, it might not be as you planned it. Perennials can bloom right through from April to November, sometimes even later depending on the climate and the weather conditions.

Let's face it, there are more to perennials than most people think, and they include plants as diverse as rhubarb, daffodils, and other bulbs, corms and rhizomes, lilac and even dandelions and daisies. You also have the soft, fleshy stemmed herbaceous perennials such as the peony. These have fragrant flowers, the smell of which varies between varieties and come in reds, pinks and whites.

The beautiful blue cornflower, also known as bachelor's buttons because they were once worn by bachelors when they went courting, are excellent flowers for cutting, and the lovely flower belies the foliage that can get quite ugly as it ages. For this reason cornflower is best grown among other flowers with sufficient foliage to hide that of the cornflower.

Lobelia plants can be either annuals or perennials, and the delicate purple lobelia is very attractive. Although most people generally regard lobelia as being a purple plant, there are over 350 species of lobelia, and the short-lived perennial lobelia cardinalis has red flowers that appear in the summer through to the fall. The lobelia siphilitica (Azure Sage), on the other hand, does not appear till the fall and has delicate deep blue flowers. These plants prefer to be planted in clumps where they show their colors to best advantage.

The geranium is another garden perennial that looks good in borders, beside ponds or even as ground cover. The true geranium is a hardy perennial with a fabulous range of red to blue colors that love well drained soil and shady conditions. There are over 300 species, and new hybrids coming along all the time.

In summary, garden perennials have to be understood, and once the gardener new to them gets past the first two or three years then he or she will be hooked. They provide a riot of color to any garden, large or small, and are able to be easily moved and transplanted to suit your particular planning needs.

Want to find top qualitity perennials for your garden then visit http://www.mygardencenteronline.com

Where you will find a full range of Aster, Black Eyed Susan, Clematis, Dianthus, Geranium, Peony and alot more other types of garden perennials

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colin_Clifford

Planting Rye Grass For Easy Green Winter Lawns

2007-11-15T00:24:00.002-08:00

Planting Rye Grass For Easy Green Winter Lawns
By Lee Dobbins

For many locations, the end of autumn and the approach of winter is time to start thinking about planting rye grass. Rye grass, which comes in both annual and perennial types, provides a beautiful green turf that grows quickly and can be lively when ordinary grasses are dormant for the winter. It also is one of the earliest spring grasses and is also used for temporary ground covers or to augment other grasses.

Many grass varieties are difficult and ornery to grow. However, rye grass is easy to plant and grow. Seed the soil and water it. That's about all there is to growing rye grass. It can be hand sown, applied using spreaders, or by broadcasting the seed, all with little trouble. Rye grass grows best the more contact it has with the soil, so for best results prepare ahead a little.

Ground covering you no longer desire, should be cut closely, destroyed with herbicides or burned. Herbicides (week killers) require careful following of the directions. There will be a waiting period before you can plant after the use of herbicides. There are also plant species that must not be planted after the use of herbicides. When a drought occurs, burning may not be permitted, due to increased fire risks at this time, so you will have to check that before you decide to burn.

When planting rye grass, or anything else for that matter, you should first test the soil and correct pH and nutrient levels. In short, the steps to follow are; test, fertilize, water, then sow the seeds. Continue to water regularly for the best chance at germination. You'll be impressed with the lush green turf rye grass provides.

Rye grass is a great plant to use for preventing erosion as it takes hold fast, and the annual version of it will die off for crop time. It is also beneficial in controlling nematode infestation in any crops that are susceptible to it. Also, after it dies, it readily settles into the soil providing nourishment and bringing greater value to the land.

You can plant rye grass to boost the appearance and coverage of other grasses, but in some regions and applications may be used alone. If you are unsure whether an annual species of rye grass or one of the more hardy perennial types is best for your needs, talk with your seed and feed dealer, garden supply store, or contact your county agricultural agent for advice. Many of these will have free online reference guides to grass selection and the actual techniques for planting and care.

Planting rye grass in the fall is a great way to help ensure that you will have a beautiful green lawn in the spring. Growing rye grass is extremely easy, needing little more than contact with the earth and water. For best results, you should spend a little time preparing your current lawn by removing any undesirable areas, testing the soil for the proper pH balance and then adding the proper nutrients accordingly, fertilizing and watering.

For more information on gardening and landscaping as well as more on planting rye grass, please visit Backyard Garden And Patio.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins