Modern Indoor Gardening Through Those Cold Winter Months

Indoor gardening during those long cold months of winter can keep the excitement of your gardening experiences going. Having a garden in the home can really add to your decor and aid to your health at the same time. Indoor gardening helps to add moisture to the air as well as filter the air by exchanging carbon dioxide for oxygen through plants.

This method of gardening is no more demanding than an outdoor garden and you don't have to have a lot of room to do it. All you need is the basics to have a successful indoor garden, light, nutrients and water.

Depending on the types of indoor plants, the requirements for lighting can differ, most plants grow best with a good light source. This can be accomplished by placing your plants near windows or by the use of growing lights. When choosing the plants you want to grow in your indoor garden, keep in mind that your plants with dark leaves usually won't need as much light as the other plants.

Over watering is the most common mistake that is made with growing an indoor garden. Indoors you don't have the sun, wind or the larger areas of soil to absorb the moisture or evaporate it. Your indoor garden will need water just as your outdoor garden does, just keep in mind that these plants are in containers and you can't just keep watering them and have water standing in the container, this will only cause the root systems to rot. A good drainage system is very important with container gardening. Under watering is also just as important and needs to be monitored. Check the moisture daily at the beginning to see how the soil retains or drains moisture is very important. You want to keep the soil moist, not soaked.

Humidity can be a problem with indoor gardening, particularly in the winter months when air in your house can be very dry. Simply misting your plants with a fine spray can help during these dry times.

Nutrition is another thing that is very important. Different plants have different requirements, keep this in mind when planning your indoor garden. There are many organic slow release nutrients that can be purchased at most local garden centers for this method of gardening. Also remember that a good healthy organic soilless potting mix that drains well, retains the moisture needed and retains nutrients needed for your plants to thrive is very important with indoor gardening.

Best of Get the Lowdown on Organic Container Gardening

If you're looking to start organic container gardening, you better complete the seven most basic elements required namely; plants, water, sunlight, temperature, fertilizers, space and most importantly, patience. Once an element is missing, you will not fully appreciate the essence of what you're doing and will not eventually succeed.

It is therefore advised that every thing must be prepared beforehand so the process can be started and be thoroughly done. So to get started, gather the elements mentioned and get them in a container wherein you could mix them except for the elements such as sunlight, space and patience as they are not tangible.  

Plants are the most essential because without it, your plans of organic container gardening would be useless. The success of the whole project highly depends on the plants that you will be growing, cultivating, nurturing and eventually going to be harvesting.

You need to be very careful in choosing the type of plant that you will be growing as the success of growing varies in the temperature, place and season. To start with, you can choose plants that are not seasonal or those that easily grow.

Water is another vital ingredient in the success of organic container gardening as this will sustain the life of the plant that you're trying to grow. The trick is to keep the soil and the plants inside the container but be careful not to submerge them thoroughly in the water. Doing so will only drown the plant.

Sunlight is another essential element in organic container gardening because it nourishes the plant. Just like water, it is important in the growth of the plants. Too much of it though will also harm the plants. So be careful not to overdose the plant with it. Place it in a location wherein it could get enough sunlight but not too much.

Organic fertilizers are what help the already blossoming plant into developing into its greatest potential. They are very important, as they will help a plant grow taller and bear more fruits. Are we all set with the mentioned elements? Not yet without the most important above all-patience. In everything that we do we need to be very patient as not everything could be done in just a snap.

Learn of the patterns and behaviors of the plants growth period and stages and be sure to monitor them closely. However, do not be discouraged in cases wherein the plant seems to be a late bloomer or does not bear much fruit. Continue nourishing it with sunlight, water and love and you'll see your efforts will be paid off when it will eventually grow into a productive and fruitful flower or vegetable.

Organic container gardening is a great way to ensure your family eats only the healthiest fruits and vegetables.

Best Patio Umbrellas ? Enjoy Your Time

Umbrellas are used by people very often while moving outdoors. This can be considered as the protection device wherein you will be protected from the burning heat of the sun as well as from the paining rain and snow. It is natural that every house will be having at least one umbrella and this is very frequently used when ever people prefer to walk downtown. There is also another type of umbrella which you can never carry it along with you but you can use it in a fixed position. This umbrella is very huge in size and as a result in can accommodate nearly 6 to 8 people without any issues.

These umbrellas are known by the name of patio umbrellas and this is very commonly seen in the drive way restaurants, beaches and so on. In fact people love you spend their time under patio umbrella carrying along with their favorite activities like reading or playing or even knitting. It is really lovely to sit under the umbrella during evening hours with a cup of coffee and your favorite book. If you are seated in your most beautiful garden in midst of flowers and butterflies you will really feel energetic and fresh by being on the calm location. There are many different types of patio umbrellas and it comes in different size and colors. You can find the variety that must be fixed directly on the ground and also the type that needs to be mounted on the middle of the table.

Some of these patios comes along with a set of table and chairs wherein the umbrella is already fixed at the middle of the table top. You can tilt the umbrella in any positions according to the direction of sun rays and rain fall and this in fact is really convenient as you can enjoy the cool breeze in midst of everything. Patios can also be placed near the swimming pool wherein you can get back from the water to have hot cup of soup comfortably. Also these umbrellas are very useful whenever you go out for picnic as it can be folded and can be carried along with you to any location without causing any trouble. You can find them through internet and at much cheaper rate that you think.

Patio umbrellas offer an affordable solution to families who need shade for their outdoor space.Patio umbrella offers protection from the blazing heat of the sun as well as keep you dry when drizzles or rain showers suddenly dropped by.

Amazing Hydroponic Gardening As an Exciting Hobby

Everybody has hobbies that they enjoy during their leisure time. Some may have more than one hobby. Well here is one for those arborists and gardeners among us. Try indoor hydroponic gardening as an exciting hobby. If you love gardens and making things grow, then you will love indoor hydroponic gardening.

Hydroponic gardening is just the same as regular gardening, except that there is no mess whatsoever. There is no soil involved in indoor hydroponic gardening. Have you ever seen the famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon? This is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is probably the earliest evidence that we have of indoor hydroponic gardening in the history of mankind.

Now, very few people have the means to grow something as lavish as this worldly wonder, but we can grow our own mini hanging gardens in a hydroponic greenhouse. This is exactly the same thing as a normal greenhouse, but it is hydroponic because all of the plants are grown using light, air, and water.

That is right. No soil is required. That is exactly what indoor hydroponic gardening is all about. Growing your favorite fresh fruits and vegetables in a hydroponic greenhouse, is becoming the latest fad among gardeners. All you need to do if you are interested is to go down to your local lawn and garden store and check out all of the fantastic hydroponic kits. Or you can make your own. However, my advice for a beginner starting this hobby is to procure one of the hydroponic kits. Most people use one of two basic hydroponic kits: the ebb and flow hydroponic kit or the deep culture hydroponic kit. These are simple basic hydroponic kits that include everything you need to start your very own hydroponic greenhouse. You will definitely need to buy extra lights and more nutrient solution if you decide to expand your hydroponic greenhouse. However, in the long run, it is a good investment.

Scientific studies prove that produce grown in a hydroponic greenhouse is actually brighter, juicier, and more nutritious than the store bought produce. An added bonus is that there are virtually no pesticide problems that usually faced by outdoor gardeners. There are very few pests in a hydroponic greenhouse. This in turn means that there is no need for harmful and dangerous pesticides and insecticides. Another great advantage is that by using hydroponic kits, you can grow your favorite fruits and vegetables all year round. Wow! How great is that! I mean, you can grow your own food, protect your family and yourself from harmful chemicals, and enjoy your favorite foods at any time during the year.

Indoor hydroponic gardening is a great hobby. Not only is there virtually no mess, no chemicals, and as far as the eye can see multiple benefits. You get to grow a garden, which is something that you love, and lose all the downsides and headaches that normally come with gardening. So if you want to try something new, go all out. Grab some of your friends, go down to the store and buy some hydroponic kits and set up your very own hydroponic greenhouse. Then sit back and enjoy your favorite foods anytime you like.

Adorable Top Ten Organic Gardening Tips

Organic gardening grows more and more popular each day, and for good reason. Organic gardeners avoid the use of synthetic chemicals to keep their yards healthy and hazard-free. The methods of keeping plants growing vigorously without the heavy reliance on environmentally unfriendly sprays are the true success of organic gardens. The most important aspect of organic gardening? Soil.

As the life force of the garden, soil enriched with organic matter becomes moist, airy, and fertile--ideal for healthy plants. It also nourishes beneficial organisms and bacteria and supports fungi that optimize growing conditions. Prevention is also the watchword of organic gardeners. Plants can thrive if they are given the right amount of sun, suitable soil, proper spacing, and ideal planting.

Here are a few tips that will help you keep your organic garden thriving and healthy.

1. Maintain a good compost pile. The nutrients derived from your composting provide everything your soil needs to sustain the garden. Start the compost pile on a bed of branched sticks that will allow air to rise. Add a perforated pipe (PVC works well) in the center and build layers of old leaves, grass clippings, and other garden leftovers around it. The air will flow through the pipe into the pile. If you cannot use the finished compost for a while, cover the pile with a tarp to trap the nutrients in the compost.

2. Be mindful of the length of the growing season. The longer the growing season, the more compost is needed in the soil. A longer growing season requires more nutrients and organic matter in the soil.

3. Try companion planting. Some plants replenish nutrients lost by another plant, and some combinations can effectively keep pests away. Consult your local garden center for advice pertinent to your area.

4. Water in the morning. Doing so will help you avoid powdery mildew and other fungal diseases that are often spread by high humidity.

5. Give new beds that extra kick with plenty of compost, soil amendments, and double digging.

6. Keep dirt off lettuce and cabbage leaves when growing by spreading a 1 to 2 inch layer of mulch (untreated by pesticides or fertilizers) around each plant. This also helps keep the weeds down.

7. Recycle your soda bottles, milk jugs, and other plastic containers as great mini-covers to place over your plants and protect them from frost.

8. A garden soil that has been well mulched and amended periodically requires only about a 1-inch layer of compost yearly to maintain its quality.

9. Diatomaceous earth is an abrasive white powder used to damage the cuticle, skin, and joints of insects, and it makes an excellent organic insecticide. It also makes an excellent slug barrier.

10. Rotate your crops each year to help reduce pest and disease problems, as well as to correct nutrient deficiencies and excesses.

Best of Landscaping - Backyard Structures, Helpful Tips & Ideas

You're in the middle of landscaping your new backyard, or maybe finally having the chance to revamp your old one. A big part of your plans is to add a backyard structure for that central and finishing piece. But how do you choose when there are so many options, styles, and colors? There are a few things you're going to have to consider.

Neighborhood: If you're in any sort of neighborhood in, there are likely HOA restrictions or rules on what you can actually put in your yard. Make sure to double check what's appropriate in structure and style before purchasing a backyard structure. Another thing to keep in mind is just what LOOKS good. Blending in with the rest of the neighborhood's overall appearance is important, but that doesn't mean you can't choose something that still captures attention.
Weather: Climate is definitely something to think about when choosing a backyard structure in. Wherever the structure is located, make sure that it will be able to stand on it's own two feet in the environment and still look beautiful. Can it stand the heat, rain, snow, or whatever may come your yard's way? I live in Utah and the weather is definitely a factor not to toss out the window. You can even use this to your advantage. That is, backyard structures do not have to be summer use only! If say you decide to have a pergola installed, this can double as a display for a Christmas nativity, or a Thanksgiving display. Keep this in mind when deciding if you want to position your structure where it can be visible from the road or whether you want it to be your own private display.
Personal Style: The signature home style in my home state is the rambler. Make sure to select a Pergola, or Arbor, or whatever structure you decide upon, that is all your own. Obviously don't forget the points above when it comes to blending with the neighborhood. However, your yard is one area that you can deviate to some degree as long as you stick with the covenants and ordinances of your area. Ask yourself, Do you like dark or light wood? Does it complement your neighborhood? Curves? Straight lines? Intricate or simple designs? Take into account the style that is already in your home. And above all, make sure whatever you choose is something that you'll love for years to come and not something that's just the current fad.

Now that you have some things to mull over in your mind, you are well on your way to choosing the perfect backyard structure for your location. The style of a backyard can tell you a lot about a person and their likes and dislikes, so making sure you choose the right central piece is vital. Lastly, when working on your backyard remember to just have fun! Your backyard is about to become exciting and beautiful!

Adorable Patio Heater ? A Guide

A patio heater helps you to enjoy your leisure out on the patio even on chilly days. A great variety of patio heaters are sold in the market. The electricity powered variant now less in demand and the Natural gas and propane fueled variants which are in great demand by the users.

The patio heater has found increased use in restaurant courtyards as this area is earmarked for smokers and at homes, since the patio is used for entertaining guests. Due to this huge demand outdoor heaters are easily available thus forcing their prices to come down. Patio heaters are less noisy and one can use the patio or outdoors for a longer period.

The patio heater must be functional and sleek with a choice to opt for the source of power. You should decide between a permanent or temporary heater. Since a house has natural gas connection you can opt for the natural gas powered heater. All that you need to do is to provide for a gas line connection to the heater. Using a propane fuel cylinder makes mobility of the heater easy and it can be moved around the patio.

The capacity of every patio heater will differ in terms of heating different areas of space. It will be better to know the details before buying one. It should have various settings that are adjustable and heat the area of your patio which you must measure beforehand. Ask for all details from the seller and clarify your doubts before buying it.

The patio heater will be always used outdoors. So it is essential to ensure that it is designed to be weatherproof and safe. A heater with aluminum reflectors gives better heating consistently and is also a fuel saver as heat generated is contained within the specific area and is not wasted. Using proper covers when not in use helps to prevent extra maintenance and protects from the rain, dust and winds.

The wood burning Mexican Chiminea, infrared heaters, the latest Quartz Halogen heaters are some alternatives to the typical patio heater. The chiminea uses hardwood or untreated wood as fuel but the wood may not be readily available. Infrared patio heaters can be mounted like a ceiling fan and come with a temperature controller and a timer that can operated with a remote control unit. Quartz halogen infrared heaters produce short wave infra-red rays and are suited for outdoors too.

In conclusion a patio heater can be a welcome addition to the patio that allows your family and your guests to enjoy the outdoors even in chilly times.

Inspirational Pond Aeration Systems - Solutions For Your Urban Backyard Habitat

A container of water left undisturbed will quickly become stagnant and cloudy. This is easily demonstrated when pools of water are allowed to sit during the summer months. Mosquitoes and other pests will find the stale water a nice breeding environment and it will eventually get murky and smell. If the water is aerated, the smell and cloudiness will quickly clear. This is due to the increased presence of dissolved oxygen, which oxidizes organics and provides a more desirable environment for fish.

Anyone involved in aquaculture professionally or even as a hobby knows the importance of aeration. Pond aeration systems for your backyard pond are available in electric and solar. Many ponds also incorporate waterfalls and fountains, which aid in introducing dissolved oxygen into the water. A wide variety of wind-powered aerators are also available in many different compressor styles from piston to diaphragm and bellows.

Most of these aeration systems, however, are only suitable for larger ponds that wouldn't be considered the "backyard" variety. Aire Dynamics currently offers a colorful backyard garden pond aerator that blends nicely with the garden scape. The system is very functional and can pump up to 0.75 cubic feet of air per minute. This will maintain the cycle of eliminating organics and odors. It will also help sustain an even temperature throughout your pond. This is very important during the hot summer months when the water can become stratified and less capable of retaining dissolved oxygen.

Pond aeration is not only required to maintain a healthy environment and healthy fish, it's now functional and with the introduction of the new Garden Aerator from Aire Dynamics, it's also trendy, cool and GREEN!! Running a wind-powered system saves on utility bills and won't freeze up during the sub-zero winter months. They are virtually maintenance free and will offer years of reliable service to your backyard habitat.

The Outdoor Patio Heater ? An Overview

Outdoor patio heater is a wonderful heating option for people who enjoy the outdoors even when the temperatures are heading south. A variety of patio heaters are available such as portable heaters, tabletop heaters, and those for residential and commercial uses. While buying a patio heater you have to look out for efficiency, safety, utility, power or fuel source and space saving features.

First of all find out the type of outdoor patio heater you will need and whether the heater will serve your purpose. Features for residential and commercial purposes differ. You must opt for a heater that can provide soft warmth for a longer time. Go for the technology that deflects winds, has a low waste heat output, is automatic shutoff enabled, has push button ignition, and comes fully assembled.

Whether you want the outdoor patio heater to be run on gas or on electricity must be first determined. Gas fueled heaters are economical, efficient and environment friendly. Natural gas already used in the house can be connected to the heater. Propane hook-up tanks with replacements are also available. Heaters run on electricity are convenient, not expensive and render the heaters maintenance free too. Winds have no effect on heat supply of heaters powered by electricity.

Space constraints for keeping the outdoor patio heater are no problem at all as stainless steel weather resistant portable variants are readily available. These lightweight heaters can be used for camping or while on the road too. They come with easy to fit propane cylinders. They have push button igniters and low oxygen shut-off features. Tabletop outdoor patio heater is ideal for small patios. This stainless steel unit is hassle free, has no plugs, and is high on safety features like auto shut-off and fast push button igniter.

One cannot ignore the safety while using an outdoor patio heater. Irrespective of the size or type of power supply you should look out for a variety of safety features before buying one. Safety features should include automatic shut-off if strong winds are blowing or someone accidently elbows the device. Low oxygen supply in the patio should also trigger a shut-off as the heater is fitted with sensors to track oxygen supply.

Alternative outdoor patio heater options available presently include tabletop models, portable ones, propane heaters with disposable gas canisters, gas patio heaters using natural gas, Coleman portable patio heaters especially used by sportspersons, electric and infrared heaters that are silent in operation.

In conclusion, an outdoor patio heater has many uses. It is advisable to properly cover the unit to prevent damages due to weather ravages, dust and insects.

Adorable Give Hydroponic Gardening a Try!

Hydroponics is a derivation of the Greek words hydro meaning water and pono meaning labor. It is a manner of growing vegetation without the use of soil through some type of hydroponic system. Hydroponics was chiefly used in countries where the soil was not suitable for growing vegetation and for industrial purposes.

However hydroponic gardening is becoming increasingly more popular amongst all walks in society. The first signs of this growing method showed up in the bigger cities where people had limited access to land to grow fresh vegetables for their health. It has now spread from the cities to the countryside and all lifestyles. The benefits of hydroponics such as soilless cultivation and the higher crop yields in a smaller area have made it possible for many to grow a garden in a smaller area that provides enough produce to even put up for winter use as well as have fresh produce year long.

When growing your own soilless garden you have control over the environment as well as the forms of fertilizers used. With hydroponic gardening, regardless of your soil quality or lack thereof, anyone is able to grow their own produce and faster then they could in even great soil. There are no risks of diseases such as the recurring problem with salmonella in tomatoes. As well as you will always have consistent crops and the highest quality of vegetables. You can even grow fruit trees as well as plants that are out of season. There are many greenhouses worldwide that utilize hydroponics to grow flowers and vegetables year round.

Plans are underway for vertical hydroponic gardens in several urban areas. Whereas some towns have garden plots for the community, urban areas will have hydroponic plots for people to grow their own fresh produce. It is even being considered for use on ships as an alternative to having to find fresh produce that may be out of season while out at sea.

You can set up a hydroponic garden either indoors in an area with ample light, outdoors, or in a greenhouse. It is also environmentally friendly. It uses only 10 percent of the water used by traditional gardening methods, eliminates the need for herbicides and pesticides, and only uses about one quarter of the fertilizer that traditional gardeners need to obtain the same yield. Hydroponics can produce the same yield as traditional gardens in about one fifth the space and is not dependent on growing seasons. This means that instead of only bearing once, they can bear vegetables or fruit several times a year.

Hydroponics may just change the way the world views farmers in the future and could be the answer to food shortages and hunger worldwide.

About Backyard Recreation - Making Your Home Fun For Everyone!

Homeowners spend thousands of dollars making the inside of their homes fun, inviting and functional. While the actual home itself is the most important aspect of your investment, a great deal of value lies within the outer confines of your home.

Investing in backyard recreation items like sports nets, pools and play structures can potentially add a lot of value to your home. Research some of the options below and determine what type of backyard recreation suits you and your family best:

Sports. Sports are probably the easiest and best way to make your backyard fun. Perfect for adults and children alike, sports nets (particularly volleyball nets, badminton nets and soccer nets) are a great way to promote physical health and fun right in your backyard.

Play Structures. If you have the privilege of being parents to small children, play structures are a great way to light up their lives. Play structures come in all shapes and sizes and are available in a variety of price ranges to suit the needs of all families. As long as your backyard is big enough, a play structure will indeed be a great addition to any home.

Swimming Pools. Perhaps one of the more expensive backyard recreation items to consider, swimming pools are a great way to add fun and value to your home. Depending on the size and style of pool, these luxury items can run anywhere from a couple hundred dollars (above-ground pools) to $ 50,000 or more for the truly upscale models. Regardless of the size and style you choose, a swimming pool is a great way to spice up your back yard.

Patio Furniture. Recreation doesn't always have to mean high energy physical activity like sports or swimming. Recreation can simply be relaxing on a sofa with a cold beverage with friends during a barbecue. Patio furniture can range in price from less than $ 100 to as much as thousands. If you're going to invest in backyard furniture, make sure you choose styles and materials that are durable in all types of weather. Patio furniture can significantly enhance the recreation in your backyard.

We hope our outdoor backyard recreation tips have helped you create an outdoor environment that suits you, your family and your friends.

About Keep Warm with Propane Patio Heater

Just when you thought that you cannot enjoy the patio and you have to let your outdoor furniture stay alone when it is already cold outside. Well, for these days that propane patio heaters are widely available, you can now extend whatever party you have outside without the freezing feeling that makes you uncomfortable.

Propane patio heater comes in floor standing and table top unit which makes this heater easy to use. But before you purchase one or two units of propane patio heater, it is important to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of this patio heater. Being familiar of these two factors will help you use the propane patio heater effectively.

Propane patio heaters are inexpensive kind of heaters so most probably it can fit to your budget. There are just some drawbacks about propane heaters that you must consider in order to use the heater more effectively. The main issue for this type of heater is the safety. Since this heater is producing burning flame for heating, high risk of fire is possible. The best thing to do is to keep the heater away from flammable objects and the place where children are playing whenever it is working. Moreover, propane patio heaters can be a little inconvenient with the possibility of the propane cylinder to get empty in the middle of the party thus you  have to cut the happiness outside and settle yourselves inside the house.

However, depending on the hours of using the propane patio heater, it burns the fuel efficiently thus giving you more hours of warmness. What's important is that you know the safety measures necessary when using this heater. That makes the propane heater convenient and efficient to use.

Now, there is no reason to cut the exciting part of the party just because everyone is freezing or that you can't just stay inside the house for the whole winter months since propane patio heaters are there to warm the patio for a more comfortable feeling.

Lovely Adding A Patio To Your Home

There are several things a home owner can do to increase the value of their homes. Renovations and diy home improvement projects are the most successful paths to follow. In order to increase the value of your property, you must start by making the property more appealing to potential buyers. Once your property appeals to a broader range of potential buyers, the sale of your property is virtually guaranteed.

The key to increasing the value of any property is knowing where in the home to renovate to bring the best increased value results. The rooms in your home that most increase the value of your property include the kitchen and bathroom. Additional storage space or living space such as an attic or basement also add to the value of the home once renovated.

Creating a living space that flows and accommodates any size of family is what potential home buyers are ultimately looking for. When you renovated any one of these rooms in your home while sticking to a moderate and realistic budget the potential value of your home can be achieved. When it comes to utilizing the garden or outdoor space to add value to your home, creating the perfect patio space will instantly increase the property value overnight.

Construct a patio that not only increases the value of the home instantly, but it also utilizes the outdoor space. Patios create a functional outdoor space that can be used by the entire family. Another aspect of patios space is that it offers a shielded protective area for the home. Patios are great all year round and provide a wonderful spot for barbecues or lounging with a book.

Enlisting the services of professional contractors to carry out the work will ensure the quality and durability of the patio once constructed. As patios come in a variety of styles to suit the home owner's requirements and property needs, selecting a patio design that blends in with the exterior of the home as well as the additional outdoor space is advised.

Choose the location of the new patio to maximize sunlight or afternoon shade. Determine the size of the patio space and design a patio that is versatile for multi-function use. Select the building materials and a color scheme for the patio that complement others aspects in the garden. Once the patio is completed, accessorize your new patio with patio furniture such as fold up deck chairs and tables.

Stylish, comfortable and durable, patio furniture completes the new patio space to perfection. Include a collection of flower bed arrangements along the edge of the patio to further enhance the look of the new outdoor versatile space. Patio heaters are also great for cool evening, fall and winter use of the patio.

Awesome Stay Warm With Outdoor Patio Heaters

When the weather is freezing cold you certainly want to keep yourselves warm in the backyard and the outdoor patio heaters provide you with the perfect respite in this regard. With the advent of time new types of technological innovations have been made as far as heating instruments are concerned and these high quality outdoor patio heaters provide you with the utmost comfort you desire. With the cold weather prevailing outside, you want to stay warm when you are in the backyard and with the assistance of outdoor patio heaters you no longer need to worry about it. These outdoor patio heaters are very flexible to use, easy to operate and provide you with effective levels of heating.

When you are using these heaters, you should know that although they are easy to operate some of the sources, which are used for their operation, are natural gas and propane. So while using the outdoor patio heaters just take a note of the safety measures that need to be in place. Since both propane and natural gas are highly inflammable you should keep an eye on the devices for safe functioning. Do not ever make the mistake of using them indoors as they are not manufactured for doing so.

When you want to have some guests over to your house and arrange a barbecue in the backyard even in the cold Christmas time, these outdoor patio heaters can make that possible. These heaters are loaded with wheels and you can fix them in a convenient spot in the backyard. When one heater would be enough to provide warmth to your family, you might need more for the parties depending on the number of people you are inviting. The heaters should be strategically placed to cover everyone.

Outdoor patio heaters are offered in a variety of colors and can be perfectly matched with your furniture. The propane full size heaters can warm the space for up to 10 hours providing you the flexibly to enjoy long hours outside. They also come with variable settings allowing you to set the temperature that is comfortable for you. This is one luxury you won't get if you burn firewood or charcoal for outdoor heating. Some come with auto shut off feature that automatically shuts-off the system when it is knocked over. Check for all the safety certifications and warranties before buying one.

Best of Popularity Of Patio Heaters

Patio heaters are extremely popular in countries where cold climate prevails mostly around the year. These patio heaters are ideal to keep oneself warm from the outside chilly weather. Moreover, some public places such as bars, restaurants and pubs in certain countries and states have banned smoking inside their premises, but availability of outdoor heaters ensure that people can smoke outside with ease without troubling others. As a matter of fact, party animals do check the availability of these heaters before entering.

Patio heaters ensure that people can enjoy parties outside even in the winter seasons. These heaters provide pleasant temperature so that individuals can enjoy outside parties just as they do in the warmer seasons. These are small heating equipment having a capacity to warm an area which measures up to twenty feet in diameter. These heaters have now become an integral part of households and are available in wide range of styles to match outside home decor.

Outdoor patio heaters are small heating items that are extremely portable and you can use them without electric socket or gas line. You can store them easily when not in use. However, heaters, which can be attached to the ceiling or wall, require input in the form of electricity or fuel. These heaters are quite effective because they run on natural gas input directly coming from a gas line.

Patio heaters are inexpensive ways of heating indoor and outdoor spaces. However, before buying these heaters ensure that they are safe to use. Buy a heater that is completely safe for children and has auto switch off feature, so that any fatal accident can be avoided. Carefully go through the instruction manual that is provided with it to take the necessary precautions.

Patio heaters come in different styles and patterns that can completely match your home decor. There are traditional ones as well as contemporary ones. There are box-shaped electric heaters which look like an air conditioning unit. Patio heaters  that run on natural gas are eco-friendly and do not require refueling. These heaters cannot be moved from one place to another, but if you wish to move them, then propane heaters can be ideal. The prices of these heaters depend on their features and styles. There are numerous websites selling these heaters online, all you need to do is to compare the prices and choose the one that suits your budget.

Beautiful Patio Covers In Austin 101

Let’s face it. Although a lot of us enjoy the fresh air, staying in the great outdoors isn’t always appealing. Especially if you have to face the hot, humid weather that Texas has to offer. This is why a number of homeowners opt to use patio covers in Austin and other Texan cities.

What are Patio Covers?
The patio covers used in Austin are actually quite different from awnings and canopies. They’re raised higher and can be used to form a covered deck which can suit a number of purposes. Patio covers in Austin are also more of a permanent structure when compared to awnings or canopies. Although patio covers can be made from a number of different materials, the most common material used by Austin residents is aluminum. Since patio covers are more permanent, they can be used to install a veranda adjacent to your home or in your garden.

Do You Need Patio Covers in Austin?
Any Austin homeowner will tell you that the weather in the area can go anywhere from pleasant to sweltering hot, and that’s when you don’t have to deal with thunderstorms. This is what makes the use of patio covers in Austin quite popular.

With patio covers, homeowners can lounge outside their homes, enjoying the cool breeze with a cool glass of their favorite drink and still stay out of the sun. At the same time, using patio covers in Austin allows residents to entertain guests and enjoy backyard cookouts even when it starts raining outside. Have you ever had to postpone a barbecue or your child’s play date because of the weather? With a patio cover, you no longer have to.

Where Can I Get Patio Covers?
In choosing patio covers for your Austin home, the first thing to do is to ask for a consultation from your local contractor. While it’s easy to get DIY kits, the drawback of most patio kits out in the market today is that unless you’ve had enough experience setting them up, there’s a chance that your installation could come out flawed. Getting the right size of patio covers in Austin and choosing from the limited designs available can also be a challenge, and you might just end up getting frustrated and forsaking your project altogether.

With custom-built patio covers, you get the perfect sized patio covers for your home and choose the best style to suit the rest of your house. Getting your patio covers done by an Austin contractor is also beneficial since they can teach you how to properly maintain it and enjoy your outdoor space for many years to come.

Best Outdoor Wall Clocks Combine Beauty and Functionality in Your Backyard

Expanding your living space and increasing the value of your home can be as easy as making the most of the areas outside your door. Patios and decks, screened porches and sun rooms, and outdoor kitchens and dining rooms are the most desirable places to entertain friends or to enjoy some quality relaxation time when the weather is pleasant. Your outdoor spaces should be an extension of your indoor living areas in that they should feel comfortable and reflect your personal style. Furniture, rugs, lighting, and decor pieces are basic elements that allow you to design a charming backyard living area.

An outdoor clock is an easy and cost-effective way to bring the feel of the indoors outside. Today's outdoor clocks are not only very weather resistant and moderately priced, they are also beautiful. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colors, and the available materials range from weather resistant metals and natural woods, to glass and durable plastics.  In addition, you are sure to find a style of outdoor clock that matches your own decor preferences, whether traditional, antique, contemporary, whimsical, rustic, or retro.

Outdoor clocks bring more than beauty to your outdoor living spaces; they even can provide a wide array of technical functions.  Many outdoor clocks come with thermometers to measure temperature, barometers to measure air pressure, and hygrometers to measure humidity. One of the most impressive features of some outdoor clocks today is their ability to automatically synchronize to U.S. official time.  The Time and Frequency Division of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Boulder, Colorado, houses the NIST-F1 cesium fountain atomic clock, which is one of the most accurate clocks in the world and which sets the standard for the nation's primary time and frequency.  The NIST broadcasts a low frequency signal from its own radio station near Fort Collins, Colorado (WWVB), and this signal is received by outdoor clocks, as well as other electronic devices, that contain a miniature radio receiver.  Once the radio controlled clock receives the signal from the WWVB station, it will synchronize, so the time is always accurate to the second.

All weather outdoor clocks in the number of times per day that they synchronize to the WWVB time signal; some synchronize every 4 or 6 hours, while some only synchronize once per day.  Clocks that synchronize only once per day usually do so at night when the signal from WWVB is at its strongest.  Outdoor clocks that synchronize one time during the course of a day are just as accurately precise, though, as those that synchronize several times.  The NIST's Time and Frequency Division explains that "in between synchronizations, the clocks keep time using their quartz crystal oscillators.  A typical quartz crystal found in a radio controlled clock can probably keep time to within 1 second for a few days or longer." As a result, a clock that synchronizes more than once per day has no real advantage over one that synchronizes only one time.

Beauty, style, accuracy, high-tech functionality, and affordability -- today's outdoor clocks offer so much in a single package. As a whole, clocks have been a considerable factor in our lives for centuries; they remind us of occasions we don't want to miss and allow us to mark the moments which are the most memorable and monumental to us. Adding the good looks and functionality of a clock to your deck, screened porch, or outdoor kitchen is a natural way to bring an essential element of life and the comfort of the indoors to your backyard.

Awesome Keep Warm with Propane Patio Heater

Just when you thought that you cannot enjoy the patio and you have to let your outdoor furniture stay alone when it is already cold outside. Well, for these days that propane patio heaters are widely available, you can now extend whatever party you have outside without the freezing feeling that makes you uncomfortable.

Propane patio heater comes in floor standing and table top unit which makes this heater easy to use. But before you purchase one or two units of propane patio heater, it is important to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of this patio heater. Being familiar of these two factors will help you use the propane patio heater effectively.

Propane patio heaters are inexpensive kind of heaters so most probably it can fit to your budget. There are just some drawbacks about propane heaters that you must consider in order to use the heater more effectively. The main issue for this type of heater is the safety. Since this heater is producing burning flame for heating, high risk of fire is possible. The best thing to do is to keep the heater away from flammable objects and the place where children are playing whenever it is working. Moreover, propane patio heaters can be a little inconvenient with the possibility of the propane cylinder to get empty in the middle of the party thus you  have to cut the happiness outside and settle yourselves inside the house.

However, depending on the hours of using the propane patio heater, it burns the fuel efficiently thus giving you more hours of warmness. What's important is that you know the safety measures necessary when using this heater. That makes the propane heater convenient and efficient to use.

Now, there is no reason to cut the exciting part of the party just because everyone is freezing or that you can't just stay inside the house for the whole winter months since propane patio heaters are there to warm the patio for a more comfortable feeling.

Amazing Grow Lights For Indoor Gardening

Plants need light in order to grow. They use light for the process of photosynthesis, which allows plants to convert sunlight to energy. Most plants get their light from the sun, but this is usually impossible if you are attempting to grow plants indoors. In this situation, you will need to offer your plants the light they need with indoor growing lights. A grow light, also known as a grow lamp, produces bright light that gives your plants what they require to thrive in a greenhouse, or in a room in your home.

There are many different types of growing lights available for the indoor gardener to use. One popular type of grow lamp family that you will come across as you shop for grow lights are HID lights, or high-intensity discharge lights. This type of grow lamp produces a strong light, which is what is needed for good plant growth. When plants have to struggle to reach for a weak light source, they develop spindly stems, which is the opposite of what you want to produce, namely, a stocky and sturdy plant stem. There are many different types of HID growing lights available, including the High Pressure Sodium light. As the name implies, the High Pressure Sodium light uses sodium as the medium through which the electrical charge is run, producing the light that is contained inside the grow light. You will find a High Pressure Sodium light is available in several different wattages. You might use a lower wattage to light a smaller amount of square feet, or you could use several smaller lights grouped together to light a larger space. A HID grow lamp will also require a ballast. The best ballasts are the newer digital ones, because they offer greater control over the amount of electrical current that is allowed to flow through the tube of the lamp.

The idea behind these lights is that you want to, as best as possible, use them to mimic natural sunlight. Sunlight is the brightest form of natural light, so a bright light bulb is what you want. But the light also needs to imitate the color spectrum that sunlight produces as well. It is important to note that the light color spectrum that your plants require may change over time. For example, young seedlings need light in the blue color spectrum, which promotes plant growth, while mature plants that you want to set fruit and flowers require red and orange light spectrum. Your grow light might only produce one type of color spectrum, or it may offer a complete color spectrum, so you will want to check this prior to making a purchase.

About Add Outdoor Patio Furniture To Enjoy Your Patio Premises With Ease

The patio can be a luxurious place to relax and unwind. If you seek some fresh air in the morning or a soothing environment at night, this is the perfect spot to go. You don't need to travel nor do you have to pay any entrance fees. You can be in your home clothes and step out into it anytime you want. To make this place a haven of sorts, it would be sensible to add some outdoor patio furniture.

The outdoor patio furniture will allow you to enjoy the patio premises of your home with total ease. How else can you relax in this spot if there are no tables and chairs that you can use? It would be totally foolish to go out in here and stand for prolonged hours. Thus, with furniture pieces around, you can sit in comfort as you take in the beauty of the starry skies or be greeted by the fresh blooms in the early morning.

There are plenty of outdoor furniture units that you can choose from. Your seating options have the widest range which includes Adirondack chairs, sofas and benches. Some seats are intended for relaxation like rocking chairs, porch swings, loungers and gliders while others are made for intimate conversations like settees and tete-a-tete chairs. Table options can include picnic tables for casual family gatherings or elegant teak dining sets for a grander and fabulous al fresco dining. You may also want to include end tables as well as coffee tables to hold out your outdoor essentials like food, beverages and magazines. This way you can stay in there for long and don't need to get up every so often.

When choosing these items, make sure that they are of good quality. Being exposed in the elements, they should be able to weather the intense heat, rain, snow and hail. Above all, they should also look attractive so you'll feel pulled to use them every time you take a step out into your patio area.

Nice Protecting Yourself While Gardening

For some people who do not gardening they just can not understand the joy of it all. But, there is truly something wonderful about gardening. It is just great to feel the heat of the sun on you and to feel your hands in the cool damp grass and dirt. And to see such beauty sprout up from all of your hard work is truly something to be proud of. I like to see all of my hard work start to sprout in the spring time. The spring time is what I value the most, it is before all the flowers start to bloom fully but, you can start to see things starting to form. The connection with nature that is made during the gardening experience can almost be compared with that of raising a child.

There are also some bad things that can come from gardening one of these things is different bacteria and even the income of parasites. It is unfortunate but, our favorite time of year to garden is also the period when parasites are most common. If you do not protect yourself enough than you can become a host to a parasite. So what you want to do is where protective gloves at all times. Also make sure to where shoes of some sort and not sandals. I know this one can be a little bit uncomfortable so if you want to take off your shoes while gardening I recommend putting something down over top of the dirt so you can lay on it without fear of catching a parasite. I like to use duvet covers for this because duvet covers are thick enough that you can rest easy from parasites but thin enough so you can still feel the cool ground. Also make sure to where some sort of eye protection because you do not want any dirt flying in your eyes, and if you can do this than you will able to garden in safety.

 

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Beautiful The Secret About Organic Vegetable Gardening

Do you know the secret about organic gardening? It is no different from regular gardening.Yes , you did read that right! There is very little difference between the two. You still need to plan your garden and your work whether you are growing vegetables the organic way or the regular way. In this article I will look at both the similarities and differences between organic vegetable gardening and regular vegetable gardening.

 Successful vegetable gardening requires you to plan ahead. Talk to any veteran garden about how to start and they will tell you that you must have a plan. The first step in planning your garden is to decide where you are going to put it and how big you want it to be. The right location is crucial to your success. Most vegetables need at least six hours of sunlight a day to grow successfully, some might need more, so finding a position in the garden that maximizes light is important. The same is true for drainage and soil quality. It is important that you choose a suitable spot when you are planning your vegetable garden.

As you can see it does nt take a bio physicist or an engineer to be a gardener. However, it would make a lot of sense for you to take the time to research regular gardening and organic gardening. Although the differences are subtle there are differences. 

 Once you have found the right place to site your vegetable patch, you need to decide things like what you are going to plant and how much space to leave between the rows. You also need to be aware of which plants are compatible with each other. These steps apply whether you are planning to grow organically or in the regular way. The reason for this is some plants will require more water, nutrients or sunshine than others. Putting plants together that are compatible is therefore crucial to your success. The wrong plants growing together can lead to a war between them where only the fittest and strongest survive. This principle applies whatever type of gardening you are practicing.

 So, we have looked at some of the similarities between both ways of gardening, what are some of the main differences? The main difference will be in the type of fertilizers, weedkillers and pesticides you will use. Regular gardeners will use all kinds of man-made chemicals on their garden whereas a organic gardener will avoid using them at all costs. Organic gardeners make use of things like mulches in order to keep down weeds. They fertilize their crops with organic matter rather than chemicals and they use environmentally friendly ways of controlling pests.

As you can see it you don't need to be a bio physicist or an engineer to be a gardener. However, it makes a lot of sense for you to take the time to research regular gardening and organic gardening. Although the differences are subtle they are very real. 

Beautiful 10 Great Gardening Ideas

If you've decided to redesign your garden, then perhaps you're looking for gardening ideas to help you get the garden you want.

Here are 10 ideas to get you thinking.

1. Why not get the children involved? Perhaps you can give them their own patch of garden, or a few pots, so that they can grow their own plants and flowers. They'll enjoy helping, and will want to make sure that their seeds grow.

2. You could grow your own fruit and vegetables. As well as saving you money, you'll notice the difference in taste between fruit and vegetables bought from the supermarket and those you've grown in your garden. Perhaps this will spur you on to eating more healthily too.

3. Think about the amount of space you have, and what you can realistically do with it. It's easy to get carried away and want decking, and water features and huge trees, but, if you don't have the space, it won't work. Don't get too ambitious, and be prepared to scale back your ideas.

4. Do some research and find out what sorts of plants will grow in your garden. Don't just buy plants, as they may not be suitable for your garden, and so they'll be a waste of money.

5. If you're starting from scratch, perhaps you could think about things for the children. Room for a slide, a trampoline, a swing, or to kick a football or play badminton will be greatly appreciated.

6. Your garden will need to be easy to manage. You won't want to spend all your spare time tending to it. By making sure that the elements you have in your garden don't need a lot of looking after, you'll be able to enjoy your garden a lot more, and not see it as a chore.

7. Make sure that your garden is easy to use. Things like the position of the washing line, shed, or the barbeque will make a big difference to how much they get used.

8. Will you want additional storage space from your garden? What about a shed or a garage, or a play house for the children. You might want to build a home office or kids summerhouse

9. Perhaps you could turn some of the garden into an additional play area. What about adding a sandpit, or having somewhere to store the bikes and other outdoor toys and games?

10. Whatever you have planned for the garden, you'll need to compromise with other members of the family. What might be important to you might not be important to the rest of the family. You might want a cottage garden full of flowers, but will your children? You might want a minimalistic garden that easy to maintain, but will there be an plants and flowers in the spring and summer? You might want a pond, but are the children old enough to be safe near it?

Once you've decided how you want your garden, and got some gardening ideas, you can then design it properly and make the most of it. By getting it right in the first place, you'll be able to enjoy it all year round.

Modern Cheap Garden Sheds Provide Budget Storage Options For Your Backyard

Cheap garden sheds are available for storing your garden furniture over the winter but you need to weigh up the value of taking the cheaper option now and decide whether it will save you money in the long run. How long will it last is the obvious question? While a good quality tongue and grooved wooden one may seem expensive now, it will last for years to come if maintained properly where as a cheaper option will be long gone.

What will it look like is another question you should consider. if your backyard has been landscaped or you have a nice patio with outdoor bar and kitchen then you obviously spend a lot of time in your outdoor space.

Ruining that space by putting a poorly made eye sore in it is not really an option.

What about the quality? You get what you pay for, simple as that. You can't expect the door to survive a few knocks from the wheelbarrow or the roof to survive a few inches of snow next winter if its made from flimsy vinyl.

There are better ways of getting cheap garden sheds without giving up on quality but you may need to put a bit more thought and work into it.

Build your own is the perfect way to keep costs down. The money you save can be invested in better quality materials so you end up with something in your garden that will provide storage for your garden accessories for years and years rather than just a few winters.

If you aren't so good at DIY and you are wanting something larger than say a small portable size, perhaps an Amish design for instance, you can buy plans online and then get a price from a local carpenter or handyman to build it for you.

If you go this route be sure you buy your own timber as a tradesman will always add a little on the cost. Most plans come complete with a shopping list so getting everything you need is straight forward. Garden shed kits are another option and come in a wide variety of materials, styles and price ranges, so it is important to do some research and decide up front what is right for your needs and your budget. Keep in mind that the shed will be a permanent garden building in your yard and you want it to be not only functional, but looking good as well.

Build your shed the Amish way! Fire up the BBQ, get a few crates of beer in and invite a few of your friends round to help you build it. This method works great as long as at least one of you are a keen DIY fan. You will be amazed how fast even the biggest storage units can go up when you are mob handed and of course, it saves you money!

There is a lot to consider when looking for a cheaper option but as we have seen you don't have to give up quality to save costs.

Beautiful Sunburn no More with Patio Umbrella

As much as you want a warm ambiance with your patio heater in winter to stay comfortable outside, you might as well want the cool shade of patio umbrella to cool you while under the blistering heat of the sun. It can provide you effective protection from getting sunburn so you can enjoy the summer without the risk of skin illness cause by the sun.

Patio umbrella comes in many options of colors, sizes and style. There is the traditional form or patio umbrella or the one that is place at the center of the table. In addition to this, another form of patio umbrella is the cantilever type and offset patio umbrella. This type of patio umbrella provides enough space under the canopy without the pole to interfere under the pole since the pole is placed outside of the canopy. Moreover, the canopy of this type can be rotated 360 degrees so you can use the shade in any angle for an effective shade the whole day.

For effective shading from the sun, you might as well find the umbrella that is durable enough to stand weather and elements. You must choose the umbrella that is made from hard-wearing materials used to construct the canopy, pole and the stand or base. The base should be weighted so that it can support the whole umbrella structure. In this case, you should choose the base that is appropriate for the weight of the umbrella.

The size also matters when it comes to selecting the patio umbrella. Choose the size of the umbrella that can give wide shade so that you can enjoy being cool under the sun with your friends or some members of your family. Actually, it is still your choice that is important so you are free to choose the umbrella that you think is best.

Patio umbrellas are available in different colors and these selections of colors will let you pick the umbrella that would add beauty to your patio or pool deck area.

The beauty and comfort that patio umbrellas offer makes them one of the essential things used to enjoy the outdoor living.

The Building a Backyard Oasis - Add a Solar Powered Water Fountain

Is your backyard in need of rejuvenation? Has it lost its magic? Most of us establish our backyard when we move into our home and it remains that way for many years.

Sometimes it is due to money restraints but very often, it is because we do not see the possibilities and potential that our back yards offer. Let's face it, our back yards are becoming boring.

Reclaiming the beauty of your backyard does not need an army of landscapers and oodles of money; it just needs common sense, a vision and a plan.

Three Things to Consider

1. Usage
2. Cost
3. Work involved.

Decide what you want to do in your backyard. If you like to entertain with garden parties and barbecues you will want to create pleasant surroundings for your guests to relax and enjoy themselves.

Instead of having them looking at plain walls or a stark wooden fence, give them something that will bring a smile. Changes in dimension, color and even movement will do that.

Creating a new look in your backyard does not have to be expensive; in fact you may only need to rearrange or replace some shrubbery and reshape a border or two.

Consider buying plants that are low maintenance but provide color and interest throughout the year. Evergreen plants are a great choice as well as variegated varieties and those that change throughout the seasons. Replace old furniture with a new patio set that will stand the test of time.

Create a focal point with a water fountain.

A good focal point is always an icebreaker to get a party started and a conversation piece during the party. A good focal point will provide different and interesting aspect and be worthy of discussion.

Solar fountains are unique and inexpensive and add a completely new dimension to your back yard. Cascading waters create movement as the reflecting light shimmers and shines. The murmur of the falling water creates a soothing background sound.

Water fountains are stylish, quiet, relaxing and healthy. The soft sounds of splashing water help subdue outside noise such as passing traffic. Negative ions emitted from cascading waters soothe and relax and create a healthy environment.

Turning your backyard from nondescript into something of beauty does not have to be a backbreaking task. A backyard project can be completed in a weekend or two and installation of a fountain is usually less than one hour.

Whether you choose a majestic floor-standing fountain or a wall mounted water fountain installation is very simple. Solar fountains are set up very easily and most will need no special installation.

Either solar fountain's will have panels built into the fountains body or will have remote panels placed some distance away and out of site. Most solar fountains come with as much as fifteen feet of cable.

Some benefits of using a solar powered water fountain as a focal point are:

• Very easy to install with little or no maintenance
• Inexpensive to buy
• Zero running costs when using solar power
• They are portable and easily moved
• They are quiet with only the relaxing sound of running water
• Water fountains produce negative ions similar to mountain streams and waterfalls
• The sight and sound of water movement helps mind and body to naturally relax
• The environment around fountains is very healthy producing lush growth on nearby foliage.
• Running water will keep the area mosquito free
• Water fountains can be used indoors or outside
• Water fountains are elegant, stylish, and used in any location

When you plan your backyard oasis, add a solar powered water fountain to your 'must have' list.

The Easy Square Foot Gardening

Square foot gardening offers an ideal method for new gardeners. It is also perfect for busy people, and those with arthritis or other physical limitations. If you are looking for the easiest way to garden, this method offers real advantages. Square foot gardening can even be done in raised beds, or in containers, to make it easy on your back.

Square foot gardening is simply dividing a well-planned garden into one foot sections. Each of these one foot sections is part of a four foot square block. These garden blocks are designed to be four feet on each side so you can easily reach all of the plants from outside the planting bed. When you step in a garden bed, your weight will compact the soil and make it harder for plant roots to grow. Each individual square foot is then divided so each plant gets just the space it needs.

Gardening in simple squares allows you to plant only what you need instead of having to plant a whole row of one crop. With this method, you can also plant crops in succession so they do not ripen all at once. If you have too many plants it can become overwhelming to care for them.

Square foot gardening works well in raised beds. By raising the beds 12 inches (or more if needed) it also makes it easier to reach them. Wheelchair users or those with severe back problems may choose to have truly raised beds built so they can tend to their garden without having to lean over.

Container gardening can be adapted to the square foot method as well, although you will need to take care to select containers that are deep enough for the roots. When using containers, plan to use rich soil and water often for best results. Container plants are dependent on you for nutrients and can dry out quickly in hot weather.

An example of a four foot block planting for maximum production might be one tomato plant in each of the first two squares, four bush squash plants in the next two squares. The next four squares could hold one eggplant, one cabbage, one pepper plant, and one cauliflower. Broccoli in two squares, 16 onions in one square, 32 carrots in two squares, a dozen loose leaf lettuce in one square, four marigolds in one square, and nine spinach in one square (each square is one foot). As produce is harvested, short season or late season crops such as baby lettuce or cabbage can be planted in the empty spots.

Gardening in squares instead of rows saves space too so you will probably be able to put your garden closer to your house. You will need about twenty percent less space than with traditional garden rows. With your garden just beyond your back door, you will enjoy it more and spend more time tending to our vegetable garden. A closer garden is also easier for harvesting since you can pick vegetables as they ripen and use them right away.

You'll find that square foot gardening is much easier for both new gardeners and experienced gardeners. Not only will you plant only what you want and not too much, but you will be planting in rich, loose soil and in raised beds that are easier on your back. No need for exhausting double-digging and pulling out excess seedlings. You can plant closer to the house and you use your space more efficiently. Once you try square foot gardening, you'll love having your own fresh vegetables with much less effort.

Nice Gardening - Spiritual Practice That Grows

When you hear the term 'spiritual practice,' the things that probably come to mind are activities like devout prayers and deep meditation. Try going through an actual spiritual life coaching course, though, and you'll find out that it need not always be like that. Gardening is one of the more common as well as enjoyable practices that spiritual life coaches like to suggest because gardening can provide rich soil from which a deeply rooted spirituality can bud and blossom.

Spiritual Shrubbery

Parallel ideas are one of the main things that make gardening work as a practice for your spirituality. After all, the behavior and pattern of plants do bear a huge resemblance to the way your spiritual life behaves.
Regular watering with prayer and exposure to God are requirements to make your faith grow. You also need to be rooted in strong, rich ground to be able to grow and expand your faith. Every now and then, you have to prune it to keep things simple and uncomplicated. And with enough time and growth, your branches and leaves can even benefit those people around you.

But it's not just the many parallel ideas that exist between deepening your spirituality and maintaining a shrubbery. One of the things that makes gardening a great spiritual practice is the 'me' time it can afford you. It gives you an opportunity to escape the noise and bustle of everyday life, to slow down and think, and to be alone with yourself, your watering can and God.

Planting the Seed

It doesn't take much to start with this particular practice. Just find yourself a spot of garden and a few plants to tend; even a little flower pot on your window sill will do. Be sure to pick plants that aren't too high maintenance, else you'll end up thinking more of your exotic geraniums than of getting closer to God.

Make spending time with your garden a fixed part of your schedule. This is a crucial step because it has to be part of your routine, your daily habit. Without this regularity, the effectiveness of the spiritual practice gets diluted. Besides, it's a very relaxing activity that you'll probably want to do everyday anyway.

From the Ground Up

One of the messages that spiritual life coaches give is to allot quiet time for yourself, especially when you're trying to reconnect with God or to deepen an existing connection. The message of Christ is something that's always present and available; you just have to make sure that there's nothing else in your environment that's drowning it out.

Real spiritual life coaching isn't some one-time event; it's a continuing process of renewal in your faith. One of the factors that makes gardening so great for deepening that faith is having something - your plants, flowers or whatever - that visibly grow with you. Each one encourages a deeper and more profound sense of God's loving presence.

Beautiful Water Pumps ? The Best Gardening Gifts

My grandpa is the best gardener in the world, as far as I am concerned. He introduced me to gardening when I was five and I simply loved the feeling when my first plant came up. I used to help my grandpa in the garden and keep running around his toes all the time. He always encouraged me and taught me a lot about gardening and the importance of gardening tools.

As I started growing up I became busy with my own life and somehow stopped helping grandpa. I decided I had to make up for this somehow. The perfect situation came up with grandpa's birthday I knew that anything related to gardening would make him happy, gardening gifts were my priority.

But I wanted my gift to be very different. So I started searching for unique gardening gifts online. I found the AL-KO JET 802 Water Pump at the online store BIGshop and I decided it would be a perfect gift for grandpa. I had seen him struggling really hard to water all the plants, so I hoped this gift would make his life easier. The water pump was German engineered and was tested with continuous operation and proved to be maintenance free. Also the pump featured a special sealing system, which included a ceramic axial shaft seal between the motor and hydraulics, ensuring long term reliability. So I was assured of the safety and the reliability of the water pump.

The best part about this water pump was that it could also be used as lawn care equipment. So this product became even more apt as it was possible to fit a sprinkler system with the water pump, which would be useful in watering the lawn. I bought this water pump and just hoped that grandpa would love my gift and as much as he loves his gardening tools and above all it would just make his life simpler. And as I had hoped this lawn care equipment from BIGshop turned out to be as I had expected.

Best Adventures On Backyard Swing Sets

Back in the "good old times" the swing sets we used in our backyards were a lot more flimsy and unsafe than what is often manufactured presently. As youngsters, however, we never really viewed this liability as being a burden. In fact, we usually deemed it more as being a challenge.

There were definitely a few individuals that did what they could to boost the basic safety of the swing sets. They might consider adding a bit of support by just cementing the legs of the swing sets into the ground. Naturally, these were the households that could not mow their lawn properly, plus they also wound up with unpleasant barren spots underneath the swings. Many of us preferred to get a swingset which can be relocated throughout the yard, and so this resulted in a number of "daring adventures."

These potentially daring adventure were not fully harmless. In fact, standing 10 paces away and then firing off rocket powered lawn darts at one another would have perhaps been just as harmless. Then again for whatever reason, the idea of not carrying this out in no way occurred to any of us. Obviously, we ought to have known better, but how could all of us pass by the opportunity to show off our childhood bravery?

This was a simple adventure, the kind of things you carry out to make your yard seem to be more interesting. It starts by swinging as high as possible. Which, in and of itself, is normally fairly clear. However the true objective, the part where the danger came into it, was when we finally attempted to see just how far we could possibly tug the legs of the swing sets from the ground without making it tumble over.

This is the time at which every dad or mom should double check the foundations of their own outdoor play sets, or roll their eyes at the thought. Nonetheless, when we were kids (and in all probability when those parents had been youngsters) the idea of being daring enough to tug your swing sets out from the ground by a good eight inches (without dying) was something that just had to be tried.

Certainly, whenever we look back at it we all know that all of us could have yanked the entire thing down on our head, but the good news is that they are so lightweight it probably would not have hurt that much. And of course, the unavoidable parental shouting that would follow could be a bit distressing.

All the backyard play sets that are available today are generally,more stable than that. Many individuals and their families are now extra careful and buying the large wood made styles that include many other activities including climbing ramps and slides.

Looking back again upon days past you will be able to see how the modern day swing sets have fixed a lot of safety concerns and can help calm worried parents. Even so, days gone by definitely offer fond memories.

Beautiful Hydroponic Gardening Using Automated Hydroponics

Hydroponics, as you probably already know, means growing plants in water instead of soil. Hydroponic gardening has a lot of advantages over the traditional soil garden. For instance, plants can be grown all year with hydroponics, rather than seasonal like traditional methods. In nature you rely on seasons to allow your plants to go through their natural vegetative and flowering stages. But in an hydroponic garden, you can control the timing of the lights to mimic seasons in nature. Also, growing with hydroponics means your plants will grow a lot faster than in soil. In soil your plants have to grow a huge root system to get the water and nutrients that plants need. In a hydroponic garden however, a very small root system can provide adequate water and nutrients to keep the plant sufficiently growing. As a results plants grown in a hydroponic garden can grow much faster and achieve much denser growth than their counterparts in soil.

However, hydroponic gardening does have its drawback, and that is maintenance. In a hydroponic garden it is important to make sure you never run out of water. Water is the life giving element to plants, and if the h20 in your reservoir gets used up, your plants will die quickly. Always ensure you plants have adequate water when leaving for any prolonged amount of time. In addition it is also important to carefully monitor your pH levels. For most plants a pH of 5.5 is preferred. Anything higher or lower than that could cause a nutrient lock up, and cause your plants to be unable to get the nutrients they need out of the water. This can sicken and even kill your plants over time.

Many gardeners have adapted automated hydroponics systems in their indoor gardens. This automated hydroponics systems are capable of monitoring and adjusting your water levels automatically. This means your plants will never run out of water. At the same time the pH levels are also monitored. When the pH levels are skewed, a pump is activated to adjust the pH levels up and down automatically. This means your plants will always have the optimum amount of water/nutrients and at the proper pH to keep the plants growing at their peak performance. Automated hydroponic gardening is changing the way indoor growers produce their organic vegetables and fruits.

Lovely Where To Place Your Patio Lights

Patio lights generally fall under the two categories of lighting known as accent lighting and task lighting. The third type of lighting is called general lighting, which usually just refers to lights that brighten an entire room. Most overheads lights and flood lights are examples of general lighting. Patio lights are different because they aren't meant to brighten up an entire area. Instead their purpose is to offer enough lighting to make the space usable at night and also to help create the appropriate atmosphere. That's why they can be used as accent or task lighting. Patio lights can function similarly to candles, which are a common source of accent lighting, or a table or desk lamp, which are often used for task lighting.

For example, if you have an outdoor hammock on your patio and are fond of lying out there and reading at night, general lighting would not be your best choice. Too much light will distort the setting and make it almost as if you are reading indoors. That's why you should hang your patio lights so that they form task or accent lighting. Lights near the hammock will make it possible to read without distracting others with too much bright light. Or if you prefer using the hammock for sleeping or conversations, you can arrange the lights to give off accent lighting, which will offer enough visibility to see other people's faces and to walk around outdoors without the risk of running into things.

Accent lights are often placed on the ground and project light upward to help people find their way around a space. Task lights are generally placed overhead so that they project light down onto a person or surface. You may want to use lights at places people are likely to gather such an outdoor grill or steps leading down to the garden. For a table setting, a good idea is to use an umbrella cover and have lights underneath the umbrella. This directs the light down to the table where people need it and also keeps the light from distracting others.