March in the Vegetable Garden

March in the Vegetable Garden
By Jo Poultney

Even the smallest vegetable garden can be high maintenance and with March heralding the start of the new growing season, there is plenty to be getting on with. Here is a quick list of vital jobs to be doing in the vegetable garden during March.

Give your growing beds a final tidy up before you plant new vegetables by digging out problem perennial weeds and removing emerging ones. Dig in slow release fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone to improve the quality of the soil. Once this is done you can begin sowing the seeds of carrot, beetroot, cabbage, broad beans, spinach and even lettuce if the weather is not too cold. Sow under a cloche if the weather is cold. If you have over-wintering brassicas still in place, remove any yellowing leaves to prevent the spread of disease.

If you have been chitting potatoes ready for planting, March is the time to plant out early varieties. If you are short of room you can always plant them out in large deep bags of compost and they will grow just as well. Now is also the time to plant out Jerusalem artichokes. Also plant out rows of onion sets, spacing them about 15cm apart.

If you have fruit trees, make sure the base of each tree is free from grass and other weeds to reduce competition. Also spray fruit trees and bushes with fungicide to prevent diseases such as powdery mildew. To encourage an early fruiting of strawberries, cover the plants with cloches.

Now is the time to start off tomato, sweet pepper, squash, cucumber and courgette plants by sowing seeds inside a greenhouse. Also sow seeds of dwarf and climbing beans in pots inside. Keep a watchful eye out for pests such as whitefly and greenfly in the greenhouse and treat immediately. As the month progresses, continue to plant out second early potato crops, onion sets and other hardy leaf and root vegetables. Remove the forcing cloches from rhubarb to allow them to grow on uncovered. Feed spring brassicas such as cabbage with a nitrogen fertiliser to encourage growth.

Finally, get ahead and think of delicious summer dishes by sowing the seeds of herbs such as parsley, chives and other herbs in modules in the greenhouse. Plant out individual plants once they have formed true leaves. Take cuttings of established mint plants and plant out in garden planters in time to provide the perfect compliment to early potatoes.

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April in the Flower Garden

April in the Flower Garden
By Jo Poultney

Even in the smallest garden, April is the month when the growing season really begins to gather pace. Flower beds start to fill out with the bushy new shoots of herbaceous plants and leaves once again begin cover the branches of trees. With such fecundity its easy to let things slip out of control in the garden and before you know it you will realise there are a number of jobs you should have done and now it's too late. So before you venture outside take a quick reminder from this list of vital jobs to be done in the flower garden during April.

April is the time to plant herbaceous borders. Infill any gaps in the flower border with perennials. Plant in groups of three or five for maximum effect. The emerging shoots of some perennials such as lupins and delphiniums are particularly at risk from slugs and snails so protect them with an organic barrier such as garlic or coffee granules. Tie the emerging shoots to plant supports. April is the time to plant out the sweet pea seedlings you sowed back in February. Also, it's the time to sow hardy annual flowers such as sunflowers directly into beds where you want them. Fork a good helping of compost into the soil to help it cater for the new growth and annual flowers you have added to the border. April is also a good month to plant a lavender hedge. Choose a suitable variety such as the hardy Munstead dwarf.

If you grow oriental poppies in your flower garden now is the time to support them with canes to prevent them from flopping over. Also, secure the new shoots of clematis to supports, taking care not to snap the delicate stems. Start to spray roses that are vulnerable to diseases such as blackspot, mildew or rust. Plant out groups of gladioli bulbs to a depth of around 10cm, making sure the place you situate them is not too wet.

Towards the end of the month prune back the stems of early flowering clematis such as Montana to ensure it doesn't put on too much vigorous growth. Any box topiary you have will have started to put on new growth at this time, so give it a trim to keep it in shape. Any container grown shrubs and roses you have bought can also be planted out towards the end of the month. Finally, at the end of the month, fill garden planters with summer bedding displays but keep in the shelter of the greenhouse until a risk of frost is well past.

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Planting Your Own Fruit Trees

Planting Your Own Fruit Trees
By Nike S Jackson

It is easy to see the appeal there is to grow a fruit tree in your backyard. You'll have your own source of fresh fruits, if not the trees brings out the ever lingering nature lover within you.

There are lots of varieties to choose from. The dominant preference lies with individual choice of fruit. It's even observed to get an unfamiliar variety if you can grow one, something which is not readily available locally.

As the fruit development in most of the plant depends on the cross-pollination process, it sometimes becomes necessary to get more than one tree of same species in order to grow some fruit. However it is important to note that not all variety are compatible with others in same species in this regard.
Self-pollinating trees present a solution for this; trees such as European plums are preferred for this very property.

This mission of ours will soon get into its initial phase and the important thing to do here is to select the ideal site. The location should reflect the tree's requirement with regards to sunlight, which is a minimum of 6-8 hrs a day. It is often suggested to plant the trees on a slope so as to reduce the effects of cold winds. Practicality should also spring in the mind, as the maintenance of the tree can get hindered due to wrong placement for the same.

A soil profile needed in this situation should be with well drainage and sandy loam in composition. The pH of the soil should be brought to acceptable level. A pH test should suffice for this task, as occasionally lime is added in order to bring down the acidity levels in soil.

When visiting the nursery, it is advised to buy young plants of 1-3 years of age. Numerous varieties occasionally come with their own rootstock, something which certainly helps the early development of the tree.

Planting fruit trees is done mostly in early spring or even in late autumn. Presence of frost over the soil is definitely not the ideal situation, thus prompting the grower to wait. Diameter of the plant stalk is a prime factor when planting, as the hole should provide enough space for the roots to develop. Plants are recommended to be buried 2-3 times deeper than what they were in the nursery, as the graft union should be kept above the ground level. The hole is then refilled with backfill soil with a stake for support. Soil is the soaked with water as it is necessary to make sure that roots are getting the water.

Plastic guards could be applied to prevent any damage from mice as grease band is many a times applies to prevent the same from moths. Oil based winter wash is applied in December or January to repel any overwintering pests.

After 3 weeks of planting, 1 lbs of 10-10-10 garden fertilizer is applied with subsequent application early spring periods with amount of � lbs for one inch of trunk diameter.

For winter, Light coat of mixture of water and white interior latex paint is often suggested to be applied on the bark. This method is generally corresponds to preventive measures against the cold winds.

During first 4-5 years, fruit tress should be subjected to regular pruning. The central leader system is often recommended for trees like apple, pear cherry, plum and apricot.

Care taken for first few years will allow the healthy development of a tree, relieving you of any such labor in subsequent years and still present a lifelong supply of fresh fruits.

Nike Jackson is somebody who has spent entire lifetime engaged in farming work. Even though brought up on more traditional way, Nike has particular inclination in adopting for modern farming techniques such as hydroponics. Nike often writes on blogs and such, so as to educate other with few of his important tips.

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Important Aquaponics Supplies You Must Consider For Your Aquaponics Garden To Be A Success

Important Aquaponics Supplies You Must Consider For Your Aquaponics Garden To Be A Success
By Paul Luciw

There are a number of aquaponics supplies you must consider for your aquaponics garden to be a success. Using the correct supplies to build and operate your aquaponics garden will keep it producing healthy organic vegetables and fish for years to come. Take the time and consider carefully the supplies you will use in your aquaponics garden.

One of the first things to consider is the type of aquaponics design you will be using to produce your food. This will determine the type of supplies you will be using to build and support your system. If you choose to build a flood and drain aquaponics system garden you will need to purchase grow media to put in the grow beds. There are several types of grow media to choose from. Clay pellets are a popular choice for many home based systems. These tiny clay pellets are man-made and have a number of properties which make them well suited for being used in the grow beds of a flood and drain system. They are very porous and drain very well during the drain part of the flood and drain cycle. They are also light weight and will not make the contents of your grow beds to heavy when filled with water. Another less expensive option is lava rock (pumice). This naturally occurring rock has similar properties to the man-made clay pellets. Lava rock is very porous and light-weight. However you have to watch for impurities and chemicals which could be contained in the rock.

The fish you choose to stock your aquaculture system with is another important aquaponics supply you will have to carefully consider. There are many types of fish you can use. One of the most popular species used in home based aquaponics gardens is the tilapia. Tilapia are often used because of their large size and because they are a good eating fish with a mild flavor. They are also a good source of protein. A number of other properties make them a low maintenance fish to farm. They tolerate changes in their environment better than many other fish. If the water in your aquaponics system is going to see changes in temperature, pH and levels of oxygen you should consider using the tilapia. They allow for a high stocking density and have a quick growth rate allowing for several harvests per year. This means you will have well stocked fish tanks and a good supply of fish for food throughout the year.

Choosing the correct aquaponics supplies to build and maintain your aquaponics garden will require some research and a reliable resource to learn from. The internet offers many resources which can provide you with this knowledge. Some of this information is free. Other resources will require some sort of payment. It may be worth paying for such a resource because the information they provide is usually be more detailed and specialized. The money you spend may be well worth it in the long run

Best Regards

It is important to know what aquaponics supplies you should use in your aquaponics garden. Please visit aquaponicshowto.info to find out more and gain gain access to resources which help you in choosing the correct aquaponics supplies.

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Bokashi Composting: Less Labor, Better Results and a Healthier Method Overall

Bokashi Composting: Less Labor, Better Results and a Healthier Method Overall
By E Lancaster

Without a doubt, the easiest way to engage in eco-friendly recycling food and green waste is to participate in some form of composting. Over the past several decades, the practice of composting has caught on with homeowners and eco-friendly individuals all around the world. Its roots, though, are firmly in the agriculture industry. Agriculture has always relied on composting to eliminate green waste efficiently, to create healthier soils, stronger crops, and better overall results.

Today, the Bokashi method of composting is favored by farmers and laymen alike because it actually involves less time, fuel costs due to less turning- and therefore less work - than traditional composting. The Bokashi method is faster and helps to return more nutrients to the soil from the green waste that is being decomposed by the process.

Leaving the Dirt Behind: The Benefits of Less Turning and More Pickling

Any farmer familiar with the traditional composting knows that waste must be turned quite often in order introduce the oxygen to feed the microbes (aerobic microbes and fungii) that essentially breaks the waste down. Meanwhile, as the waste decomposes, the compost emits foul smelling gasses and attracts various pests.

The Bokashi method, on the other hand, does not use decomposition to break down materials and therefore does not rely on oxygen and thus requires little to no turning. (The main turning is just mixing in the inoculant and water for proper moisture) The first benefit of this is that there is simply less labor involved. You mix the Bokashi, you add the materials to be broken down, and at the end of the process you add it to the garden... that's it.

A secondary benefit is the Bokashi process emits no offensive smell and - because it occurs in an airtight Bokashi bucket - the process does not attract unwanted pests. These two aspects make the process far more appropriate for families in suburban and urban environments. (An alternate version of this can be conducted on a large scale for farmers.)

But perhaps the biggest benefit of Bokashi is one that directly deals with nutrients that result from the process. Rather than breaking down the compost into a dirt-like substance, the Bokashi method of composting actually pickles the green waste during the process. This preserves a great deal more nutrients than traditional composting, and makes the waste more readily available for worms, beneficial fungi, and future crops. The resulting nutrients from the wastes become "slow release"" nutrients, meaning the nutrients are more stable and will last for longer durations. The nutrients are tied up into vitamins and amino acids as well as in the actual microbes themselves. With more nutrients retained during the process, Bokashi composting actually benefits future crops by allowing them to be healthier, more resilient, and more fruitful.

Summary of the Advantages to Bokashi

• Easier, faster and less labor intensive than traditional composting
• Highly scalable - you can use the Bokashi method in an apartment or a commercial farm
• Does not result in foul odors - making it ideal for people living in more urban environments.
• Produces higher quality, "slow release" nutrients for gardens and farms.
• It can be used to recycle a variety of wastes that cannot be composted, including meat and dairy.

Bokashi composting allows for more nutrients to be returned to the soil, all while requiring less time and labor than traditional methods. In a world that is becoming more focused on natural ways to provide nutrients, rather than synthetic chemicals that perform the same task, it's easy to see why Bokashi itself is becoming so widely implemented.

About the Author: Eric Lancaster is the Executive Vice President at Teraganix, formerly EM America. Teraganix is the exclusive US distributor for Dr. Higa's original EM Technology, including Bokashi EM-1.

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Bonsai Is a Fascinating Living Craft

Bonsai Is a Fascinating Living Craft
By Penny Swift

The word bonsai is Chinese for "trees in trays", which makes it rather strange that the art of bonsai is primarily associated with Japan. But this is purely because it is the Japanese who initially perfected the art of deliberately dwarfing trees.

The principal idea of bonsai is to grow a tree on a tiny scale, so that it eventually looks just like the tree that would grow in nature... to its full size. In other words, it should be a perfect miniature of what you would find in your garden, or in a forest.

Unlike growing trees for shade or even as a source of material for construction or furniture-making, trees grown on this scale are purely decorative... a little living ornament. And it is a long-term craft, since it takes many years for trees to get to dwarf-sized maturity.

Origins of the Art of Bonsai

The art of bonsai dates back thousands of years, and there are believed to be living bonsai trees that are as old as 500 years.

One of the earliest bonsai trees on record in Japan dates to the years between 603 and 839 when several Japanese diplomatic missions went to China. Japan's Shosoin, a veritable treasure house dating to the 8th century, has an amazing example of this kind of art, although the trees are sculpted rather than living.

The Best Trees for Bonsai

Generally it is accepted that the most suitable trees for bonsai are oaks, maples, crab apple and plum trees, as well as acacias, some of the Ficus species, schotias and wild olives. Some evergreens are also popular, including azaleas, cotoneasters and pyracanthas. Conifers also make excellent subjects.

Here are Some Tips to Get You Started

The best way to start a bonsai is to grow it from seed. Alternatively you can transplant very found seedlings that have self sowed themselves in the garden.

It will usually take about two years for the seedlings to reach a height of about 30-40 mm (1-1.5 ins). At this stage (during spring) they can be potted into a container filled with about 80-100 mm (3-4 ins) of compost. Keep the plant outdoors in a sheltered, shady environment.

The following autumn, you need to transplant the tree into a bed of good soil, or repot them in about 130-150 cm (5-6 ins) of compost. The pot or pots should be kept in a sheltered place outs doors; and the pros often bury the pots (up to the rim) in peat.

At this stage you can also start to train the stem. Use wire to bend the stem (which is in effect the young trunk) and achieve a gnarled, aged appearance - but be careful not to damage the tree.

A good rule of thumb is to wait until the stem is about 10 mm (less than half an inch) in diameter, prune the stem - by cutting it about 100-150 mm (4-5 ins) from the base. It sounds harsh, but it has to be done. It won't take long for side-shoots to start appearing.

Towards autumn, when the tree has obviously stopped growing, you will need to prune its roots heavily. Only leave the fibrous roots. Then transplant the tree into smaller pots that are just big enough to take whatever roots remain. If you look at the containers that bonsai grow in, you will realize just how little root should remain!

Penny Swift has been writing about an enormous range of topics for decades, from landscaping, digital photography, cooking, childcare and convivial crafts to construction and some controversial subjects. She has written and produced a large number of DIY and How-to building and home-making titles, as well as books on topics as diverse as water gardens, outdoor garden style, decorating and caring for horses. She currently freelances and contributes to a number of websites including http://www.diycrafting.com

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How To Start Your Own Produce Garden

How To Start Your Own Produce Garden
By Cindy Barnett

There is nothing quite like growing your own garden. Not only does it give you the opportunity to taste the fruit of your labor, it also allows you to spend time outdoors and soak in the sunlight. The type of gardening that you do is going to depend upon your own personal tastes and in some cases, you may even want to extend your garden from one year to the next. Here are a few tips that can help you to get started with gardening and to enjoy it more fully as the years go by.

One thing that is going to need to be considered every year is the preparation of the garden. Unless you live in a very warm weather climate, you're going to have a dormant time during the year when the garden is going to lay vacant. When the spring comes, it is going to be time for you to prepare the garden and get it ready for the growing season. If you have a small garden, it is usually going to be possible for you to turn the soil with a spade. If you have a larger garden, on the other hand, it is best if you have a tiller to take care of turning the soil. This is also the time of year when you will want to add any natural, organic fertilizer to the garden and anything else that will help to soften the soil and make it more workable.

There are specific tools that are going to be necessary for the garden that you will not want to overlook. A shovel and rake are going to be mainstays of the garden but even smaller items, such as a ball of twine and a good knife are going to work wonders when they are needed. Have a handy location that is near the garden where you will keep all the tools and supplies that are necessary to keep your garden up and running.

Variety is the spice of life and there is plenty of room for variety when planting a garden. You may want to have everything from tomatoes to green peppers and even boiler onions planted in the garden. Most people that like to experiment do not limit themselves to just one or two different types of plants. Even if you do not have many plants of one particular variety, even having one is going to allow you to taste the difference.

Finally, don't expect your garden to provide you with everything that is necessary. For example, if you have a vegetable garden, you may still want to have fresh fruit delivered from a farm that is outside of your area. This is especially true when it comes to specific types of fruit that are only available in certain locations. This is not only important for keeping the variety as diversified as possible, it is also important to make sure that you are getting all the vitamins and minerals that are provided by those outside items. Just make sure that it is organic and you will get the most from what is sent to you.

The author of this article runs a family-owned farm where she grows produce such as apples, boiler onions, carrots and much more. Because her farm is nearby many residential neighborhoods, she is able to provide fresh fruit delivered right to the customer's home.

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Discouraging Predators From Raiding Your Birdhouses and Bird Feeders

Discouraging Predators From Raiding Your Birdhouses and Bird Feeders
By Matthew A. Boreau

If you are going to install bird feeders and birdhouses, the last thing you need is for either of them to be occupied or otherwise used by animals other than birds. Use these tips to ensure that only birds use your bird feeders and birdhouses.

Birds will stay wild, but other animals can begin to lose their wildness and associate humans with sources of food. This is not good for either the animals or you. Animals that approach human habitation looking for food are more likely to kill pets, attack humans, or get killed themselves for getting too close to humans. So it is in your and the animals best interests to keep them from raiding your bird feeders and birdhouses.

The first thing to know is that neither bird feeders nor birdhouses should be mounted in trees. Trees are too easy to climb. Instead, mount them on poles. And make sure that they are not directly under tree branches, such that an animal could climb the tree and then jump onto the birdhouse or bird feeder.

Next, install predator guards on the poles. These are baffles that prevent animals from climbing up the poles. Imagine drilling a hole in a garbage can lid, and then mounting it about 3 feet above the ground on the pole. Critters could climb up the pole, but the garbage can lid would stop them. You can, in fact make a baffle type predator guard using a garbage can lid. Or you can buy a baffle that is designed for that purpose.

For birdhouses, you need to have an additional predator guard on the opening to the bird feeder. The opening should be lined in metal. This is to prevent squirrels or woodpeckers from enlarging the hole so that they can fit inside. This is important, because birds choose birdhouses based on the size of the opening, among other features. If the opening is too large, then they won't use the birdhouse.

Once you have put in place protective measures to keep other creatures out, then you can enjoy the birds.

Interested in garden bird feeders or garden birdhouses? Visit All American Bird, a 100% Veteran Owned Business.

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How To Become A Tree Surgeon

How To Become A Tree Surgeon
By Pamela Klemming

Tree surgery is a sought after job role. After all, there are few jobs in modern life that involve spending the day surrounded by nature. But passion is just one requirement, there are others too. In this role, you must be physically fit and well versed in the science of trees. You can take college courses in horticulture, arboriculture and forestry. There are a wide array of qualifications in this industry.

The learning curve can in this industry is steep, but don't let that deter you. You can find apprenticeships and learn on the job by sourcing a local company willing to help you take those first steps. On hand experience is vital to become a tree surgeon. Climbing trees in itself can be a real risk and you must know how to use your equipment effectively to get the job done.

Courses in this industry will verse you on the various tree species, their diseases and stages of growth. They'll also involve learning how to plant and nurture saplings and plants and a thorough knowledge of safety techniques for yourself and colleagues. Besides safety you'll also need to learn about safety of power lines both overhead and underground as well as the safety of buildings and other structures.

You'll need to learn how to use a harness and climb trees safely. The harness can be tricky to begin with and you'll require adequate training and practice to master it, but it's worth it in the long run. The harness remains an essential safety measure in this job. You'll also need to learn how to use a chainsaw, the signature tool of this trade. You'll need a certificate in chainsaw proficiency.

While the path to become a tree surgeon in Swindon is much the same as anywhere else in the world, there are different governing bodies you'll need to join. In the UK the NPTC are among the organizations that provide assessments. Register with your local authority.

As you develop your experience you'll learn how to use other pieces of equipment too. This may include a stump grinder, for example, or an elevated platform needed to prune branches on tall trees. This kind of equipment is needed to prune tall trees which need to be cut down in segments. First aid training is also a requirement to become a tree surgeon. This training will be required by many insurance companies.

Tree surgeons play an important role in sustaining trees in their infancy through maturity. The health and conservation of trees is critical to the environment. As a surgeon you'll play a vital role in preserving this natural resource for future generations.

If you're curious about a career in tree surgery there are a number of online resources and forums you can explore. Explore our site, Tree Top Services, for further information. In this industry the learning never stops and we'll keep you informed on the latest news and developments in arboriculture.

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Potting Up Tomatoes That Were Grown From Seed Indoors Once They Are Bigger

Potting Up Tomatoes That Were Grown From Seed Indoors Once They Are Bigger
By Agnes Thompson

If you're like me, you can't wait for that first home grown summer tomato. So I start my tomatoes in late January. Pretty early, but I am determined to have a long tomato season. This will be batch no.1, and I plan to start another batch in late March.

So in my case, last year, I sowed three different types, Black Cherry, Stupice and Sungold. The first two of the three are heirloom and all seem to be good candidates for early harvest. Sungold is a monster producer of incredibly delicious cherry sized orange tomatoes. These are the toms that my kids would pick right off the vine and eat like candy last summer. One plant was not enough to keep up with the household demand, so of course this year I will be growing three.

A few weeks after sowing, your little seedlings will have turned into gangly teenagers looking to stretch their legs. Mine all germinated last year and since I let my kids help me sow them, there are several seedlings to each little pod. They had to be thinned! That was the hard part for me, getting rid of perfectly good seedlings. I just don't have enough room for 60 small tomato plants. I picked the 12 strongest and *gulp* tossed the rest.

You will have to do the same! Be realistic about what you can grow in your garden and/or pawn off on friends and neighbors.

So this is how you transplant your tomato seedlings:

The first step find good containers that are big enough for the toms to grow into. I use styrofoam cups, although there are certainly other more *ahem* environmentally conscious options, used yogurt containers come to mind -- the big ones, not the individual ones. Make sure they are relatively deep because tomatoes like to throw down long roots and you need to always replant the toms deeper than they were before, meaning some of the stem will be buried. Pop a couple of drainage holes in your containers before adding your potting mix!

Next up, pre-moisten your potting mix in a bowl, preferably in a sink, and preferably away from the prying eyes of anyone who has OCD in your family. Knead it a bit with your hands to get all the ingredients wet. Trying to moisten the dry potting mix once it is inside each little container is a nightmare.

Now pack your cups or containers full of mix, leaving about an inch of head room. Make a hole. I use a chopstick. A pencil works fine. Or you can spend $5 on something called and a "dibbler" and no, I am not making that up.

Now pop out your seedlings gently, and I mean gently. If you can avoid touching them while you do this, all the better. And yes, it's messy. If you have grown more than one seedling in a cell, separating the little guys from each other can be tricky. The roots may be entangled and since the one with the biggest roots is what you are after, careful not to break them. Use a teeny scissors to cut away seedling you don't want, don't pull the roots apart! Always choose the seedling with the biggest root system.

Now, GENTLY pick off all but the top set of true leaves. Then plop your little guy into the hole and pack the moist soil around it, covering the parts of the stem where the leaves were. Roots will grow from those points. Your little fella will look overwhelmed in his new digs, but don't worry - he'll grow into it.

Finally, when you're done, move them to the sunniest spot in your house, preferably a southern exposure with access to the great outdoors. Set up a simple T5 grow light system to supplement for cloudy days and keep it on for about 15 hours a day so your toms think they're in, ya know, Ecuador or something.

And on warm, sunny days take them outside for some sunbathing! Just don't let them get burned. Seriously, tomatoes can get sunburn. Before you know it they will be ready to move into the half-gallon milk carton size!

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February in the Flower Garden

February in the Flower Garden
By Jo Poultney

In even the smallest garden its best to get ahead of the game during February and get on with jobs that will save you time once spring really gets underway. It is easy come April to realise that you should have pruned your roses in February. So here is a quick list of vital jobs to be getting on with in the flower garden during February to help you make sure you haven't missed anything.

February is the month when you can really start to get the new season underway and one of the best ways to start is to sow plants indoors. Sowing your own seed is an economical way of raising new plants and sowing indoors will make sure they get a head start and also help to extend the growing season for tender annuals. Flowering plants that will benefit from being sown in this way include sweet peas and half hardy annuals such as petunia and lobelia.

Now is also the time to prune some of the gardens most stunning flowering climbers. If you have wisteria cut it back to one or two buds from the main stem, making sure to remove any whippy growth except those you want to train as new leaders. Late flowering clematis can also be cut back at the end of this month. Make sure you cut each stem cleanly above a low pair of green shoots.

In the flower bed, fork and rake over the soil where you plan to sow hardy annuals. Lift and divide clumps of snowdrops when in leaf or 'in the green' and replant around the garden. This is the best way of getting this stunning little bulb to spread. Now is also the time to lift and divide congested border perennials as long as the ground is not frozen. Also if the weather is not to severe, cut off the heads of hydrangeas and prune back the shoots to a pair of buds. Cut out any dead stems on hardy fuchsias. Winter flowering heathers will also benefit from a trim during this month.

Finally, make sure you fill garden planters with spring flowering bulbs and bedding plants to brighten up patios and infill gaps in the garden. You might also like to plant out lily bulbs in containers during this month. They are best grown on in pots first before planting them out in the flower border.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jo_Poultney
http://EzineArticles.com/?February-in-the-Flower-Garden&id=7464413

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February in the Vegetable Garden

February in the Vegetable Garden
By Jo Poultney

There is always plenty of jobs to do even in the smallest vegetable garden as there is no denying that growing fruit and vegetables is high maintenance. So, with more to do there is always more to forget. Plan ahead by getting on top of those jobs that can be done early in the year. Here is a short list of vital jobs to be doing in the vegetable garden during February.

One of the easiest vegetables to grow is the potato and February is the time to chit seed potatoes. Chitting is the term used to describe allowing the seed potatoes to grow shoots before they are planted in the ground. Place your seed potatoes blunt end up in trays or old egg boxes in a bright and airy spot. The potatoes should be ready to plant out when the shoots are 1-2cm long, in around six weeks.

February is the time to plant out shallots in well-prepared beds. Other vegetable seeds that can be planted out at this time are carrots, broad beans, hardy peas and parsnips. Give them a head start by covering the soil bed with fleece or cloches first to warm up the soil. If you haven't already done so, start to force rhubarb by covering it with a terracotta cloche or an old bucket to exclude the light and encourage tasty new stems.

If you grow soft fruit, now is the time to plant new raspberry canes and blackcurrant bushes. Prune gooseberry bushes to an open globe shape to allow air to circulate. Feed all fruit trees and bushes with a handful of sulphate of potash. It might also to a good idea to take stock of the netting around fruit cages and repair any holes that may allow in hungry birds.

Towards the end of the month you can begin to sow other vegetable seeds in the greenhouse if you have one. Plant seeds of broccoli, spring cabbage and onions. If you have a greenhouse vine or other climber, now is also the time to prune.

An effective way of fertilising last year's beds is to grow a green manure and now is the time to sow this. Crops of fenugreek, mustard and crimson clover can be sown now and then dug into the soil later in the spring to improve it.

Finally, now is the time to start sowing herb seeds in garden planters. Herbs such as parsley, mint, chives and oregano placed near the house will provide you with a plentiful crop to cook with throughout the summer months.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jo_Poultney
http://EzineArticles.com/?February-in-the-Vegetable-Garden&id=7464567

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How To Become A Tree Surgeon

How To Become A Tree Surgeon
By Pamela Klemming

Tree surgery is a sought after job role. After all, there are few jobs in modern life that involve spending the day surrounded by nature. But passion is just one requirement, there are others too. In this role, you must be physically fit and well versed in the science of trees. You can take college courses in horticulture, arboriculture and forestry. There are a wide array of qualifications in this industry.

The learning curve can in this industry is steep, but don't let that deter you. You can find apprenticeships and learn on the job by sourcing a local company willing to help you take those first steps. On hand experience is vital to become a tree surgeon. Climbing trees in itself can be a real risk and you must know how to use your equipment effectively to get the job done.

Courses in this industry will verse you on the various tree species, their diseases and stages of growth. They'll also involve learning how to plant and nurture saplings and plants and a thorough knowledge of safety techniques for yourself and colleagues. Besides safety you'll also need to learn about safety of power lines both overhead and underground as well as the safety of buildings and other structures.

You'll need to learn how to use a harness and climb trees safely. The harness can be tricky to begin with and you'll require adequate training and practice to master it, but it's worth it in the long run. The harness remains an essential safety measure in this job. You'll also need to learn how to use a chainsaw, the signature tool of this trade. You'll need a certificate in chainsaw proficiency.

While the path to become a tree surgeon in Swindon is much the same as anywhere else in the world, there are different governing bodies you'll need to join. In the UK the NPTC are among the organizations that provide assessments. Register with your local authority.

As you develop your experience you'll learn how to use other pieces of equipment too. This may include a stump grinder, for example, or an elevated platform needed to prune branches on tall trees. This kind of equipment is needed to prune tall trees which need to be cut down in segments. First aid training is also a requirement to become a tree surgeon. This training will be required by many insurance companies.

Tree surgeons play an important role in sustaining trees in their infancy through maturity. The health and conservation of trees is critical to the environment. As a surgeon you'll play a vital role in preserving this natural resource for future generations.

If you're curious about a career in tree surgery there are a number of online resources and forums you can explore. Explore our site, Tree Top Services, for further information. In this industry the learning never stops and we'll keep you informed on the latest news and developments in arboriculture.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pamela_Klemming
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Become-A-Tree-Surgeon&id=7463314

Indoor Vegetable Gardening As a Cost Savings and Healthy Eating Choice

Indoor Vegetable Gardening As a Cost Savings and Healthy Eating Choice
By Mike G. Greene

The one thing that people around the world in most communities must do more frequently is practice better eating. However, most people do not have the space to grow their own fruits and vegetables, so indoor vegetable gardening is a great option for those looking to increase their intake of fresh produce without having to spend as much at the grocery store. The benefits of growing fresh vegetables indoors will give any gardening enthusiast not only the pleasure of the gardening hobby, but you can feel better by eating the rewards of your labors.

The best part about indoor vegetable gardening is that you can get started with almost any space. What I recommend is to first think of what you want to grow in your indoor garden. Then you need to figure out what type of space requirements your plants will need as well as the typical water, soil (or non-soil for hydroponics), and light requirements that are needed for these plants. Also to note, indoor vegetable gardening will give you the option of growing out of season veggies, especially if you are in a climate where the weather gets cold during parts of the year.

Regarding eating healthy, most nutritionists will tell you that it is best to eat a wide variety of foods to ensure proper nutrient balance in the body. With indoor vegetable gardening, you have the capability of changing your crops and supplementing the produce you can purchase at the market. Plus, you can end up saving a lot of money once you get all of the indoor vegetable gardening supplies.

Prior to beginning, you will need to obtain some basic equipment and figure out your space limitations in your growing area. Many people use spare bedrooms, basements, or even closets. If you are thinking of indoor vegetable gardening, others even utilize the space in the kitchen to keep a close eye on their veggies, especially because that is where the meal preparations take place! You can get many different tools, devices, pots, space savers, measurement and pH meters to help you on your journey to ensure proper nutrient and growing levels.

Personally, if you get started in indoor vegetable gardening you can anticipate a cost savings. After the upfront and startup costs of getting some seeds and the planting tools and materials, you can start a rotation of different vegetables and herbs. You will find that purchasing herbs in the store is very expensive, so by using these methods of growing vegetables indoors, you can expect to save a lot of money in the long run.

Mike G. Greene is an avid gardener and loves the art of Indoor vegetable gardening. Read more about gardening at his blog including what you need for Indoor gardening supplies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_G._Greene
http://EzineArticles.com/?Indoor-Vegetable-Gardening-As-a-Cost-Savings-and-Healthy-Eating-Choice&id=7432417

The Art of Cuniculture - Raising Rabbits for Food and Fur

The Art of Cuniculture - Raising Rabbits for Food and Fur
By M Salcedoand Herschel H Hemingway

The Art of Cuniculture

Have you ever been curious about raising rabbits for meat or even fur? Let's discuss the art of cuniculture, the different methods, and even a brief history.

A Brief History of the Domestication

Selective breeding began in monasteries in the middle ages. The popularity of keeping them as household pets rose during that time and were later bred for their fur color and weight. This resulted in several new species being documented by the 1500′s.

Rabbits made their way to Great Britain in the thirteenth century, and by the sixteenth century, Queen Elizabeth even had rabbit island; patches of land inside rivers where rabbits were free from predators and allowed to thrive. Awesome huh? Her husband, King Henry the VIII, had rabbit colonies so large he could hunt in them!

One of the oldest domesticated breeds is the Angora. These fancy looking wooly furballs were kept by French royalty in the eighteenth century.

Raising Rabbits for Fur

Rabbit fur is made up of guide haris, guard hairs, and down hairs. Rabbit fur is actually quite valuable and considered to have more essential oils than other animal furs and pelts.

If you are raising for fur, keep in mind, the best fur comes on after the they are about 5 months old, at 4 months old they will still have infant fur.

Common Breeds for Fur

The Castor Rex is probably the most commonly bred for fur. They come in different varieties from "broken" to "mini" and can cost about $50.00 each. Pricey, but their pelts are highly sought after.

The Angora is bred specifically for it's long, soft wool. Angora Rabbit wool is both softer and finer than cashmere. However regular, even daily, grooming is necessary for these rabbits.

Common Uses for Rabbit Fur

Rabbit fur is most commonly used to make gloves, scarves, hats, and coats.

Raising Rabbits for Meat

If you're thinking about keeping rabbits for food, you're not alone. Thousands of people around the country keep rabbits for food. These little breeding machines are great for sustainability.

One doe can have five or six litters a year, with five or six bunnies to a litter, half of these being female, will be ready to breed at around five months. So momma rabbit and daughter rabbit will be having litters together before the year is over.

Keep the Bloodline Healthy

Rotate your males. Introduce new males for your breeding females to keep your rabbits healthy. You are trying to cut down on inbreeding between the rabbits here.

What does Rabbit meat taste like?

Most people wouldn't think of eating Rabbit, that is until they actually taste it. Most people will tell you Rabbit meat taste like chicken, but in actuality it ha it's very own unique flavor, maybe "earthy" or "gamey" you could say. You should at least try rabbit someday if you haven't already, you won't regret it.

Many people think of Rabbits as rodents, and most people would never eat a rodent. Rabbits are not rodents, however. Rabbits, Hares and Pikas belong to the mammal order Lagomorpha.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Salcedo
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Art-of-Cuniculture---Raising-Rabbits-for-Food-and-Fur&id=7424037

Indoor Gardening - Elements of Getting Started With Gardening Indoors

Indoor Gardening - Elements of Getting Started With Gardening Indoors
By Mike G. Greene

When considering all of the options of gardening, it is good to know that no matter where you live and what the conditions are, you can grow the plants and vegetables of your liking due to indoor gardening. By choosing to garden in the confines of your home or space, you have the option of starting small, and growing plants, vegetables, or even herbs. There are a few things that you must know prior to beginning though, because you will not have access to the amount of sunlight, and fresh air of course. You will need to add a little extra care, but in the end you will enjoy the 'fruitful' labors of indoor gardening.

A positive aspect of indoor gardening is that for one, you have the ability to control your environment: from temperature to the amount of light and the watering schedule for example. If you garden properly, you can dictate the outcome of how the plants and vegetables grow. It will take some time to learn and adjust, especially if your prior gardening knowledge is only done outside. However, after doing some research and reading a few books on indoor gardening, you should have no issue adjusting.

Also, before getting started you will need to obtain a few extra supplies. As I stated earlier, your plants will need the same things as they would traditionally: light, air, water, and food nutrients. The good thing is that these are easily obtainable by visiting your favorite website or local indoor gardening store. Now depending on which plants you are growing for your indoor garden will dictate a few of the other needed supplies. For example, what are you growing? Flowers, vegetables, fruits, herbs? Each of these will need a different amount of space and soil (if you are not doing hydroponics that is) and planting necessities. If you pay attention to these details, your indoor gardening experience will be more productive overall.

Once you get rolling and get all your essentials set up, your garden can be planted. Now the difference between indoor gardening and regular gardening, as I mentioned, is that you will need to closely monitor the growth and the elements (sun, air, water) more frequently than you would for outdoor planting. There are certain tools and devices specifically used for inside planting that can monitor these levels for you, which might be a handy idea when getting started.

The rewards of indoor gardening are wonderful, as you can keep your hobby alive during the colder months, and regardless of where you reside. After getting the proper gardening tools and supplies, and monitoring the growth and nutrients with proper knowledge, your gardening experience should be nothing more than a success.

Mike G. Greene is an avid gardener and loves the art of Indoor hydroponic gardening. Read more about gardening at his blog Indoor Vegetable Gardening.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_G._Greene
http://EzineArticles.com/?Indoor-Gardening---Elements-of-Getting-Started-With-Gardening-Indoors&id=7432365

Simple Storage Shed Designs For Your Backyard

Simple Storage Shed Designs For Your Backyard
By Paul Luciw

There a number of simple garden shed designs you can use for your backyard. These would be a nice complement for your greenhouse and enhance the overall appearance of your garden. They would also have some practical value as they would give you a place to store your garden supplies and tools.

One of the simplest garden shed designs you could choose would be the lean-to style shed. It consists of a flat roof with a slight pitch or no pitch at all. It is rectangular in shape and is designed to lean against another structure such as a garage or your home. It is great for a backyard which has limited space.

The pent roof style shed is similar to the lean-to style shed but it is designed to be a stand-alone structure. It has a flat single piece roof with a slight pitch or slope. It is rectangular in shape with a door located under the highest part of the roof. Sometimes it is designed with a window next to the door to give it extra lighting inside the structure.

A more complicated garden shed design, but still relatively simple to build, is the gable roof shed. This structure has an A-frame style roof. This roof has two sides with each side being the same size and pitch. It is an excellent choice for storing your garden supplies and tools because of the extra head space beneath its roof.

Whatever garden shed design you choose to build it is recommended you use a credible plan in the construction of the structure. This will help you get your garden shed completed in a timely and cost-effective manner. There are many resources on the internet that will provide you with information on how to complete your garden shed project. Some advice will be free and others will require some payment. Generally a resource which will cost you money will provide you with more specialized information and greater details with regards to the step-by-step construction of your shed. The money you spend may be more than worth it because of the time you will save and frustration you will avoid during the construction process.

Best Regards

Access proven storage shed plans and other shed plans for your garden by visiting estorageshedplans.info to get access to over 12,000 shed plans and wood working projects. This awesome resource includes plans for sheds of all shapes and sizes.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Simple-Storage-Shed-Designs-For-Your-Backyard&id=7434968

Sunlight Supply

Sunlight Supply
By Mark Andrew Plummer

An indoor garden gives you the opportunity to bring life, beauty, and, if you grow a vegetable garden, even health to your home. While there are many benefits to be had, it is not such an easy task to grow an indoor garden. Before you begin, you must remember that there are some differences between an indoor and outdoor garden, most importantly what they need.

Plants need a lot to live and grow, obviously. With an indoor garden, you have to bring these things in with equipment. These give your plants everything they need, like air and sunlight, without actually going outside. Using these items, you can make sure your plants live a long and wonderful life, giving you everything you want and need out of them.

When choosing which to buy, you have to consider your needs and those of your plants. Not every plant is the same, just like not every person or room is the same. If you want to make sure you choose the right stuff for your plants, make sure you look into their needs. The amount of light and water, the type of nutrients, and the space required, just as a few examples, will not be the same from plant to plant, so you must choose with information and knowledge backing your decision.

With the large selection available, you can find something that is fitting and works wonderfully. Each item is different and provides different results, of course, so you can find something that matches your exact needs. Whether you have a very small garden or something grand, you have products out there that can work. Since there are many available, along with quite a few extra changes that can be made, you can find something just right that gives you the most for your time, space, and money.

Grow Light Supply is a distributor of these items, making it possible for you to find many of these phenomenal products in one place. Whatever you need, you can look to the items available to find it. That massive selection saves you on time and money since you can easily get everything you want without going through multiple stores, which would up the cost of shipping and possibly other items, depending on the price differences. You can complete an entire indoor garden set up from what is available, and all with the products you trust and want, too.

Some great manufacturers you can find include Grodan, Lumatek, and Galaxy, along with many others. These are trusted, reliable manufacturers that create some fantastic supplies for your garden. When you have their products in your indoor garden, you can have the peace of mind that comes with quality. These will deliver better results when your plants are fully grown.

Having everything available to you gives you the opportunity to turn your garden into something that provides life, beauty, and wonder for a long time. There are many products available from manufacturers like Feliz, Eye Hortilux, and Hanna Instruments, which gives you a large selection from which you can choose. This raises your chances of finding the right products for your plants that do the necessary work along with much more than you ever expected.

To learn more about a Sunlight Supply, please visit http://www.growlightsupply.com

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Sunlight-Supply&id=7434036

Sowing Seeds in Winter

Sowing Seeds in Winter
By Wayne G S

I have done winter sowing on occasions over the past several years. My success has been as varied as my methods.

So, just what is winter sowing? Winter sowing is the process of planting seeds during the winter. Winter sowing is usually started around the first day of winter. This will allow the seeds to go through the natural stratification process during the cool weather. When the warm weather comes they will sprout and be ready for transplanting into the gardens at the proper planting time. It is best to use seeds from plants that naturally reseed in your area but feel free to experiment with any types of seed, both annual and perennial seeds are good candidates. One sunflower I experimented with ended up growing over 12 feet tall.

Winter sowing involves preparing a protective environment to help insure success. There are several approaches to this. Using plastic containers such as soda or milk bottles is one method. Some of the plastic food containers with clear covers and deeper trays work also with a little less effort. Plastic row covers will work too. Keep in mind that if you're in an area of heavy snow fall the row covers could collapse.

Using plastic bottles: When using plastic bottles or even food containers the first thing you need to is thoroughly clean the container. The larger, 2 L, soda bottles work fairly well and so do the transparent milk bottles. The sunlight has to be able get through so using the solid white milk bottles is not recommended. After washing you prepare the bottle for planting by first drilling some holes in the bottom for drainage. (Please follow good safety practices when using any power tools or sharp instruments.) Now it's time to cut the bottom portion of the bottle. You can make this any size you want but I recommend about 4 inches. If you're using milk bottles you may want to cut higher and only cut 3 sides of the bottle to make a hinged top.

Once cut, fill the bottom almost to the top with a good quality potting soil leaving enough room to cover the seeds the proper amount according to your seed packets. Moisten the soil and allow the excess water to drain off. Unlike planting in cells where you put two or three seeds per cell, you will sprinkle the seed evenly over the whole surface. Cover the seeds with the recommended amount of soil.

Now it's time to close the container by taping the top back to the bottom. Leave the cap off. Prepare a label so you'll remember what is in the bottle. Make sure you use a weather proof marker so it won't wear off so easily. As a precaution you can also put a number or letter on each bottle and write that down in note pad along with the contents.

I typically set my containers along one row of my vegetable garden and recess them into the soil a few inches for stability. You can also put them into plastic crates.

There's very little to do once the planting is done other than wait for spring. Just check the containers periodically for moisture. If you can see condensation in the bottle you're fine, otherwise add a small amount of water. Depending on your climate this may be 3 or 4 times during the season. Since I'm in a mild climate I check mine more frequently and if they look dry I'll water a little.

When spring comes they will be ready for planting and should not require hardening off like store bought seedlings since they've been outside all winter.

This year I'm using a plastic row cover and I started much earlier then normal. I've got a 4" square pot of something starting to grow. This is one I forgot to mark when I planted it. I also have several paper egg cartons with seeds planted in them under the plastic tunnel.

Don't let the winter blues get you down. Start cleaning out those milk and soda bottles, gathering your seeds, and start your winter sowing today. For more gardening information and ideas visit The Garden Swap @ http://www.thegardenswap.com

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Sowing-Seeds-in-Winter&id=7434209

Why You Should Consider Using a Plan to Build Your Greenhouse

Why You Should Consider Using a Plan to Build Your Greenhouse
By Paul Luciw

A greenhouse is a great place to start a vegetable garden or a flower garden. The interior of the greenhouse will extend the growing season for your plants. If you do not have a greenhouse in your backyard you may be considering to build one just for this reason. If you have decided to build one in your backyard there are several good reasons why you should use a plan to aid you in its construction.

Whether it is a simple structure like a hoop greenhouse or a more complex structure like a victorian style greenhouse, using a proven plan to aid you in its construction will save you time and money. Getting the advice from an expert in greenhouse construction will provide you with the proper steps needed to successfully and efficiently construct your greenhouse. The advice provide by this expert will give all the information you will need to source the proper materials to construct you greenhouse for the least amount of money. This will help make you construction project an enjoyable experience.

Building a greenhouse is more involved than most people think. There are numerous details to consider. You must choose the style of greenhouse that will best suit your needs and budget. The greenhouse you choose must be the one best suited for your backyard. You need to consider materials, dimensions, ventilation, heating, positioning and irrigation to get the best results once you have finished building your greenhouse. Proven greenhouse plans will provide you with this.

There a many resources on the internet which will provide you with accurate greenhouse construction tips and step-by-step plans. Some of these resources are free while others will require some sort of payment. Usually the resource that requires payment will provide you with more detailed construction plans. Paying for detailed greenhouse plans may save you time and money in the over construction process and may well be worth more than the price you paid for them.

Best Regards

Access proven high quality greenhouse plans that show you how to easily construct all types of greenhouses This greenhouse building resource will give you expert advice on how to build any greenhouse. Go to egreenhouseplans.info to find out more.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-You-Should-Consider-Using-a-Plan-to-Build-Your-Greenhouse&id=7435092

Best Time to Plant Roses

Best Time to Plant Roses
By Marc G.

When is Best Time to Plant Roses?

You must admit that the number one flower type that people adore, love and find very romantics the rose flower. To get a beautiful and healthy rose garden you must know the best time to plant roses in your garden. Selecting the most appropriate time will have a positive effect on the overall outcome of your roses. A rose can be planted any time and it will grow very well. To get the best outcome, just plant your garden in springtime.

Planting after frost

Planting roses after frost will be better because you will be protecting your roses from cold and that will be better for the survival of the grafted ones. This is the first thing you should bear in mind- selecting the best time when your roses will not be affected by frost. People who live in areas with mild winters and spring have more advantage because for them, there will be no fixed time for planting roses. On the other hand, if you want to plant bare rooted roses, the best time is the dormant season. Make sure the ground is not waterlogged or frozen too.

During Warmer Climates

January and the months of February are always warm in many countries of the world. This is the best time to plant roses but if you live in parts of Northeast or Midwest, you will have to wait until early March. Well, in some other areas the best month to plant is May.

This is another way to know the best time to plant roses. That is why you should keep visiting your garden and watch if roses have started coming into the market. The reason behind this theory is that shipment of live flowers should go hand in hand with the planting time. When you buy your rose cuttings, do not take long before planting them. In case the weather is frosty, you should mulch them until the frost disappears.

Planting roses when there is wind is not advisable. In addition, if you want to plant bare root ones, make sure to plant them before roses leaf out.

More Information

If you are still not sure what is the best time to plant roses check out the great resource "yahoo answers".

The best answerer explains that the best time of the year to plant your roses (or any other shrubs) is in autumn. But it should be possible all over the year if you are using container roses.

I just wanted you to show that there are different people with different opinions out there. So you need you own experience!

If you want more interesting gardening tips check out http://www.best-gardening-tips.com

Here some special rose gardening tips just for you:

How to plant roses? - Some Rose Gardening Tips
http://www.best-gardening-tips.com/2012/03/how-to-grow-roses-from-cuttings/

There are other interesting articles (just search for them):

Start your Rose Gardening correctly - What to do in 2012?
How to grow roses from cuttings?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_G.
http://EzineArticles.com/?Best-Time-to-Plant-Roses&id=7233985

Australien 2012

A Tomato a Day Keeps the Blues Away

A Tomato a Day Keeps the Blues Away
By Annette Welsford

A team of Chinese and Japanese scientists has discovered that people eating tomatoes regularly are less likely to suffer from depression than those who eat tomatoes less than once a week.

The research team led by Kaijun Niu from Tianjin Medical University in China published its findings in the Journal of Affective Disorders recently.

They noted that while there have been a number of past studies that have compared the effects of "dietary antioxidant nutrients" (including folic acid and Vitamin E) on depressive symptoms, very little research has been done on the relationship between tomatoes and depressive symptoms.

Background of the Tomato Research

Scientists know that a lack of anti-oxidants can lead to symptoms of depression. They also know that lycopene - the red-coloured "carotenoid" found predominantly in tomatoes, and also in a few other red fruits and vegetables - is one of the most power antioxidants there is.

So they decided to investigate the relationship between various vegetables (including tomatoes) and typical "depressive symptoms" in elderly people living in the community.

A total of 986 people, aged at least 70 years, took part in the research study which analysed what they ate and what depressive symptoms they exhibited during this time. The researchers made no attempt to diagnose the symptoms of depression shown, and the exact concentration of lycopene in the tomatoes consumed was not calculated.

Motivation for Research

It is a well-known fact that stress-related diseases and disorders have increased rapidly over the past 20 to 30 years, and that depression has become a public health problem worldwide. Further, depressive symptoms can increase the risk of coronary disease and worsen medical "disorders", even promote disabilities.

According to the research report, "Oxidative stress may accelerate aging and increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as coronary heart disease, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis; dietary intake of tomatoes/tomato products containing lycopene have been shown to be related to decreased risk of these chronic medical illnesses."

The Research Study and Food

Researchers compiled a questionnaire that included 75 different items of food (categorized into four groups) and specific serving sizes. The four categories were:

• Green leafy vegetables,
• Chinese cabbage and cabbage,
• Burdock, carrot, lotus root, onions and pumpkin,
• Tomatoes - including ketchup, and tomato that had been stewed or used in a stew.

Participants were required to show how often they had eaten the different types of food during a one-year period.

Other Variables

There are always additional variables when it comes to research, and those taken into account included:

• the height and weight of those participating in the study,
• blood pressure and hypertension,
• blood samples used to measure blood glucose and any indication of diabetes,
• socio-demographics - including age, sex and education,
• level of care and support available,
• health issues including physical illness, pain and medication,
• smoking and drinking,
• exercise.

The dependent variable used was depressive symptoms, while the independent variable was tomatoes and tomato products and other vegetables consumed.

Results of the Study

A total of 34.9% of participants were classified as having mild depressive symptoms, and 20.2% with severe symptoms.

Males, smokers, people with a lower educational level, and those who were either widowed or divorced ate fewer tomatoes; and those who were married ate significantly more tomatoes!

Furthermore, those people who consumed tomatoes regularly had significantly lower depressive symptoms. The regular consumption of other vegetables made no difference at all.

Overall, state the researchers, "These results suggest that a tomato-rich diet may have beneficial effect on the prevention of depressive symptoms."

Annette Welsford is co-author of international best selling book in 83 countries How to Grow Juicy Tasty Tomatoes. She has also edited and published several other gardening related titles.

The book, which is available for purchase online in ebook and hard copy format, is considered to be the authoritative "bible" on Growing Tomatoes. It has been featured on TV, radio and reviewed in leading gardening publications and newspapers in 4 continents.

Visit http://www.bestjuicytomatoes.com for a wealth of expert tips and advice on growing tomatoes at your place.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annette_Welsford
http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Tomato-a-Day-Keeps-the-Blues-Away&id=7439372

Australien 2012

Feng Shui Landscape Ideas for Your Yard

Feng Shui Landscape Ideas for Your Yard
By Dee Power

Feng Shui is the art of directing positive energy and deflecting negative energy through the use of natural elements, orientation and location of plants and water features in the landscape. A front yard is the welcoming face of the house. In Feng Shui it's considered the hall to the house. Nothing should obstruct the flow of positive energy into the house.

Antonia Beattie and Leigh Clapp, authors of Feng Shui Garden Designs recommend the views should be pleasant, both from looking out from the house to the front yard and from the street to the house.

Pathway

Direct the flow of energy with a pathway of natural stones that goes from the street to the center of the yard, leading up to the entry of the home. It's a good idea to have the driveway on either side of the house rather than up the middle. Edge the pathway with scented flowers or herbs that release a pleasant fragrance as you brush by. Be careful too of using too many hard surfaces attract negative Chi or energy.

Ground Cover, Short Plants or Lawn.

If the center of the front yard is directly in front of the entry of the home, use plants that won't block the energy flow into the home. That means low-growing plants, ground covers or lawn. A tree might seem esthetically pleasing but it will grow tall enough to block that entry, so it's not advisable. Place trees on the sides of the house.

Flowers

Color draws in energy. Flowering plants do as well. Blue, white and purple colors are calming. Try delphiniums (Delphiniumelatum) and larkspur (Delphinium consolida) with a border of petunias (Petuniaaxillaries). The taller flowers contrast with the lower growing mounding petunias. The spikes of the delphiniums and larkspur complement the round petunia flowers. Yellow and orange flowers attract goodwill. Try both African (Tagetes erecta) and French marigolds (Tagetes patula) or zinnias (Zinnia elegans). A low flower bed of red tulips (Tulipa) welcomes spring. Red zinnias and snapdragons (Antirrhinum Majus) and brings in the summer. Red also represents fire, one of the elements of Feng Shui. Earth is represented by yellow. Metal by white and water by blue.

Uncluttered and Neat Beds

Disorder, clutter and dead plants attract negative energy not just in the center of the front yard but anyplace. Weed the entire yard. Rake the beds and cover with mulch for a neat look. The plants will do better with mulch as well. Trim any dead branches and remove debris from under shrubs. Edge the beds and borders. The view from the street to the entry way should be visible and welcoming.

Visit www.easygardencare.com for more tips on gardening. Dee Power is the author of several nonfiction business books. She grows wedding flowers in her garden as well.

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Australien 2012

Gardeners Can Prune and Plant in January

Gardeners Can Prune and Plant in January
By Bill Camarillo

Plant and tree growth slows to a crawl or stops completely in January in Southern California gardens. Gardeners can take this opportunity to prune and plant.

Plant Your Living Christmas Tree: Your living Christmas tree needs to be moved outdoors as soon as the holidays are over to increase their chances of survival. Find a location that can accommodate root growth, an abundance of needle droppings and a tree that can easily reach 20 to 30 feet in height.

Plant Shrubs: January is a good time to plant shrubs. First, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball. The depth of the hole should be no deeper than the roots. If planting in heavy clay soil, dig a hole that is even larger so the surrounding soil is loose enough to enable roots to spread out. Add soil and amendments and pat down with your foot. Once the shrub is in place, add three to four inches of mulch from the base out to the drip line to hold in moisture and keep weeds from sprouting. Make sure you don't allow the mulch to touch the trunk. To find the best shrubs to plant for your area, visit your local nursery.

Plant and Prune Grape Vines: Bare-root grape vines can be planted in January. The best grape variety to plant depends on the microclimate in which you live. Thompson Seedless and Emperor do best in hotter inland valleys. Concord and Perlette do well in milder climates. For existing grape vines, prune in winter to produce an abundance of fruit during summer.

Plant and Prune Bare Root Fruit, Rose and Nut Trees:Plenty of bare root trees are available at nurseries. These include apple, nectarine, plum, fig, almond, walnut and a variety of rose trees. Buying bare root trees in winter cost a lot less than buying full leafy trees in spring.

Your existing trees may need pruning. Remove branches to open the center of the tree to let in light. Remove any damaged branches and trim overgrowth. Be sure not to over trim as this will spur branch and leaf growth and less fruit come spring.

Plant More Winter Vegetables:You can plant more winter vegetables now, especially lettuce and other leafy greens. Beets, carrots and radishes also do well when planted in January.

Recycle Your Cut Christmas Tree: Many cities offer curbside Christmas tree collection during the two weeks following Christmas. Remove all ornaments, lights and tinsel, saw the tree in half and place the tree in your green materials recycling barrel. If you live in a city without curbside tree recycling, check with your waste collector for a drop off location. Christmas trees are ground up and recycled into mulch that is then used in home and business landscaping.

Bill Camarillo is CEO of Agromin, an Oxnard, California-based manufacturer of premium soil products and the organics recycler for cities throughout Southern California. Each month, Agromin receives more than 30,000 tons of organic material and then uses a safe, natural and sustainable process to transform the material into premium soil products. The results are more vigorous and healthier plants and gardens, and on the conservation side, the opportunity to close the recycling loop, allow more room in landfills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. http://www.agromin.com.

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