Trees that Have Honey Locusts

By Charlie Reese

Also known as Honeyshuck, Sweet Locust and Sweet Bean tree, the highly adaptable Honey Locust tree is a popular and useful ornamental. It tolerates the poorest of soil conditions, including salt, while also withstanding heat and drought. The honey locust grows quickly, reaching a height of 60 to 100 feet with an average 50 foot width. It roots deeply and is long lived, commonly attaining an age well over a hundred years. It may be transplanted with ease. All of these characteristics make it a valuable windbreak, as well as providing needed shade in a relatively short time.

The honey locust tree, with its stiff thorns, planted and trimmed as a hedge, makes an impenetrable screen against intruders and also serves as an excellent privacy screen. The thorns are so hard, they've been used as nails in times past.

The Honey locust tree is deciduous, with small bright green leaves and sweetly scented cream-colored flowers appearing in late spring. Bees find the nectar appealing, which can help draw bees to your garden. Leaves turn a luminous yellow in fall and compost quickly after falling.

Native Americans found the fruit of the tree, a pod filled with a sweet pulp to be a source of food. The wood of this tree was also a favored material for bows. The pulp inside the pods has been fermented to make a beer, while the seeds may be roasted as a coffee beverage. Native American lore says that the Thunder Spirit's son was known by his ability to comfortably lounge in the branches " and thorns - of the Honey Locust tree.

The wood of the honey locust is tough and durable and makes excellent furniture pieces, although due to its limited supply, you'll not readily find it in lumber yards or furniture shops. Being rot-resistant, it works well for posts and fencing.

With careful management, a stand of honey locust trees can yield a continuous supply of good firewood. Honey locust also provides good fodder to a variety of wildlife as well as domesticated farm animals.

All things considered, the honey locust tree has many virtues besides its use as a windbreak or privacy hedge. This tree is resistant to Gypsy moths. Check with your nursery for its resistance to other pests in your region, as it varies.

About the Author:

Charlie Reese likes giving nature and horoscope relationship match love advice on his horoscope sign chart website weekly.

Furnish Your Living Room Cheap and Chic

By Silvia Jens

There is one truth that not so many homeowners have found out about yet. It's that you can furnish your living room beautifully with the use of cheap furniture. Some people shy away with the mere mention of the word 'cheap', but what they should understand is that cheap can also be grand. It all depends on the decorating taste of the homeowner.

Let's talk more about the living room. It's usually the first part of the house that visitors come into whenever they visit. And for this, hosts would normally want to have a living room that is inviting, beautiful and comfortable. It's usually to serve as our bragging rights knowing that our visitors think we have a lovely living room. There's no sin in bragging. It's just clean and healthy fun. A human satisfaction based on beauty.

So how can we create a living room worthy of discerning eyes that will not burn a big hole in our wallet? Going cheap, would be the right way. Cheap is the popular word nowadays especially whenever the economy is fluctuating. Suddenly the idea of 'why spend more when you can have more with less' becomes all so true.

You can furnish your living room cheaply by using cheap materials. For one thing, instead of an elegant sofa, why not use a futon instead? Futon mattresses are very cheap compared to sofa cushions or mattresses. Futons are extremely flexible and can be used as a mattress replacement for beds and sofas. For the living room, you can simply buy a futon that comes with a sofa frame. The frame is usually made of wood, which is again, quite cheap. A futon in the living room is both elegant and practical, a perfect combination that you can't usually find in other furnishings.

Another way that you can go cheap when decorating your living room is by buying second hand furniture sets. You can find beautiful and in perfect condition second hand sofa sets, chairs, tables, and other living room furniture at very affordable prices. The choices are actually varied that you can shop at your leisure while finding the perfect sets that will match your ideas on what your living room should look and feel like.

Where can you find second hand living room furniture? You can go to flea markets. I'm quite sure that there are flea markets happening almost every week in your area or at least some place that is just within a short drive. You can also try searching online as there are online retailers that specialize in second hand furniture. You can also try your luck in online auctions where you can buy a great set on much lower price. That is if you are lucky enough during the bidding.

There are still many ways in creating the perfect living room of your dreams. While you can find furniture that are cheap but still highly elegant and in wonderful condition, there are various means you can use to meet your desires. The beauty of the living room relies solely on the creativity and ingenuity of the person designing it. And with a creative mind, the limit is actually and truthfully endless.

About the Author:

If you are thinking about a futon in the living room, a few extra cover sets are in order. One huge benefit of owning a futon is that you can have a green futon cover one week and switch things up the next week with a microfiber futon cover.

5 Basics for Using Articulating TV Wall Mounts

By Tom

Among the various types of TV wall mounts, the articulating TV mount is the most flexible. The swivel arm of the articulating mount joins the TV bracket with a wall plate.

After mounting the articulating mount with your flat panel TV, you can adjust the angle of view for your TV so that you can view it even from another room The swivel arm allows you to pull the TV out some distance from the wall and turn it to the left or right depending on your viewing location.

One should take a few points into consideration before attempting the installation of their articulating TV wall mount. Like many, if you have decided to save those extra dollars and become do-it-yourself installer, here is a simple 5 step process you can use in order to assure success of setting up your fine plasma or LCD TV with an articulating wall mount.

1. Decide What Type of Mount is Right for You.

You must first decide whether you really need an articulating TV wall mount, or whether a simple low-profile TV wall mount or a tilt TV wall mount will work for you. Think about the everyday viewing situations that you use your TV. Are you constantly peeking around a corner to see what is on TV? Do you entertain people on regular basis and need to adjust your viewing angles? If you think you will use the flexibility offered by an articulating TV mount once you have considered some of these questions, then such a mount my be just what you need.

2. The Proper Size Wall Mount in Comparison to Your TV.

Wall mounts come in various sizes and shapes. The correct articulating TV wall mount size is based on the size of the TV you have or plan to purchase. This is seen as one of the easiest steps. This is because the size specifications can usually be found on the side of the box or you can ask your local dealer or online retailer. They could also assist you in choosing an ideal mount for your specific TV choice.

3. What Type of Studs Do You Have in Your Wall?

A big thing to consider here is whether your wall has wooden studs or not. Additionally, the spacing between studs can play a big part in how and where you mount your TV. A good thing to pick up when considering where to place your TV is a stud finder. You can get one at your local hardware store for less than twenty dollars. If you are dealing with steel studs, you are going to have to do some further research to make sure you get the job done right.

4. Do You Have a Lease That Bars Drilling in Walls?

If living in leased apartments you have to respect the fact that you are living on someone elses property. Before you plan to make an amendments or changes that involve drilling holes and changing the infrastructure of a building it is important you consult and receive permission from your landlord to avoid unnecessary expenses which may and have been incurred previously.

5. Preparation of Tools.

Once you have completed all 4 steps, do not just rush into getting it up and going. Preparation for installation of your articulating TV wall mount is the key to a successful installation task completed. Make sure you have already taken out the tools that will be required during the process of mounting a TV wall mount in advance. The last thing you want is holding a screw in place and finding out you forgot to take out the screwdriver.

These five steps should help you in succeeding to complete your perfect wall with the perfect articulating TV wall mount.

About the Author:

Discover additional articulating TV wall mount information and about TV wall mount installation solutions at TV Wall Mount Guide.

Is the plasma television returning back to the wall?

By Ron Macfairlane

One of the plasma televisions most unique points was that it could be fixed to the wall so it gave the customer an much more living space which was originally taken up by the big bulky televisions and stands.

As the plasma Television became more popular the manufacturers became more inventive with their styles and designs. They created a vast range of specially suited and affordable television stands to fit the style of the plasma Television.

The TV stand came in all shapes and sizes, glass , metal , wood and corner stands, all very popular ranges. The stand became a fashion icon designed to fit in with most interior designs. More consumers passed up the offer to attach the TV to the wall and reverted back to the more traditional television on a stand.

The two main reasons why they probably diverted back to the traditional TV stand instead of the new improved wall mount or wall brackets were :

1) They weren't quite sure what to do with all the extra floor space and they didn't feel to comfortable with the television attached to the wall.

2) The innovative stylish TV stands were very affordable in comparison to the price of the exclusive plasma television which was only available to the special few that could afford them. They were just a little add on to the overall price.

Now the television has become mainstream and available to practically every household the plasma television stands seem a lot more costly, in some cases the cost can be as much as a third of the cost of the plasma. Therefore the option to hang the TV on the wall again doesn't seem like such a bad alternative

Especially in this difficult financial climate. We are all thinking of ways to cut back but nobody wants to miss out on life's luxuries. As the wall mount or TV brackets are cheaper than the TV stand.

Could the Plasma television be going back to it's original place , the wall?

About the Author:

before you choose your corner TV stands take a look at the selection available at wood Tv stands . You''ll be pleasantly surprised at the discounts available.

Review of Sanyo SA-5000KU Massage Chair Recliner

By Steve Esquire

This review covers the SA 5000 massage chair by Sanyo. We will evaluate the features, options and warranty of this mid range chair. There are many chairs on the market and many from small factories in China at very low prices. It is important to find good brands with strong warranties so you can have many years of peaceful and relaxing massage therapy. Let us take a look at this Sanyo massage chair.

We start with the unexciting topic of warranty coverage. The warranty coverage is to help balance out the risk of problems in the future. This is especially important on more expensive items to protect against defects. The better the warranty, the more peace of mind for the consumer. Sanyo covers the roller mechanism for 3 years, 1 year on the rest of the parts and 1 year on labor. Sanyo has finally introduced in-home technician service and is giving 1 year. Sanyo has a national call center to handle warranty items which gives them better control over service levels.

This mid range Sanyo has a remote control as well as a wired sub remote. The main remote control has 4 automatic programs and a selection of manual programs. It has one button automatic programs which initiate the massage at the touch of a button. The manual massages come with manual massage courses. The manual massage courses enable the user to target particular areas to focus the massage. You can target the upper back and the massage will be confined to this area only. The control takes a little investment in time to get to know, but overall is fairly intuitive to use and learn.

One of the features rolled down from the higher end Sanyo is the perspiration and pulse sensor. This sensor is built into the wired sub remote. It detects areas of stress in the body. The sensor then feeds this information to the computer and the software will adjust the massage to target areas based on these readings. In order for this to function, the user must grip the sensor throughout the massage. Also, the sub remote allows you to change the position of the chair back and the leg rest. It also has a repeat function. The repeat function will command the chair to repeat the massage just given in the place it was given. This is convenient when it hits one of the key places and you need it to stay there a little longer.

There are four massage therapies in the Sanyo SA 5000. They have Stiffness, Recovery, Relax and Fine. Stiffness is a Shiatsu style massage targeting the upper body and legs. Recovery is for easing and loosening stiff and tired muscles. Relax is geared for whole body relaxation and tranquility. Fine is for increasing blood and lymph flow. These automatic massages run the entire chair and provide for full body massages. These are all one-touch controls. There are 3 stretch controls that can also be used in conjunction with the automatic massages.

The manual massage techniques include the following: Grip, Shiatsu, Kneading, Tapping, and Combination. Grip makes use of the exclusive GK Rollers specially designed by Sanyo. The GK roller system can extend further outward than most roller systems. This makes gripping or grasping over the tops of the shoulders or around the neck possible. This is effective to provide relief in this area. Shiatsu is a combination of chopping and kneading actions. The kneading massage is a side to side pinching action which is very relieving. Tapping is a rapid succession of soft blows to loosen stiff muscle areas. Combination is using kneading and tapping simultaneous.

Sanyo includes an air massage system in the SA-5000 massage recliner. The air system is driven by an air compressor. The air compressor uses a system of solenoid valves to regulate the flow and control which air bags are activated during the massage. The air massage system targets the lower body. The air bags are strategically placed to target the thighs, calves and feet. The air compression massage is sequenced with a squeeze, hold and release technique. The airbags come with specially designed shiatsu points to stimulate acupressure points in the lower body to provide full body relaxation. Additionally, Sanyo has included a heater in the foot wells. This heater just heats the bottom of your feet.

The Sanyo SA 5000 is overall an impressive massage recliner. The massage therapy is well designed and effective. We especially like the Grip massage which is particularly effective for the neck and shoulder areas. This is unique to Sanyo and a positive step forward for massage chair technology. The look of the chair is a little industrial and plain. Sanyo needs to step up in the design arena to match their technology. The warranty coverage is great with the 1 year in home service, but is a bit substandard in other regards. You should consider an extended warranty to match the best manufacturers. Overall, this is definitely a model you want to consider if you are looking for a mid range massage chair recliner.

About the Author:

Discover why the Sanyo Massage Chairs are a fantastic massage chair line. View our massage chair reviews and see why the SA-5000 KU Massage Chair is the best in class. You will find a fine variety of massage chairs from Panasonic, Human Touch, and Omega.

See the World with Free TV on PC

By Ashley Patrick

The number of people realizing the likelihood of getting their own free TV on PC with just a small one-time fee is increasing on a continual basis. This implies that you do not need to pay monthly to the cable companies or the satellite TV providers. New technology brought us to this day when our computers can function as televisions as well. You will be amazed on how the software can be easily downloaded and installed from the internet. Also, there is no need to buy additional hardware devices.

Most people acknowledge the fact that the cable TV or the satellite TV subscription curtails a monthly cost. You can pay as low as $40 for the basic service alone. Moreover, you can pay as much as over a $100 if you want additional; channels to go with the basic service. These rates are just ridiculous! In the previous years, without the cable or satellite TV, you can only choose from a very few channels that are provided by local TV stations.

This fact has changed over the years as well. Modern technology is now allowing you to gain access to a wide variety of channels through the use of your home computer. The basic requirement is a computer with a connection to the internet. This means that you no longer need to write a check to the cable company because that is just a waste of money. Although some may have the luxury to burn money, most of us can not just do that.

Living life without the cable bill does not necessarily mean that you can not have channel options anymore. Actually, watching TV through your computer offers much more channels than with your cable TV provider. Whether it is a live boxing match in Mexico, or a love story filmed in France, you will get the chance of watching it through your computer.

Sports buffs are especially overjoyed with free TV on PC. Whether it is a famous football game aired from the north, or a crucial basketball semi-final game from the south, satellite TV on PC will make sure you will be able to watch it. What makes it more interesting is that there is no need to pay extra as in the pay per view.

Those who love the big screen are also pleased with the TV on the computer. Your PC turns into a personal film theater. Numerous movies are viewed at any time of the day (or night). Foreign film lovers are also elated. All of a sudden, the only problem you have is the choice of what movie to watch.

There is another thing you can do; connect your PC to a state-of-the-art TV. This is another way to still get that usual experience you have always had. You can also do this through crystal clear TV. However, you no longer have monthly bills to pay. The TV you have at home becomes a window to the world.

Hurry and take advantage of a free TV on PC now and you will know how it is to see the world.

About the Author:

We all love watching movies, television shows, sport, etc. Quality is important too. You'll find this Free PC Satellite TV software great. To see more information about Free TV on PC, you can view Ashley Patricks expert review at http://www.satellite-tvonpc.com

A Comparison Between Polished Concrete and Ceramic Tiles

By Mercie Hallow

The demand for concrete polishing among homebuilders and owners alike is increasing very rapidly. Proof of this is that more commercial establishments resort to using this new technology compared to what we are used to before. Conventional floor finishes are still popular for manufacturers tend to keep up by producing new designs and improving their products.

An example of a floor finish that is conventional is the ceramic tile. A ceramic tile is a material that differs from polished concrete because of its characteristics. When installing polished concrete, one can see that it is smooth and even while ceramic tile usually presents itself in grid-like patterns.

A polished concrete possesses high tensile strength characteristics which actually differs from the type and thickness of application. Concrete polishing involves specific procedures which create a compact, hardened and non-porous surface. As a result, a polished concrete floor does not let stain in and continue to maintain its sheen for month or even years.

Laying down ceramic tiles involves prepping the unfinished concrete floor, then applying adhesives and finishes with the application of tile grouts. Though this long used process does not guarantee it from breaking and does not even make it strong to carry heavier weights. This is the reason why ceramic tiles are not ideally used by consumers on spaces that has traffic or presence of heavy materials

Decorating or designing is of no problem to concrete polishing as well as in ceramic tiling. There are a lot ceramic tiles which features different designs and colors to choose from. Polished concrete however has tints and shades whenever colorants are deemed necessary.

Maintaining the polished floor gives its best advantage over the ceramic tiles. The cleaning of the polished cement requires only wiping of a clean moist rag. While the way the tile is used makes it harder to clean because dirt, grime, and dust tend to settle in the meeting joints of the ceramic tiles.

With these we are concluded that polished concrete is better than ceramic tiles. Among the characteristics discussed and won are the strength, density and the ease of maintenance of polished concrete floors over ceramic tiles.

About the Author:

A polished concrete floor was proven better than a ceramic tile floor finish. The art of concrete polishing made consumers enjoy its benefits. Continue researching and learning more about concrete polishing. Who knows, maybe you too can enjoy its benefits soon!

Moving Companies Free Quotes Are A Waste Not To Use Them

By Kutis Ketchbaw

Because of the trendy economic hardship, you might be faced with the need to have to move to obtain employment or perhaps you are considering coaching by going back to school in another city. Relocating is always a challenge that nobody looks forward to meet.

The quest for the best value, the best mover, the logistics of moving is just way too much for anyone to deal by themselves that produce all kinds of emotional turmoil.

There are many sub tasks that need to be done even before you physically move your boxes to the loading trailer. Wishing moving quotes from well-established moving companies should be among your first homework to complete.

Why Does It Matter To Request Several Online Moving Quotes?

Simply said: It saves you some moolah.

If you've relocated before, then you know how that the best way for your own back and avoid any strains is to hire some moving company to help you to pick up your your moving boxes. However, among all the selection in the market, who is a reliable mover that you can delegate the move and at the same time move you for a reasonable market price?

Using one of the Search Engines to procure online moving quotes, you've reached two essential factors to move successfully:

a) it gives an opportunity to check a mover customer service and its customer response time.

b) it can give you a no-obligation opportunity to search among a few targeted moving companies to choose the best that fits your needs.

What's Realist In An Interstate Moving Estimate?

You should decide what type of services you want to have outsourced. It depends on what your needs are, you should then seek out a particular moving company to assist you. You can have movers available to you to just do the driving while you pack, load, and unpack at the destination location. This is a great choice to move on the cheap, however, the hard one on your back if you want to avoid any muscle soreness later.

Knowing exactly what you need is an essential element is getting the best moving rate for your relocation. Another tip is to have decided what is being moved and what's staying behind. Regardless of how much you are moving, it's always a good idea to get several free moving quotes from these long distance movers.

Make every effort that your understanding and the mover's is the same when it comes to the information on the documents. For an idea, ask your mover what type of processing fee you could incur if paying with a well-known credit card, what percentage should you give away on tips to the actual workers who move your property in/out of your homes.

The advantage of moving quotes given to you by an experienced mover is that it must be given in writing and it should be based on a list of items you intend to move. Price should only be one characteristic to consider when deciding who to hire. Being charged on per items bases could save you some money, however the time to gather this information can be a major headache.

Another industry standard is to have you pay for how space you take up on their moving trucks. Often times, movers, share truck space with multiple clients' possessions in the same truck when moving across state lines. This allows the mover to optimize its efforts and allows also the client to pay just for space used. This is definitely another point to consider in your final decision as to who to hire.

Keep in mind that moving company quotes can be given as either binding or non-binding moving quotes. A binding quote is usually more expensive because it is a contractual moving quotes. If the final cost is greater than that of the binding quotes, the mover itself must eat the difference in price, hence the cost is usually greater. Whereas the non-binding quotes are usually riskier because by law the mover can increase its final price, the law only allows a 10% differential, however. In either case, it's in the mover's interest to provide accurate moving quotes during the appraisal phase.

Why Compare Moving Quotes Among Movers?

Getting moving quotes will allow you to see how much money you need to set aside for your move. This amount, which will be the largest chunk of the overall moving budget, is what it will cost to get all of your belongings from one place to another. This is not an optional thing, so you will probably want the best price. Getting moving quotes from various different movers will allow you to choose the relocation company that offers the services that you want at a price that you can afford.

Research The Market

Always remember to take your time when you are getting prices and looking at moving companies. There are plenty of scam artists out there that would love to take your money, so be sure to check the company you are interested in with the Better Business Bureau. This will make your life easy knowing that the company you hire has good values and a great reputation with various customers.

If you really want to have a stress-less move, you better compare movers' services. Narrow down your choice to 4-5 movers, dig up other testimonials online by doing a Google search on the company name followed by the words customer feedback in quotes in the Google Search Window type: "company name customer feedback" in quotes. Who knows the kinds of things you will uncover.

About the Author:

Stretch your moving budget by requesting your click here for moving companies quotes from several insured, reliable movers. Clink on this link to read other reasons to discuss moving quote services to get competitive prices for your relocation allowance and never become a victim to fraudulent moving companies.

LED grow lights may be the cheaper indoor growing option

By Kenny Powers

When you are ready to make the commitment to indoor growing, an investment in Led grow lights and LED growing systems gives back over time. Granted, the initial costs are considerable compared to traditional HPS lighting systems, but the advantages are well worth the investment if your commitment is serious enough.

Keep in mind that LED lights last 10 times longer than HPS lighting systems. Most fluorescent lights need to be replaced continually every season or two, depending on how often you run them. Even after a year of use, a traditional HPS light only has 90 percent of its original power. LED lights perform optimally for up to 20 years, which make that initial investment worthwhile as you'll only have to do it once.

There are also considerable savings in electricity with LED lights. LED is 85 more efficient than traditional fluorescent lights, and all it takes is as little as 14-watts to sufficiently light a 1.5 square foot area. The lights take as much energy as a small household appliance and are virtually undetectable.

That's good news for the environment. As gardeners, global warming is something we should be concerned about, and the usage of LED technology is one way we can do our part. Using hardly any energy means a minimal use of fossil fuels, so you can grow a healthy food supply without taxing the environment.

Since LEDs contain no mercury, they don't release poisons into the environment. Traditional HPS lights can poison water supplies if not disposed of properly. LED technology poses no such risk.

LEDs produce virtually no heat, as there is no heating element. That means you can place the lights near the plants without harming them to heat exposure or drying out the soil. Traditional fluorescent lights can become quite hot, not only damaging your plants but also creating a fire hazard.

The potential risks of fire that fluorescents pose make LEDs a more safer option. HPS lights require heavy ballasts and can be difficult to mount, and electrical installation may require professional help. LED lights are installed simply, as easy as hanging the light and plugging it in.

Whether or not an investment in LED is worth the initial costs depends on how committed to indoor gardening you are. If your ambitions are simple and you only need to grow a few starters, traditional HPS lights may be better. If you plan to grow for several seasons or have a bigger indoor garden, LED may save you in the long run as they are cheaper to run and don't have to be replaced for as much as two decades of continual use.

About the Author:

The Author is an expert on indoor gardening that uses led growing in all of his indoor gardens and writes articles on which LED Grow Light to use.

Why Katrina Hates Storm Doors

By Mark Smith

In some regions, the weather has become more and more unpredictable over the past few years. This is why people are getting caught by hurricanes, they see their homes destroyed and their life threatened. Part of such disasters can be prevented by installing storm doors.

Storm doors are in fact some strong shields which slide over the real doors and windows. They are not replacements, but reinforcements, offering protection to storms, heavy rains or strong winds.

After you have them in place, storm doors aren't necessarily needed to close all the time. When there are no storms, you can let them open and use only your conventional doors. Why wear them, if it is not the case, after all? They cost money and their maintenance costs money, too.

Storm doors save you money, because they help conserving the energy. In this way, the heat will stay inside your house, thus making your bills smaller over the winter. This can be a good point in your decision of buying a storm door or not.

The storm protective doors need to be very resistant. This is why they are constructed from materials which last, such as wood or aluminum. Recently, plastic like PVC started to be used on a large scale, thanks to the modern technologies which can make it very tough.

In the case of isolated houses, security an be a major issue. When you want to go on vacation with your whole family, there is a fear to leave such a house without any security system in place. Storm doors can act like a barrier in front of thieves. This doesn't mean that you will be safe, but at least it will be harder for intruders to get inside.

Depending on the region of the Earth you live in, installing a storm door can be a true necessity or just a fantasy. Besides, it is always a matter of how much money you make and how much you can afford to spend n things that may not be vital for you.

About the Author:

Do you know why exterior doors need additional protection? Read more about storm doors advantages, to see how you can keep storms away from your house.

How To Propagate Ferns From Spores

By Kent Higgins

Air-layering and Hormone Treatments

To increase a plants woody stem, air-layering is necessary. The main house plants that are propagated in this manner are azalea, cissus, codiaeum, fatsia, philodendron and rhoicissus.

The action is performed by slitting through the stem on one side to form a sort of groove or tongue, where you want to incite roots to be produced. The tongue is dusted with a hormone powder and dampened moss is packed into the slit and the layer is then covered with moss. In order to prevent tissue damage or drying, the moss is covered with a polythene sheet and this is best done during the summertime when active growth is occurring.

Once roots have been sufficiently formed, the shoot is then cut off and set in a suitably sized pot.

How to do ring propagation

The method is called this because it involves removing a ring from the stems of plants, where new root growth is desired.

When the lower leaves of plants get to be too tall and leggy, ringing is performed.

The ideal time for ringing is early in the spring when active growth begins. About an inch wide section or ring of bark is removed, just below the lower leaves. The ring stem is bound with moss and covered with plastic film, which keeps it most until the newer roots form. Then the rooted upper portion can be cut and set up in a separate pot.

How to Grow Ferns from Spores

Many fern plants that are used as house plants can be increased by using spores. Boston fern plant spores form in clusters and usually on the backsides of matured fern fronds. The clusters are brown colored and if they are ready for sowing, the fronds should be gathered together and put into a paper bag and hung in a warm room for a couple days. By this time, the spores will have dropped to the bottom of the bag and formed a brownish colored powder.

Place a flower pot filled with a soil and covered with a layer of sifted peat moss. The spores might then be sprinkled in a thin layer on the surface and cover the pot with a pane of glass and put in a saucer of water. The pot need to be placed in a warm room and in about four to six weeks, the top of the compost will be covered with a fine layer of moss like growth. The growth contains small structures bearing male and female organs, after they have been fertilized, new ferns begin to appear. The young ferns can be taken out, much in the same way other seedlings are, into a light and fertile soil. After they have been picked out and put in a pan or pot, they have to be put into a pan or saucer of water and covered with a pane of glass once again. Eventually the plants will be large enough to put into separate pots. The final step is to put these plant into a glass-covered box, here they remain until they have achieved their maximum growth potential. Then the glass can be removed and the plants can be acclimated to the environment of the room.

About the Author:

For more details on the topic of boston fern plant. Join us http://www.plant-care.com/boston-fern.html.

Look And See Before You Get Your Next Kitchen Counter Stool

By Gabriel

Kitchen counter stool, which looks impressive in your kitchen, comes in contemporary styles. It is an easy-to-carry counter stool, which appears comfortable in use.

You may enjoy your morning breakfast, daytime lunch, evening supper as well as dinner on the counter table. The counter stool offers eye-appealing look to kitchen.

As initial step, decide over the look that you wish to offer your kitchen. Choose an area in your kitchen, which you want counter stool to occupy.

Start from floor to the bottom, measure height, length and width of the counter stool. Accordingly, determine the exact space you require between every counter stool. Ensure how much counter stools you need in all to decorate your kitchen.

The counter table is available in numerous heights. Usually, the height in inches is 24, 26, 30, 34 and 36. It is wise to choose a counter stool having appropriate height. Check for proper spacing between each counter stool.

Dedicate the right place for counter stool to stand. Do not keep it at places such as the door fronts. Even avoid keeping counter stool in an area where food is cooked. This is because the place will look messy, congested and unpleasant to eye.

While you purchase counter stool for your kitchen, do not forget to select the stool, which offers you extra comfort. Choose a counter stool, which is easy to maintain. The counter stool is available in numerous design and style. Select a stool, which suits the ambience of your kitchen perfectly.

There are certain counter stools that come in extended heights. If you opt for any such counter stool having more than average height, then choose the supporting arms and backs for them. This is for ensuring maximum comfort.

Backless and plain stools are not only easy to maintain, but also convenient in handling. Hence, always choose a counter stool that has the right height.

Kitchen counter stool is made up of metal or aluminum and wood. In recent times, you get it in numerous designs and styles. Multiple styles and designs offer this stool an attractive and contemporary look.

In addition, you may look for a wide array of available seat covers for this counter stool. Always choose a design, which matches perfectly with your kitchen dcor.

For making counter stool appear safe and long lasting, consider padding in stool seat covers. Remain wary regarding the investment. Do not go for costly counter stools for the kitchen.

Instead, insist on those stools that fit perfectly into your budget. For purchasing a counter stool for your kitchen, try at different stores. This way, you get the right idea about the various available and affordable kinds of counter stools for your kitchen.

About the Author:

Get more helpful tips and information on kitchen counter stools through this website on types of kitchen stools

Cheap and Classy-Concrete Polishing

By Drake Brathley

What comes to your mind when you see the floors at department stores, large retail stores and in many industrial areas? As you see these floors is that it shines so beautifully and looks so expensive and clean! And yet you think twice and look twice and you'll be amazed to know that it is concrete!

Your ordinary concrete floors polished to a glossy shine. They may appear different to the ones you ordinarily see, but they are real concrete floors. The only difference is that sidewalks doesn't need to be maintained to avoid dirt and be assured that it's always clean. Office floors, department stores and industrial floors have different ways to maintain their lustrous shine and well polished look. These floors are a lot different because they are well maintained, that's concrete polishing!

More homeowners to date own concrete houses or stone houses , and it is not a surprise to know that there is a way to make concrete beautiful. In general, concrete polishing is as easy as counting your fingers. If you do own these kind of floors, well good because you know what is concrete polishing. Concrete polishing is concrete polishing, your concrete floors polished to a perfect glossy shine!

In concrete polishing, it is as similar as sanding wood. You use sand paper to smoother the areas with flaws, in concrete polishing you use a machine called the concrete polisher. The concrete polisher is a machine that can be pushed across the floor, at the bottom is a pad with discs with shattered diamonds or other hard rocks which make your concrete floors look even and shiny. This machine goes over to your floors polishing it with an even glossy shine you'll actually love.

Polished concrete is valuable, first and most palpable is that it is more cost effective than any other tiled, marbled, vinyl flooring youve got. Another valuable advantage of concrete flooring is that it is easy to clean and not permeable as other expensive floors are, it does not need to be buffed or waxed. Once you see how beautiful concrete polishing is, you may want to do your floors everyday of the week. Concrete polishing is exceptionally hard-wearing and remarkably beautiful. With other floors, you may want to hire contractors to do it again so as to capture its beautiful shine, in concrete polishing you don't have to worry how long it will last.

About the Author:

Check out Drake Brathley on concrete polishing"Concrete Polishing" Click here to get your own unique version of this article with free reprint rights.

How To Protect Your HousePlants From Pests

By Kent Higgins

There are many different types of species that eat up houseplants. There are also a few found in almost all areas.

The first type of common houseplant pests are so tiny you cannot even see them with your eyes, though their damage can become obvious, bacteria.

Rotting roots is a common type of problem with plants that are victim of over watering. Some forms of rot are the result of fungi that grow as a result of over water. The excess moisture aids the growth of bacteria found in the soil that already live in the soil and can be beneficial in small amounts. Once they get to a certain size, the attack the roots and they get transported up into the body of the plant and the leaves. This can quickly kill even the healthiest plant.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, is applicable here. Simply watch how much you water your plants and when. How much water is the right amount, when it best time to water and this will vary from one species to another. You need to research the different types of needs your plant may have.

Whiteflies, are a common indoor plant pest. They bugs are easy to identify, and have long waxy white bodies. You may seem the flying around the leaves if you shake them gently. Aphids appear similar, however they do not display the same rapid pattern of movement as whiteflies and their body is more round, particularly after they feed.

Mealy bugs are very different, they attach themselves to a joint between the branch and leaf stem. They leave behind small sacks that appear like wet cotton.

Spider mites are quite a common plant pest and can be easily spotted by taking a closer look with a magnifying glass if necessary. They appear like small spiders with tiny webs. Oftentimes, their bodies are yellow and will turn red, with tiny black spots, and black mites are also another common pest.

Fungus gnats are another type of pest, though the flying pests arent a major problem for houseplants. Their larvae are developed from eggs that are laid in the soil and can damage your plants. You can treat the soil and kill the flying adult bugs, they will only proceed to lay more eggs if not dealt with.

These common bugs, although seldom found on zz plant, can be taken care of with a commercial insecticide. For fungus gnat, spider mites the solution is neem oil. For mealy bugs, lady bugs are best eradicated by a biological control means. In most cases, using a simple spray of diluted liquid dishwashing soap works quite well. To make your own, add a half ounce of soap to water and mix well. Spray the plant and make certain to get the under part of leaves as well.

Be careful not to overdo the mix concentration or over spraying. You do not want to clog the leave pores, this is how a plant breathes. They breathe in carbon dioxide and exert oxygen into the air through these pores.

When its hot outside, they close down, this makes it a good time to spray. When the temp drops and the bugs die, you can spray with clean water to rinse. Through the right mix an spraying, this is not necessary.

About the Author:

Learn more of what Kent Higgins has to share over at http://www.plant-care.com. Knowing more helps you make better decisions, like on the topic of zz plant care.

California Heating

By Matt Trueblood

Every time that the mercury creeps up in Los Angeles, it is the same story, only the names of the victims have changed. An innocent family returns home after a day spent out having some fun. They are hot and tired from their day's activities and looking forward to a relaxing eveningand thento their absolute horror, they find that it is a sweltering 95 degrees inside of their house and that their air conditioning unit is broken.

Desperately, one of the parents dials the first telephone number under the yellow page heading California air conditioning. First you get a busy signal, and then an exasperated sounding operator picks up the phone on the seventh ring and chuckles when you explain that they need to send a repair man out right away.

Then her tone turns to all seriousness, "Sir, I apologize but you need to have your unit regularly maintained in order to guarantee that it will work. We can send someone out in a couple days to take a look at it."

As a matter of fact, you will get that very same response from all of the California air conditioning service providers that you contact on one of the hottest days of the year. People don't realize how important it is to have their air conditioners serviced annually for preventative care.

California residents also don't realize that they should have their heating units serviced every year as well. They assume that their heaters get used so infrequently that they do not need regular maintenance. However, California heating companies know better. An unused heater requires the same scheduled preventative maintenance as a heater being used on a daily basis.

Not properly maintaining your heater is another oversight. It's the same scenario, but only the temperature has changed. That first day when temperatures drop below fifty, every California heating company's phone is ringing off the hook with concerned residents wondering why their heater is not working.

And the very same operator is chuckling out loud and asking, "Well sir, when is the last time that you changed your filter?" And then there is silence on the other endheaters have filters?

Instead of only calling your California air conditioning and California heating service provider when you need an emergency repair, think about contacting them when your equipment is running and scheduling some routine preventative maintenance. It is the same type of preventative care that you schedule for your car, just like an oil change.

About the Author:

So if you're having troubles with your California air conditioning system or your California heating you don't have to any further to find a qualified professional.

Phalaenopsis Alliance Orchids

By Robert Tanner

Phalaenopsis do not grow overly large, because leaves are shed from the base at about the same rate as new ones are developed. Their roots are exceptionally good-looking, often appearing above the pot and remaining airborne.

These are flattened and silvery white, with clearly visible, green-growing tips. They have a tendency to adhere to any surface with which they come into contact. In a greenhouse, they often attach themselves to the bench upon which they are growing.

Phragmipedium besseae, a plant with a flower of such brilliant red that it caused a sensation wherever it was seen. Its natural home was on the sheer rock faces of the inaccessible mountainous regions of Peru and Ecuador, and it was this precarious and impossible-to-reach habitat that kept the species under nature's wraps for so long. Invisible from the ground, it was only discovered when spotted from a helicopter flying over the area on a plant-hunting expedition.

By the end of the 20th century, most of its former sites had been systematically stripped of these precious plants, which were quickly spread around the world. Today, this one plant has projected the genus to a high profile not previously enjoyed. Numerous red hybrids have resulted that are now at the forefront of all Phragmipedium breeding. We have yet to see the full potential this species is capable of reaching. The majority of hybrids raised using the red-flowered Phragmipedium besseae have predictably produced blooms in the red to orange range. These are largepouched, short-petalled, nicely balanced flowers, and are in sharp contrast to the species Phragmipedium caudatum and its old hybrid P. Grande, which possess extremely long, ribbon-like, twisting petals that reach down for 30cm (12in) or more.

Phalaenopsis can bloom at a time, and it is not unusual for them to bloom two or three times in away and to remain in bloom for mare - It is important, however, that they continues to make new leaves at time as flowering. If too many leaves shed, you should cut off any spikes and allow the plant to grow at until it has three or four leaves allowing it to produce flowers.

Give them the room they require and they will reward you with plenty of flowers. Temperature for Phragmipediums is Intermediate-growing. Grow in 15-20cm (6-8in) pots of coarse bark chips or Rockwool. Water freely throughout the year to keep the roots evenly moist. Feed at every other watering. Provide shade in summ and give more light in winter. Height is 30-60cm (1-2ft)

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A small paintbrush dipped in denatured alcohol can beused to clean

How to Grow Melons

By Peter Nanette

Okra is a warm-weather plant grown for its immature seed pods, which are delicious fried or cooked in soups and stews. The plants grow 3 to 5 feet tall and bear maroon centered pale yellow flowers about 2 inches across.

Melons can be grown successfully in regions where minimum night temperatures average no lower than 55 and minimum daytime temperatures are no lower than 80 throughout the growing seasons. The length of the growing seasons, from the time the seeds are sown until the plants are harvested, is listed for each recommended variety. Because long growing seasons are required for most casaba, Crenshaw, Persian and honeydew melons, all but a few of the varieties that are listed in these categories are generally grown only in the southwestern, south-central and southern parts of the U.S.

To prepare a hill for melons, dig a hole about 1 foot deep and 2 feet across; dig into the bottom of the hole a 4- to 6-inch layer of compost or well-rotted cow manure. Replace the topsoil until it forms a gentle mound about 4 inches high. Space hills for large watermelons about 10 feet apart, for all other melons 4 to 6 feet apart.

When the seedlings are 1 inch tall, cut off the weaker one in each pot. When night temperatures no longer fall below 50, set the plants, pots and all, into the garden, spacing them 18 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart. In frost-free regions, sow seeds directly in the garden when night temperatures are expected to stay above 50. Group three or four seeds in a spot, setting each group 1/2 inch deep and 18 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart.

Water the plants in dry weather. Because melons lie on the ground, a mulch of old hay or straw helps prevent rot. Also, melon roots are shallow and are easily damaged by cultivation; if a mulch is not used, hoe no deeper than 1 inch when weeding. Do not move the vines; they too are easily injured.

Cantaloupes should be picked at what is called the "slip" stage, when a slight pressure at the point where the stem joins the melon causes the melon to slip off the vine. All other melons are still firmly attached to their vines at harvesttime, so other yardsticks must be used: casaba and honeydew melons are ripe when the skin turns yellow; Crenshaw and Persian melons when they develop a fruity scent; watermelons when a rap on the fruit creates a dull rather than a sharp sound. Fruits that start to grow after midsummer will not have time to mature and should be removed; this thinning will direct nourishment toward fruits that are developing. Unused melon seeds keep for about five years.

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One gardening tips is to water the vegetables in your vegetable garden deeply and thoroughly whenever it show signs of wilting during the midday heat.

If You Enjoy Gardening, Consider a Greenhouse

By Gordon Taylor

There are a lot of reasons why so many people enjoy greenhouse gardening. The same benefits can be had as you would enjoy from conventional gardening outside. But there are a few significant differences and advantages.

There are many similarities between greenhouse gardening and gardening outside. In a greenhouse, you must control the temperature. It's also important to properly care for your plants. Of course, it doesn't rain in a greenhouse. So you need to ensure that your plants are receiving just the right quantity of water in order to thrive.

With a greenhouse, it's possible to grow plants in cold seasons or climates. A greenhouse makes a great place to store your plants during the winter months. In the wintertime, you can start plants from seeds that will be ready for planting outdoors in the spring. If you have a greenhouse, you will be able to have the pleasure of enjoying fresh flowers and vegetables all winter long.

Greenhouse gardening is not only useful for growing vegetables. It's also ideal for ornamental plants and flowers. As storage for parent plants for the next season, greenhouses are ideal. They can provide protection to your plants from the elements, including potentially damaging wind and rain. Seedlings must be sheltered from the outdoor elements, and a greenhouse is perfect for providing that protection.

A greenhouse also means that you'll have an ongoing supply of plants throughout the year. You can propagate and cultivate new varieties of plants that may appeal to you. Greenhouse gardening allows you to tend your plants without any worries about the elements that may beat down on them. For delicate plants that can't handle the cold weather, the climate control that is available in a greenhouse is perfect.

Proper location of your garden greenhouse is essential. One of the keys to successful gardening in a greenhouse is having the right sun exposure. This is critical to the wellbeing of the plants you are planning to grow in your greenhouse. Other things to consider are the structures and trees near the greenhouse site. Do they cast shadows on the greenhouse or will growing trees eventually do so?

Ventilation is necessary to alleviate the heat that sun exposure may generate in the greenhouse. A thermometer should be located in a shady area inside your greenhouse. Then you should constantly monitor the temperature, especially during warm days. To prevent your plants from wilting away because of too much heat, you might want to ventilate your greenhouse from time to time.

Greenhouse gardening is not only productive, it's also relaxing. Gardening has been shown to help ease stress and improve health. It can also result in tasty or beautiful harvests that will bring you much pleasure.

About the Author:

Greenhouses are easy to build and maintain, and are available in an assortment of sizes and materials to suit every home and budget. You can even get an indoor greenhouse if you don't have a backyard. Learn more at Garden Greenhouses.

Tips For Installing Your Kitchen Cabinet Door Knobs

By Henry

Installing Kitchen cabinet door knobs is not difficult and tough, if you are having the required tools at hand to do the work

Some of the important things that you will need for installing Kitchen Cabinet Door Knobs are measuring tape, power drill, cabinet knobs along with screws for fitting, pencil, and drill bit having same diameter as that of the screws of knobs.

Before starting with the installation process of kitchen cabinet door knobs, it is important to choose the area, where you intend to place or fix the knobs.

1. For overhead kitchen cabinets, it is ideal to place the knob at the bottom of your cabinet, so that you can reach there easily. Cabinets present at the floor level need to be placed in such a way that they are at the top.

For cabinets assigned at eye level, you may opt to place the knobs at the middle of your cabinet.

2. If you are planning to place the knob at the middle of your cabinet, you need to make use of measurement tape for measuring the cabinets length. Then, you need to divide the numeral by two.

Next, you need to measure that from top to far down of cabinet and then mark the desired spot.

3. After this is done, measure from the edge where your door opens. You need to make the concluding markings. If two cabinet doors meet, make sure that the markings on both the doors level each other. Make adjustments if needed.

4. Load the drill bit. See to it that the bit which you are about to use attunes with the size of the screw along that you got with the new knob. Try holding both the knobs, so that you can see the differences and similarities.

5. Now drill one hole through the wooden door and pull again. Then insert screw and fix the knob. For the opposite door, repeat the procedure in the same way.

6. To install the knob at bottom or top of the door cabinets, find a place on the door, where you wish to insert it. However, you need to be careful that it is away from the cabinet doors edges. Again, mark the place, where you wish to place the knob.

7. While installing the knob at the opposite door, measure it with the help of a measuring tape for the markings marked on your first door. Using the measurements of first cabinet door, do the markings on your second door.

See to it that the markings you made no both the doors are equivalent. Finally, drill holes, insert screws, and fit the knobs.

About the Author:

Get more helpful tips and information on kitchen cabinet door knobs through this website on kitchen cabinet knobs.

Bathroom Additions That Make Dollars and Sense

By Adam Peters

It has been shown that upgrading your bathroom is one of the best investments you can make in your home. Besides that, it will make your early morning personal chores so much easier and more enjoyable with an updated bathroom. There are so many new and wonderful designs for bathrooms that are available today, that you will have no problem finding the right look and design for your taste. Here are some of the features that can make your bathroom a pleasure for you and the envy of your friends.

New construction and design combined with old fashioned aesthetics make pedestal sinks an attractive addition to modern bathrooms. Many people love the clean look of a sink resting on a pedestal instead of on top of a vanity cabinet. The pipes of the sink are hidden in the pedestal and all you see is a graceful column under the sink. Of course, all that great storage space in the cabinet is sacrificed, so you have to decide which is more important, looks or storage. You can always add a shelf unit for additional storage.

Tubs have also changed recently, with the strict lines of the rectangular tub giving way to longer, deeper and other types of over sized tubs. Perhaps you have never been a "bath" person, preferring showers, but if you had a big comfortable tub to soak in, it might change your outlook.

A new shower will also add immensely to your bathroom area. If you replace a tub with a shower, you will gain space, and the new showers have great features such as multiple shower heads from different angles, flexible hose shower heads, massaging shower heads and built in seats.

One of the easiest ways to add a new look to the bath is to replace the flooring. If you have older flooring, this may be a great idea anyway since the new floor materials are so much better at repelling water. Stone and ceramic floor tiles have become very popular for this reason. You can also add some additional luxury by installing a heated floor so your tootsies won't be cold when you come out of the tub or shower.

There are so many new innovations when it comes to bathroom design, and because they are becoming more and more popular, they are reasonably available to most people today. The stress of everyday life can disappear when you have a comfortable, modern bathroom.

Read more articles about bathroom wall cabinets and bathroom vanities information available here.

About the Author:

Adam Peters is the consultant of some online magazines .Keep reading about bathroom wall cabinets and bathroom vanities at http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com/BathroomVanities.html .

Old European Roses

By John Little

Unlike the oldest China roses, no European rose cultivar can be traced back before about 1400. There is nothing to link the simple Gallicas and Albas that can be identified in late medieval paintings to the roses of ancient Greece, Rome, or Persia. Gallica roses may indeed have been cultivated 2,500 years ago, but we can put no names to them. They are selections and hybrids of Rosa gallica, a short suckering rose which is native to southern and central Europe from Spain to Slovakia and eastwards to Turkey. They were greatly developed by French hybridists in the early years of the 19th century, and their large, sweetly scented flowers place them among the most beautiful of all garden plants. They make medium-sized bushes - very hardy, once-flowering, and tolerant of poor soils.

They are short bushes whose flowers repeat constantly: in hot climates they are ever-blooming. When they were introduced to the West and widely distributed, from about 1750 onwards, they gave rise to a European-raised clutch of hybrids which are known as China roses. Examples include Tabvier' and 'Hermosa'. Tea roses are similar to China roses, and share their hybrid ancestry.

Garden roses are grouped in two ways: according to their habits of growth (for example, shrub roses, climbers, their ancestry (Teas, Hybrid Teas, Hybrid Sweetbriars). These groups are not always clear, and they often overlap.

Tea roses make medium-sized bushes that need minimal pruning and flower constantly in hot climates: they are popular in Mediterranean climates, especially in California and Australia. They were widely grown in glasshouses as winter-flowering cut flowers in the 19th century.

Sometimes they are called Old Garden Roses, Old-fashioned Roses, Antique Roses, Heritage Roses or Historic Roses. Many types are onceflowering, including the Alas, Boursaults, Centifolias, Damasks, Gallicas, and Moss roses. The repeat-flowerers are the Bourbons, Chinas, Hybrid Perpetuals, Noisettes, Portlands, and Tea roses.

The Noisette roses are a race of roses derived from .t-nampneys' Pink Cluster', an American hybrid 8 between the wild Rosa moschata and the China rose. `Old Blush'.

They originated in England, and were named after a Duchess of Portland. `Portland Rose' is low and spreading, like a feeble Gallica, but later hybrids tend to be upright and stocky, with very short nodes which give them a dense, leafy look. When the F.uropean roses were crossed with the Chinas and the Teas, the first recognizably modern roses began to emerge, though the Bourbons and the Hybrid Perpetuals are generally categorized as "old" rather than "new".

The Bourbon roses get their name from the dc Bourbon (now Reunion) where the original 'Bourbon Rose' is said to have occurred as a spontaneous hybrid between 'Old Blush' and 'Quatre Saisons'. They are repeat-flowering roses that descend either from the original or from similar crosses between China roses and repeat-flowering Damasks. They are 2-3m (6-1 Oft)tall, with an open habit, glossy leaves, and large, beautiful, sweet-scented flowers.

About the Author:

Thousands of hybrid roses were introduced for gardeners, of which less than 600 survive today, mainly in specialist collections.

How To Create an Antique Look on Cabinet Doors

By Debra That Painter Lady Conrad

New furniture and wooden fittings can look bland and boring and may not fit into your existing dcor scheme. Distressing cabinet doors, in kitchens, bedrooms or elsewhere, is a way of treating wooden fittings to co-ordinate your dcor. Ageing techniques can be useful whether your home style is antique elegance, 'shabby chic' or cottage rustic. Faux painting offers several methods for simulating age and banishing the 'too-new' look.

Distressing Techniques

You could give your cabinet doors a managed beating with hammer and chisel to create texture and interest. This will certainly distress your door, but with faux painting techniques you can choose amongst several aged or antique looks and achieve a total finish.

The basic technique involves creating the illusion of wear and age-related texture using two layers of paint. For a more variegated effect, more than two colors can be used. Scraping and scarring the topcoat so the layer beneath shows through gives the impression of age. It is possible to achieve a similar effect by painting streaks with a fine brush, but this may require more artistic expertise. Applying a top coat and then, before it has dried, using the dragging or combing technique to remove areas of paint can also create a distressed look on wooden doors.

Any contrasting color combination can be used to create the appearance of depth. Brown and gray is another possibility. More usually, it is used as part of an antique natural wood finish, with a rich dark brown topcoat masquerading as the patina of the decades or centuries, covering lighter wood beneath.

Distressing With Wax:

One of the most popular methods entails using wax to ensure that the base paint layer is exposed. Beeswax is especially suitable though candle and other waxes can be used. The wax is applied in streaks and/or patches and allowed to dry before the second coat is applied. When dry the door is then sanded down. Paint applied on top of the wax comes off easily, exposing the undercoat. Depending on how vigorously you sand, a textured effect with clean 'wood' showing through the patinated surface will result.

Ageing with Crackle Glaze :

Old varnish dries, crackles and crazes. Crackle glaze simulates this effect, making it look as if your door is far older than it is. You need to use latex paints with the crackle glaze, not oil-based paints, for the crackling to occur. The order of painting is base coat, crackle glaze, top coat.

Pickling:

Your cabinet door may not be particularly ugly and may even have an attractive wood grain that you don't want to conceal with paint. With pickling you can create contrast and texture without covering up the original wood. All you do is paint your door in the contrasting color of your choice and wipe off paint while it is still wet.

Distressing is a relatively uncomplicated way of adding texture and color to a uniform, flat surface, enhancing its visual interest.

About the Author:

Creating distressed cabinet looks in your own home? Visit ThatPainterLady.com for more ideas and discover useful tips for creating a distressed look on a kitchen island.

Try a Gel Fireplace for a Fast and Easy Fire

By Paul Cameron

Many people have considered installing a new fireplace in their home. But when they realize the major work it would involve, many of them get discouraged. That's because it requires ripping out walls and installing a chimney through your roof. In addition, a wood burning fireplace needs a lot of cleaning and maintenance.

However, there's an easy alternative to the traditional fireplace. It's known as a gel fireplace, and for many people it's the ideal answer.

More and more people are opting for this contemporary type of fireplace, and there are some good reasons why. There's no odor, soot, smoke, or fumes, which means almost no clean-up. No more hauling logs in from the cold or cleaning up messy ashes. No need for an extensive selection of fireplace tools and accessories. All you need to do in order to enjoy the warmth of a fire is to light up a can of fuel.

A gel fireplace is completely different from your conventional wood burning or electrical fireplace. They create a real fire by burning a gel that's produced from grain alcohol. This product burns cleanly and produces a real flame with none of the usual mess. Gel fireplaces usually hold three fuel cans, with each container burning for approximately three hours. The gel even makes the crackling noise of a wood burning fire and there are scent sticks available you can add to your canisters.

There is no construction involved in installing a gel fireplace and no hookups required. It should only take an hour or so to put it together and set it up anywhere in your house that you choose. You can even move it later on if your decor changes. Some models can be hung on a wall. Another alternative is to buy a special insert for your existing fireplace in which you can burn the gel canisters.

A gel fireplace emits no smoke or fumes. They do, however, emit a bit of carbon monoxide, but only at a level that is completely safe. They have to undergo strict testing to make sure they comply with regulations regarding emissions of this substance.

Gel fireplaces are easy to maintain. As well, they are among the most cost effective and energy efficient means of heating a small space. Because there is no flue, all the heat is projected into the room. Keep in mind, however, that they are not intended to be a major source of heat for your house, even though they do give off a warm glow.

A ventless gel fireplace can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars up to two thousand dollars for a high end product. If you have a busy lifestyle but still want the elegance and warmth of a fire, these fireplaces are well worth the money.

About the Author:

There's more to a fireplace than just the fire. Learn more about essential fireplace tools and decorative fireplace accessories at Fireplace Tools and Accessories.

A home with victorian interior decor may appear cluttered.

By Chris Dohlander

Victorian interior design is very distinctive in its look and its feel and it is actually pretty hard to miss the ambiance it creates once you have been exposed to it. We have all seen the pictures of the lady dressed in 1800's clothing attire, holding her umbrella as her special someone takes her hand and helps her into a small rowboat for an afternoon of rowing on the lake.

There are several integral elements involved with Victorian interior design that you will need to adhere to if you want to project the true feel and nostalgia of Victorian design. This included things from furniture to curtain rods.

The History of Victorian Design

The Victorian era was started in England and it is usually attached to the reign of Queen Victoria - a reign spanning from 1837 to 1901 - the longest reign of any British monarch. During this period Britain has so fondly remembered, that this period was the hallmark of unmatched peace and also a time of excited innovation as the industrial revolution edged itself into being and fortunes were being made.

The positive feeling of this period is something that people look at as being constructive and positive -as elements that produced a period of joy and happiness that were unsurpassed. The architectural design of those days was grand and Victorian interior design was very busy to the point of being considered cluttered. However, the popularity of the Victorian era of design lives on and is revered by many people worldwide.

Wallpaper that Creates the Ambiance of the Victorian Era

One of the key features of Victorian interior design was wallpaper. Wallpaper was not a new concept that was heralded in by the Victorian period. Britain is very "class" oriented and people with means and the aristocracy could afford to have the walls of their homes adorned with Victorian designed wallpaper making the most of the beautiful colors reflective of that era. From the concept that wallpaper represented some sort of status symbol the idea was born that Victorian wallpaper must be included in interior design.

You either love or hate Victorian design in wallpaper, but to create the Victorian interior design in your home you have to hang wallpaper. For those who are not a great fan of Victorian wallpaper maybe the period lends itself to some beautifully crafted Victorian furniture.

The floors atypical of the Victorian era are hard wood floors with decorative throw rugs scattered upon it. Wall to wall carpeting is hardly classed as Victorian, so to create a Victorian interior design concept the carpets would have to be replaced with hard wood floors. Circular picture frames are also associated with the Victorian era although their design has been around for centuries. When it is all said and done - a Victorian look that lends itself to being a very cluttered theme, can also be very beautiful.

About the Author:

Chris Dohlander pens almost entirely for http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com , an internet site with information about swing arm curtain rod and kirsch drapery rods. You can discover his writings on swing arm curtain rods on his site.

What Is Your Opinion About Fire Extinguisher Safety?

By Peter Thomas

Did you get to adulthood and realise that you know nothing about how to use a fire extinguisher? This happens to so many people, especially those in the older generation. The older generation did not have the exposure to the use of fire extinguishers that there is today, nor were they exposed to the method of using a fire extinguisher.

If you have older parents, or you yourself are in the 60+ bracket, it would be a good idea for you to make yourself familiar with the use of a fire extinguisher.

The reason is that we should be be able to use a fire extinguisher and as you get older you get more careless and more forgetful. Not only that, you move more slowly, so if you had to get out of a fire you are not as nimble as you used to be.

A FORGETFUL MEMORY

with a forgetful memory you may not remember to go back to the stove to attend to something cooking with fat

you may leave a cigarette burning

a heater too close to an open window and curtain, or

leave the heater on all night unattended

not work the clothes dryer properly and have a fire

There are many reasons why a not so good memory could cause a fire and it could even be that you are just as busy as can be.

NOT AS AGILE AS YOU USED TO BE

as you get older you are slower getting out of a chair

you nod off at irregular times

you trip over more easily

you dont hear quite the same as you used to

any one of these experiences can stop you from containing a fire as fast as you might have in the past.

It may be none of these reasons that put your life in danger, but there is one sure thing, if you have a fire extinguisher in your home, and you know how to use it, you have a much better chance of containing any sort of flair up.

You have worked all your life to reach your latter years and it is a time to enjoy it. The last thing you need is to have a life threatening disaster like a fire, just because you did not have a fire extinguisher on hand.

If you are reading this article, and have a parent in the latter years, and they do not have a fire extinguisher, do them and yourself a favour, buy them one and teach them how to use it. Attach it to the wall near the exit door and put an Instructions sign right beside it.

About the Author:

All the good plans in the world will not save your or your loved ones in a fire. Purchase a fire extinguisher and ensure your family are safe.

How Solar Panels And Wind Power Could Power Your Home

By Kenny A. Neyers

The wind and sun are resources that cost no money to use; they give you and totally natural method of power to operate your appliances and provide heat to your house. The nonrenewable traditional types of energy sources are now getting used up very fast, and this is causing the cost of it to increase. These sources have caused a lot of pollution throughout the world, which now is endangering our whole environment. This has caused many people to search out good alternative sources for power for their houses.

There are numerous companies in business to sell you the alternative systems of power and also provide you with installation for them, but the price is often too steep for most consumers to pay. They usually run into many thousands of dollars. You can learn how to put together your own system by using the Earth for Energy video and guide for instructions. From basic materials that are readily available anyone can manage to build their own system. Numerous people already have these systems built and operational today.

It only takes a weekend to complete this type of project; the entire family can have fun with this do-it-yourself project. The cost is low for building an alternative power system of your own. You are able to build it and do the installation for it at a fraction of the money that a professional would want. You are able to have this power system up and even running in 2 days and for under two hundred dollars. The great thing is you do not need any technical know how to accomplish this; the enclosed instructions along with the video helps anyone do it easily.

You will notice huge savings on your power bills, once you have the system built and installed properly. Just think of the money you will be able to use on different things you need! You can even go off the grid and totally cut out your bills for power completely, if you build more systems. And you may be able to sell your excess power you make back to the power company.

You can choose to make your system wind powered if the wind velocity in your area is enough. You can look up your wind speed on the Internet to find out if you can do this. Look into the possibility of solar power and see if it is a viable option depending on the amount of days of sunlight in your area. Many times the best solution is to use a combination of the two though.

Putting together a bank of batteries to store the energy for the times that the sun or wind is not available is a good idea. The guide Earth for Energy can explain how to receive free storage batteries for building your bank of batteries. They give you tips on saving costs on your needed materials in building this system too.

You will be doing your part to make the world a cleaner place to live for everyone. This will affect generations to come. Your children, grandchildren and descendants will thank you for it. You will harness energy that is already present in nature, clean and emitting no harmful toxins. This entire system costs less than $200 to build and install a small price to pay for lower energy bills and a cleaner earth.

About the Author:

Get more of Kenny A. Neyers superb home energy reviews and news at www.freeenergyspy.com and learn how to build solar panels for your home.

What kind of popcorn pops the most?

By Viliam Kanis

Have you ever wondered how those corn kernels turn into popcorn? Popcorn is a corn kernel converted through heat.

Corn is cleaned off the cob, stored and preserved. Each kernel has a little water or moisture locked inside of them. So when you start to heat the popcorn the pressure builds up inside the corn to the point where it has no where to go. The moisture inside the kernel converts into steam and the pressure increases exponentially. The pressure builds up and the starch starts to expand to the point where the kernel explodes. And through this explosion our tasty popcorn is born.

Large, tender and tasty popcorn is in demand. How do we guarantee our corn kernel produces these tasty treats? Unfortunately this is out of hands and the responsibility is squarely placed on the farmers.

When the conr is harvested its moisture content is 16-20%. After harvesting the corn it must be dried so that it only contains 12-15% of water.

Not every corn pops. Different varieties of corn have different levels of moisture content or water storage capabilities. Little or no water content will result in no popcorn. It's important to realize that popcorn is formed through the expansion of water into gas which results in a build up of pressure. The pressure needs to be released which subsequently gives birth to the tasty popcorn.

The anatomy of the corn kernel is quite simple. The corn kernel contains 3 main parts which play a significant role in the production of popcorn. The pericarp, which is the hull or simply the outer covering, the germ which is the part that sprouts and the endosperm which contains the starch that expands.

So how does the popcorn withstand the build up of pressure? Pericarp is strong and acts as a cover of the corn kernel. This strong, protective layer acts like a seal, just like a sealed plastic bag would inflate when micro waved. The steam within this cover builds up to the point where it expands and eventually explodes. If the pericarp of the corn was damaged or cut the corn will not pop.

The expansion or popping of the corn takes place in the tightly packed endosperm. Endosperm development determines the dimension and also taste of the popcorn. The shell of the corn explodes after the inner pressure exceeds about 9 athmospheres. The gelatinized starch granules found in the endosperm do not explode, but expand into the cooler room temperature and solidify into the thin, fluffy like bubbles that we call popcorn.

Different varieties of corn have been genetically engineered for the purpose of producing popcorn. The white and yellow hull-less are the most common. Any corn kernels that can preserve and contain 10-15% moisture content are suitable for producing popcorn.

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Please visit us at Corn Popper to get more information.

Planting Trees In Your Landscape In 2009

By Victor Jannsen

The blanket of snow that we are used to in winter is being quickly pulled back by the springtime sun. Now that warmer weather is starting to set in across the country it is time to think about planting trees in your yard and landscape.

Adding trees to your landscape and yard is a great way to help our environment, but it also makes you happy, believe it or not. Anything green adds joy to your investment in a home.

Following are 3 of my favorite trees for planting in the home landscape.

River Birch

With its peeling, papery gold bark, multiple stems and ability to suck up tons of water, the river birch has become one of the most popular trees for landscapes. You can place them on the corner of you house for a shady but not too large anchor tree, or plant them in the side yard for a classy look. In addition, birch trees make great plantings for areas of your landscape that don't drain well. They drink up a lot of water!

The river birch can get some damage from Japanese beetles during the summer, so be prepared to spray them should populations get out of hand. In addition, you want to give them an iron injection is the leaves become pale yellow.

Crab Apple Tree

The crab apple is one of the most beloved flowering trees found in the Midwest and throughout the northern United States. In spring, they bloom profusely with pink or white flowers. Crab trees can be planted as specimen trees or stand alone and will rarely get larger than 20 feet tall, making them great for corner landscape anchors.

The only problems they have are the development of apple scab fungus, but most newer varieties are resistant. Check with your local nursery before purchasing.

Purple Plum or Sand Cherry

Very popular for parkways and commercial settings are the non-fruiting varieties of pear trees. The Cleveland Pear and Bradford Pear are two of the most popular with their spring white flower blooms and tight, upright growth habits. The pear varieties never need pruning and have almost no problems with diseases or insects.

The idea is to get out this weekend and start looking around for the types of trees you can plant in your landscape this year. Plant trees; for the good of the environment, and the beauty of your home landscape!

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Get more info about Marietta lawn services and Georgia lawn service on our blog.

Floating Flooring: The Future in Home Design

By Jenna Barnes

With the right approach you can get fantastic results with floating floors instead of your old carpets or classic floorings. I now have a better idea of what works and what doesn't, after installing that great hardwood floor in my living room. You can do it by yourself too, in only one weekend.

My idea of renovating a house is based around my assumption that most people enjoy not spending too much time with cleaning around. Floating floors are ideal for lazy housewives, as well as for extremely busy people.

Home design is a win-win situation, if you are creative and skillful. You don't even have to hire an interior designer, because you can do everything by yourself. This is something I am currently doing myself.

This is a home design tip that everyone can learn from. I also like to discuss how I do it. Floating flooring can be a difficult concept to grasp for some people. In such cases, you'd better hire a specialist to have it installed and get rid of all hassles.

Bamboo floors are the latest fashion in home design. If real bamboo is too expensive for you, you can go for imitations. These are very cheap and they look almost as good as the original itself.

Well, truthfully, there are no secrets about hardwood flooring. Years and years ago, I was told a good laminated floor is hard to find. Well, not anymore. Nowadays, such floors are in pretty much every shop and they are rather cheap.

Briefly, there are two points which make floating floors an excellent option: ease of installation and almost no maintenance required for many years. If you are renovating, think of this article and ask a specialist. You'll see my point then.

About the Author:

Visit this comprehensive floating flooring guide and discover the floating flooring advantages. Then choose them for renovating your home.

Living A Cleaner Lifestyle.

By Simon M Skinner

You hear a lot these days about how important it is to live a greener life... that you should lighten your carbon footprint on the earth. Sometimes it seems like we're getting lectured everywhere we turn.

However, there are some easy ways to live a greener life. Curbside recycling is in place in most cities, where you can simply place your recyclables out with your trash for pickup (in a separate container, of course). It's easy to separate your plastic, aluminum and other recyclable materials. The recycling pickup service takes care of the rest ? all you have to do is to take it outside!

Another easy way to live greener is to join your local Freecycle email list. Instead of throwing away items and buying new stuff all the time, use the Freecycle list. If you have an item you don't want anymore, simply list it. Chances are, someone in your community can use it and they'll come take it off your hands for free. Likewise, if you need something, post your needs and see if someone can help you score the items for free. This reduces trash in the landfills, and everyone gets what they want.

When you do things around the house, there are a lot of green products you can use that cost very little. If you replace your standard incandescent light bulbs with energy-saver bulbs, you can save a considerable amount on your energy bill, and the costs of the bulbs are very similar to the incandescent bulbs. These compact fluorescents last much longer than a traditional bulb as well as using less energy.

Out in the yard, solar lights can save energy and help illuminate dark areas. There are enough different designs on the market now at varying prices to make them affordable to most people. They don't require an electrician to install them, and with the new solar technologies, they are brighter than solar lights used to be. They even have solar powered holiday lights you can use to decorate your yard without using cords and increasing your electric bill.

Batteries are another way that you can save money and go green at the same time. Modern rechargeable batteries are long lasting, easy to charge and save you a lot of money. When they do finally run out of charges for good, they are recyclable at your local hardware store, just like broken fluorescent bulbs.

Contrary to popular opinion, it is easy to be green and even easier too go green. It saves you money while doing something good for the environment. Before you know it, living green will be second nature and you'll be looking for ways to add some more green living to your lifestyle.

About the Author:

Simon Skinner is the owner of green-base.com. Green-base.com is your base for all things green, providing news and views as well as tips and services to assist you in your new eco-friendly lifestyle! Bookmark www.green-base.com for all of your eco-friendly tips.