The Hows and Whys of Garden Planning

By Keith Markensen

Planning your garden in advance helps produce maximum crops in minimum space. The less space you use, the less work you have to do. Also, you can improve the soil in a small plot much more rapidly than in a large area and at less expense. This sets up, within limitations, a chain reaction. The better the soil, the smaller the area required to produce a given quantity of peas or beans or corn, and, the smaller the area, the faster its soil may be improved.

The best time to plan your vegetable garden is right now in midwinter. Unless you are a draftsman, you will probably find it easiest to draw the plan on cross-section paper, which you can get at any office supply store. Use sheets which provide plenty of space for both the simple plan of our vegetable garden, and for additional notes to be made on the margins during the season to help plan a better layout for next year. You will also need a pencil and a ruler.

There is just one other planning aid which you will find indispensable. That is a copy of the bulletin on home vegetable gardens published by your state agricultural extension service. You can get it free or at nominal cost from the main office in your state or from your county extension agent. The bulletin will help your initial work in laying out your garden plan by telling how far apart to separate the rows of different kinds of vegetables. It will help you in many other ways as well. Our plan for this year's garden is not to suggest what you should plant, but simply to illustrate how easy it is to lay out such a plan on cross-section paper. Nobody else is likely to want as many rows of beans, for example, as we intend to plant. We happen to like them. And there is no provision for parsnips because we hate 'em!

Leave Room to Turn

As you can readily perceive, each little square on the cross-section paper is allowed to represent a square foot of the actual garden area. The first step is to outline your garden with heavy pencil lines, counting as many spaces on each side as the garden measures in feet. You will want to leave some space between the ends of rows and the edges of the garden to allow for cultivation and a path. If your garden is surrounded by mowed lawn, a two-foot strip is sufficient if you use only hand tools. If you use any type of cultivator, it is safer to allow four foot strips for turning at each end of the rows in order to protect your lawn.

For several years we have been gradually reducing the size of our garden without reducing its yield be it vegetables or outdoor foliage plants. Apparently we can carry on this trend if we are careful to continue improving the soil and if we plan each year's garden carefully. This year, for example, we are going to raise cucumbers on a rough trellis made of 2 by 4 posts and horizontal slats instead of letting the vines spread out on the ground for six feet on each side of the row. In the next year, you may opt for colorful plants instead of the climbing plants. This figures out to a net saving of 280 square feet in our garden.

A nice little city garden 14 by 20 feet, covering that area, could produce a lot of lettuce, radishes, parsley, carrots, beets and onions. Not too sensibly, I fear, we intend to offset that saving by planting two rows of early potatoes. Our plan is to harvest them in July when potatoes are most expensive on the market. At that time they should be about the size of golf balls, the stage at which they are claimed to be most delicious.

About the Author:

For more information about colorful outdoor plants. Click on the link to visit http://www.plant-care.com/spring-color-patio-plants.html.

Smelly flowers spark police raid

By Tracy Anderson

Police raided the home of an elderly couple in Bristol, England because a flowery plant in their garden smelled like pot.

Ivor and Margaret Wiltshire of Kingswood had just returned home from a holiday when they found their front door kicked in. The entire house and garage was searched.

The raid was apparently sparked by the smell of a tiny creeping flower called Moss Phlox that grew in their garden. The plant smells like and is often mistaken for pot.

This was the second time this happened. A similar incident occurred four days earlier to Ivor's neighbors David and Christine Difford.

The couple was visited by a gang wearing Halloween masks who demanded drugs.

"They shouted, 'Give us the weed, man' and searched the loft. It was frightening," David narrated.

Police later apologized to Ivor, a retired engineer, who showed them the smelly plant. The offending plant apparently didn't bother Ivor since he has no sense of smell.

"It is estimated that about four percent of the world's adult population (162 million) use cannabis annually and 0.6 percent (22.5 million) daily. The possession, use, or sale of psychoactive cannabis products became illegal in most parts of the world in the early 20th century. Since then, some countries have intensified the enforcement of cannabis prohibition while others have reduced the priority of enforcement," according to the editors of Wikipedia.

Moss Phlox, on the other hand, is scientifically known as Phlox stolonifera and is also called creeping phlox, flowering moss, ground pink, or moss pinks.

It is native to the eastern United States in forests in the Appalachian Mountains from Pennsylvania south to northern Georgia.

"We can't believe such a small plant has caused so much trouble," Ivor said.

About the Author:

So the next time you send flowers to someone, make sure they don't look or smell like cannabis. And if you need fresh, beautiful flowers that are professionally designed and perfect for any occasion, go to Discount Flower Delivery

New Interior Design Trend That Uses Vinyl Wall Lettering

By Anna Holdaway

If youve ever been into an upscale restaurant or hotel, chances are youve seen a logo, or some type of decorative quote painted onto a wall. This practice, known as stenciling has been a popular form on expression within the interior design arena for quite some time now, but has usually been reserved for upscale establishments and homes because its so expensive to accomplish, until recently.

This new design technique of using vinyl to create custom sayings stemmed from the practice of hand stenciling words onto walls, which has been used in interior design for decades. However, many would argue that it was only for the lavish and well to do among us because of the expensive nature of hiring an artist to paint sayings on your walls.

Most that are hooked on vinyl wall lettering argue that regardless of the fact that vinyl lettering makes wall lettering affordable, there are many other reasons that it trumps hand painted stencils..

So, what are the arguments in favor of vinyl wall lettering versus hand painted stenciling? There are many arguments for vinyl wall words, but here are a few of the most common arguments for vinyl versus paint. Vinyl lettering is easier to apply than painting a stencil, and there is no messy clean up, and no accidents which can ruin your carpet, clothes, or flooring. Its also much, much less expensive, but gives you the same desired look because after applied, it looks hand painted. By the time you account for your supplies, cleanup, spills, and time, vinyl wall words are far less expensive than hand painted stencils. Lastly, the lettering kits are removable without damaging the walls " no repainting needed. Change the sayings as often as you want without sanding, painting, or priming.

Some may be asking, Why add wall words, or wall lettering to the walls our home or apartment? The answer is simple; Wall Words can create an inspiring, calming, or uplifting effect to any room in your home. They also give your home a touch of personality, and can bring your own personal charm into your decorating.

After youve seen some samples of wall lettering done right, youll at the very least be curious as to how you could use them in your own home. Try using them in a childs room by stenciling a favorite childrens song or quote as a border around the room. Or put your little girls name in soft pink above her bed. There are many amazing things you can do with the lettering, and the options are only limited by your own creativity.

About the Author:

Anna Holdaway is an interior designer and owner of Wall Stamps, which specializes in using custom vinyl lettering, wall words, and vinyl wall lettering to create murals and inspiring home decor.

Tips to Build the Birdhouse you Desire

By Robert Randolph

Woodworking involves projects of all kinds. One of the most common projects that many hobby woodworkers get started with is the creation of a birdhouse or bird feeder. Even the most inexperienced person can make a birdhouse that will draw many feathered friends to your yard. There are a few things that you should keep in mind though before you start cutting and hammering. Some planning is required to execute the best birdhouse on the block.

The first thing that you need to consider is what kind of bird you wish to attract to your birdhouse. It's a good idea to dig up some information on that species of bird in order to research their nesting habits. It might play an important role in the proper construction to know certain points regarding different types of birds. Things like nesting and whether or not they are seasonal are good things to look at.

Knowing what kind of bird you want to design your house for makes it easier to know which measurements you need. Having a door that is too small will pose a problem. A door that is much too big can also be a problem because it allows other birds to fit inside. Some birds are very territorial and do not want to share their dwellings with others. Determine this type of thing before you go ahead with your building.

It's extremely crucial that you do not hang your finished birdhouse anywhere that a predator may reach it. Cats are very adept at climbing so the birdhouse should securely hang from a branch or post not easily accessible to that type of predator. People can be predators too. Take care not to post your birdhouse somewhere that it may come into contact with pesticide sprays or children that can access and disturb it.

Using the most durable wood possible is a must. Weak wood is prone to breaking down faster or becoming rotten due to rain. Select a tough wood and treat the outside of the house with a varnish to give it additional resistance to rain and weather damage. The last thing you want is for your birdhouse to develop mould on the interior. There is a chance baby birds may be hatched inside. All necessary precautions should be taken.

Always measure the wood out to the exact measurements. It's simply not enough to estimate distances like that. If a measurement falls short it could result in gaps where wind and water can leak in. Drainage holes should always be drilled into the bottom to prevent the birdhouse from flooding. That would be an unfortunate mishap which could result in baby birds drowning. Do not let this be a possibility.

Building a birdhouse allows you to get creative without being put under too much pressure. Take it slow and be sure not to overlook anything. Helpful guides can be purchased or found online. Join a woodworking group for added skill assistance as well as professional instruction if you feel it may be beneficial to you.

About the Author:

If you like bird houses, Robert Randolph has a selection of beautiful decorative birdhouses. Click here to view his selection of Bird Houses.

Los Angeles Plumbing

By Richard Eckly

How many of you have called out Joe the plumber to fix a backed-up sewer and then been disappointed when he shows up an hour late, drags mud into your house, and then has to "break it to you" about the outrageous cost he is about to charge you?

Unfortunately this scenario ha become all too familiar for people that are in a pinch looking for a plumber. There are many horror stories about Los Angeles plumbers that have been completely unprofessional and rude. As if having a plumbing crisis isn't upsetting enough, having to put up with a discourteous and dishonest plumber can be even more distressing. However, But for every plumbing story gone wrong, there are many customers that have had positive experiences with their plumbing service provider.

But locating a professional plumbing company can be a difficult task. It will take a little bit of time in order to find a local plumber that has a proven track record in providing high quality service to many satisfied customers.

Professional and dependable plumbers do exist. If you need to find Los Angeles plumbers that take pride in their work and that focus on providing their customers with excellent service, spend some time looking for a full-service plumbing company that has been doing business in your area for awhile.

First, look to find a California plumbing company that has a long-standing presence in your area. Make sure that they can provide you with personal testimonials from satisfied customers. Additionally, locate a California plumbing company that hires only qualified workers that take pride in their service.

Are you experiencing troublesome draining problems at your business? Are you afraid that the commercial plumbing repairs that you need will be costly and lengthy? It is important that you find a plumbing service provider that has extensive experience in dealing with commercial repairs and that uses the most current repair techniques. Your plumbing service provider should provide you with a detailed estimate and proposal.

Let a professional plumbing team come in that is equipped with the latest in technology in order to asses your problem. They can use video technology to inspect your pipelines in order to figure out the precise location of your problem. This technology can save you money by locating the specific problem and non-evasive route.

It is not impossible to find a reliable California plumbing company that can offer you honest and professional service. There are Los Angeles plumbers that will come to your home or business on time and be courteous and straightforward with you.

About the Author:

The author has been in the California Plumbing business for many years and if you want to learn more Los Angeles plumbing tips visit his site.

How To Take Good Care Of Your Roses

By Marshall Clewis

Rose planting can be started in the southern part of the south during the last half of the month. If you have not ordered you should do so soon, as newer varieties are usually in scarce quantity by now. The old favorites, however, should be in good supply. Do not be afraid to try the new varieties and the All"America selection for the current year.

Birds: This month is usually very hard on birds in the garden. Provide a place for water and see that it is kept filled every day. Also, provide some food in the form of small grains. Put these items near a window and let the children enjoy "bird- watching."

Pruning and spraying: There are always enough mild days in January to do remedial and heavy pruning. Be sure to prune for a purpose, not just for the sake of exercise! Prune to remove dead or diseased wood, or to correct the pattern of growth. Cuts over one inch in diameter should be painted with a waterproof paint to prevent decay or entrance of insect pests.

This is also the time to do dormant spraying for various roses scale insects. Due pest control can assure you of knockout roses bushes. Much time and trouble can be saved later in the spring by destroying insect habitats and winter hosts by clean-up activities now.

A little prevention is a valuable "pound of cure" at this time. Place garden litter where it belongs - in the compost heap. Remember that kitchen refuse - except for fats also makes excellent compost material.

About the Author:

For your information there is much more on the topic of knockout roses bushes. Drop by today at http://www.zone10.com/landscaping/knockout-roses-bushes.html.

Putting Granite in the Kitchen- All You Need to Know

By Henry Calberniale

Are you thinking of remodeling your kitchen and using granite countertops in your kitchen but you don't really know much about granite?

Granite is an usual stone that is widely available. What makes granite unusual in appearance is the fact that in addition to the basic components of feldspar and quartz, granite contains many other minerals. This combination of minerals is what makes each piece of granite look unique. The uniqueness of each piece of granite is one of the appealing reasons people like granite countertops. No countertop will look exactly the same.

The installation of a granite counter top is a multi-step process. The first important step requires the supplier to design your counter top layout. (If your counter top layout is remaining the same, and you are just replacing the existing material with granite, this step will not be necessary.) After the design is determined, someone must come to your home and take exact measurements. A template of your counter tops is constructed next. It will be a guide for cutting the granite that will become your counter tops in your kitchen

Using the template, the granite will be cut to fit the counter tops exactly. It is now time for the cut granite to be brought to your home for installation!

Just imagine how attractive your kitchen will look when the granite is installed. Your kitchen will have the natural look of outdoors because of the beauty of granite. And the granite of your countertop will look like no other granite countertop installed anywhere else. That's because, each piece of granite is unique.

Granite is not only unique, but it will retain its beauty for many, many years. This makes granite ideally suited for use in a kitchen where there is a lot of work done. Granite is very hard and will not show any scratches or other signs of wear.

Caring for granite kitchen counter tops could not be easier or cheaper. You just use warm water with a little soap in a pail. Dip a sponge in the water and gently sponge the counter top to remove any food or other debris on the counter top. Use a dry towel to absorb any remaining moisture on the counter top and you will see the original luster restored to your granite top.

Even most hard to remove stains clean up easily from a granite kitchen counter top. Solutions can remove even fruit stains like blueberries or strawberries that might be on the granite. You can use the solution on the granite because the granite is so hard that difficult stains can be removed easily. If you apply the solution properly, the granite is not harmed in any way. After the solution is applied on the granite, you should sponge the granite with soapy water. In addition, there are many other ways to remove difficult stains from the granite counter top. It is advisable to ask the company that sells and installs the granite counter top in your kitchen to give you complete instructions for the care and maintenance of your new granite counter top. Granite is so durable that it could last longer than your house. After all, the granite itself was probably already around long before your house was ever built!Most hard to remove stains can be easily cleaned up on your granite counter top. If there are food spots that are hard to remove from the top of the counter top such as a stain from a fruit such as blueberries, a solution can remove the stains. This is possible because of the hardness of the granite making it easy to clean hard to remove spots. The bleach, if properly applied, does not harm the granite. After the bleach solution is applied, it should be carefully sponged of with soapy water. There are a variety of approaches for cleaning off different hard to remove stains from your granite counter top. If you pick the company to sell and install the granite counter top for you, they will provide you with complete instructions for the care of your granite counter top. With proper care, your granite tops can last longer than your house because of the extreme durability of the granite.

About the Author:

Remodeling your kitchen can add value and beautify your home. Adding granite countertops is one smart move. Learn more about granite countertops.