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Garden

Chives – Green little onions

February 23, 2023

Chives are a popular herb that are easy to grow and add a subtle, onion-like flavor to many dishes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow chives in your garden or in containers.

Step 1: Choosing Your Location

  1. Chives grow best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
  2. If planting in the garden, select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. If planting in containers, choose a location that meets these same requirements.

Step 2: Preparing the Soil

  1. Before planting, amend the soil with compost to improve drainage and fertility.
  2. If planting in containers, make sure to use a well-draining potting mix.

Step 3: Planting

  1. You can start chives from seed or purchase young plants from a garden center.
  2. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart in the garden or in individual pots.
  3. If transplanting young plants, dig a hole that is slightly wider and deeper than the rootball of the plant.
  4. Place the plant in the hole, firming the soil around it.
  5. Water the newly planted chives well to help them get established.

Step 4: Caring for Your Chives

  1. Water chives regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist.
  2. Chives do not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help keep the plants healthy.
  3. Chives are not prone to many pest or disease issues, but if you notice any problems, treat with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
  4. Chives will benefit from regular deadheading, or removal of the spent flowers, to encourage continued growth and prevent the plants from becoming leggy.

Step 5: Harvesting

  1. Chives can be harvested once the plants have reached a height of about 6-8 inches.
  2. Snip the leaves about 1 inch above the soil with scissors or shears.
  3. Use the leaves fresh in your cooking or preserve them by freezing or drying.

Growing chives is a simple and enjoyable task that can add fresh, delicious flavor to your cooking. With the right care and attention, your chives will thrive and provide you with a bountiful harvest season after season.

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Garden

Tomato’s – The Lady in Red

February 21, 2023

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable that are easy to grow and provide delicious, juicy fruit. Whether you’re growing them in a garden or in containers, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to care for tomato plants from seeds until harvest.

Step 1: Starting from Seeds

  1. Fill a seed tray with seed compost and water it thoroughly.
  2. Sow the tomato seeds on the surface of the compost, covering them with a light sprinkle of compost.
  3. Cover the tray with a sheet of clear plastic and place it in a warm, light place. The seeds will germinate in 7-10 days.

Step 2: Transplanting

  1. When the seedlings have grown their first set of true leaves, they’re ready to be transplanted into individual pots.
  2. Fill a pot with compost, making a small hole in the middle and gently inserting the seedling into the hole.
  3. Firm the compost around the base of the seedling and water it in.

Step 3: Hardening Off

  1. Once the seedlings are about 10 cm tall, it’s time to start the process of hardening them off.
  2. Place the pots outside in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the amount of time they spend outside.
  3. This process helps the seedlings to gradually adjust to outdoor conditions and will help them to establish more quickly once they are planted in the garden.

Step 4: Planting Out

  1. Choose a sunny spot in the garden with well-drained soil.
  2. Make a hole in the soil big enough to accommodate the rootball of the seedling.
  3. Gently remove the seedling from its pot, holding it by the leaves rather than the stem, and place it into the hole.
  4. Fill the hole with soil, firming it down gently around the base of the plant.
  5. Water the seedling in well.

Step 5: Caring for your Tomato Plants

  1. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist.
  2. Feed the plants every two weeks with a tomato fertiliser.
  3. Support the plants with stakes or canes to prevent them from falling over as they grow taller.
  4. Pinch out the side shoots that develop in the crook between the main stem and the leaves.
  5. Remove any yellowing leaves, as they could be a sign of a disease or pest infestation.

Step 6: Harvesting

  1. Tomatoes will usually be ready to harvest about 8-10 weeks after planting.
  2. Pick the fruits when they are fully ripe and have turned a deep red colour.
  3. Store the tomatoes in a cool, dry place and use them within a few days for the best flavor.

Tomatoes are a nutrient-rich food that is low in calories and high in many essential vitamins and minerals.

-Calories: A medium-sized tomato contains only around 25 calories.

-Vitamins: Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, with a medium-sized tomato providing around 28% of the recommended daily intake. They’re also a good source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate.

-Minerals: Tomatoes contain potassium, manganese, and magnesium.

-Antioxidants: Tomatoes contain high levels of antioxidants, including lycopene, which is a powerful carotenoid known for its antioxidant properties.

-Fiber: Tomatoes are a good source of fiber, with around 1.5 grams in a medium-sized tomato.

-Low in fat and sodium: Tomatoes are naturally low in fat and sodium, making them a healthy food choice for individuals watching their intake of these nutrients.

It’s important to note that the nutritional content of tomatoes can vary based on a number of factors, such as growing conditions, storage, and cooking method. However, in general, tomatoes are a nutritious and flavorful addition to a balanced diet.

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Garden Home Uncategorized

Top Vegetables to Grow in Florida

February 18, 2023

Florida is known for its warm and sunny climate, which makes it a great place to grow a variety of vegetables. However, some vegetables are easier to grow than others, and are well-suited to the unique conditions found in Florida.

One of the easiest vegetables to grow in Florida is tomatoes. These warm-season plants thrive in the hot and sunny conditions found in the state, and are a great choice for backyard gardens and raised beds. Tomatoes are also very versatile, and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sauces.

Another easy vegetable to grow in Florida is peppers. Like tomatoes, peppers are warm-season plants that thrive in the hot and sunny conditions found in the state. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, and are a great choice for backyard gardens and raised beds.

Eggplants are also easy to grow in Florida, they also do well in the state’s warm and sunny conditions. They are also a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta sauces to curries.

Squash is also a good option, it includes both summer and winter varieties and are easy to grow in Florida, They can be planted in the spring and harvested throughout the summer and fall.

Another vegetable that is easy to grow in Florida is okra. This warm-season vegetable is a great choice for backyard gardens and raised beds, and is well-suited to the state’s hot and sunny conditions. Okra is also a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to stews.

Finally, herbs such as basil, cilantro, oregano and parsley are easy to grow in Florida and they do well in Florida’s warm and sunny conditions. They are a great addition to any vegetable garden, adding both flavor and fragrance to a variety of dishes.

Florida is a great place to grow a variety of vegetables, and some of the easiest to grow include tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, squash, okra and herbs. These vegetables are well-suited to the state’s warm and sunny conditions and are great choices for backyard gardens and raised beds.

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Alarm Home

Protect Your Home with a Burglar Alarm

February 15, 2023

When it comes to protecting your home, a reliable alarm system is an absolute must. With so many options available on the market, it can be hard to know which brand to choose. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 alarm brands and why they stand out from the rest.

  1. ADT Security Systems: ADT is one of the most well-known and trusted names in the home security industry. They offer a wide range of products and services, including burglar alarms, fire alarms, and surveillance cameras. ADT also has a dedicated monitoring center that is staffed 24/7, ensuring that your home is always protected.
  2. Vivint Smart Home Security: Vivint is a newer player in the home security industry, but they have quickly made a name for themselves. They offer a comprehensive smart home security solution that includes a variety of sensors, cameras, and other devices that can be controlled from a single app. This allows you to keep an eye on your home from anywhere, at any time.
  3. Frontpoint Security: Frontpoint is a popular choice for those who want a DIY home security system. They offer easy-to-install sensors and cameras that can be set up in minutes, and their monitoring services are among the most affordable in the industry.
  4. SimpliSafe Home Security: SimpliSafe is another popular DIY home security brand. They offer a range of sensors, cameras, and other devices that can be easily installed without the need for professional help. They also provide a monitoring service which is available at an affordable price, making it a great option for those on a budget.
  5. Nest Secure Alarm System: Nest is best known for its smart thermostats and smoke detectors, but they also offer a comprehensive home security system. The Nest Secure Alarm System includes a variety of sensors and cameras that can be controlled from a single app, and it can also integrate with other Nest products to create a fully-connected smart home.

When it comes to home security, ADT, Vivint, Frontpoint, SimpliSafe and Nest are among the top brands that offer a wide range of features and services to meet your needs and budget. It’s important to do your own research and compare features and prices before making a decision.

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Garden Home Uncategorized

The Majestic Tree Fern

February 10, 2023

Tree ferns are a group of ferns that are known for their tall, tree-like trunks and delicate, feathery fronds. These plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions and are often used as ornamental plants in landscaping. Here’s a guide on how to care for tree ferns, including information on propagation, fertilization, optimal soil and sun conditions, and watering frequency.

Caring for Tree Ferns Tree ferns require warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. They prefer temperatures between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit and should be placed in an area with filtered sunlight or partial shade. They require regular watering, with the soil kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is important to protect tree ferns from frost and freezing temperatures.

Propagation Tree ferns can be propagated by spores, which are found on the undersides of the fronds. The spores can be collected and sown on a mix of peat moss and sand. It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist and in a warm, humid environment until the spores germinate and produce small ferns.

Fertilization Tree ferns are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to promote growth and healthy fronds. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be applied to the soil every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. It is important to use a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content to encourage leaf growth and a high potassium content to promote root development.

Optimal Soil Conditions Tree ferns prefer well-draining, rich soil with a pH between 5.5-7.5. They also require a high level of organic matter in the soil. A mixture of equal parts peat moss, coarse sand, and perlite is a good option for tree ferns.

Sun Conditions Tree ferns prefer filtered sunlight or partial shade. They should be protected from direct sun rays, which can burn the fronds. If you live in a colder climate, it is best to grow tree ferns in a greenhouse or indoors where they can receive the necessary warmth and humidity.

Watering frequency Tree ferns require regular watering, with the soil kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It’s important to not let the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the fronds to wilt. However, it’s also important to not overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Tree ferns are a beautiful and unique tropical plant that can be a great addition to any garden. They require warm temperatures, high humidity, regular watering, and filtered sunlight or partial shade. They should be fertilized regularly and propagated by spores. With proper care, these plants can bring a touch of tropical beauty to your home.

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Garden Home

Blue Agave – Its Tequila Time!

February 7, 2023

Blue agave is a drought-tolerant succulent that is native to the deserts of Mexico and the southwestern United States. These plants are known for their striking blue-gray leaves and architectural shape. Here’s a guide on how to care for blue agave, including information on propagation, fertilization, optimal soil and sun conditions, and watering frequency.

Caring for Blue Agave Blue agave is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, but it prefers full sun and well-draining soil. They can tolerate extreme heat and drought, but can also tolerate some frost. They prefer temperatures between 60-90 degrees Fahrenheit. When grown in containers, they should be placed in an area with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Blue agave plants do not require frequent watering, and should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.

Propagation Blue agave can be propagated by offsets, or “pups,” that form at the base of the mother plant. When the offsets are about one-third the size of the mother plant, they can be carefully removed and potted up separately. It’s important to use a well-draining potting mix, such as one made up of equal parts coarse sand and perlite.

Fertilization Blue agave does not require frequent fertilization, but can benefit from occasional feeding. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be applied to the soil every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. It is important to use a fertilizer with low nitrogen and high potassium to encourage blooming.

Optimal Soil Conditions Blue agave prefers well-draining soil, with a slightly acidic pH of about 5.5-6.5. The soil should be a mix of coarse sand and perlite. The potting mix should be kept consistently dry, as blue agave is susceptible to root rot if overwatered.

Sun Conditions Blue agave prefers full sun, but can also tolerate some partial shade. They should be placed in an area with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown in a container, they should be protected from direct sun rays.

Watering Frequency Blue agave requires infrequent watering, and should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.

In conclusion, Blue agave is a hardy and unique succulent that can be a great addition to any garden. They require full sun, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering. They do not require frequent fertilization. With proper care, these plants can bring a touch of architectural beauty to your garden.

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Garden Home

Bananas, taste the tropics!

January 31, 2023

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Banana trees are a tropical plant that are known for their large, lush leaves and delicious fruit. They are often grown as ornamental plants, but can also be used for their fruit in warmer climates. Here’s a guide on how to care for banana trees, including information on propagation, fertilization, optimal soil and sun conditions.

Caring for Banana Trees Banana trees need warm temperatures and lots of sunlight to thrive. They prefer temperatures between 60-90 degrees Fahrenheit and should be placed in an area with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. They also require high humidity and regular watering. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is also important to protect banana trees from frost and freezing temperatures.

Propagation Banana trees are propagated by rhizomes, also known as “suckers” or “pups” that grow from the base of the mother plant. These pups can be removed when they are about 6 inches tall and planted separately. It’s important to use a well-draining potting mix for banana trees, such as one made up of equal parts peat moss, coarse sand, and perlite.

Fertilization Banana trees are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to promote growth and fruit production. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be applied to the soil every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. It is important to use a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content to encourage leaf growth and a high potassium content to promote fruit development.

Optimal Soil Conditions Banana trees prefer a well-draining, rich soil with a pH between 5.5-7.5. They also require a high level of organic matter in the soil. A mixture of equal parts peat moss, coarse sand, and perlite is a good option for banana trees.

Sun Conditions Banana trees need full sun to thrive, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is optimal. They can be grown in partial shade, but it may reduce fruit production. If you live in a colder climate, it is best to grow banana trees in a greenhouse or indoors where they can receive the necessary sunlight and warmth. Banana trees are a beautiful and unique tropical plant that can be a great addition to any garden. They require warm temperatures, high humidity, regular watering, and lots of sunlight to thrive. They should be fertilized regularly and propagated by rhizomes. With proper care, these plants can bring a touch of tropical beauty to your home and delicious fruit to your table.

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Garden Home

Bromeliads – Growing more!

January 28, 2023

Bromeliads are a diverse group of tropical plants that are popular among indoor gardeners. These plants come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and are known for their unique rosette of leaves that can hold water. Here’s a guide on how to care for bromeliads, including information on propagation, fertilization, and optimal soil conditions.

Caring for Bromeliads Bromeliads are relatively low-maintenance plants that can thrive indoors with proper care. They prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity. They can be placed near a window that receives filtered sunlight, but should be protected from direct sun rays. They can also be placed under grow lights or fluorescent lights. Bromeliads do not need frequent watering, and should be watered only when the central cup or rosette is dry. Watering should be done by filling the central cup or rosette, or by misting the leaves. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.

Propagation Bromeliads can be propagated by offsets, or “pups,” that form at the base of the mother plant. When the offsets are about one-third the size of the mother plant, they can be carefully removed and potted up separately. It’s important to use a well-draining potting mix, such as one made up of equal parts peat moss, coarse sand, and perlite.

Fertilization Bromeliads do not require frequent fertilization but can benefit from occasional feeding. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be applied to the central cup or rosette every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. It is important to use a fertilizer with low nitrogen and high phosphorus to encourage blooming.

Optimal Soil Conditions Bromeliads prefer a well-draining potting mix with a slightly acidic pH of about 5.5-6.5. The mix should be made up of equal parts peat moss, coarse sand, and perlite. The potting mix should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.

In conclusion, Bromeliads are a beautiful and unique group of plants that can be a great addition to any indoor garden. They require bright, indirect light, high humidity and well-draining soil. They should be fertilized occasionally and propagated by offsets. With proper care, these plants can bring a touch of tropical beauty to your home for many years to come.

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Garden Home

Mulch in your garden

January 26, 2023

Mulch is a great addition to any vegetable garden, as it provides a variety of benefits that help to improve the health and productivity of the plants.

One of the main benefits of mulch is that it helps to conserve moisture in the soil. When mulch is applied to the surface of the soil, it helps to reduce evaporation and keep the soil cool, which can be especially beneficial during hot summer months. This can help to reduce the amount of water that is needed to keep the garden hydrated, which can save time and resources for the gardener.

Another benefit of mulch is that it helps to suppress weeds. When mulch is applied to the surface of the soil, it creates a barrier that makes it difficult for weed seeds to germinate and grow. This can help to reduce the amount of time and effort that is needed to keep the garden free of weeds and can also help to improve the overall appearance of the garden.

Mulching your garden

Mulch can also help to improve the soil structure and fertility. Many types of mulch, such as leaves, grass clippings, and straw, are high in organic matter, which can help to improve the structure of the soil and make it more fertile. This can help to improve the health of the plants and increase their productivity.

Mulch can also help to protect plants from extreme temperature fluctuations. Mulch can help to moderate the temperature of the soil, keeping it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This can help to protect the roots of the plants from damage caused by extreme temperatures, which can improve their overall health and productivity.

Finally, mulch can also help to improve the overall aesthetic of the vegetable garden. Mulch can be used to create a neat and tidy appearance, and can also be used to create attractive borders around garden beds.

In conclusion, mulch is a versatile and valuable addition to any vegetable garden. Its ability to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, improve soil structure and fertility, protect plants from extreme temperature fluctuations, and improve the overall aesthetic of the garden, make it an essential tool for any gardener looking to maximize the health and productivity of their vegetable garden.

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Automation Home Homekit

Top 6 Home Automation Devices

May 2, 2022

More and more products are going to market improving our daily quality of life. With that being said, some of us, are not privy to modern automation advancements. We will continue to advance , we will continue to automate, we will continue to wait until its our turn to board The Axiom.

Garage Door

The myQ Smart Garage Controller will interface your garage door with its interactive services. This universal interface works on essentially any garage door unit built after 1996. Although there are some exceptions to the rule almost all of them

Thermostat

Nobody wants to come to a hot home. The Ecobee 3 is a smart thermostat that works on both the google and apple platform. Easily control, adjust, and know the temperature of your home. You can also add SmartSensors to your home in order to cool or heat certain areas of the home.

Lighting Control

Lutron Caseta is hands down my favorite lighting control module. I’ve been able to test lighting control with Zigbee, Z-wave, and Wifi. Lutron takes the cake with its ease of use, reliability, and quickness. Quickly set up a scene, schedule, or turn on / off a light with a push of a button.

Smart Locks

When it comes to smart locks it really depends on your personal preference. I’ve been lucky and fortunate enough to have been able to afford different locking brands. I think each has its place and will make your home secure.

August Wi-Fi – This lock is the one we use on our front door. We used it as it would not change the esthetic of the door looking from the outside in. However please be advised you will have a large cylindrical lock on the inside of your door. Lock functions good and I only have to replace the batteries once every couple of months.

Kwikset 99190-004 – My office door is protected by a kwikset lock. It’s pretty straight forward, battery life is exceptional, comes in different color styles, and is an all around solid unit. I particularly like that 1 key (if i so need it ) can control all of their locks using their lock reprogramming technology.

Ceiling Fan

Moxie 52in Ceiling Fan – Personally, I buy ceiling fans for the air that they push. Their primary task in my house is to cool me off and also provide light. The lighting is however secondary in my mind. This fan, provides an amazing amount of air but, its downfall is the LED lighting. While I personally have no issues with it I can see someone having an issue. If staying cool is your objective, look no further.

Miscellaneous

This ONVIS Smart Motion Sensor seems to be the jack of all trades. It will check humidity, motion, and temperature. You could run a series of automations based on humidity, if it detects motion, or whatever your hearts content.

Home automation used to be considered only for the elite. Their unfortunate high price point put out everyday home owners. The DIY path gives us the ability to use our imaginations and implement a better quality of life for those mundane tasks.

Extreme Laziness – Automation using the NFC reader off your iPhone – https://emiliogarcia.net/home/apple/nfc-scene-automation/

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