If you are a keen gardener, you have probably come across solar water features. Below we look at some of the benefits of using them in your garden.
As the experts are shouting louder about environmental melt-down, the amount of solar products on the market over the last few years has significantly increased. This is not only good news for those of us who are determined to be greener within our everyday lives but also for those of us wanting a larger range of products in general. For the gardeners out there, the range of solar products for garden use just gets bigger and bigger. Below we take a closer look at some of the benefits of using solar water features.
There are plenty of different innovative solar water features on the market so what are they and why would you choose them?
Solar water features are usually placed in the garden and involve using the power of the sun to move the water within the feature. They are normally powered by a little pump which derives its energy directly from a photovoltaic cell which converts solar power into electricity. Differing water features which are suitable for solar power usage include, cascading waterfalls and fountains.
The benefits of using solar powered water features include:
An environmentally friendly way of enjoying garden water features
The constant relaxing sound of running water to be enjoyed throughout the sunny days when you are in your garden
Versatility in the number of different materials the feature can be made from, ranging from terracotta to metal
No mains electricity supply needed and so no strain put on electricity bill
An easy way to brighten up a corner of your garden, decking, terrace, balcony or patio
Many solar water features are self-contained which means that you recycle the same water over and over again
Monday, May 31, 2010
The Basics of Mulch
Mulch is a term used in the agriculture and gardening industry to refer to a protective layer of covering placed on top of the soil to tame the effects of the climate. Mulch can be composed of natural or synthetic materials or the combination of both to form a wide assortment of covering substance.
Farmers and gardeners cover soils with mulch for various purposes. First it controls the proliferation of weeds by depriving them from sunlight and thus decreasing the chance for their germination. Next it helps retain water in the soil by slowing down the process of evaporation. Mulch also doubles as fertilizer when natural mulch materials break down into organic matter and nutrients which are beneficial for plant life. Certain materials of mulch can also repel insects that can be quite harmful to plants. Mulch also helps plants to grow by reflecting sunlight to the plants upwards, which increases the process of photosynthesis – the production of plant food. Mulch also helps provide a dry and clean surface for the thriving of fruits that lie on the ground such as melons, cantaloupes, and squash.
There are many materials used in making mulch. Some materials are used by themselves while other are used in combination with each other. Mulch may be made of organic residues such as dry leaves, hay sawdust, wood chips, shredded newspapers, grass clippings, straw, wool and other safe scrap materials; such materials can also become natural fertilizers as they decompose and break down. Mulch can also be made of compost, fully decomposed materials, too keep the nutritional requirements of the plants. When using compost as mulch, it is important to remove all traces of weeds and their seeds to prevent their growth. Mulch may also be made from plastic to protect the soil and maintain its consistency. This is especially helpful for large agricultural industries. Another a material for mulch are organic sheets, they serve similar purposes as with plastic mulch, but they are biodegradable and thus more environment friendly. Rock and gravel can also serve as mulch, they are most often used to retain heat in cold areas and seasons. Pine needles can also be used as mulch and they are helpful in adjusting the soil temperature, keeping the soil warm during spring and fall, and cool during the summers.
The application of mulch usually occurs around the start of each growing season. If necessary, additional mulch is applied throughout the period. During the early stages of germination, mulch serves as insulator that keeps necessary heat within the soil. This helps seed to grow quickly and seedlings to grow rapidly as well. During the latter stages of plant growth, mulch regularizes moisture and temperature, keeping the plant and the soil in good condition for growth. At this point, mulch is also used to prevent the thriving of weeds. Mulch may also have certain aesthetic purposes. Shredded wood or other materials can be colored to look good in the landscape.
Mulch can be applied either manually or with the help of machines. Certain equipment may help applying mulch. For instance, plastic mulch can be laid down by a tractor as it forms planting beds in the field. Otherwise, mulch can be placed by the farmers and gardeners’ hands.
There are other types and functions of mulch. They are such helpful components of landscapes as they provide many things that are beneficial to farms and gardens.
Farmers and gardeners cover soils with mulch for various purposes. First it controls the proliferation of weeds by depriving them from sunlight and thus decreasing the chance for their germination. Next it helps retain water in the soil by slowing down the process of evaporation. Mulch also doubles as fertilizer when natural mulch materials break down into organic matter and nutrients which are beneficial for plant life. Certain materials of mulch can also repel insects that can be quite harmful to plants. Mulch also helps plants to grow by reflecting sunlight to the plants upwards, which increases the process of photosynthesis – the production of plant food. Mulch also helps provide a dry and clean surface for the thriving of fruits that lie on the ground such as melons, cantaloupes, and squash.
There are many materials used in making mulch. Some materials are used by themselves while other are used in combination with each other. Mulch may be made of organic residues such as dry leaves, hay sawdust, wood chips, shredded newspapers, grass clippings, straw, wool and other safe scrap materials; such materials can also become natural fertilizers as they decompose and break down. Mulch can also be made of compost, fully decomposed materials, too keep the nutritional requirements of the plants. When using compost as mulch, it is important to remove all traces of weeds and their seeds to prevent their growth. Mulch may also be made from plastic to protect the soil and maintain its consistency. This is especially helpful for large agricultural industries. Another a material for mulch are organic sheets, they serve similar purposes as with plastic mulch, but they are biodegradable and thus more environment friendly. Rock and gravel can also serve as mulch, they are most often used to retain heat in cold areas and seasons. Pine needles can also be used as mulch and they are helpful in adjusting the soil temperature, keeping the soil warm during spring and fall, and cool during the summers.
The application of mulch usually occurs around the start of each growing season. If necessary, additional mulch is applied throughout the period. During the early stages of germination, mulch serves as insulator that keeps necessary heat within the soil. This helps seed to grow quickly and seedlings to grow rapidly as well. During the latter stages of plant growth, mulch regularizes moisture and temperature, keeping the plant and the soil in good condition for growth. At this point, mulch is also used to prevent the thriving of weeds. Mulch may also have certain aesthetic purposes. Shredded wood or other materials can be colored to look good in the landscape.
Mulch can be applied either manually or with the help of machines. Certain equipment may help applying mulch. For instance, plastic mulch can be laid down by a tractor as it forms planting beds in the field. Otherwise, mulch can be placed by the farmers and gardeners’ hands.
There are other types and functions of mulch. They are such helpful components of landscapes as they provide many things that are beneficial to farms and gardens.
Small Garden Design - Creating Illusions Of More Space
While designing small area gardens does have some of its own special challenges, the opportunity for creativity is multiplied within these small spaces. It is possible to create more atmosphere and impact with less.
And while most people do a great job of creating beautiful gardens within confined areas, balconies, rooftops, and courtyards, the greatest challenge is still in making small gardens feel larger than they really are.
Because most small gardens are surrounded by boundaries, vertical surfaces, and can generally be viewed in a single glance, they have a tendency to feel confined, boxed in, and...small. So some designers use a few techniques and “tricks” to create an illusion of more space. Try one or more of these ideas if you’re challenged by a confined area.
Screen unsightly boundaries and hard vertical surfaces with plants or structures. Not only does this hide the element, but can also create the illusion that there’s more beyond and not just your neighbors wall or yard. Try to hide obvious boundaries.
If your garden is confined by walls, the color of your walls can actually have some impact on how spacious your garden feels. Darker colors alone have more depth. When used behind planting schemes, they blend and help make the boundary seem invisible. Overall, darker color elements help create more depth in confined areas.
Adding curves to your walkways, flower beds, walls, etc. can give the illusion of more distance and travel. The human eye can detect that there actually is more distance involved and so the mind interprets the actual occupied space as being greater.
If you have unused hard corners, make good use of them. An arch or entryway into a corner that otherwise goes nowhere is a nice element and opportunity to frame a focal point in the corner. It also creates the illusion of something more beyond.
Creating levels can give the illusion of more space. It creates vertical surface and appears to create even more horizontal surface. If your floor area is limited, otherwise unused hard corners are a great place to add a second level flower bed or element.
A little creativity might even enlist the use of mirrors. Think about it. A mirror or two placed in the right spots could actually make a garden seem twice as large as it really is.
I hope this helps.
And while most people do a great job of creating beautiful gardens within confined areas, balconies, rooftops, and courtyards, the greatest challenge is still in making small gardens feel larger than they really are.
Because most small gardens are surrounded by boundaries, vertical surfaces, and can generally be viewed in a single glance, they have a tendency to feel confined, boxed in, and...small. So some designers use a few techniques and “tricks” to create an illusion of more space. Try one or more of these ideas if you’re challenged by a confined area.
Screen unsightly boundaries and hard vertical surfaces with plants or structures. Not only does this hide the element, but can also create the illusion that there’s more beyond and not just your neighbors wall or yard. Try to hide obvious boundaries.
If your garden is confined by walls, the color of your walls can actually have some impact on how spacious your garden feels. Darker colors alone have more depth. When used behind planting schemes, they blend and help make the boundary seem invisible. Overall, darker color elements help create more depth in confined areas.
Adding curves to your walkways, flower beds, walls, etc. can give the illusion of more distance and travel. The human eye can detect that there actually is more distance involved and so the mind interprets the actual occupied space as being greater.
If you have unused hard corners, make good use of them. An arch or entryway into a corner that otherwise goes nowhere is a nice element and opportunity to frame a focal point in the corner. It also creates the illusion of something more beyond.
Creating levels can give the illusion of more space. It creates vertical surface and appears to create even more horizontal surface. If your floor area is limited, otherwise unused hard corners are a great place to add a second level flower bed or element.
A little creativity might even enlist the use of mirrors. Think about it. A mirror or two placed in the right spots could actually make a garden seem twice as large as it really is.
I hope this helps.
Promoting Conservation Through Irrigation
When it comes to watering your yard, you may be able to save yourself some "green" -without your lawn turning brown-by using an automatic irrigation system. If that system is correctly designed, installed and maintained, it can keep your landscape looking lush using the least amount of water.
Here are a few more tips, from gardening expert Paul James, that may help:
• Waste not, want not-Instead of watering for one long continuous session, try splitting the watering time into shorter periods and take 15-minute breaks in between each session. This will let the water soak in, while minimizing runoff.
• Raise the blade-Trim grass at a higher mower setting to shade roots from sunlight and encourage deeper roots. Lawns with longer grass blades (2 inches) will retain more moisture and encourage deeper, healthier roots.
• Watch the clock-Water between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., when the sun is low, winds are calm and temperatures are cool. By watering in the morning, you give the leaves a chance to dry out during the day.
• Divide by zones-Different plants need different amounts of water. Divide your yard into separate irrigation zones so the grass can be watered separately and more frequently than ground covers, shrubs and trees.
• Water only what grows-If you have an underground sprinkler system, make sure the heads are adjusted properly to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways. A properly adjusted sprinkler head should spray large droplets of water, not a fine mist, to minimize evaporation and wind drift.
• Consider drip-When it comes to watering individual trees, flowerbeds, potted containers or other nongrassy areas, you can apply water directly to the roots with low-volume drip irrigation. This will reduce water waste through evaporation or runoff and keep weeds from growing.
• Do routine inspections-Periodically check your sprinklers to make sure everything is working properly. A clogged head or a torn line can wreak havoc on your landscape and water bill.
• Be rain smart-Adjust your irrigation system as the seasons and weather change. You can also install a shut-off device that automatically detects rain or moisture. These devices are inexpensive and let you take advantage of nature's free watering service.
Here are a few more tips, from gardening expert Paul James, that may help:
• Waste not, want not-Instead of watering for one long continuous session, try splitting the watering time into shorter periods and take 15-minute breaks in between each session. This will let the water soak in, while minimizing runoff.
• Raise the blade-Trim grass at a higher mower setting to shade roots from sunlight and encourage deeper roots. Lawns with longer grass blades (2 inches) will retain more moisture and encourage deeper, healthier roots.
• Watch the clock-Water between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., when the sun is low, winds are calm and temperatures are cool. By watering in the morning, you give the leaves a chance to dry out during the day.
• Divide by zones-Different plants need different amounts of water. Divide your yard into separate irrigation zones so the grass can be watered separately and more frequently than ground covers, shrubs and trees.
• Water only what grows-If you have an underground sprinkler system, make sure the heads are adjusted properly to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways. A properly adjusted sprinkler head should spray large droplets of water, not a fine mist, to minimize evaporation and wind drift.
• Consider drip-When it comes to watering individual trees, flowerbeds, potted containers or other nongrassy areas, you can apply water directly to the roots with low-volume drip irrigation. This will reduce water waste through evaporation or runoff and keep weeds from growing.
• Do routine inspections-Periodically check your sprinklers to make sure everything is working properly. A clogged head or a torn line can wreak havoc on your landscape and water bill.
• Be rain smart-Adjust your irrigation system as the seasons and weather change. You can also install a shut-off device that automatically detects rain or moisture. These devices are inexpensive and let you take advantage of nature's free watering service.
Producing Ones Very Own Fresh Flowers At Ones House
When Valentine's Day, or any vacation rolls around, you may notice that the value of flowers jumps a bit. Although the price might make you blink it probably doesn't slow you down all that much when it comes to paying. After all, you're giving them to a very special friend or to a special event and the additional costs are well worth the smiles and joy that will likely result. But, when you think about it, fresh flowers are a year round adventure that can bring joy to everybody on every day of the year. Use a garden box or a backyard plot of land. It's not too arduous if you go about it in the correct manner and is sort of fun and restful as you go about doing it.
Where you should farm your fresh flowers
For the most part, you are bound by the environmental place that you thought to grow in. If you have the space, you can grow flowers in a green house, or a hothouse but you can also grow flowers on your bathroom window sill. Really, fresh flowers can be grown year round just about everywhere but outside in your personal yard space is best and most enjoyable. What you do need is a good patch of dirt that has not been used as a construction waste zone where soil conditions are very poor. Start by taking a sample of your earth to the grounds center or educational outreach centre for examination and add amendments as necessary. From a different visual aspect, just go to the yard centre and stock up on organic fertiliser and grow the flowers from this medium.
What type of fresh flowers you should grow
There are; annual flowers which flower for one season and then are done, perennial flowers which bloom year after year and biennial flowers which flower in the second season and are done. All are great flowers but if you're going to do it right you may as well go for the perennials that come back season after season. As you chose the fresh flowers you'll be producing consider the climate they prefer and time them through the year. If a flower typically comes out in early spring plan and plant for that blooming time. As the season progresses plant according to that time in parts of your garden that give that flower optimum growing conditions for the time that the flower blooms. For instance; carnations tend to really come into form in mid-summer. They bloom from early summer to fall but really hit their stride in mid-autumn. Plan for this part of the year, but understand that cutting and giving them occurs through the season. Additionally, cutting them actually makes them bloom more and look better for the peak season.
A $100 hole for a $30 plant
Ideally, you will want to plant once and then tend your flower garden season after season. The placement part is the difficult part so doing it once is the better way to go about it. Make your hole a bit deeper then the plant root ball and a few inches wider. Put some organic fertilizer in the bottom and a bit up the sides. Make another hole in the organic fertilizer to put the plant. The top of the plant rootball should be just above ground level. Fill in with more organic fertilizer pressing out any air pockets in the manure infill. Make a soil dish around the plant to hold water. Give the plant Nitro0gen feed once a month.
Feed and cut
Once the plant is ingrained, after a couple of months or so, it will need feeding and care. When a flowering plant does flower it uses up quite a bit of energy and will need this energy has to be renewed. For the most part, the main nutrient needed is Nitrogen. Potash and Potassium are also needed so check the back of the seed pack or a plant info tag for required amounts. Cut regularly to promote growth but be certain to not over cut for a full season of flowers.
Where you should farm your fresh flowers
For the most part, you are bound by the environmental place that you thought to grow in. If you have the space, you can grow flowers in a green house, or a hothouse but you can also grow flowers on your bathroom window sill. Really, fresh flowers can be grown year round just about everywhere but outside in your personal yard space is best and most enjoyable. What you do need is a good patch of dirt that has not been used as a construction waste zone where soil conditions are very poor. Start by taking a sample of your earth to the grounds center or educational outreach centre for examination and add amendments as necessary. From a different visual aspect, just go to the yard centre and stock up on organic fertiliser and grow the flowers from this medium.
What type of fresh flowers you should grow
There are; annual flowers which flower for one season and then are done, perennial flowers which bloom year after year and biennial flowers which flower in the second season and are done. All are great flowers but if you're going to do it right you may as well go for the perennials that come back season after season. As you chose the fresh flowers you'll be producing consider the climate they prefer and time them through the year. If a flower typically comes out in early spring plan and plant for that blooming time. As the season progresses plant according to that time in parts of your garden that give that flower optimum growing conditions for the time that the flower blooms. For instance; carnations tend to really come into form in mid-summer. They bloom from early summer to fall but really hit their stride in mid-autumn. Plan for this part of the year, but understand that cutting and giving them occurs through the season. Additionally, cutting them actually makes them bloom more and look better for the peak season.
A $100 hole for a $30 plant
Ideally, you will want to plant once and then tend your flower garden season after season. The placement part is the difficult part so doing it once is the better way to go about it. Make your hole a bit deeper then the plant root ball and a few inches wider. Put some organic fertilizer in the bottom and a bit up the sides. Make another hole in the organic fertilizer to put the plant. The top of the plant rootball should be just above ground level. Fill in with more organic fertilizer pressing out any air pockets in the manure infill. Make a soil dish around the plant to hold water. Give the plant Nitro0gen feed once a month.
Feed and cut
Once the plant is ingrained, after a couple of months or so, it will need feeding and care. When a flowering plant does flower it uses up quite a bit of energy and will need this energy has to be renewed. For the most part, the main nutrient needed is Nitrogen. Potash and Potassium are also needed so check the back of the seed pack or a plant info tag for required amounts. Cut regularly to promote growth but be certain to not over cut for a full season of flowers.
Pocket Knives: How To Choose The Right One For You
Pocket knives are convenient tools that can come in handy for most anyone. Men and women alike can benefit from the convenience of having a pocket knife. They are useful for occasional use and for emergencies. If you are an avid camper or traveler, a pocket knife that has multiple uses can be especially convenient. When faced with an emergency situation, the pocket knife can be used to saw wood, kill fish and prepare meals. For convenience, you can have a handy bottle opener and corkscrew which may not be readily available in all situations.
How to choose the right pocket knife will depend on your needs. If you want something to carry around with you at all times, a smaller, multipurpose pocket knife might be best. For professionals, a nice engraved pocket knife that has a knife and possibly a few other tools will be perfect. They can be purchased at home improvement stores, accessory stores and knife stores. Executive pocket knives can fit into a purse or briefcase easily and look elegant as well. They retail between ten and fifty dollars and can be personalized as well.
For more practical knives, such as a kind you may keep in your automobile or for use on camping trips, go for the multi tool pocket knives. The Swiss Army knives are the most popular and there are a variety of sizes available. These tools range from approximately thirty dollars to two hundred dollars. There are multiple tools that will go with them such as different sized blades, nail file, scissors, saw, corkscrew, screwdriver, can opener, toothpick, tweezers and magnifying glass among other options. The multi tool pocket knives are a little thicker than smaller knives but they still are small enough to fit into a pocket, purse, briefcase or backpack. Choose the pocket knife that is best for you by considering use and price.
How to choose the right pocket knife will depend on your needs. If you want something to carry around with you at all times, a smaller, multipurpose pocket knife might be best. For professionals, a nice engraved pocket knife that has a knife and possibly a few other tools will be perfect. They can be purchased at home improvement stores, accessory stores and knife stores. Executive pocket knives can fit into a purse or briefcase easily and look elegant as well. They retail between ten and fifty dollars and can be personalized as well.
For more practical knives, such as a kind you may keep in your automobile or for use on camping trips, go for the multi tool pocket knives. The Swiss Army knives are the most popular and there are a variety of sizes available. These tools range from approximately thirty dollars to two hundred dollars. There are multiple tools that will go with them such as different sized blades, nail file, scissors, saw, corkscrew, screwdriver, can opener, toothpick, tweezers and magnifying glass among other options. The multi tool pocket knives are a little thicker than smaller knives but they still are small enough to fit into a pocket, purse, briefcase or backpack. Choose the pocket knife that is best for you by considering use and price.
Planting the Seeds of Greatness
Mighty oaks, from tiny acorns grow...and the same is true with human beings. Every accomplished person was once a tiny child, a child who was sparked to strive for excellence. As parents we are in the unique position of being entrusted with a precious soul and it is up to us to protect and nurture that soul for a lifetime.
No parent can make a child great. However a parent can help a child want to be great. Much depends on the early childhood years. With the proper encouragement and praise, your child will follow the path you forge.
Nothing succeeds like success. When your child’s first garden bursts into bloom, that pride and joy of accomplishment will be a cherished memory.
So start out by making it easy to succeed! The task involved should fit your time frame. Avoid the disappointment of an unfinished project. However, sometimes things just don’t work out and showing your child how to pick up and start over is also a life lesson.
Here are just a few examples of almost foolproof projects that will give great rewards. Quick and simple-to-do, they will be favorites for your whole family.
Planting Seeds for Children Ages 3 and Up
For small children, prepare the seedbed ahead of time. Older kids can be put to work digging their own bed. For it to be your child’s garden, it is enough for them just to plant the seeds. Show them where to place the seeds and how many. Large seeds are best for little fingers. Flowers that are easy to grow as well as plant are Nasturtium. An ideal vegetable for the cool season is radish. Their large seeds sprout quickly and they may be ready to harvest as soon as 3 weeks. Though radish may be perceived as a bit sharp to be a childhood favorite, my experience is that the kids don’t care so much about eating the crop. The joy of harvest overshadows all. Be sure to take photos of the kids with their hands full of the bounty. These trophy shots will inspire them for years to come.
Other flowers such as tough old favorites like marigolds, can also be planted from starts bought in a nursery. The advantage of this is instant gratification, although the downside is that lessons in patience are lost. Perhaps the easiest vegetable from a start is tomato. Cherry tomatoes, especially, are favorites with kids. They may eat them all off the vine, so plant extras if you want some to make it to the table.
Amaryllis for Children Ages 3 and Up
Amaryllis is an incredible bulb. Very easy to plant and grow in the house, it is absolutely spectacular in bloom. Buy the bulbs in winter, and help your child to plant one in a six or eight inch pot. The bottom 2/3 of the bulb should be buried in the planting mix with the shoulder and top of the bulb exposed. Be sure the planting mix drains well. Water thoroughly once and wait for growth to begin. Don’t let it dry out - that means you may have to water more than once! Regular watering should only be done once growth begins. As with most houseplants, check the soil regularly and water thoroughly when it gets dryish. Soon, the flower stalk will grow to an almost impossible height and the mind-boggling amaryllis flower will amaze everyone.
A Miniature Desert Garden for Children Ages 6 and Up
All you need is a 12-inch or so diameter shallow (about 4 inches deep) bowl, a sandy soil mix and some rocks, pieces of wood and, of course, succulent plants. Make sure the bowl or pot has drainage holes or the roots will rot.
For young children, the best plants are succulents, but not cactus. The spines are sharp and some that look harmless like the Bunny Ears Cactus (Opuntia) have hairs that can be extremely irritating if they lodge in the skin. Some succulents are easier to care for than others, so ask your nurseryman what he would suggest. Of course, taking your children along to pick out the plants adds to the fun.
Favorite plants to include in your miniature desert garden: Sedum (stick with the small ones), Sempervivum (Hens and Chickens), Haworthia species such as the Zebra Haworthia, and Dwarf Aloes.
Over time your plants will grow and deserts have relatively sparse vegetation so do not plant too close together. Remember, you are making a miniature landscape. Allow enough space to put in some rocks and weathered wood. My kids spent an afternoon collecting items. They trained their eyes to seek miniature boulders, partially buried in the sand they seemed to have been there for centuries. Small weathered twigs, when seen in the right scale, became gnarled logs. The finishing touches were different textured sand and a few bits of gravel then the tiny desert was ready for display.
Water everything well, be careful to avoid a stream of water that will upset the new planting. The easiest way to break the force of the water is by having it spill onto a saucer.
Do not be concerned with the absolute aesthetic level of your child’s project. The beauty is in their eyes and will be expressed with that look of wonder and joy when looking at their own creation. We may not agree, but our job is just to support and reassure. My kids always insist on putting a plastic lion or rhinoceros in their desert garden. I grit my teeth and leave the toy there.
There is no limit to the projects you can do with a child in the garden. With a bit of thought you can come up with countless ways to make them a part of your gardening experience.
These are just a few ideas to get your child involved in gardening. The lessons in patience, observation, and responsibility will imbue them with character traits that will continue to blossom throughout their lives. Just about any metaphor you might attach to gardening applies to your children. Preparing fertile ground, giving the essential raw materials, encouraging growth in the right direction, all apply to garden and child alike.
Keep focused as to what is really important and make that your priority. As I am fond of saying, the most important thing I raise in the garden is the children.
No parent can make a child great. However a parent can help a child want to be great. Much depends on the early childhood years. With the proper encouragement and praise, your child will follow the path you forge.
Nothing succeeds like success. When your child’s first garden bursts into bloom, that pride and joy of accomplishment will be a cherished memory.
So start out by making it easy to succeed! The task involved should fit your time frame. Avoid the disappointment of an unfinished project. However, sometimes things just don’t work out and showing your child how to pick up and start over is also a life lesson.
Here are just a few examples of almost foolproof projects that will give great rewards. Quick and simple-to-do, they will be favorites for your whole family.
Planting Seeds for Children Ages 3 and Up
For small children, prepare the seedbed ahead of time. Older kids can be put to work digging their own bed. For it to be your child’s garden, it is enough for them just to plant the seeds. Show them where to place the seeds and how many. Large seeds are best for little fingers. Flowers that are easy to grow as well as plant are Nasturtium. An ideal vegetable for the cool season is radish. Their large seeds sprout quickly and they may be ready to harvest as soon as 3 weeks. Though radish may be perceived as a bit sharp to be a childhood favorite, my experience is that the kids don’t care so much about eating the crop. The joy of harvest overshadows all. Be sure to take photos of the kids with their hands full of the bounty. These trophy shots will inspire them for years to come.
Other flowers such as tough old favorites like marigolds, can also be planted from starts bought in a nursery. The advantage of this is instant gratification, although the downside is that lessons in patience are lost. Perhaps the easiest vegetable from a start is tomato. Cherry tomatoes, especially, are favorites with kids. They may eat them all off the vine, so plant extras if you want some to make it to the table.
Amaryllis for Children Ages 3 and Up
Amaryllis is an incredible bulb. Very easy to plant and grow in the house, it is absolutely spectacular in bloom. Buy the bulbs in winter, and help your child to plant one in a six or eight inch pot. The bottom 2/3 of the bulb should be buried in the planting mix with the shoulder and top of the bulb exposed. Be sure the planting mix drains well. Water thoroughly once and wait for growth to begin. Don’t let it dry out - that means you may have to water more than once! Regular watering should only be done once growth begins. As with most houseplants, check the soil regularly and water thoroughly when it gets dryish. Soon, the flower stalk will grow to an almost impossible height and the mind-boggling amaryllis flower will amaze everyone.
A Miniature Desert Garden for Children Ages 6 and Up
All you need is a 12-inch or so diameter shallow (about 4 inches deep) bowl, a sandy soil mix and some rocks, pieces of wood and, of course, succulent plants. Make sure the bowl or pot has drainage holes or the roots will rot.
For young children, the best plants are succulents, but not cactus. The spines are sharp and some that look harmless like the Bunny Ears Cactus (Opuntia) have hairs that can be extremely irritating if they lodge in the skin. Some succulents are easier to care for than others, so ask your nurseryman what he would suggest. Of course, taking your children along to pick out the plants adds to the fun.
Favorite plants to include in your miniature desert garden: Sedum (stick with the small ones), Sempervivum (Hens and Chickens), Haworthia species such as the Zebra Haworthia, and Dwarf Aloes.
Over time your plants will grow and deserts have relatively sparse vegetation so do not plant too close together. Remember, you are making a miniature landscape. Allow enough space to put in some rocks and weathered wood. My kids spent an afternoon collecting items. They trained their eyes to seek miniature boulders, partially buried in the sand they seemed to have been there for centuries. Small weathered twigs, when seen in the right scale, became gnarled logs. The finishing touches were different textured sand and a few bits of gravel then the tiny desert was ready for display.
Water everything well, be careful to avoid a stream of water that will upset the new planting. The easiest way to break the force of the water is by having it spill onto a saucer.
Do not be concerned with the absolute aesthetic level of your child’s project. The beauty is in their eyes and will be expressed with that look of wonder and joy when looking at their own creation. We may not agree, but our job is just to support and reassure. My kids always insist on putting a plastic lion or rhinoceros in their desert garden. I grit my teeth and leave the toy there.
There is no limit to the projects you can do with a child in the garden. With a bit of thought you can come up with countless ways to make them a part of your gardening experience.
These are just a few ideas to get your child involved in gardening. The lessons in patience, observation, and responsibility will imbue them with character traits that will continue to blossom throughout their lives. Just about any metaphor you might attach to gardening applies to your children. Preparing fertile ground, giving the essential raw materials, encouraging growth in the right direction, all apply to garden and child alike.
Keep focused as to what is really important and make that your priority. As I am fond of saying, the most important thing I raise in the garden is the children.
Planting Roses - Tips And Ideas To Ensure Beautiful Results
Finding the best types of roses can be a confusing task when you consider the multitude of varieties that are available. Here are a few suggestions that will help you produce beautiful roses that are sure to be the envy of the neighborhood:
Ask your local garden center or nursery about the best types of roses to plant in your particular area. Different climates require different kinds of roses if you want to achieve outstanding results. If you are a beginner, be sure to choose disease-resistant rose bushes, as they will require less maintenance and care.
You must choose a spot to plant your rose bushes that is well lit in the mornings and that will receive at least 6 hours of uninterrupted sunlight each day. You must have well-drained soil with a PH level 5.5 to 7.0. You will be able to find a testing kit at your local garden center. The test kits are quite inexpensive and could save you a lot of difficulties after planting your rose bushes.
When planting your roses, include plenty of organic matter in the soil surrounding the plants. Make sure the roots of the rose bush are very damp and well fertilized before you actually plant it. If you are planting roses that have very little soil surrounding the roots, soak the roots in water or puddle clay for several minutes and cut off any roots that are damaged or broken before planting.
The first few weeks after planting rose bushes, you should water thoroughly and often. When the top two inches of soil surrounding the plant becomes dry, water the ground until it is completely soaked. After your roses have become established, soak your bed approximately every two weeks for best results. If you live in an area that is extremely dry or hot you may consider watering more often. Be careful not to over-water your roses and it is best to water in the early mornings.
For the best results, plant rose bushes in the early spring after any danger of a freeze has passed. Also, the rose should be planted in an area that is open and gets plenty of air circulation. Roses do not grow well in a tight or enclosed space.
Ask your local garden center or nursery about the best types of roses to plant in your particular area. Different climates require different kinds of roses if you want to achieve outstanding results. If you are a beginner, be sure to choose disease-resistant rose bushes, as they will require less maintenance and care.
You must choose a spot to plant your rose bushes that is well lit in the mornings and that will receive at least 6 hours of uninterrupted sunlight each day. You must have well-drained soil with a PH level 5.5 to 7.0. You will be able to find a testing kit at your local garden center. The test kits are quite inexpensive and could save you a lot of difficulties after planting your rose bushes.
When planting your roses, include plenty of organic matter in the soil surrounding the plants. Make sure the roots of the rose bush are very damp and well fertilized before you actually plant it. If you are planting roses that have very little soil surrounding the roots, soak the roots in water or puddle clay for several minutes and cut off any roots that are damaged or broken before planting.
The first few weeks after planting rose bushes, you should water thoroughly and often. When the top two inches of soil surrounding the plant becomes dry, water the ground until it is completely soaked. After your roses have become established, soak your bed approximately every two weeks for best results. If you live in an area that is extremely dry or hot you may consider watering more often. Be careful not to over-water your roses and it is best to water in the early mornings.
For the best results, plant rose bushes in the early spring after any danger of a freeze has passed. Also, the rose should be planted in an area that is open and gets plenty of air circulation. Roses do not grow well in a tight or enclosed space.
Planting Bulbs The Right Way
This article explains a few things about planting bulbs, and if you're interested, then this is worth reading, because you can never tell what you don't know.
How can you put a limit on learning more? The next section may contain that one little bit of wisdom that changes everything.
There are many varieties of flowering plants, but few offer all the advantages of bulb plants. For starters, bulbs are generally inexpensive to buy, and they can be purchased through the mail or over the internet, since they are durable and easy to ship.
Bulbs are also beautiful, and some of the most beloved flowers in the garden, such as hyacinths, daffodils and of course tulips, are bulb plants. In addition, many bulbs can remain in the ground through the winter and bloom the next year.
Even though bulbs are among the hardiest of all plants, it is important to exercise caution when planting them, and to buy only the best and most healthy bulbs. By choosing the healthiest bulbs, it will be easy to create a beautiful and healthy garden year after year.
When shopping for bulbs, it is important to look for the firmest, plumpest bulbs you can find. A good, high quality bulb will seem surprisingly heavy for its size. It is important to avoid bulbs that are too soft, since softness is often a sign of bulb rot. In addition, bulbs that are very light in weight, or that appear shriveled or cracked, should be rejected. These bulbs may have lost too much of their moisture to bloom in the garden.
The best blooms are generally provided by the largest bulbs. For instance, the largest daffodil bulbs will generally provide the biggest daffodils, and the biggest tulip bulbs will produce the largest tulips. Since bulbs bloom again and again, however, a most cost effective approach for the patient gardener is to buy small bulbs and allow them to grow over time. Each bloom will be larger than the last, and letting your own small bulbs grow can be a real treat for the gardener.
After you have bought the best bulbs you can find, it is important to exercise care when planting them. In order to thrive and grow, bulbs should be provided with a good well drained flower bed. If you have a poor draining soil, you may want to plant them on a slope or used a raised bed for better drainage.
Many people like to prepare an entire bed only for bulbs, while others prefer to intersperse their bulbs with other kinds of plants. Either approach can be great, but it is important to do the planting properly. To plant an entire bed of bulbs, you should first remove weeds and other vegetation from the bed. You should then spread between one and three inches of organic matter over the soil, then put down a small amount of a high quality fertilizer. When using fertilizer, it is important to follow the instructions on the package. After you have tilled and raked the soil, it is time to plant the bulbs.
Most bulbs should be planted three times as deep as the bulb is wide, so the average two inch wide bulb should be planted to a depth of about six inches. In sandy soils or hot climates, the bulbs should be planted a little bit deeper, while in heavy soil they should be planted a bit shallower. While it is fine to space bulbs close together, the more closely spaced the bulbs the more need there will be to divide them in a few years.
Using a bulb planter is a great idea when planting bulbs. If you do not have a bulb planter handy, you can use a garden trowel to dig the holes. Each hole should be dug a few inches deeper than needed, and a tablespoon of fertilizer should be placed in the base of each hole. The fertilizer should then be covered with a thin layer of soil, on top of which the bulb should be placed. The rest of the hole should then be filled with soil.
After planting the bulbs, you should be sure to water the bed thoroughly in order to get them off to a good start. Proper moisture at the start will allow them to establish a healthy root system.
Is there really any information about planting bulbs that is nonessential? We all see things from different angles, so something relatively insignificant to one may be crucial to another.
How can you put a limit on learning more? The next section may contain that one little bit of wisdom that changes everything.
There are many varieties of flowering plants, but few offer all the advantages of bulb plants. For starters, bulbs are generally inexpensive to buy, and they can be purchased through the mail or over the internet, since they are durable and easy to ship.
Bulbs are also beautiful, and some of the most beloved flowers in the garden, such as hyacinths, daffodils and of course tulips, are bulb plants. In addition, many bulbs can remain in the ground through the winter and bloom the next year.
Even though bulbs are among the hardiest of all plants, it is important to exercise caution when planting them, and to buy only the best and most healthy bulbs. By choosing the healthiest bulbs, it will be easy to create a beautiful and healthy garden year after year.
When shopping for bulbs, it is important to look for the firmest, plumpest bulbs you can find. A good, high quality bulb will seem surprisingly heavy for its size. It is important to avoid bulbs that are too soft, since softness is often a sign of bulb rot. In addition, bulbs that are very light in weight, or that appear shriveled or cracked, should be rejected. These bulbs may have lost too much of their moisture to bloom in the garden.
The best blooms are generally provided by the largest bulbs. For instance, the largest daffodil bulbs will generally provide the biggest daffodils, and the biggest tulip bulbs will produce the largest tulips. Since bulbs bloom again and again, however, a most cost effective approach for the patient gardener is to buy small bulbs and allow them to grow over time. Each bloom will be larger than the last, and letting your own small bulbs grow can be a real treat for the gardener.
After you have bought the best bulbs you can find, it is important to exercise care when planting them. In order to thrive and grow, bulbs should be provided with a good well drained flower bed. If you have a poor draining soil, you may want to plant them on a slope or used a raised bed for better drainage.
Many people like to prepare an entire bed only for bulbs, while others prefer to intersperse their bulbs with other kinds of plants. Either approach can be great, but it is important to do the planting properly. To plant an entire bed of bulbs, you should first remove weeds and other vegetation from the bed. You should then spread between one and three inches of organic matter over the soil, then put down a small amount of a high quality fertilizer. When using fertilizer, it is important to follow the instructions on the package. After you have tilled and raked the soil, it is time to plant the bulbs.
Most bulbs should be planted three times as deep as the bulb is wide, so the average two inch wide bulb should be planted to a depth of about six inches. In sandy soils or hot climates, the bulbs should be planted a little bit deeper, while in heavy soil they should be planted a bit shallower. While it is fine to space bulbs close together, the more closely spaced the bulbs the more need there will be to divide them in a few years.
Using a bulb planter is a great idea when planting bulbs. If you do not have a bulb planter handy, you can use a garden trowel to dig the holes. Each hole should be dug a few inches deeper than needed, and a tablespoon of fertilizer should be placed in the base of each hole. The fertilizer should then be covered with a thin layer of soil, on top of which the bulb should be placed. The rest of the hole should then be filled with soil.
After planting the bulbs, you should be sure to water the bed thoroughly in order to get them off to a good start. Proper moisture at the start will allow them to establish a healthy root system.
Is there really any information about planting bulbs that is nonessential? We all see things from different angles, so something relatively insignificant to one may be crucial to another.
Palm Trees – Uses And Locations
Palm trees, scientifically known as Arecaceae or Palmae, are trees belonging to a family of monocot flowering plants. There are approximately 2,600 different species of palm trees, the majority of which are native to tropical or subtropical climates. Some well-known trees that belong to this group include coconut trees, rattan trees, and date palm trees.
Uses of palm trees
Palm trees have many uses. Palm tree sap is sometimes fermented in order to produce palm wine, or palm toddy. To make palm wine from the sap of palm trees, the sap is first collected by cutting between the tree kernels. A container is placed below the cut to collect the sap, a process that takes one or two days. The sap begins fermenting immediately and creates a wine within two hours. If the palm sap is allowed to sit too long, however, it turns into vinegar.
Heart of palm is also derived from several species of palm trees. Heart of palm is also referred to as swamp cabbage, palm heart, or palmito. Heart of palm is a vegetable harvested from palm trees. Because the vegetable is taken from the inner core of the palm trees, however, it kills the tree when it is harvested. Therefore, it is quite costly and salads in which it is added are often referred to as “millionaire salad.”
In addition, oil palms belonging to the genus Elaeis are used to produce palm oil. This form of vegetable oil is obtained from the palm tree’s fruit. The edible form of palm oil is extracted from the pulp of the fruit. This is what is generally referred to as “palm oil” or “edible oil.” This oil is generally reddish in color and contains high levels of carotenoids. It is most often used in margarine or in cooking oil.
“Palm kernel oil” is derived from the kernel of palm trees. This oil is not edible, but is used mostly to make soap. Palm kernel oil contains olefins and lauric acid. Both forms of palm oil also contain a large amount of tocotrienol, which is part of the Vitamin E family.
Palm trees in the United States
Very few palm trees are capable of tolerating severe cold. The hardiest palm trees include the Trachycarpus, which is native to eastern Asia, and the Rhapidophyllum, which is from southwestern United States.
Other palm trees are native to warmer climates in the United States, such as California, Florida, and southern California where a tropical climate is prevalent. Other states with Mediterranean climates, such as the Gulf coast states of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas and southern Georgia also are home to native palm trees. Some desert states, such as Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah are also home to some species of palm trees.
In addition, the Atlantic coast of South Carolina contains numerous palm trees, earning the state the nickname of “Palmetto State.”
Palm trees have also been known to grow as far north as Arkansas and Maryland in the United States, as well as along the Pacific Coast to Washington and Oregon. Some species of palm trees have also been successfully transplanted to states as far north as New Jersey.
Uses of palm trees
Palm trees have many uses. Palm tree sap is sometimes fermented in order to produce palm wine, or palm toddy. To make palm wine from the sap of palm trees, the sap is first collected by cutting between the tree kernels. A container is placed below the cut to collect the sap, a process that takes one or two days. The sap begins fermenting immediately and creates a wine within two hours. If the palm sap is allowed to sit too long, however, it turns into vinegar.
Heart of palm is also derived from several species of palm trees. Heart of palm is also referred to as swamp cabbage, palm heart, or palmito. Heart of palm is a vegetable harvested from palm trees. Because the vegetable is taken from the inner core of the palm trees, however, it kills the tree when it is harvested. Therefore, it is quite costly and salads in which it is added are often referred to as “millionaire salad.”
In addition, oil palms belonging to the genus Elaeis are used to produce palm oil. This form of vegetable oil is obtained from the palm tree’s fruit. The edible form of palm oil is extracted from the pulp of the fruit. This is what is generally referred to as “palm oil” or “edible oil.” This oil is generally reddish in color and contains high levels of carotenoids. It is most often used in margarine or in cooking oil.
“Palm kernel oil” is derived from the kernel of palm trees. This oil is not edible, but is used mostly to make soap. Palm kernel oil contains olefins and lauric acid. Both forms of palm oil also contain a large amount of tocotrienol, which is part of the Vitamin E family.
Palm trees in the United States
Very few palm trees are capable of tolerating severe cold. The hardiest palm trees include the Trachycarpus, which is native to eastern Asia, and the Rhapidophyllum, which is from southwestern United States.
Other palm trees are native to warmer climates in the United States, such as California, Florida, and southern California where a tropical climate is prevalent. Other states with Mediterranean climates, such as the Gulf coast states of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas and southern Georgia also are home to native palm trees. Some desert states, such as Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah are also home to some species of palm trees.
In addition, the Atlantic coast of South Carolina contains numerous palm trees, earning the state the nickname of “Palmetto State.”
Palm trees have also been known to grow as far north as Arkansas and Maryland in the United States, as well as along the Pacific Coast to Washington and Oregon. Some species of palm trees have also been successfully transplanted to states as far north as New Jersey.
Keep Your Yard Ornamental With Sago Palm Care
Proper Sago Palm care is essential for a beautiful looking plant. The Sago Palm tree, scientifically known as the Cycas revoluta, is one of the most primitive living seed plants. They are unusual ornamental plants that are very hardy. In the United States, they are typically found in warm moist climates like the Houston area. They are related to conifer trees. They are characterized by a rough trunk with light feathery leaves.
Sago Palms are one of the simplest plants to grow, whether indoors or out, no matter your level of gardening expertise. They live for an extremely long period of time, and are tolerant of many different temperatures, levels of sunlight, and types of care. There are several things to remember with Sago Palm care. Do not bother the plant as it new leaves emerge. Moreover, do not allow the plant to dry out during this time. While Sago Palms are quite tolerant, temperatures too high or too low can damage the plant. The growth rate for a Sago Palm is very slow. Most only increase in size one inch per year.
+ While not difficult, sago palm care is essential for the maintenance and reproduction of your Cycas revoluta.
A part of Sago Palm care includes reproduction. Sago Palms are dioecious, which means there are both male and female plants. If you wish to propagate these plants, it is best to do it through hand pollination techniques. May is pollination season. The female seed is ready to be removed in January or February. Once removed, you should place the seed in water for a number of days. Take off the red covering, but do not remove the hard white coat. You can then plant the seed or hold it until spring. The seed must be planted sideways. Do not expose more than the top edge in moist soil. If the soil gets soggy, you might have problems growing your Sago Palm. The seed will usually begin to sprout in three months, but it will require several years to reach more than one inch in height. An excellent way to propagate Sago Palms without hand pollination is to remove an offset of a healthy Sago Palm by popping it off gently with a small shovel. It should be allowed to dry for at least a week. It should then be planted and well watered.
+ A beautiful looking plant can only be achieved through proper Sago Palm Care.
Sago Palms make lovely plants. It is important to remember, though, that proper Sago Palm care, while not difficult, is essential to the life of the plant.
Sago Palms are one of the simplest plants to grow, whether indoors or out, no matter your level of gardening expertise. They live for an extremely long period of time, and are tolerant of many different temperatures, levels of sunlight, and types of care. There are several things to remember with Sago Palm care. Do not bother the plant as it new leaves emerge. Moreover, do not allow the plant to dry out during this time. While Sago Palms are quite tolerant, temperatures too high or too low can damage the plant. The growth rate for a Sago Palm is very slow. Most only increase in size one inch per year.
+ While not difficult, sago palm care is essential for the maintenance and reproduction of your Cycas revoluta.
A part of Sago Palm care includes reproduction. Sago Palms are dioecious, which means there are both male and female plants. If you wish to propagate these plants, it is best to do it through hand pollination techniques. May is pollination season. The female seed is ready to be removed in January or February. Once removed, you should place the seed in water for a number of days. Take off the red covering, but do not remove the hard white coat. You can then plant the seed or hold it until spring. The seed must be planted sideways. Do not expose more than the top edge in moist soil. If the soil gets soggy, you might have problems growing your Sago Palm. The seed will usually begin to sprout in three months, but it will require several years to reach more than one inch in height. An excellent way to propagate Sago Palms without hand pollination is to remove an offset of a healthy Sago Palm by popping it off gently with a small shovel. It should be allowed to dry for at least a week. It should then be planted and well watered.
+ A beautiful looking plant can only be achieved through proper Sago Palm Care.
Sago Palms make lovely plants. It is important to remember, though, that proper Sago Palm care, while not difficult, is essential to the life of the plant.
Keep Everything Coming Up Roses
A great way to experience exquisite roses is to attend the annual Rose Parade® in Pasadena, Calif. The Bayer Advanced Jack and the Rose Stalk float, the very first float in the 2006 Rose Parade®, featured the four All-America Rose Selections: Julia Child, Rainbow Sorbet, Tahitian Sunset and Wild Blue Yonder.
Bayer Advanced™ garden expert Lance Walheim, who wrote the best-selling book "Roses for Dummies," says, "Roses are easier to grow now than ever before if you follow a few basic guidelines":
• Rose plants are graded according to standards set by the American Nursery & Landscape Association. A #1 rose is the highest quality and will give you the best show the first summer. You'll find the grades on the rose packaging.
• Avoid roses with dry-looking, shriveled canes.
• Soak roots overnight before planting. If you can't plant immediately, keep packing moist around the roots until planting time.
• Roses need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
• Fill hole with water, let it drain and then fill again. If the hole hasn't drained completely in 24 hours, the easiest solutions are to plant elsewhere or grow roses in pots or raised beds.
• Mix the soil dug out of the hole with equal amounts of compost or ground bark. Place some of the mixture in the bottom of the hole, creating a cone-shaped mound.
• Examine the rose carefully. Prune off damaged or dead roots. Spread the roots of the rose-the rose should be planted at about the same level it was grown in the field (you'll see a color change on the stem) and with the bud union (the swollen part of the stem) aboveground. In colder climates, plant several inches deeper so the bud union is covered with soil.
• Fill with soil and create a watering basin around the plant. Water well.
• Mulch the rose with compost or ground bark. Pile the mulch up high enough to cover the canes several inches above the bud union.
• Fertilize and protect from insects and diseases. Bayer Advanced™ All-in-One Rose and Flower Care not only fertilizes, it protects against pests like aphids and Japanese beetles and diseases such as powdery mildew and black spot, all in one easy step. One application protects for up to six weeks-systemically working its way up through the plant from the roots.
Bayer Advanced™ garden expert Lance Walheim, who wrote the best-selling book "Roses for Dummies," says, "Roses are easier to grow now than ever before if you follow a few basic guidelines":
• Rose plants are graded according to standards set by the American Nursery & Landscape Association. A #1 rose is the highest quality and will give you the best show the first summer. You'll find the grades on the rose packaging.
• Avoid roses with dry-looking, shriveled canes.
• Soak roots overnight before planting. If you can't plant immediately, keep packing moist around the roots until planting time.
• Roses need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
• Fill hole with water, let it drain and then fill again. If the hole hasn't drained completely in 24 hours, the easiest solutions are to plant elsewhere or grow roses in pots or raised beds.
• Mix the soil dug out of the hole with equal amounts of compost or ground bark. Place some of the mixture in the bottom of the hole, creating a cone-shaped mound.
• Examine the rose carefully. Prune off damaged or dead roots. Spread the roots of the rose-the rose should be planted at about the same level it was grown in the field (you'll see a color change on the stem) and with the bud union (the swollen part of the stem) aboveground. In colder climates, plant several inches deeper so the bud union is covered with soil.
• Fill with soil and create a watering basin around the plant. Water well.
• Mulch the rose with compost or ground bark. Pile the mulch up high enough to cover the canes several inches above the bud union.
• Fertilize and protect from insects and diseases. Bayer Advanced™ All-in-One Rose and Flower Care not only fertilizes, it protects against pests like aphids and Japanese beetles and diseases such as powdery mildew and black spot, all in one easy step. One application protects for up to six weeks-systemically working its way up through the plant from the roots.
History Of Olive Trees
Olive trees, ‘Olea europaea,’ are the oldest fruit trees and certainly are one of the most important fruit trees in history. Olive tree culture has been closely connected to the rise and fall of Mediterranean empires and other advanced civilizations throughout the ages. Because olive trees offered wealth and future food supplies to established civilizations, the agricultural nations became stable societies, resulting from a secure expectation from past experience of an uninterrupted food and olive oil supply. This factor was a necessary requirement for population growth and increase. Dependable fruit production and olive oil production means that olive trees must exist in a stable society and a peaceful environment. That stability must extend for many years, since most ancient seedling olive trees required eight or more years before ever producing the first crop of fruit. Productive orchards of olive trees meant that a foundation of the great empires of Greece and Rome had arisen and developed into complex economic and political forces. It is interesting to note that the historical decline of these empires corresponded to the destruction of their olive tree orchards that reduced the available supplies of olives, olive oil, olive wood, and olive soap. In connection with the destruction of olive orchards, it is interesting to note that in the Israeli wars with Palestine, 50,000 olive trees were destroyed by Israeli bulldozers. That act of agricultural destruction resulted in considerable anger and unrest along the Gaza strip and the West Bank, because the economic livelihood of many Palestinian farmers depended on their products from the uprooted olive trees. Additionally, the olive tree was historically a ‘peace and goodwill’ symbol, and when the olive trees were leveled near the city of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus and the “Cradle of Biblical History,” that elimination of olive trees seemed like a deliberate provocation to end the ‘peace’ with the Palestinian settlers and farmers.
The Greeks recognized that in their vast empire they must avoid hostilities and war during the period that the Olympic Games were being conducted, and they declared a worldwide armistice so that their complete attention could be directed toward their athletic events and games.
Medical properties of olive oil were reported by many ancient Greek writers and philosophers, their importance in creating nutritional benefits and wealth for Greek citizens continues abundantly today--some Greek olive tree orchards containing a million or more trees. Aristotle wrote extensively about the accepted methods of successfully growing olive trees.
Greek mythology records that Athena, the Goddess of wisdom and peace, struck her magic spear into the Earth, and it turned into an olive tree, thus, the location where the olive tree appeared and grew was named Athens, Greece, in honor of the Goddess, Athena. Local legend tells us that the original olive tree still stands growing after many centuries at the ancient sacred site. Citizens still claim that all Greek olive trees originated from rooted cuttings that were grown from that original olive tree. Homer claimed in his writings that the ancient olive tree growing in Athens was already 10,000 years old. Homer stated that Greek courts sentenced people to death if they destroyed an olive tree. In 775 BC Olympia, Greece, at the site of the ancient Olympic stadium, athletes competed and trained, and winners were triumphantly acclaimed and crowned with a wreath made of olive twigs. Ancient gold coins that were minted in Athens depicted the face of the Goddess, Athena, wearing an olive leaf wreath on her helmet holding a clay vessel of olive oil. The Greeks began olive cultivation in 700 BC. The sacred lamp that was used in ancient Greek culture for lighting dark rooms at night was fueled by olive oil. Aged olive oil was also used in sacred anointing rituals of the church at weddings and at baptisms. Herodotus wrote in 500 BC, that the growing and exporting of olives and olive oil were so sacred that only virgins and eunuchs were allowed to cultivate orchards of olive trees. The first documented plantings of olive trees may have occurred during the Minoan civilization on the island of Crete and are believed to have been growing around 3500 BC. That civilization predates the discovered Mycenae olive fossils from 1600 BC and later in the Greek empire. Sturt Manning, an archeologist from Cornell University, reported in Live Science Magazine (Apr 28, 2005) that the most devastating volcano in 10,000 years occurred on the Greek Island of Thera, after which the city of Akrotiri was totally buried by the falling ash. The finding of olive wood and olive seed fossils buried near the site has shown through carbon dating that the volcanic eruption occurred between 1660 and 1600 BC and may have contributed to the total destruction of the advanced Minoan civilization (Atlantis) on the isle of Crete and may have led to the formation of the Sahara desert in North Africa after vaporizing the native forests there.
In the Old Testament of the Hebrew Bible (Gen 8:11), Noah was given an olive branch by a dove after the great flood as a symbol of peace and love of God, which it remains today. In the book of Exodus, Moses explains that God expected olive oil to be used in various rituals that were performed by priests of Israel. Olive oil was used as an anointing oil to be poured over the heads of Kings and priests that acknowledged their authority as an agent of God. Many other references to olives are given in the Bible. Psalms 52:8 “But I am like the green olive tree in the house of God, I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever.” Finally, Jesus was to spend his last day praying at the mount of olives garden of Gethsemane, in Jerusalem before his crucifixion. Jesus was arrested there, tried, convicted, crucified and later ascended to heaven, after his resurrection from the tomb.
Impressionist artists were stunned by the antique age and beauty of olive trees and their productiveness that resulted in masterpiece paintings by Van Gogh, Cezanne, Renoir, and Matisse. The world’s great Biblical reporters, literary writers, and poets immortalized the olive tree, such people as Jesus, Milton, Shakespeare, and Lord Byron.
Thomas Jefferson wrote “The olive tree is the richest gift of heaven.” The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has reported “Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, who traveled abroad, brought plant material such as olive trees and rice back to the U.S. to develop United States agricultural production.” Thomas Jefferson was the U.S. ambassador to France during the Revolutionary War, and he began to import olive trees and seeds into the southern U.S. The excessive humidity of South Carolina and Georgia did not allow profitable olive tree orchards to develop properly in those areas. Jefferson wrote “The greatest service which can be rendered to any country is to add a useful plant to its culture.” He ranked his introduction of the olive tree and dry rice into South Carolina as two of his top lifetime achievements. Thomas Jefferson wrote to James Ronaldson on January 13, 1813, “it is now twenty-five years since I sent them (southern planters) two shipments of about 500 plants of the olive tree of Aix, the finest olive trees in the world.”
The fragrant flowers of olive trees are small and creamy white, hidden within the thick leaves. Some cultivars will self pollinate, but others will not. The blossoms usually begin appearing in April and can continue for many months. A wild, seedling olive tree normally begins to flower and produce fruit at the age of 8 years. The fruit of the olive tree is a purplish-black when completely ripe, but a few cultivars are green when ripe and some olives turn a color of copper-brown. The size of the olive fruit is variable, even on the same tree, and the shape ranges from round to oval with pointed ends. Some olives can be eaten fresh after sun-drying and the taste is sweet, but most olive cultivars are bitter and must be treated by various chemical solutions before developing into edible olives. If the olives are thinned on the limbs of the trees to 2 or 3 per twig, the ultimate size of the olives will be much larger. The fruit is gathered in mid October and should be processed as soon as possible to prevent fermentation and a decline in quality.
The leaves of olive trees are gray-green and are replaced at 2-3 year intervals during the spring after new growth appears. Pruning yearly and severely is very important to insure continued production. The trees have the unproductive limbs removed, “so that it will be more fruitful” John 15:2. An olive tree can grow to 50 feet with a limb spread of 30 feet, but most growers will keep the tree pruned to 20 feet to assure maximum production. New sprouts and trees will emerge from the olive tree stump roots, even if the trees are cut down. Some olive trees are believed to be over a thousand years old, and most will live to the ripe old age of 500 years.
Olives generally are beaten off trees with poles, harvested mechanically or by shaking the fruit from the trees onto canvas. Most ripening olives are removed from the trees after the majority of the fruit begins to change in color. It is important to squeeze out the olive oil within a day after harvesting or else fermentation or decline in flavor and quality will occur. The olive oil can be consumed or used in cooking immediately after its collection from the press. Olive oils are unique and distinct, each brand of olive oil having its own character, as determined by many factors, like those unique flavor differences found in fine wines. Prepared commercial olive oils can vary greatly in aroma, fruit flavor; whether the taste is, flowery, nutty, delicate, or mild, and the coloring of olive oil is quite variable.
Olive oil produces many health benefits when used in cooking or when poured over salads. The use of olive oil can improve digestion and can benefit heart metabolism through its low content of cholesterol. Experts claim that olive oil consumption will cause a person to grow shiny hair, prevent dandruff, prevent wrinkles, prevent dry skin and acne, strengthen nails, stop muscle aching, lower blood pressure and cancel out the effects of alcohol.
Olive trees can survive droughts and strong winds, and they grow well on well drained soils up to a pH of 8.5 and the trees can tolerate salt water conditions. In Europe, olive trees are normally fertilized every other year with an organic fertilizer. Alternate bearing can be avoided by heavy pruning and generally the trees respond to this very quickly and favorably.
Olive trees should be purchased that have been vegetatively propagated or grafted, because the seed grown trees will revert to a wild type that yields small olives with an insipid taste. Olive trees are more resistant to diseases and insects than any other fruit tree and, therefore, are sprayed less than any other crop.
The Romans conquered Greece in 146 BC, and the victors took olive secrets to Rome, but since then Greece has remained the greatest exporter of olive oil during the centuries. The olive tree seems to be perfectly adapted for growing in the mild climate of the Mediterranean countries. The trees grow well in dry areas with mild winters and long hot summers, even enduring drought conditions or high winds. The European area of the Mediterranean produces 98% of the world olive oil supply. Olive seed are believed to have been brought to California in 1769 to grow into trees hardy to 12 degrees Fahrenheit. Those olive trees were cultivated in the Franciscan Spanish monasteries.
Even though commercial production of olives in the United States is only 2% of the world market, great interest in growing olives throughout the South has been stimulated by the recent introduction of promising cold hardy olive trees from European hybridizers. Many European immigrants to the United States grow their own olive trees in large pots, that can be moved in and out of the house during seasonal changes.
The Greeks recognized that in their vast empire they must avoid hostilities and war during the period that the Olympic Games were being conducted, and they declared a worldwide armistice so that their complete attention could be directed toward their athletic events and games.
Medical properties of olive oil were reported by many ancient Greek writers and philosophers, their importance in creating nutritional benefits and wealth for Greek citizens continues abundantly today--some Greek olive tree orchards containing a million or more trees. Aristotle wrote extensively about the accepted methods of successfully growing olive trees.
Greek mythology records that Athena, the Goddess of wisdom and peace, struck her magic spear into the Earth, and it turned into an olive tree, thus, the location where the olive tree appeared and grew was named Athens, Greece, in honor of the Goddess, Athena. Local legend tells us that the original olive tree still stands growing after many centuries at the ancient sacred site. Citizens still claim that all Greek olive trees originated from rooted cuttings that were grown from that original olive tree. Homer claimed in his writings that the ancient olive tree growing in Athens was already 10,000 years old. Homer stated that Greek courts sentenced people to death if they destroyed an olive tree. In 775 BC Olympia, Greece, at the site of the ancient Olympic stadium, athletes competed and trained, and winners were triumphantly acclaimed and crowned with a wreath made of olive twigs. Ancient gold coins that were minted in Athens depicted the face of the Goddess, Athena, wearing an olive leaf wreath on her helmet holding a clay vessel of olive oil. The Greeks began olive cultivation in 700 BC. The sacred lamp that was used in ancient Greek culture for lighting dark rooms at night was fueled by olive oil. Aged olive oil was also used in sacred anointing rituals of the church at weddings and at baptisms. Herodotus wrote in 500 BC, that the growing and exporting of olives and olive oil were so sacred that only virgins and eunuchs were allowed to cultivate orchards of olive trees. The first documented plantings of olive trees may have occurred during the Minoan civilization on the island of Crete and are believed to have been growing around 3500 BC. That civilization predates the discovered Mycenae olive fossils from 1600 BC and later in the Greek empire. Sturt Manning, an archeologist from Cornell University, reported in Live Science Magazine (Apr 28, 2005) that the most devastating volcano in 10,000 years occurred on the Greek Island of Thera, after which the city of Akrotiri was totally buried by the falling ash. The finding of olive wood and olive seed fossils buried near the site has shown through carbon dating that the volcanic eruption occurred between 1660 and 1600 BC and may have contributed to the total destruction of the advanced Minoan civilization (Atlantis) on the isle of Crete and may have led to the formation of the Sahara desert in North Africa after vaporizing the native forests there.
In the Old Testament of the Hebrew Bible (Gen 8:11), Noah was given an olive branch by a dove after the great flood as a symbol of peace and love of God, which it remains today. In the book of Exodus, Moses explains that God expected olive oil to be used in various rituals that were performed by priests of Israel. Olive oil was used as an anointing oil to be poured over the heads of Kings and priests that acknowledged their authority as an agent of God. Many other references to olives are given in the Bible. Psalms 52:8 “But I am like the green olive tree in the house of God, I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever.” Finally, Jesus was to spend his last day praying at the mount of olives garden of Gethsemane, in Jerusalem before his crucifixion. Jesus was arrested there, tried, convicted, crucified and later ascended to heaven, after his resurrection from the tomb.
Impressionist artists were stunned by the antique age and beauty of olive trees and their productiveness that resulted in masterpiece paintings by Van Gogh, Cezanne, Renoir, and Matisse. The world’s great Biblical reporters, literary writers, and poets immortalized the olive tree, such people as Jesus, Milton, Shakespeare, and Lord Byron.
Thomas Jefferson wrote “The olive tree is the richest gift of heaven.” The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has reported “Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, who traveled abroad, brought plant material such as olive trees and rice back to the U.S. to develop United States agricultural production.” Thomas Jefferson was the U.S. ambassador to France during the Revolutionary War, and he began to import olive trees and seeds into the southern U.S. The excessive humidity of South Carolina and Georgia did not allow profitable olive tree orchards to develop properly in those areas. Jefferson wrote “The greatest service which can be rendered to any country is to add a useful plant to its culture.” He ranked his introduction of the olive tree and dry rice into South Carolina as two of his top lifetime achievements. Thomas Jefferson wrote to James Ronaldson on January 13, 1813, “it is now twenty-five years since I sent them (southern planters) two shipments of about 500 plants of the olive tree of Aix, the finest olive trees in the world.”
The fragrant flowers of olive trees are small and creamy white, hidden within the thick leaves. Some cultivars will self pollinate, but others will not. The blossoms usually begin appearing in April and can continue for many months. A wild, seedling olive tree normally begins to flower and produce fruit at the age of 8 years. The fruit of the olive tree is a purplish-black when completely ripe, but a few cultivars are green when ripe and some olives turn a color of copper-brown. The size of the olive fruit is variable, even on the same tree, and the shape ranges from round to oval with pointed ends. Some olives can be eaten fresh after sun-drying and the taste is sweet, but most olive cultivars are bitter and must be treated by various chemical solutions before developing into edible olives. If the olives are thinned on the limbs of the trees to 2 or 3 per twig, the ultimate size of the olives will be much larger. The fruit is gathered in mid October and should be processed as soon as possible to prevent fermentation and a decline in quality.
The leaves of olive trees are gray-green and are replaced at 2-3 year intervals during the spring after new growth appears. Pruning yearly and severely is very important to insure continued production. The trees have the unproductive limbs removed, “so that it will be more fruitful” John 15:2. An olive tree can grow to 50 feet with a limb spread of 30 feet, but most growers will keep the tree pruned to 20 feet to assure maximum production. New sprouts and trees will emerge from the olive tree stump roots, even if the trees are cut down. Some olive trees are believed to be over a thousand years old, and most will live to the ripe old age of 500 years.
Olives generally are beaten off trees with poles, harvested mechanically or by shaking the fruit from the trees onto canvas. Most ripening olives are removed from the trees after the majority of the fruit begins to change in color. It is important to squeeze out the olive oil within a day after harvesting or else fermentation or decline in flavor and quality will occur. The olive oil can be consumed or used in cooking immediately after its collection from the press. Olive oils are unique and distinct, each brand of olive oil having its own character, as determined by many factors, like those unique flavor differences found in fine wines. Prepared commercial olive oils can vary greatly in aroma, fruit flavor; whether the taste is, flowery, nutty, delicate, or mild, and the coloring of olive oil is quite variable.
Olive oil produces many health benefits when used in cooking or when poured over salads. The use of olive oil can improve digestion and can benefit heart metabolism through its low content of cholesterol. Experts claim that olive oil consumption will cause a person to grow shiny hair, prevent dandruff, prevent wrinkles, prevent dry skin and acne, strengthen nails, stop muscle aching, lower blood pressure and cancel out the effects of alcohol.
Olive trees can survive droughts and strong winds, and they grow well on well drained soils up to a pH of 8.5 and the trees can tolerate salt water conditions. In Europe, olive trees are normally fertilized every other year with an organic fertilizer. Alternate bearing can be avoided by heavy pruning and generally the trees respond to this very quickly and favorably.
Olive trees should be purchased that have been vegetatively propagated or grafted, because the seed grown trees will revert to a wild type that yields small olives with an insipid taste. Olive trees are more resistant to diseases and insects than any other fruit tree and, therefore, are sprayed less than any other crop.
The Romans conquered Greece in 146 BC, and the victors took olive secrets to Rome, but since then Greece has remained the greatest exporter of olive oil during the centuries. The olive tree seems to be perfectly adapted for growing in the mild climate of the Mediterranean countries. The trees grow well in dry areas with mild winters and long hot summers, even enduring drought conditions or high winds. The European area of the Mediterranean produces 98% of the world olive oil supply. Olive seed are believed to have been brought to California in 1769 to grow into trees hardy to 12 degrees Fahrenheit. Those olive trees were cultivated in the Franciscan Spanish monasteries.
Even though commercial production of olives in the United States is only 2% of the world market, great interest in growing olives throughout the South has been stimulated by the recent introduction of promising cold hardy olive trees from European hybridizers. Many European immigrants to the United States grow their own olive trees in large pots, that can be moved in and out of the house during seasonal changes.
History Of Quince
Quince is a fruit that was highly prized by ancient civilizations, and it probably originated near the antique city of Smyrna, Turkey. The fruit was widely disseminated in artistic drawings, as wall paintings and mosaics at the lost city of Pompeii, Italy, and even though the ancient Greeks had developed and grafted quince with an exceptional quality, it is only in recent years that agricultural scientists have hybridized a fruit with a softer texture and a juicier flesh.
Some modern Bible translations claim that Adam tasted in the Garden of Eden the fruit of an apple... but more likely that fruit was a quince, since apples came to the region at a much later date.
Research scientists have hybridized many new cultivars of quince that far surpass the characteristics of the wild, seedling quince trees.
From the ancient city of Smyrna, Turkey, this commercially grown hybrid is now produced for supermarkets in the Deep South where migrant Mexican works buy the fruit to satisfy their Latin palate appetites. Sometimes Smyrna trees bear fruit the very first year.
Hybrid quince cultivars are usually yellow in color when ripe; however, the new "orange" quince is orange in color. The fruit when ripe emits an agreeable fruit fragrance and can be eastern raw. The tree blooms during April in Georgia and ripens in July though September, depending on which cultivar was planted. The surface of the fruit is generally woolly like a peach except for the Smyrna, which is slick and waxy. Many jelly makers prefer to pick the fruit just before ripening, when the color begins to change from green to yellow. This seals the acid content into their jelly.
Quince hybrid cultivars grow 10 to 15 feet tall because they are grafted onto a dwarfing rootstock; however, the species, ‘Cydonia oblonga,’ has grown to 35 feet in California. Many early settlers of the United States planted the seed of the European quince, ‘Cydonia oblonga,’ in their gardens. Some of these seedlings produced quince fruit the size of pears, and others grew fruit to the remarkable size of a cantaloupe. These fruits were used mainly to add a wonderful fragrance inside their rooms from the long lasting quality of the fruit. The quince fruit was also used to make jellies, jams, pies, pastes, and pectin value to include with other canned items. The quince trees and fruit are remarkably free of diseases and insect pests. The trees are very adaptable to a wide range of soil types and temperatures, and readily withstand cold damage in Zones 5-9, subjected to low temperatures of negative 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Most of the quince that is grown from seed is nationally used as a dwarfing rootstock for other fruit trees by wholesale nurserymen.
The flowers of quince trees appear in late spring after the leaves form, and the blossoms are pinkish-white with a pleasant fragrance. After the fruit begins to turn yellow in the fall, a delicious aroma is emitted from the ripening sequence, one that is unequaled by any other fruit in terms of the long period that the fragrance lasts, and the delicate quality of the aroma. The flowers of the quince tree are self fertile and require no cross pollination by bees and ants. The seedling, ungrafted quince is very different from the flowering dwarf quince, even though they both produce large fruit. Quince fruit has been shown to contain healthy minerals such as potassium, potash, and phosphorus, and is high in Vitamins C and B2.
The medicinal qualities of quince have been appreciated to be true since ancient times. Shakespeare wrote that quince was the "stomach's comforter."
Quince has many uses, such as, pies, jellies, jams, marmalades, flavorings, ice creams, and cakes.
Grafted quince trees are reliable producers of high quality fruit with little need for care or attention, and they will survive low temperatures in every state except Alaska. Try one of these collector type grafted trees for your garden.
Some modern Bible translations claim that Adam tasted in the Garden of Eden the fruit of an apple... but more likely that fruit was a quince, since apples came to the region at a much later date.
Research scientists have hybridized many new cultivars of quince that far surpass the characteristics of the wild, seedling quince trees.
From the ancient city of Smyrna, Turkey, this commercially grown hybrid is now produced for supermarkets in the Deep South where migrant Mexican works buy the fruit to satisfy their Latin palate appetites. Sometimes Smyrna trees bear fruit the very first year.
Hybrid quince cultivars are usually yellow in color when ripe; however, the new "orange" quince is orange in color. The fruit when ripe emits an agreeable fruit fragrance and can be eastern raw. The tree blooms during April in Georgia and ripens in July though September, depending on which cultivar was planted. The surface of the fruit is generally woolly like a peach except for the Smyrna, which is slick and waxy. Many jelly makers prefer to pick the fruit just before ripening, when the color begins to change from green to yellow. This seals the acid content into their jelly.
Quince hybrid cultivars grow 10 to 15 feet tall because they are grafted onto a dwarfing rootstock; however, the species, ‘Cydonia oblonga,’ has grown to 35 feet in California. Many early settlers of the United States planted the seed of the European quince, ‘Cydonia oblonga,’ in their gardens. Some of these seedlings produced quince fruit the size of pears, and others grew fruit to the remarkable size of a cantaloupe. These fruits were used mainly to add a wonderful fragrance inside their rooms from the long lasting quality of the fruit. The quince fruit was also used to make jellies, jams, pies, pastes, and pectin value to include with other canned items. The quince trees and fruit are remarkably free of diseases and insect pests. The trees are very adaptable to a wide range of soil types and temperatures, and readily withstand cold damage in Zones 5-9, subjected to low temperatures of negative 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Most of the quince that is grown from seed is nationally used as a dwarfing rootstock for other fruit trees by wholesale nurserymen.
The flowers of quince trees appear in late spring after the leaves form, and the blossoms are pinkish-white with a pleasant fragrance. After the fruit begins to turn yellow in the fall, a delicious aroma is emitted from the ripening sequence, one that is unequaled by any other fruit in terms of the long period that the fragrance lasts, and the delicate quality of the aroma. The flowers of the quince tree are self fertile and require no cross pollination by bees and ants. The seedling, ungrafted quince is very different from the flowering dwarf quince, even though they both produce large fruit. Quince fruit has been shown to contain healthy minerals such as potassium, potash, and phosphorus, and is high in Vitamins C and B2.
The medicinal qualities of quince have been appreciated to be true since ancient times. Shakespeare wrote that quince was the "stomach's comforter."
Quince has many uses, such as, pies, jellies, jams, marmalades, flavorings, ice creams, and cakes.
Grafted quince trees are reliable producers of high quality fruit with little need for care or attention, and they will survive low temperatures in every state except Alaska. Try one of these collector type grafted trees for your garden.
Houses become Homes
Having bought a house, the next step is to get the interiors done and the place looking like a home. It is important to have professionals doing the job; else you are likely to be spending on getting them fixed. Do not think twice about the cost factor and go in for less able service engineers. You will end up spending on repairs, which will drain you out, leaving you frustrated and broke. For this purpose, make sure to get in touch with us to provide qualified and experienced professionals for any kind of service. You could be living in Brooklyn, NY or maybe across town in Staten Island, does not matter. We provide our services to people across the New York City.
When moving into New York, you are excited about the prospect of living in this fascinating place. And if it is your own home, happiness knows no boundary. If the home is lovely, but needs a bit of remodeling, or if you are thinking of redoing the bathroom or kitchen alone, we could send across people qualified in that. Or if there is plenty of open space, and you are an interested in putting in a home garden, why not convert the space into a lovely garden. Flowers and plants that light up the house will add a personality to your quiet Brooklyn home. We have people in our team who will test the soil, give you suggestions on what kind of plants will best suit the place and even get the garden up and ready.
The same holds true when you wish to retile the roofing, or add a bit of landscaping to the house. Simply fill out a form with basic details regarding what you wish to be done, and we shall match it with the people in our hold and update you. From there on, you can take your pick and get the job done. Not only do we help solve your worries, but also provide solutions to any issues related to a home. If you are looking to sell your place, we shall help you fix all the tiny leaks and tears, giving the place a facelift ready for the new owners.
Adding a dash of color to your living room, or altering the style of roofing to sliding style in your home in Staten Island, we can work on anything you desire. In the master bedroom, we could help put in full length French windows, which would open to the beautiful scenery, giving you a breath taking view as you open your eyes in the morning. Living in New York City or maybe in Brooklyn could have been your dream, but making it possible is what we do best.
For Brooklyn, NY homes, the basements could be small and dark, allow us to add some lighting and make the place functional. No matter what kind of service you are looking for, give us the specifications and watch our team transform the place into paradise.
When moving into New York, you are excited about the prospect of living in this fascinating place. And if it is your own home, happiness knows no boundary. If the home is lovely, but needs a bit of remodeling, or if you are thinking of redoing the bathroom or kitchen alone, we could send across people qualified in that. Or if there is plenty of open space, and you are an interested in putting in a home garden, why not convert the space into a lovely garden. Flowers and plants that light up the house will add a personality to your quiet Brooklyn home. We have people in our team who will test the soil, give you suggestions on what kind of plants will best suit the place and even get the garden up and ready.
The same holds true when you wish to retile the roofing, or add a bit of landscaping to the house. Simply fill out a form with basic details regarding what you wish to be done, and we shall match it with the people in our hold and update you. From there on, you can take your pick and get the job done. Not only do we help solve your worries, but also provide solutions to any issues related to a home. If you are looking to sell your place, we shall help you fix all the tiny leaks and tears, giving the place a facelift ready for the new owners.
Adding a dash of color to your living room, or altering the style of roofing to sliding style in your home in Staten Island, we can work on anything you desire. In the master bedroom, we could help put in full length French windows, which would open to the beautiful scenery, giving you a breath taking view as you open your eyes in the morning. Living in New York City or maybe in Brooklyn could have been your dream, but making it possible is what we do best.
For Brooklyn, NY homes, the basements could be small and dark, allow us to add some lighting and make the place functional. No matter what kind of service you are looking for, give us the specifications and watch our team transform the place into paradise.
Guide to Bonsai Tools
To practice the art of Bonsai you must have the proper tools. I am going to list and describe the more common bonsai tools. When you first start out you will not need all of the tools listed and depending on your level of involvment in Bonsai you may never need them all.
Pruning & Cutting Tools
Pruning and cutting tools are used for any cutting that is too heavy to be performed with scisssors.
Concave Branch Cutter: These are heavy duty cutters designed similar to bolt cutters. They are used to cleanly and smoothly remove fair sized branches.
Spherical Knob CUtters: Are similar to the branch cutter except the cutting piece is spherical. These are designed to cut through heavy knobs or knots.
Folding Pruning saw: This is a small rough cut saw that with a blade that folds back into the handle similar to a pocket knife. They are used for cutting very heavy branches or when you need to cut down the trunk of your bonsai tree.
Shears: You use shears for many different medium to light cutting jobs.
Woodworking Gouges: Gouges are used for multiple artistic purposes in bonsai. They are frequently used to remove bark or to score the trunk to simulate natural damage to a tree.
Scissors:
Scissors are a staple tool for all bonsai enthusiast, they come in various shapes and sizes to handle various jobs.
Leaf Cutting Scissors: Just as the name implies these are used mainly for light work like pruning back or removing leaves.
Shoot Trimming Scissors: These are a heavier set of scissors designed for cut small to mid-sized shoots or branches.
Heavy Duty Shoot Scissors: These are an even heavier pair of scissors designed for all the shoots that are too large for the regular shoot scissors but too small for a pruner.
Potting Tools
The pot that you keep your bonsai in is very important for both it's health and proper development. Bonsai need frequent re-potting and root modification. These are the tools most useful for those tasks.
Root Hooks: These are used to seperate the root ball into a more managable form for trimming and pruning. They are a heavy wire bent at one end and usually sharpened to a fair point.
Potting Trowel: This is just a small garden trowl that will be used to dig and manipulate the soil in your bonsai pot.
Soil Scoops: Are small metal or plastic cups with a handle and the open end is cut into a scoop shape. They are used to remove or add soil to the pot.
Brush: Soft brushes are used to lightly clean and maintain the trunk, branches and leaves of the bonsai.
Wire Tools:
Wires are frequently used to train the bonsai plant into the proper artistic form. There are a multitude of tools used to work with wire most of these are available at any hardware or automotive store.
Common Wire Snips: These are common wire snips that are frequently used by electricians, they should be heavy enough to handle any of the aluminumum wire used for bonsai.
Heavy Duty Wire Snips : These are just a heavier version of the snips listed above that might be needed if you are working with some heavier than average wire.
Pliers: Common house hold pliers are used for bending and twisting the wire into the proper shape and position.
Needle Nose Pliers: These are pliers that come to a fine point and are useful for working in tight confines around the trunk and branches.
Miscellenous Tools
Some general tools that do not fit in any of the other categories.
Chop Sticks: These are perfect for tamping and working the soil down around the roots of the tree.
Gardeners Knife: This is handy for many of the heavy non-delicate cutting you have to do.
Rake: A small rake just like a garden or yard rake except in miniature is used to clean and maintain the surface of the soil.
Tweezers: Tweezers are often necessary to work around the limited space on many bonsai.
Pruning & Cutting Tools
Pruning and cutting tools are used for any cutting that is too heavy to be performed with scisssors.
Concave Branch Cutter: These are heavy duty cutters designed similar to bolt cutters. They are used to cleanly and smoothly remove fair sized branches.
Spherical Knob CUtters: Are similar to the branch cutter except the cutting piece is spherical. These are designed to cut through heavy knobs or knots.
Folding Pruning saw: This is a small rough cut saw that with a blade that folds back into the handle similar to a pocket knife. They are used for cutting very heavy branches or when you need to cut down the trunk of your bonsai tree.
Shears: You use shears for many different medium to light cutting jobs.
Woodworking Gouges: Gouges are used for multiple artistic purposes in bonsai. They are frequently used to remove bark or to score the trunk to simulate natural damage to a tree.
Scissors:
Scissors are a staple tool for all bonsai enthusiast, they come in various shapes and sizes to handle various jobs.
Leaf Cutting Scissors: Just as the name implies these are used mainly for light work like pruning back or removing leaves.
Shoot Trimming Scissors: These are a heavier set of scissors designed for cut small to mid-sized shoots or branches.
Heavy Duty Shoot Scissors: These are an even heavier pair of scissors designed for all the shoots that are too large for the regular shoot scissors but too small for a pruner.
Potting Tools
The pot that you keep your bonsai in is very important for both it's health and proper development. Bonsai need frequent re-potting and root modification. These are the tools most useful for those tasks.
Root Hooks: These are used to seperate the root ball into a more managable form for trimming and pruning. They are a heavy wire bent at one end and usually sharpened to a fair point.
Potting Trowel: This is just a small garden trowl that will be used to dig and manipulate the soil in your bonsai pot.
Soil Scoops: Are small metal or plastic cups with a handle and the open end is cut into a scoop shape. They are used to remove or add soil to the pot.
Brush: Soft brushes are used to lightly clean and maintain the trunk, branches and leaves of the bonsai.
Wire Tools:
Wires are frequently used to train the bonsai plant into the proper artistic form. There are a multitude of tools used to work with wire most of these are available at any hardware or automotive store.
Common Wire Snips: These are common wire snips that are frequently used by electricians, they should be heavy enough to handle any of the aluminumum wire used for bonsai.
Heavy Duty Wire Snips : These are just a heavier version of the snips listed above that might be needed if you are working with some heavier than average wire.
Pliers: Common house hold pliers are used for bending and twisting the wire into the proper shape and position.
Needle Nose Pliers: These are pliers that come to a fine point and are useful for working in tight confines around the trunk and branches.
Miscellenous Tools
Some general tools that do not fit in any of the other categories.
Chop Sticks: These are perfect for tamping and working the soil down around the roots of the tree.
Gardeners Knife: This is handy for many of the heavy non-delicate cutting you have to do.
Rake: A small rake just like a garden or yard rake except in miniature is used to clean and maintain the surface of the soil.
Tweezers: Tweezers are often necessary to work around the limited space on many bonsai.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Photo Handbag Styles
A handbag is an item that is essential to many women. In fact, almost all women carry a handbag or a purse. There are many women who search multiples stores and catalogs just to find the perfect handbag. Selecting a handbag to purchase can be a difficult task, especially for those who are looking for something particular. What many women fail to realize is that they can create their own customized handbag. A photo handbag is one of the most popular customized purses on the market today.
A photo handbag is a handbag that displays a single image or a whole picture. Photo handbags are complicated to make. They can most easily be obtained by hiring the services of a professional. The photo handbag selection will all depend on the designer in question; however, there are some common photo handbags styles are in high demand.
Before selecting a bag style many individuals already have the photo that they would like to have constructed on the bag in mind. If you are interested in purchasing a customized photo handbag you will want to have a specific photograph in mind if you don’t already have one. Selecting the photograph before the bag will allow you to get a better idea as to how each bag will look with your photograph constructed on it.
Bucket and tote style handbags are the most popular types of bags that can be turned into a photo handbag. These handbags are likely to come in different sizes. It is likely that the larger the size of the handbag the more expensive it will be to have a photo constructed on it. In addition to the bucket and tote style handbags, it is possible to have a photograph constructed on a diaper bag or a beach bag.
It is also possible to purchase a smaller photo handbag. Petite handbags, also commonly known as coin purses or cosmetic bags, are a popular accessory among women of all ages. A cosmetic bag or a coin purse can be used to carry money, makeup, or other small items. Coin purses and cosmetic bags are often combined with a larger purse. As with all other photo handbags, you will be required to select the picture that you want your coin purse or cosmetic bag to display. It is not uncommon for a coin purse or a cosmetic bag to have a photograph constructed on both sides; however, as the purse owner you will have the final say.
No matter what style of photo handbag you select, you should be able to have your bag customized to meet your desire. This often allows you to not only select the photo to be constructed on the bag, but the exterior border and interior purse color as well. With the ability to design a photo handbag just about anyway that you want there is no reason why you shouldn’t at least consider owning one.
A photo handbag is a handbag that displays a single image or a whole picture. Photo handbags are complicated to make. They can most easily be obtained by hiring the services of a professional. The photo handbag selection will all depend on the designer in question; however, there are some common photo handbags styles are in high demand.
Before selecting a bag style many individuals already have the photo that they would like to have constructed on the bag in mind. If you are interested in purchasing a customized photo handbag you will want to have a specific photograph in mind if you don’t already have one. Selecting the photograph before the bag will allow you to get a better idea as to how each bag will look with your photograph constructed on it.
Bucket and tote style handbags are the most popular types of bags that can be turned into a photo handbag. These handbags are likely to come in different sizes. It is likely that the larger the size of the handbag the more expensive it will be to have a photo constructed on it. In addition to the bucket and tote style handbags, it is possible to have a photograph constructed on a diaper bag or a beach bag.
It is also possible to purchase a smaller photo handbag. Petite handbags, also commonly known as coin purses or cosmetic bags, are a popular accessory among women of all ages. A cosmetic bag or a coin purse can be used to carry money, makeup, or other small items. Coin purses and cosmetic bags are often combined with a larger purse. As with all other photo handbags, you will be required to select the picture that you want your coin purse or cosmetic bag to display. It is not uncommon for a coin purse or a cosmetic bag to have a photograph constructed on both sides; however, as the purse owner you will have the final say.
No matter what style of photo handbag you select, you should be able to have your bag customized to meet your desire. This often allows you to not only select the photo to be constructed on the bag, but the exterior border and interior purse color as well. With the ability to design a photo handbag just about anyway that you want there is no reason why you shouldn’t at least consider owning one.
Landscape Photography: Tips To Enhance The Experience
One of the great things about landscape photography is that the possibility is endless on where you can go, what to take a picture of and it all starts with a few steps from your own back door. The horizon is your limit.
Lighting speaks volumes in landscape photography. Getting up with the sun at dawn, watching the animals hurry around as they gather their food for the day, and while the sun is just peaking its face over the background would make for great photo with perfect light. When the sun is on its way down, this is great for a landscape picture of peace and serenity. This time of day is when animals and people are heading home for the night where the land is clear of “clutter” and the trees, skies and land are open. Shadows will add depth to any photo of the landscape and give it more of a three-dimensional feel to it.
Landscape photography should be relaxing and fun to do. It also requires some time to get the precise composition. When a camera is slightly shifted one way or another, you can see how it will dramatically improve the picture you are looking to take. When it comes to taking a picture of the landscape, taking one photo is just as good as taking ten. You do not have to waste film on something that can be done right the first time, this can be achieved with a bit of patience, and some practice.
When photographing landscapes, give your photo a feeling of depth by including close objects in the frame as well as the distant objects.
A fine lens for landscape photography is the 50 mm lens that comes as standard equipment on many SLR cameras.But if you are seriously interested in photographing landscapes, a good lens to have would be a wide-angle lens.
Losing detail due to camera shake is the biggest problem in landscape photography.So, a tripod and a shutter release cable are very helpful tools to have.
Lighting speaks volumes in landscape photography. Getting up with the sun at dawn, watching the animals hurry around as they gather their food for the day, and while the sun is just peaking its face over the background would make for great photo with perfect light. When the sun is on its way down, this is great for a landscape picture of peace and serenity. This time of day is when animals and people are heading home for the night where the land is clear of “clutter” and the trees, skies and land are open. Shadows will add depth to any photo of the landscape and give it more of a three-dimensional feel to it.
Landscape photography should be relaxing and fun to do. It also requires some time to get the precise composition. When a camera is slightly shifted one way or another, you can see how it will dramatically improve the picture you are looking to take. When it comes to taking a picture of the landscape, taking one photo is just as good as taking ten. You do not have to waste film on something that can be done right the first time, this can be achieved with a bit of patience, and some practice.
When photographing landscapes, give your photo a feeling of depth by including close objects in the frame as well as the distant objects.
A fine lens for landscape photography is the 50 mm lens that comes as standard equipment on many SLR cameras.But if you are seriously interested in photographing landscapes, a good lens to have would be a wide-angle lens.
Losing detail due to camera shake is the biggest problem in landscape photography.So, a tripod and a shutter release cable are very helpful tools to have.
Infrared Digital Photograph
It seems to be that the bigger the location that you reside in the more the law-breaking degree increases. With the use of digital photography and infrared digital photography you have the fortune of catching some amazing photographs of criminals being arrested and there is no greater comforting feeling than knowing you made a small contribution in aiding the law enforcement capture some of the a few law breaking members of our society. To take a few of them off of the streets at a time ensures that our lives and the lives of our children will be in less danger. I know that you just as most others wants nothing more than to have a safer environment for our future and our well being as we know it.
Wether you are using daytime infrared digital photography or nighttime infrared digital photography the right lens and all the right factors will in fact give you the opportunity to create just the right digital photograph you are hoping to come up with. You'll need to remember with digital infrared photography that there are few matters you want to take in consideration in getting that great photograph. Never jump the gun too rapidly on photographing until you have all of your facts straight with the type of results that you are hoping for your digital photography shoots.
Think about what type of filter you will be utilizing, make certain that each of your settings are set at their appropriate availability for the precisest detailed appearance. The direction the objects in your digital photographs may be moving will give you an idea on what kind of angle you should be photographing from. Depending upon what type of filter that you seleceted will influence the quality of your printed digital photograph.
The lighting will obviously deliver a very dramatic effect in how your digital photographs expose themselves. Of course the poorer your lighting then the longer it will take for your photographs to expose. They call for a longer amount of time if the light isn't strong enough to make the photograph its correct imaging appearance. The correct lighting is real important in your digital photography success. However, I realize that with spur of the minute photographs being taken, you don't always possess the time you might want in order to capture that perfect lighting.
Exactly like any of the professionals out there you also want to apply your digital photography skills to their highest degree of accuracy. Try and be really creative with your digital infrared photography skills in photographing the objects that you desire to create on print.
Check over with your owners manual prior to you choosing to attach an infrared lens to your digital camera for your digital photography purposes. These infrared light and filters may cause a few difficult problems with your digital camera if you have not checked out this first before adding this accessary. It could completely mess up your lens and create some serious electronics malfunctions if you're not careful when choosing to do so. The most crucial thing about infrared lens is to never under whatever circumstances look through this infrared lens with your own eyes.This decision could cost you your beloved eye sight
Wether you are using daytime infrared digital photography or nighttime infrared digital photography the right lens and all the right factors will in fact give you the opportunity to create just the right digital photograph you are hoping to come up with. You'll need to remember with digital infrared photography that there are few matters you want to take in consideration in getting that great photograph. Never jump the gun too rapidly on photographing until you have all of your facts straight with the type of results that you are hoping for your digital photography shoots.
Think about what type of filter you will be utilizing, make certain that each of your settings are set at their appropriate availability for the precisest detailed appearance. The direction the objects in your digital photographs may be moving will give you an idea on what kind of angle you should be photographing from. Depending upon what type of filter that you seleceted will influence the quality of your printed digital photograph.
The lighting will obviously deliver a very dramatic effect in how your digital photographs expose themselves. Of course the poorer your lighting then the longer it will take for your photographs to expose. They call for a longer amount of time if the light isn't strong enough to make the photograph its correct imaging appearance. The correct lighting is real important in your digital photography success. However, I realize that with spur of the minute photographs being taken, you don't always possess the time you might want in order to capture that perfect lighting.
Exactly like any of the professionals out there you also want to apply your digital photography skills to their highest degree of accuracy. Try and be really creative with your digital infrared photography skills in photographing the objects that you desire to create on print.
Check over with your owners manual prior to you choosing to attach an infrared lens to your digital camera for your digital photography purposes. These infrared light and filters may cause a few difficult problems with your digital camera if you have not checked out this first before adding this accessary. It could completely mess up your lens and create some serious electronics malfunctions if you're not careful when choosing to do so. The most crucial thing about infrared lens is to never under whatever circumstances look through this infrared lens with your own eyes.This decision could cost you your beloved eye sight
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Photography Contest
These days, with the advancements in technology, more and more people are buying cameras. It's very easy to own one because of the improvements in ease of use and maintenance. We don't have to buy rolls of film just to use a camera. It's also easier to take great pictures, because we can preview the image that's going to be taken and if it's not up to standard, it can be deleted in just a press of a button. No film is wasted, and the photos come out as we want them.
It's normal practice to bring a camera everyday, especially those that are compact and lightweight. This is so that every important moment is captured and thus, preserved throughout time. With this in mind, more and more people are getting interested in photography and enjoying it. Even non-professional photographers can take very good pictures, and there shouldn't be any surprise if there are more people who join photography contests, whether it's for the prize, the recognition, or just for fun.
If you're one of the many people who enjoy photography, and someday you hope to enter and win a contest, here are some photography contest tips and advice:
Follow all the rules of the contest
There is always a different set of rules for every contest, and you should be aware of them first and foremost. Familiarize yourself with them and follow them to the letter. You might not understand why some rules are there, but don't assume you can just disregard them. They are there for a reason. It's better to follow the rules rather than have your work returned to you because you did not follow the rules.
Research on past entries
Researching on past winning entries will help you learn more about the contest that you want to join and its standards. If you know more about the standards and the judges' basis for a good photograph, you'll have a better edge against the other contestants. You also might get inspired from studying the past entries.
Study the categories
There are different categories in every contest, and you must consider the requirements of each category before submitting an entry under the category that you've chosen. Your photograph should be focused on the category's topic. Many entries get disqualified for not following the requirements, and it's sad because the photographer may be talented, but the entry is not even seen by the judges because of a technicality. For example, there are categories that might require your picture to have a few items at the background of the photograph's main focus. One missing item may hurt your chances in the contest.
Consider your work with a critical eye
You might have a photograph that you're really fond of. You might even consider it as your best, because of its meaning to you. Remember, your contest entry will be judged by many different people who are strangers to you. They don't know the story and circumstances behind your favorite work, and they don't care. They are also given a set of guidelines in choosing entries, and each of them has unique standards. If you want a good chance of winning, better submit photographs that are good on all technical factors. For your entry to stand out, your subject should be doing some actions. A subject that is doing something is more noticeable and has more depth compared to a subject that is on a pose.
Send only your best work
There are contests that allow multiple entries, and if you plan on submitting more than one entry per category, it's better to submit just a few of your best work, rather than submit a lot of entries that include a few decent, but lackluster, photographs. This is to protect how the judges think of your best photograph. If you include a few second-rate photographs, chances are the judges' opinion on those photographs might dampen their opinion on your best entry. Instead of your best photograph standing out, it might get buried under the mediocre ones.
It's easier now to take pictures, and it's even easier to prepare for a contest if you only study how. Apply these photography contest tips and advice, and improve your chances of winning a photography contest.
To read more articles like this one visit: http://www.hobbyphotographytips.com
It's normal practice to bring a camera everyday, especially those that are compact and lightweight. This is so that every important moment is captured and thus, preserved throughout time. With this in mind, more and more people are getting interested in photography and enjoying it. Even non-professional photographers can take very good pictures, and there shouldn't be any surprise if there are more people who join photography contests, whether it's for the prize, the recognition, or just for fun.
If you're one of the many people who enjoy photography, and someday you hope to enter and win a contest, here are some photography contest tips and advice:
Follow all the rules of the contest
There is always a different set of rules for every contest, and you should be aware of them first and foremost. Familiarize yourself with them and follow them to the letter. You might not understand why some rules are there, but don't assume you can just disregard them. They are there for a reason. It's better to follow the rules rather than have your work returned to you because you did not follow the rules.
Research on past entries
Researching on past winning entries will help you learn more about the contest that you want to join and its standards. If you know more about the standards and the judges' basis for a good photograph, you'll have a better edge against the other contestants. You also might get inspired from studying the past entries.
Study the categories
There are different categories in every contest, and you must consider the requirements of each category before submitting an entry under the category that you've chosen. Your photograph should be focused on the category's topic. Many entries get disqualified for not following the requirements, and it's sad because the photographer may be talented, but the entry is not even seen by the judges because of a technicality. For example, there are categories that might require your picture to have a few items at the background of the photograph's main focus. One missing item may hurt your chances in the contest.
Consider your work with a critical eye
You might have a photograph that you're really fond of. You might even consider it as your best, because of its meaning to you. Remember, your contest entry will be judged by many different people who are strangers to you. They don't know the story and circumstances behind your favorite work, and they don't care. They are also given a set of guidelines in choosing entries, and each of them has unique standards. If you want a good chance of winning, better submit photographs that are good on all technical factors. For your entry to stand out, your subject should be doing some actions. A subject that is doing something is more noticeable and has more depth compared to a subject that is on a pose.
Send only your best work
There are contests that allow multiple entries, and if you plan on submitting more than one entry per category, it's better to submit just a few of your best work, rather than submit a lot of entries that include a few decent, but lackluster, photographs. This is to protect how the judges think of your best photograph. If you include a few second-rate photographs, chances are the judges' opinion on those photographs might dampen their opinion on your best entry. Instead of your best photograph standing out, it might get buried under the mediocre ones.
It's easier now to take pictures, and it's even easier to prepare for a contest if you only study how. Apply these photography contest tips and advice, and improve your chances of winning a photography contest.
To read more articles like this one visit: http://www.hobbyphotographytips.com
Great Portraits in the Great Outdoors
If you have ever photographed your weekend outing, family reunion, or a special vacation getaway with your friends or family, you know that outdoor photography can present some very special challenges. This is true even for the most seasoned photographer. Direct sunlight can be harsh. Unwanted objects can interfere with your composition. Proper color rendering can be problematic. And many times, good old Mother Nature is just not feeling cooperative. Perhaps, there’s not much that can be done about Mother Nature, but with some practice and patience you can overcome many of the other challenges you face as an outdoor portrait photographer. Along my journey as a photographer I’ve learned some outdoor techniques that may benefit those who choose to follow:
1. Keep it simple. The subtle pattern and color of an adobe wall, the simple repeating pattern and muted tones of planks on a fishing pier, or the uniform color of a patch of blue bonnets, snapdragons, or yellow primrose can serve as wonderful backdrops for your outdoor portraits. When you are composing your portrait, you want your subject to be the focal point that all eyes are drawn to. Busy patterns, large areas of excessively vibrant colors (especially a mixture of different colors), or over imposing forms in your foreground or background that are not treated properly, can really distract from her if you are not careful.
2. Control the depth of field (the range of distances from your camera that are in focus). The edge of a forest, or mountains in the distance may render beautifully as a backdrop for your subject with proper control over the depth of field. If you have an SLR camera, you can adjust your depth of field to bring the background more or less out of focus relative to your subject. This serves as eye control for the observer of your portrait. The eye is naturally drawn to what is brightest and most sharply focused. If your subject is sharply focused relative to the background, she will be accentuated as the focal point of your portrait. Controlling the depth of field is accomplished by adjusting your aperture setting (the size of your lens opening, expressed in f-stops). The smaller the f-stop the larger the opening of your lens, and the smaller the depth of field will be. For instance, when you see a photograph in a nature magazine of a beautiful butterfly in a patch of flowers, and the butterfly is in razor sharp focus but the flowers are gently blurred; this was accomplished by the photographer using a narrow depth of field (small f-stop setting). For bright light situations this may be difficult to achieve. For any given intensity of light, as you open up the aperture (lower the f-stop) you must increase the shutter speed (thereby decreasing exposure time) to avoid over exposure. Increasing the shutter speed generally reduces resolution in the image. Experiment to find the combination of aperture setting and shutter speed that gives the result you desire.
3. Be mindful of distracting objects behind your subject. What is plainly a bush, a mailbox, or a birdhouse to your eye, can appear like an extra appendage growing out of the top of your subject’s head in your two dimensional portrait. You may get some interesting effects this way, but generally they will not make a good impression on your subject. Take the time to find an interesting angle that eliminates distracting objects from the background.
4. Control the light. “Down light” (e.g. harsh midday light) is generally undesirable. Due to the shadow patterns it creates, it can bring out the worst in your subject … can anyone say, “Raccoon eyes”? “Lateral light” (e.g. early morning and late afternoon light) is much more desirable. Lateral light can be controlled and directed to create beautiful shadow patterns across the face of your subject. There is a saying with many photographers who shoot outdoors, “the first tree in the forest is best” for a background. The reason is, the canopy of the first tree controls the harsh down light, but being on the edge of the forest, you still have lateral light to work with. The same idea holds true for porches or the edge of any other type of overhang. Professional photographers sometimes use shade cloth and reflectors to block down light while directing available lateral light to enhance their subject and achieve their desired effect.
5. Correct the color. Before the digital age, corrective filters or special films were mostly used for color correction in outdoor portraits. With digital cameras, the color can be corrected using your white balance setting (expressed as color temperature in degrees Kelvin). Most digital cameras today do a pretty good job of automatically adjusting the white balance for outdoor exposures. If you would like to experiment with your manual white balance setting use the table below as a guide. For a more detailed understanding of the meaning of color temperature correction, see the article at: http://www.sizes.com/units/color_temperature.htm
Temperature Typical Sources
1000K....... Candles; oil lamps
2400K....... Early morning sunrise
3200K....... Tungsten light bulbs
4000K....... Fluorescent
5200K....... Typical daylight; electronic flash
6000K....... Cloudy Day
7000K....... Shade
Keeping your composition simple, controlling the depth of field, and eliminating objects that may distract from your subject, all help to accentuate your subject as the focal point of your portrait. Controlling the available natural light and correcting the white balance of your photographs can reveal and enhance the true beauty of your subject. Beyond this, make it your aim each day to unleash your creativity that you may see the world around you in fresh and unique ways. Never be content with seeing the ordinary as ordinary. Just stop and think for a moment, everything there is, is ordinary to someone. Art is created by those with the ability to see beyond the ordinary, to interpret their world in an exceptional way, and to reflect their interpretation for others to see. So, experiment and don’t be afraid to try something new. The world is abundant in forms, textures, colors, and patterns of light ... all the handy-work of God. Grand landscapes and magnificent manmade structures are not required for great photos in the great outdoors. May Mother Nature always cooperate with you. Good day and happy clicking!
1. Keep it simple. The subtle pattern and color of an adobe wall, the simple repeating pattern and muted tones of planks on a fishing pier, or the uniform color of a patch of blue bonnets, snapdragons, or yellow primrose can serve as wonderful backdrops for your outdoor portraits. When you are composing your portrait, you want your subject to be the focal point that all eyes are drawn to. Busy patterns, large areas of excessively vibrant colors (especially a mixture of different colors), or over imposing forms in your foreground or background that are not treated properly, can really distract from her if you are not careful.
2. Control the depth of field (the range of distances from your camera that are in focus). The edge of a forest, or mountains in the distance may render beautifully as a backdrop for your subject with proper control over the depth of field. If you have an SLR camera, you can adjust your depth of field to bring the background more or less out of focus relative to your subject. This serves as eye control for the observer of your portrait. The eye is naturally drawn to what is brightest and most sharply focused. If your subject is sharply focused relative to the background, she will be accentuated as the focal point of your portrait. Controlling the depth of field is accomplished by adjusting your aperture setting (the size of your lens opening, expressed in f-stops). The smaller the f-stop the larger the opening of your lens, and the smaller the depth of field will be. For instance, when you see a photograph in a nature magazine of a beautiful butterfly in a patch of flowers, and the butterfly is in razor sharp focus but the flowers are gently blurred; this was accomplished by the photographer using a narrow depth of field (small f-stop setting). For bright light situations this may be difficult to achieve. For any given intensity of light, as you open up the aperture (lower the f-stop) you must increase the shutter speed (thereby decreasing exposure time) to avoid over exposure. Increasing the shutter speed generally reduces resolution in the image. Experiment to find the combination of aperture setting and shutter speed that gives the result you desire.
3. Be mindful of distracting objects behind your subject. What is plainly a bush, a mailbox, or a birdhouse to your eye, can appear like an extra appendage growing out of the top of your subject’s head in your two dimensional portrait. You may get some interesting effects this way, but generally they will not make a good impression on your subject. Take the time to find an interesting angle that eliminates distracting objects from the background.
4. Control the light. “Down light” (e.g. harsh midday light) is generally undesirable. Due to the shadow patterns it creates, it can bring out the worst in your subject … can anyone say, “Raccoon eyes”? “Lateral light” (e.g. early morning and late afternoon light) is much more desirable. Lateral light can be controlled and directed to create beautiful shadow patterns across the face of your subject. There is a saying with many photographers who shoot outdoors, “the first tree in the forest is best” for a background. The reason is, the canopy of the first tree controls the harsh down light, but being on the edge of the forest, you still have lateral light to work with. The same idea holds true for porches or the edge of any other type of overhang. Professional photographers sometimes use shade cloth and reflectors to block down light while directing available lateral light to enhance their subject and achieve their desired effect.
5. Correct the color. Before the digital age, corrective filters or special films were mostly used for color correction in outdoor portraits. With digital cameras, the color can be corrected using your white balance setting (expressed as color temperature in degrees Kelvin). Most digital cameras today do a pretty good job of automatically adjusting the white balance for outdoor exposures. If you would like to experiment with your manual white balance setting use the table below as a guide. For a more detailed understanding of the meaning of color temperature correction, see the article at: http://www.sizes.com/units/color_temperature.htm
Temperature Typical Sources
1000K....... Candles; oil lamps
2400K....... Early morning sunrise
3200K....... Tungsten light bulbs
4000K....... Fluorescent
5200K....... Typical daylight; electronic flash
6000K....... Cloudy Day
7000K....... Shade
Keeping your composition simple, controlling the depth of field, and eliminating objects that may distract from your subject, all help to accentuate your subject as the focal point of your portrait. Controlling the available natural light and correcting the white balance of your photographs can reveal and enhance the true beauty of your subject. Beyond this, make it your aim each day to unleash your creativity that you may see the world around you in fresh and unique ways. Never be content with seeing the ordinary as ordinary. Just stop and think for a moment, everything there is, is ordinary to someone. Art is created by those with the ability to see beyond the ordinary, to interpret their world in an exceptional way, and to reflect their interpretation for others to see. So, experiment and don’t be afraid to try something new. The world is abundant in forms, textures, colors, and patterns of light ... all the handy-work of God. Grand landscapes and magnificent manmade structures are not required for great photos in the great outdoors. May Mother Nature always cooperate with you. Good day and happy clicking!
Decorating Spaces With Photographs
In most interiors art photographs are brought in as the finishing touch.
It's one of the elements that can instantly warm up a space and make it feel like home.
Photographs can expand a space both visually and emotionally, give us a window to the world, bring interest and color to the wall spaces, and generally liven up the place.
Here's concise hints how to arrange photographs in a room.
In general, photographs should be hung so that the center point of the photograph or grouping is at about eye level for the average person. While this won't be possible in every situation,
it's a good guideline to keep in mind.
Size and Grouping
• Relate photograph to wall size. Choose smaller pictures for narrow walls and larger works for big wall spaces.
• Relate photograph to furniture size. When hanging a framed photograph over a piece of furniture it should not be longer than the width of the furniture.
• Don't hang the photographs too close to each other or you will end up with a cluttered look. Don't hang them too far apart or you'll lose that unified look.
• Proper use of line can set the mood in a room:
- Strong horizontal lines in photograph, or in the way it is hung, tend to be calming and can give the illusion of width in a narrow room.
- Strong vertical lines in a photograph or in the arrangement on the wall add to the feeling of height in a room.
- Strong diagonal lines either within a photograph itself or in a line of photographs arranged on the wall add drama and excitement.
• Use symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangements of photographs to create either a formal or a casual feeling. Symmetry adds balance and formality to an arrangement and is generally pleasing and calming to the observer.
• A grouping of photographs should be thought of as one unit.
• One large photograph makes a statement and keeps things simple.
• A number of photographs framed in one mat and frame will have more impact.
Themes
• Support your room theme with photographs, repeating the colors, motifs, and style of the room's interior.
• Landscape photographs visually open up a smaller space. The view of a distant horizon acts as a sort of window.
Color
• Vibrant colors bring excitement to a room, neutral colors are more calming.
• Photographs will have greater impact if matted in a contrasting color to the wall. Choose a dark mat for a light wall and a light mat for a dark wall.
Framing
• Choose frame colors and styles that match the style of your home.
• To harmonize a set of photographs, mat and frame them alike.
Lighting
• Illuminate photographs well. It can be lost unless well lit.
• Depending on a given place, one can use a picture light, track lighting or recessed lighting.
Hanging
• Hang photographs securely. Rate picture hooks for the weight of the framed photograph.
Care of Photographs
• Never hang photograph in direct sunlight: it can fade.
• Never hang photograph above a working fireplace.
• Never hang photograph on an exterior wall without adequate insulation: it can dampen.
• Maintain a constant room temperature and humidity.
• Mat boards and adhesives must be acid-free, otherwise yellowing will occur.
It's one of the elements that can instantly warm up a space and make it feel like home.
Photographs can expand a space both visually and emotionally, give us a window to the world, bring interest and color to the wall spaces, and generally liven up the place.
Here's concise hints how to arrange photographs in a room.
In general, photographs should be hung so that the center point of the photograph or grouping is at about eye level for the average person. While this won't be possible in every situation,
it's a good guideline to keep in mind.
Size and Grouping
• Relate photograph to wall size. Choose smaller pictures for narrow walls and larger works for big wall spaces.
• Relate photograph to furniture size. When hanging a framed photograph over a piece of furniture it should not be longer than the width of the furniture.
• Don't hang the photographs too close to each other or you will end up with a cluttered look. Don't hang them too far apart or you'll lose that unified look.
• Proper use of line can set the mood in a room:
- Strong horizontal lines in photograph, or in the way it is hung, tend to be calming and can give the illusion of width in a narrow room.
- Strong vertical lines in a photograph or in the arrangement on the wall add to the feeling of height in a room.
- Strong diagonal lines either within a photograph itself or in a line of photographs arranged on the wall add drama and excitement.
• Use symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangements of photographs to create either a formal or a casual feeling. Symmetry adds balance and formality to an arrangement and is generally pleasing and calming to the observer.
• A grouping of photographs should be thought of as one unit.
• One large photograph makes a statement and keeps things simple.
• A number of photographs framed in one mat and frame will have more impact.
Themes
• Support your room theme with photographs, repeating the colors, motifs, and style of the room's interior.
• Landscape photographs visually open up a smaller space. The view of a distant horizon acts as a sort of window.
Color
• Vibrant colors bring excitement to a room, neutral colors are more calming.
• Photographs will have greater impact if matted in a contrasting color to the wall. Choose a dark mat for a light wall and a light mat for a dark wall.
Framing
• Choose frame colors and styles that match the style of your home.
• To harmonize a set of photographs, mat and frame them alike.
Lighting
• Illuminate photographs well. It can be lost unless well lit.
• Depending on a given place, one can use a picture light, track lighting or recessed lighting.
Hanging
• Hang photographs securely. Rate picture hooks for the weight of the framed photograph.
Care of Photographs
• Never hang photograph in direct sunlight: it can fade.
• Never hang photograph above a working fireplace.
• Never hang photograph on an exterior wall without adequate insulation: it can dampen.
• Maintain a constant room temperature and humidity.
• Mat boards and adhesives must be acid-free, otherwise yellowing will occur.
Camera Cases: Be Ready for Anything
A successful photographer must be ready for action at a moments notice. A successful photographer never really stops shooting when the action happens. A successful photographer has everything they need close at hand. For all of these things to occur, a photographer needs the right camera case for their needs. There are lots of options available to suit any type of photography.
What Type of Camera Case do you need? First identify what type of camera case you need. Consider the type of photography you are doing. Is it action packed, constantly moving and on the go? Or is it time intensive and localize to one area? These factors greatly affect the type of camera case a photographer chooses.
M-Rock camera cases come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different types of photographers. For the first case of action photography, a small digital camera case is the perfect fit. M-Rock small camera cases fit a digital camera perfectly inside with soft felt lining so there will be no abrasion during movement. The rigid outer structure composed of water resistant materials, plastic panels, and thick foam protect the camera inside for the worst case scenarios. The small camera cases also have a belt strap that keeps the camera gear where you need it, and also have two small pockets for storing supplies and accessories. With a small M-Rock camera case, photographers can run, jump, and even bike, without worrying about the protection of their camera.
Imagine all the features of the small camera cases on a large scale. For the second case of localized photography, M-Rock large camera cases offer everything a photographer needs. The same quality components are used, with added features that allow the case to store larger cameras, lenses, tripods, and other supplies. To protect valuable lenses, large camera cases come with a u-shaped cradle to carry lenses within the case.
The best advantage of M-Rock camera cases is that they are modular, meaning the can be used alone, or in conjunction with other M-Rock cases for added storage. M-Rock camera cases have Velcro arms on either side that slip into the modular belt or other camera cases for a secure connection.
Visit M-Rock.com and see what types of camera cases are available. You may find some advantages of camera cases you never even dreamed of. M-Rock is number one for camera storage and protection, and will have a successful photographer ready for anything.
What Type of Camera Case do you need? First identify what type of camera case you need. Consider the type of photography you are doing. Is it action packed, constantly moving and on the go? Or is it time intensive and localize to one area? These factors greatly affect the type of camera case a photographer chooses.
M-Rock camera cases come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different types of photographers. For the first case of action photography, a small digital camera case is the perfect fit. M-Rock small camera cases fit a digital camera perfectly inside with soft felt lining so there will be no abrasion during movement. The rigid outer structure composed of water resistant materials, plastic panels, and thick foam protect the camera inside for the worst case scenarios. The small camera cases also have a belt strap that keeps the camera gear where you need it, and also have two small pockets for storing supplies and accessories. With a small M-Rock camera case, photographers can run, jump, and even bike, without worrying about the protection of their camera.
Imagine all the features of the small camera cases on a large scale. For the second case of localized photography, M-Rock large camera cases offer everything a photographer needs. The same quality components are used, with added features that allow the case to store larger cameras, lenses, tripods, and other supplies. To protect valuable lenses, large camera cases come with a u-shaped cradle to carry lenses within the case.
The best advantage of M-Rock camera cases is that they are modular, meaning the can be used alone, or in conjunction with other M-Rock cases for added storage. M-Rock camera cases have Velcro arms on either side that slip into the modular belt or other camera cases for a secure connection.
Visit M-Rock.com and see what types of camera cases are available. You may find some advantages of camera cases you never even dreamed of. M-Rock is number one for camera storage and protection, and will have a successful photographer ready for anything.
A Photo Pillow: A Great Gift for Grandparents
How many generations of your family are alive? It is likely that there are at least three generations in your family, but due to science and medicine that number could be higher. More generations in your family makes it possible for senior family members to meet and possibly get to know the newest family members.
It is important to remember that even though more seniors are living longer than they ever have in the past that does not necessarily mean that they will be in good health. There are many seniors who may have a difficult time traveling or are confined to a nursing home. This may make it difficult or virtually impossible for your grandparents to see and spend quality time with your children. There is nothing better then actually being able to see, talk to, and hold your grandchildren, but there is something that comes in a close second.
Photo pillows are a way that many grandparents are able to connect with a grandchild or great-grandchild. A photo pillow is created by taking a traditional black and white or color photograph and constructing it onto a pillow. Since it is not uncommon for many seniors to rest, read a book, or watch television it is likely that a photo pillow will come in handy. What can be better than offering a family connection and comfort all at once?
The easiest way to purchase a customized photo pillow is by finding an online photo pillow designer. Once you have found one or multiple designers to closely examine you will want to look at the photo pillow products that they have to offer. Many of the companies or individuals who make photo pillows have a selection of different pillow styles and designs. A small sofa-size pillow and a larger bed size pillow are common pillow sizes that can be transformed into a personalized photo pillow. It is likely that a grandparent would prefer any size photo pillow; however, the smaller sofa-size one tends to be the most popular.
Perhaps the best thing about photo pillows is that they can work in just about any room setting and they can be transported if need be. A photo pillow is a great gift idea for grandparents, but it is not the only photo gift idea available. There are many children or grandchildren who have purchased photo blankets or even both for their grandparents. Regardless of what photo items is purchased it is sure to be a hit with the grandparents them.
It is important to remember that even though more seniors are living longer than they ever have in the past that does not necessarily mean that they will be in good health. There are many seniors who may have a difficult time traveling or are confined to a nursing home. This may make it difficult or virtually impossible for your grandparents to see and spend quality time with your children. There is nothing better then actually being able to see, talk to, and hold your grandchildren, but there is something that comes in a close second.
Photo pillows are a way that many grandparents are able to connect with a grandchild or great-grandchild. A photo pillow is created by taking a traditional black and white or color photograph and constructing it onto a pillow. Since it is not uncommon for many seniors to rest, read a book, or watch television it is likely that a photo pillow will come in handy. What can be better than offering a family connection and comfort all at once?
The easiest way to purchase a customized photo pillow is by finding an online photo pillow designer. Once you have found one or multiple designers to closely examine you will want to look at the photo pillow products that they have to offer. Many of the companies or individuals who make photo pillows have a selection of different pillow styles and designs. A small sofa-size pillow and a larger bed size pillow are common pillow sizes that can be transformed into a personalized photo pillow. It is likely that a grandparent would prefer any size photo pillow; however, the smaller sofa-size one tends to be the most popular.
Perhaps the best thing about photo pillows is that they can work in just about any room setting and they can be transported if need be. A photo pillow is a great gift idea for grandparents, but it is not the only photo gift idea available. There are many children or grandchildren who have purchased photo blankets or even both for their grandparents. Regardless of what photo items is purchased it is sure to be a hit with the grandparents them.
Advertisement Photography
Advertisement photography is by far one of the most competitive forms of photography. This is mainly due to the fact that you can earn far more money than in any other aspect of photographic industry.
Every day companies pay millions of dollars on advertisement; with one goal - to sell their product. Companies want to tell the reader that their product is best - so you must be able to match this.
The photographers work must be to the highest technical quality and he/she must have the ability to create a masterpiece from something simple. Close enough is just not good enough. Close enough will not sell a product.
To become an advertisement photographer one must first understand the market and understand what the client is looking for. The best way of understanding this is pick up a magazine and look at the ads. Study each image. Study the images you see on billboards or images that are used to advertise movies.
Most parts of advertisement photography can be classed as still life photography. So if you are interested in taking images for the advertisement market your first job is to set up your own home studio. This can be a great place to practice.
Every thing in your home can be photographed. Start off with a few glasses. But remember you are not trying to make the glasses look nice - you are trying to sell them.
The second thing you need is a large format camera. Buy a range of the best lenses. Slide film is your best choice for advertisement photography. The client may want to blow up the images to a billboard size.
The most important thing when starting off is creating a portfolio of your work. This can be sent to advertising agencies or can be shown directly to a company. Always have a few copies on standby. Also set up a web page. On-line advertising is growing at a spectacular rate. Your portfolio should also consist of a different range of images.
If you are thinking of using an advertisement agency, get their guidelines from them. These should be very helpful to you in understanding the market. Dealing with a well established agency should be very profitable for you if your photography is to par.
Advertisement can be seen everywhere - and about eighty percent of all ads use photography. Most advertisement these days consists of a few words and a stunning picture that should attract the viewer’s attention.
Every day companies pay millions of dollars on advertisement; with one goal - to sell their product. Companies want to tell the reader that their product is best - so you must be able to match this.
The photographers work must be to the highest technical quality and he/she must have the ability to create a masterpiece from something simple. Close enough is just not good enough. Close enough will not sell a product.
To become an advertisement photographer one must first understand the market and understand what the client is looking for. The best way of understanding this is pick up a magazine and look at the ads. Study each image. Study the images you see on billboards or images that are used to advertise movies.
Most parts of advertisement photography can be classed as still life photography. So if you are interested in taking images for the advertisement market your first job is to set up your own home studio. This can be a great place to practice.
Every thing in your home can be photographed. Start off with a few glasses. But remember you are not trying to make the glasses look nice - you are trying to sell them.
The second thing you need is a large format camera. Buy a range of the best lenses. Slide film is your best choice for advertisement photography. The client may want to blow up the images to a billboard size.
The most important thing when starting off is creating a portfolio of your work. This can be sent to advertising agencies or can be shown directly to a company. Always have a few copies on standby. Also set up a web page. On-line advertising is growing at a spectacular rate. Your portfolio should also consist of a different range of images.
If you are thinking of using an advertisement agency, get their guidelines from them. These should be very helpful to you in understanding the market. Dealing with a well established agency should be very profitable for you if your photography is to par.
Advertisement can be seen everywhere - and about eighty percent of all ads use photography. Most advertisement these days consists of a few words and a stunning picture that should attract the viewer’s attention.
Abstract Photography
“Never have I found the limits of the photographic potential. Every horizon, upon being reached, reveals another beckoning in the distance. Always, I am on the threshold.” -W. Eugene Smith
The invention of the camera liberated painting from its reportage role. Gone was the need to produce a likeness, detail the events of the story, painting was free to express emotions. True what had gone before contained an emotional content but now painting could experiment and through imaginative interpretation allow the emotional content to predominate. Freed from this constraint the painter was able to create a new language and explore the motivations of their art.
As the 19th century evolved and throughout the 20th century painters from the impressionists through the cubists and expressionists to the minimalists could to use colour, line and form to go straight to the emotional content of their work. The representational aspect of the work become coincidental and was pushed to the point that it became akin to lying on the grass making shapes out of clouds. Enjoyable as it may be it is secondary to the nature of clouds.
The introduction of the digital darkroom has given this freedom to photographers. The range of tools to fix and enhance the camera’s capture when pushed to its extremes produces a range of fascinating effects. When added to the filters built into the better software, images can be produced that any comparison to the original photograph is purely coincidental. As photographers explore these tools and incorporate them into their photographs so their visual language will grow. The revolution of the medium with the development from black and white into colour is taking its next step. Now with the digital darkroom’s ever growing range of tools the only limitation is the photographer’s imagination.
With the use of these tools, the skilled photographic artist can take the pop song and create, in visual terms, the lyric beauty of a baroque symphony or the down town jive of a jazz variation without a tree or a high rise in sight. Just the light captured by the camera and fine tuned into something completely different, something new that comes from the photographer.
The photographer has been liberated like the painter before them by technology. Now photographs can explore the full range of human experience including those they have no words to express. Large statements will be accessible by the photographer not only in physical terms. Although like their painter counterparts, through an additional feature of the technology, the large canvas is becoming the order of the day. That this canvas can express feelings rather than just illustrate them denotes that the photography has become an adult in the arts.
The invention of the camera liberated painting from its reportage role. Gone was the need to produce a likeness, detail the events of the story, painting was free to express emotions. True what had gone before contained an emotional content but now painting could experiment and through imaginative interpretation allow the emotional content to predominate. Freed from this constraint the painter was able to create a new language and explore the motivations of their art.
As the 19th century evolved and throughout the 20th century painters from the impressionists through the cubists and expressionists to the minimalists could to use colour, line and form to go straight to the emotional content of their work. The representational aspect of the work become coincidental and was pushed to the point that it became akin to lying on the grass making shapes out of clouds. Enjoyable as it may be it is secondary to the nature of clouds.
The introduction of the digital darkroom has given this freedom to photographers. The range of tools to fix and enhance the camera’s capture when pushed to its extremes produces a range of fascinating effects. When added to the filters built into the better software, images can be produced that any comparison to the original photograph is purely coincidental. As photographers explore these tools and incorporate them into their photographs so their visual language will grow. The revolution of the medium with the development from black and white into colour is taking its next step. Now with the digital darkroom’s ever growing range of tools the only limitation is the photographer’s imagination.
With the use of these tools, the skilled photographic artist can take the pop song and create, in visual terms, the lyric beauty of a baroque symphony or the down town jive of a jazz variation without a tree or a high rise in sight. Just the light captured by the camera and fine tuned into something completely different, something new that comes from the photographer.
The photographer has been liberated like the painter before them by technology. Now photographs can explore the full range of human experience including those they have no words to express. Large statements will be accessible by the photographer not only in physical terms. Although like their painter counterparts, through an additional feature of the technology, the large canvas is becoming the order of the day. That this canvas can express feelings rather than just illustrate them denotes that the photography has become an adult in the arts.
Bringing Memories to Life
Many us of have many treasured photo albums that with just the flip of a page allowing us walk again down paths long since traversed. Dipping in and out of memories as though it all happened only yesterday – until we realize abruptly that our treasured memories are, in fact, from years ago, and we no longer remember where that snap shot was taken, or what year is encapsulated there in paper form. While it is quick and easy to write a brief note upon the back of our photographs, the best way to rekindle those special memories is to log them all, each one, is in a scrapbook.
Using scrapbooks is a wonderful way to raise the storage of photographs and other memorabilia to a more personal level. There is little doubt that retaining keepsakes from important events or occasions is the ideal way to recapture the essence of a particular moment once it has passed us by in time, but it is only in using a scrapbook that the story really comes to life. Our precious memories so often wither in old shoeboxes, clumped together into confused bundles, where their special meaning fades. By gathering our memories into a scrapbook, we can suffuse life into them once more, and bequeath the joy we once shared to a whole new generation.
A scrapbook is nothing less than our own storybook, storing particular items that capture the meaning behind the memories. The straw you kept from your very first date with the man you’ve now been married to for over twenty years, that’s a precious memory, but think how the memory of that date comes alive when you scrapbook that straw with a photograph of the new couple, and include your thoughts from that special night. How much more meaningful does this memento become to your children and your children’s children when it is conveyed as a part of the whole story of your love? What once was a small plastic tube found at the bottom of an old box is now a living memory, conveying far more than you ever thought it could.
A scrapbook can store your memories in the most precious and personal way. Don’t keep your life to yourself; share it with a scrapbook, and relive your memories through the eyes of others.
Using scrapbooks is a wonderful way to raise the storage of photographs and other memorabilia to a more personal level. There is little doubt that retaining keepsakes from important events or occasions is the ideal way to recapture the essence of a particular moment once it has passed us by in time, but it is only in using a scrapbook that the story really comes to life. Our precious memories so often wither in old shoeboxes, clumped together into confused bundles, where their special meaning fades. By gathering our memories into a scrapbook, we can suffuse life into them once more, and bequeath the joy we once shared to a whole new generation.
A scrapbook is nothing less than our own storybook, storing particular items that capture the meaning behind the memories. The straw you kept from your very first date with the man you’ve now been married to for over twenty years, that’s a precious memory, but think how the memory of that date comes alive when you scrapbook that straw with a photograph of the new couple, and include your thoughts from that special night. How much more meaningful does this memento become to your children and your children’s children when it is conveyed as a part of the whole story of your love? What once was a small plastic tube found at the bottom of an old box is now a living memory, conveying far more than you ever thought it could.
A scrapbook can store your memories in the most precious and personal way. Don’t keep your life to yourself; share it with a scrapbook, and relive your memories through the eyes of others.
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