Ah the holidays... a time for parties, over eating, and over spending. Americans routinely overspend during the holidays, often resulting in increasing credit card debt to go along with that increasing waistline from too much pumpkin pie.
The holidays are stressful enough. Don't add to that stress by overspending your holiday budget. Here are ten tips to help you save time, money and stress this shopping season:
1. Make a list. Decide how much you can afford to spend this year and write it down. Decide who you want to buy for, and how much you want to spend on each person. Take this list with you when you go shopping to ensure that you don't buy on impulse or exceed your spending limit. Also, don't forget to include wrapping paper, decorations and shipping costs. These can add up fast!
2. Pay cash for your holiday gifts. It's much harder to spend cash than credit, so this tip alone could save you hundreds of dollars this holiday season. Also, avoid credit card offers or store charge card offers that offer you a discount if you sign up. These cards usually have high interest rates, and could end up costing much more in the long run than the discount you receive when you sign up for the card.
3. Do your shopping online this year. Buying online could result in discounts not available in stores. Just remember to include the shipping cost when buying online. Even if you don't actually buy online, the time you can save by doing comparison shopping before you go to the malls could be invaluable.
4. Have a Secret Santa gift exchange, where you put names in a hat and each person draws one name to purchase for. If you have a large family, this could mean tremendous savings! You should set a dollar limit so each person knows how much to spend. That way no one overspends and relatives with smaller budgets won't feel bad about not spending a fortune on a gift.
5. Another alternative for those with large families is to do a group gift. Have several relatives go in on one big gift instead of each person buying a separate gift. You will probably all save money and you can buy the recipient one big, cool gift that they really want.
6. Start early! Shopping early allows you to comparison shop and to catch pre-holiday sales, which could mean huge savings. This also curbs impulse shopping, which can be very expensive. Another benefit to shopping early is lower shipping costs if you need to mail a gift. Waiting til the last minute can be expensive because you're more likely to pay full price for the gift, and you may have to pay extra to ship it if you want to guarantee it arrives in time.
7. Make your holiday gifts. If you have creative talents, such as cooking, crafts, etc., making your own gifts can be very special. If you're not very creative, consider giving your time. Offers to baby-sit or to do something special for someone can be very personal and appreciated gifts. How many parents do you know who wouldn't love to have free babysitting?
8. Purchase wrapping paper, holiday cards and other decorations right after the holidays. Seasonal items are usually offered at deep discounts after the holiday, and they never go out of style. Stock up on clearance-priced items for next year, this year!
9. If you'll be traveling this holiday season, book your travel plans early. Airline flights, train tickets and bus tickets usually go up significantly during the holidays, so booking your travel plans early can save you money and stress.
10. Start a Christmas fund in January for next year's shopping. Many credit unions and banks offer special accounts just for this purpose. A CD is another great way to save for next year's holiday expenses. It never hurts to sock away a little money every month between now and the next holiday season. You'll earn a little interest and you'll have cash to spend on your holiday gifts and other expenses when the holidays roll around.
2008年3月15日星期六
Mold Allergy: How to Minimize Your Exposure
Many people have a mold allergy. Mold spores are the main culprit of seasonal mold allergies. People suffering from mold allergies have their worst bouts from spring to early fall. It typically peaks in the late summer months.
The more humid and moist climates have mold allergies throughout the entire year.
Why are my mold allergies worse after a rain storm?
Mold allergy suffers know when the weather is about to change and when it is about to rain. Rain storms stir up all of the mold and other allergens into the air. Mold allergy suffers allergies act up for several days after a rain storm.
Can I have a mold allergy indoors?
Even inside your home you are not shielded from mold allergies. There are several areas in your home that may be ideal for mold to grow.
Bathrooms have several water sources that make ideal mold growth zones.
Inside of the toilet's bowl rim a little water can remain after each flush. This water along with the cool porcelain provide a great place for mold to grow.
Is there a window next to the bath tub or shower? Each time the shower is used a little water can get trapped in the window's track and provide a breeding ground for mold.
Shower heads especially the flexible kind that can be aimed directly down allow water to collect and mold to grow.
Shampoo and conditioner bottles will trap water beneath the bottle and allow mold to grow around the edges of the bottle.
Anti slip bath tub mat.
Wooden towel drying racks.
The vanity sink drain.
Basement / Cellar
A damp and moist cellar provides an excellent environment for mold growth. Cellers are by their nature cool and dark place which provides the ideal growing environment and make your mold allergies explode.
Air Conditioner Expansion Coil
The air conditioner evaporator coil is located next to the blower unit, typically in the attic of most homes. The evaporator coil takes the compressed refrigerant and allows it to expand. The expansion of the refrigerant cools the air down significantly. This cooling effect also causes water vapor to turn into liquid. That is why there is a drain line connected to the evaporator coil. Since the coil gets cold and wet each time the air conditioner runs, any dirt that is gets trapped on the evaporator coils fins will become a breading ground for mold. Once this happens, each time the air conditioner runs it will be fueling your mold allergy.
What can I do to eliminate mold growing in my home?
Bathroom
Turn on the exhaust fan and let it run for several minutes after a bath. The exhaust fan will pump out the moist, humid air out of the bathroom.
Wipe down the shower and bath tub after each use to remove any standing water.
For any mold colonies you find clean them up with a bleach based product.
Hang up the bath tub anti-slip mat after each use.
If the anti-slip mat begins to grow mold and cleaning it has failed, throw it out. It is not worth causing your mold allergy to flare up. As you throw out the anti-slip mat your mold allergy will act up.
To get rid of any mold growing in the toilet bowl rim use a toilet tank treatment that is activated each time the toilet is flushed.
Basement / Cellar
Have the exterior of the cellar retaining walls water proofed to reduce the amount of moister coming into the cellar from the outside.
For unfinished cellar add additional ventilation.
Add air conditioning ducts and vents in the basement to provide a proper air circulation.
Air Conditioner Expansion Coil
Have the air conditioner evaporator coil professionally cleaned to remove all dirt and mold.
Change out the air conditioner filters on a regular intervals.
Pleated paper air filters are much more effective in trapping air born dust than the fiber glass filters.
Mold allergies are a seasonal allergy that can be year around depending on where you live. Even indoors there are many places were mold can grow and cause a mold allergy attack. There are several things you can do to eliminate mold from your home.
The more humid and moist climates have mold allergies throughout the entire year.
Why are my mold allergies worse after a rain storm?
Mold allergy suffers know when the weather is about to change and when it is about to rain. Rain storms stir up all of the mold and other allergens into the air. Mold allergy suffers allergies act up for several days after a rain storm.
Can I have a mold allergy indoors?
Even inside your home you are not shielded from mold allergies. There are several areas in your home that may be ideal for mold to grow.
Bathrooms have several water sources that make ideal mold growth zones.
Inside of the toilet's bowl rim a little water can remain after each flush. This water along with the cool porcelain provide a great place for mold to grow.
Is there a window next to the bath tub or shower? Each time the shower is used a little water can get trapped in the window's track and provide a breeding ground for mold.
Shower heads especially the flexible kind that can be aimed directly down allow water to collect and mold to grow.
Shampoo and conditioner bottles will trap water beneath the bottle and allow mold to grow around the edges of the bottle.
Anti slip bath tub mat.
Wooden towel drying racks.
The vanity sink drain.
Basement / Cellar
A damp and moist cellar provides an excellent environment for mold growth. Cellers are by their nature cool and dark place which provides the ideal growing environment and make your mold allergies explode.
Air Conditioner Expansion Coil
The air conditioner evaporator coil is located next to the blower unit, typically in the attic of most homes. The evaporator coil takes the compressed refrigerant and allows it to expand. The expansion of the refrigerant cools the air down significantly. This cooling effect also causes water vapor to turn into liquid. That is why there is a drain line connected to the evaporator coil. Since the coil gets cold and wet each time the air conditioner runs, any dirt that is gets trapped on the evaporator coils fins will become a breading ground for mold. Once this happens, each time the air conditioner runs it will be fueling your mold allergy.
What can I do to eliminate mold growing in my home?
Bathroom
Turn on the exhaust fan and let it run for several minutes after a bath. The exhaust fan will pump out the moist, humid air out of the bathroom.
Wipe down the shower and bath tub after each use to remove any standing water.
For any mold colonies you find clean them up with a bleach based product.
Hang up the bath tub anti-slip mat after each use.
If the anti-slip mat begins to grow mold and cleaning it has failed, throw it out. It is not worth causing your mold allergy to flare up. As you throw out the anti-slip mat your mold allergy will act up.
To get rid of any mold growing in the toilet bowl rim use a toilet tank treatment that is activated each time the toilet is flushed.
Basement / Cellar
Have the exterior of the cellar retaining walls water proofed to reduce the amount of moister coming into the cellar from the outside.
For unfinished cellar add additional ventilation.
Add air conditioning ducts and vents in the basement to provide a proper air circulation.
Air Conditioner Expansion Coil
Have the air conditioner evaporator coil professionally cleaned to remove all dirt and mold.
Change out the air conditioner filters on a regular intervals.
Pleated paper air filters are much more effective in trapping air born dust than the fiber glass filters.
Mold allergies are a seasonal allergy that can be year around depending on where you live. Even indoors there are many places were mold can grow and cause a mold allergy attack. There are several things you can do to eliminate mold from your home.
2008年3月5日星期三
Planning Ahead To Beat the High Cost of Heating Your Home
It is now September. The kids are going back to school. The football season has begun. The nights have gotten a bit chillier, and the days are not as hot. The price of energy to heat your home is up there It is time for you to see how much money you might save.
You should begin by conducting an energy audit of your home or apartment to help detect waste. If you are a homeowner, this will gauge the efficiency of your current heating system. Your utility company may offer free or low-cost energy audits, or you can conduct your own. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) offers instructions over the internet.. The home "walk-through" may help you spot needed maintenance or problems that, if fixed, could save you money. For example:
Check your attic, attic stairway, attached garage walls and basement to make sure your home is insulated to DOE-recommended levels for your area. When inspecting and buying home insulation products, look for the R-value. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power.
Wrap your hot water heater in an insulating jacket.
Schedule an annual tune-up for your heat pump, furnace or boiler. Your utility company may provide this service.
Hire a professional heating contractor to seal and insulate leaky ducts, and to ensure that the airflow distribution system serving your heating equipment is operating at peak efficiency.
Clean or replace filters on forced-air furnaces, seal flues in fireplaces you don't use, install drapes or some other covering on windows, and seal holes around plumbing and heating pipes.
Install a programmable thermostat that will automatically lower nighttime temperatures. You can keep just as warm sleeping under a good insulating blanket or quilt as you can by running the heating plant full blast at night.
Check caulking and weather stripping, and make repairs where necessary.
Close your foundation vents in the winter if there's a crawl space under your home.
Close the doors to rooms that you don't use.
Prune shrubs that may block airflow to your heat pump.
Install ceiling fans. The air circulation promotes heating efficiency in the winter.
When buying a new furnace, boiler, heat pump, water heater, or other home appliance, consider a high-efficiency model. Although some energy efficient appliances may cost more to buy than other models, their lower operating costs may save you money in the long run. Use the black and yellow EnergyGuide labels to compare the energy use or efficiency of models. You can find these US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) required EnergyGuide labels on most major appliances. The labels provide useful information about products' energy use or efficiency and estimated annual operating costs. In addition, the EnergyStar logo will help you identify high-efficiency appliances.
You should shop around for the best prices on oil - and gas, if you live in an area that lets you choose your natural gas provider. Ask your selected utility or oil company about a budget billing plan to protect against sudden or unexpected price increases. Your provider takes the amount of energy you use during one year and divides it into equal monthly payments. At the end of the season, you pay any outstanding balance or your provider credits any overpayment to your next monthly bill.
If you're on a fixed income and have trouble paying your utility bills, contact your utility company. They, or your state or local government, may have energy assistance plans to help you pay your heating bills.
The Heating Scam Artists Are Out Don't Get Burned
When energy prices rise, so does advertising for a host of energy-saving products and services - including some that are just plain bogus. The FTC recently settled charges against marketers who claimed their "liquid siding" product had a significant R-value and would yield dramatic reductions in consumers' utility costs. Although good maintenance such as caulking and painting can reduce air leaks in older homes, consumers should be wary of coating or paint sellers that promise their product will perform like insulation or will significantly reduce utility bills.
Sellers offering other devices, gadgets, and energy-saving products also promise drastic reductions in home heating costs or extreme energy savings. Read energy-saving claims carefully and, if possible, get independent information about product performance. Avoid unsolicited door-to-door sales calls and high pressure sales pitches from contractors offering furnaces, windows, roofing, and other home improvement projects.
To make sure that a contractor is licensed and reputable: Ask friends and neighbors for referrals; ask the contractor for customer references; and check out potential contractors with the Better Business Bureau, state and local consumer protection officials, and your state licensing agency. The FTC's Cooling-Off Rule gives you three business days to cancel a contract if you sign it in your home or at a location other than the contractor's permanent place of business.
In Conclusion
The last two winters in the North American region have been milder than usual. This is not an indication that this coming winter will follow suit. We could have a season filled with high winds and below normal temperatures. This means only one thing - high wind chill factors. That means only one thing - high heating bills
September is a good month to begin getting ready for the coming season. Be wise - Winterize.
You should begin by conducting an energy audit of your home or apartment to help detect waste. If you are a homeowner, this will gauge the efficiency of your current heating system. Your utility company may offer free or low-cost energy audits, or you can conduct your own. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) offers instructions over the internet.. The home "walk-through" may help you spot needed maintenance or problems that, if fixed, could save you money. For example:
Check your attic, attic stairway, attached garage walls and basement to make sure your home is insulated to DOE-recommended levels for your area. When inspecting and buying home insulation products, look for the R-value. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power.
Wrap your hot water heater in an insulating jacket.
Schedule an annual tune-up for your heat pump, furnace or boiler. Your utility company may provide this service.
Hire a professional heating contractor to seal and insulate leaky ducts, and to ensure that the airflow distribution system serving your heating equipment is operating at peak efficiency.
Clean or replace filters on forced-air furnaces, seal flues in fireplaces you don't use, install drapes or some other covering on windows, and seal holes around plumbing and heating pipes.
Install a programmable thermostat that will automatically lower nighttime temperatures. You can keep just as warm sleeping under a good insulating blanket or quilt as you can by running the heating plant full blast at night.
Check caulking and weather stripping, and make repairs where necessary.
Close your foundation vents in the winter if there's a crawl space under your home.
Close the doors to rooms that you don't use.
Prune shrubs that may block airflow to your heat pump.
Install ceiling fans. The air circulation promotes heating efficiency in the winter.
When buying a new furnace, boiler, heat pump, water heater, or other home appliance, consider a high-efficiency model. Although some energy efficient appliances may cost more to buy than other models, their lower operating costs may save you money in the long run. Use the black and yellow EnergyGuide labels to compare the energy use or efficiency of models. You can find these US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) required EnergyGuide labels on most major appliances. The labels provide useful information about products' energy use or efficiency and estimated annual operating costs. In addition, the EnergyStar logo will help you identify high-efficiency appliances.
You should shop around for the best prices on oil - and gas, if you live in an area that lets you choose your natural gas provider. Ask your selected utility or oil company about a budget billing plan to protect against sudden or unexpected price increases. Your provider takes the amount of energy you use during one year and divides it into equal monthly payments. At the end of the season, you pay any outstanding balance or your provider credits any overpayment to your next monthly bill.
If you're on a fixed income and have trouble paying your utility bills, contact your utility company. They, or your state or local government, may have energy assistance plans to help you pay your heating bills.
The Heating Scam Artists Are Out Don't Get Burned
When energy prices rise, so does advertising for a host of energy-saving products and services - including some that are just plain bogus. The FTC recently settled charges against marketers who claimed their "liquid siding" product had a significant R-value and would yield dramatic reductions in consumers' utility costs. Although good maintenance such as caulking and painting can reduce air leaks in older homes, consumers should be wary of coating or paint sellers that promise their product will perform like insulation or will significantly reduce utility bills.
Sellers offering other devices, gadgets, and energy-saving products also promise drastic reductions in home heating costs or extreme energy savings. Read energy-saving claims carefully and, if possible, get independent information about product performance. Avoid unsolicited door-to-door sales calls and high pressure sales pitches from contractors offering furnaces, windows, roofing, and other home improvement projects.
To make sure that a contractor is licensed and reputable: Ask friends and neighbors for referrals; ask the contractor for customer references; and check out potential contractors with the Better Business Bureau, state and local consumer protection officials, and your state licensing agency. The FTC's Cooling-Off Rule gives you three business days to cancel a contract if you sign it in your home or at a location other than the contractor's permanent place of business.
In Conclusion
The last two winters in the North American region have been milder than usual. This is not an indication that this coming winter will follow suit. We could have a season filled with high winds and below normal temperatures. This means only one thing - high wind chill factors. That means only one thing - high heating bills
September is a good month to begin getting ready for the coming season. Be wise - Winterize.
Sperm Increase
Increasing the volume of your ejaculate will directly affect the following aspects of your sexuality:
Increase the strength of your orgasms:
When you take such herbal supplements as amino acids or other natural sexual aids, your body can produce more ejaculate fluid, which increases the strength of your orgasms. Also, strengthening your pc muscle can greatly increase the force with which the ejaculate leaves your penis, making orgasms very intense.
Having a larger amount of ejaculate pass through the penis during an orgasm can prolong coitus (orgasm experience). The pumping sensation of an orgasm, of the semen and ejaculate fluids being pushed out through the ejaculatory ducts.
Improve your sperm count, and overall virility:
In order to fertilize an egg a large amount of sperm is required, many hundreds of millions. While the average man can produce this many sperm multiples times per day, there are external factors that can adversely affect the sperm count. Things such as smoking, drug use, poor diet, lack of exercise, and even wearing tight clothing in the groin area can all decrease the sperm count.
Increasing the volume of your sperm increases your fertility by increasing the number of sperm that are produced during each ejaculation. If you are trying to have children, the number of sperm you ejaculate is quite important, as is their condition. The pc exercise and amino acids such as L-Arginine and L-Lysine also help the health of your sperm, which increases your fertility and the chances of pregnancy (should you be seeking it).
Help your partner enjoy sex more:
When you ejaculate, your penis pumps semen and ejaculate, which many men and women find pleasurable. When you increase the amount of your ejaculate the pleasurable pumping feeling lasts longer, and also increases your pleasure. During intercourse extended pumping and orgasm pleasure improves the experience for both partners.
How do I do it?
Increasing the volume of your semen is done mainly through two things, taking herbal supplements such as amino acids, and the pc exercise.
Suggested amino acids and herbal supplements are:
L-Arginine (taken with L-Lysine, to prevent occasional skin problems)
L-Lysine
Veromax (combines the above amino acids, as well as L-Alanine, ginseng, saw palmetto berry, and biloba leaf)
The pc exercise has been proven to help increase the amount of ejaculate produced during orgasm. By following free penis enlargement guides and doing the pc exercise daily, you can experience improved orgasms as well as increased volume.
Increase the strength of your orgasms:
When you take such herbal supplements as amino acids or other natural sexual aids, your body can produce more ejaculate fluid, which increases the strength of your orgasms. Also, strengthening your pc muscle can greatly increase the force with which the ejaculate leaves your penis, making orgasms very intense.
Having a larger amount of ejaculate pass through the penis during an orgasm can prolong coitus (orgasm experience). The pumping sensation of an orgasm, of the semen and ejaculate fluids being pushed out through the ejaculatory ducts.
Improve your sperm count, and overall virility:
In order to fertilize an egg a large amount of sperm is required, many hundreds of millions. While the average man can produce this many sperm multiples times per day, there are external factors that can adversely affect the sperm count. Things such as smoking, drug use, poor diet, lack of exercise, and even wearing tight clothing in the groin area can all decrease the sperm count.
Increasing the volume of your sperm increases your fertility by increasing the number of sperm that are produced during each ejaculation. If you are trying to have children, the number of sperm you ejaculate is quite important, as is their condition. The pc exercise and amino acids such as L-Arginine and L-Lysine also help the health of your sperm, which increases your fertility and the chances of pregnancy (should you be seeking it).
Help your partner enjoy sex more:
When you ejaculate, your penis pumps semen and ejaculate, which many men and women find pleasurable. When you increase the amount of your ejaculate the pleasurable pumping feeling lasts longer, and also increases your pleasure. During intercourse extended pumping and orgasm pleasure improves the experience for both partners.
How do I do it?
Increasing the volume of your semen is done mainly through two things, taking herbal supplements such as amino acids, and the pc exercise.
Suggested amino acids and herbal supplements are:
L-Arginine (taken with L-Lysine, to prevent occasional skin problems)
L-Lysine
Veromax (combines the above amino acids, as well as L-Alanine, ginseng, saw palmetto berry, and biloba leaf)
The pc exercise has been proven to help increase the amount of ejaculate produced during orgasm. By following free penis enlargement guides and doing the pc exercise daily, you can experience improved orgasms as well as increased volume.
What Is Hydroponics And Hydroponic Systems?
Hydroponics is crop production with mineral nutrient solutions instead of soil containing silt and clay. Terrestrial plants may be grown with their roots in the mineral nutrient solution only or in an inert medium, such as perlite, gravel or rockwool. A variety of techniques exist.
Perlite is a volcanic rock that has been superheated into very lightweight expanded glass pebbles. It is used loose or in plastic sleeves immersed in the water. It is also used in potting soil mixes to decrease soil density. Perlite has similar properties and uses to vermiculite but generally holds more air and less water. If not contained, it can float if flood and drain feeding is used.
Like perlite, vermiculite is another mineral that has been superheated until it has expanded into light pebbles. Vermiculite holds more water than perlite and has a natural "wicking" property that can draw water and nutrients in a passive hydroponic system. If too much water and not enough air surrounds the plants roots, it's possible to gradually lower the medium's water-retention capability by mixing in increasing quantities of perlite.
Rockwool is probably the most widely used medium in Hydroponics. Made from basalt rock it is heat-treated at high temperatures then spun back together like candy floss. It comes in lots of different forms including cubes, blocks, slabs and granulated or flock. When this medium is dry, care needs to be taken so as not to inhale any particles - inhaling such particles may carry a health risk. Rockwool will cause a higher pH level. You must adjust the pH level of the nutrient solution to counteract this. A pH level of 5.5-6.5 should suffice to create a suitable pH.
Plant physiology researchers discovered in the 1800s that plants absorb essential mineral nutrients as inorganic ions in water. In natural conditions, soil acts as a mineral nutrient reservoir but the soil itself is not essential to plant growth. When the mineral nutrients in the soil dissolve in water, plant roots are able to absorb them. When the required mineral nutrients are introduced into a plant's water supply artificially, soil is no longer required for the plant to thrive. Almost any terrestrial plant will grow with hydroponics, but some will do better than others. It is also very easy to do; the activity is often undertaken by very young children with such plants as watercress. Hydroponics is also a standard technique in biology research and teaching and a popular hobby.
Hydroponics basically means working water ("hydro" means "water" and "ponos" means "labor"). Many different civilizations have utilized hydroponic growing techniques throughout history. As noted in Hydroponic Food Production (Fifth Edition, Woodbridge Press, 1997, page 23) by Howard M. Resh: "The hanging gardens of Babylon, the floating gardens of the Aztecs of Mexico and those of the Chinese are examples of 'Hydroponic' culture. Egyptian hieroglyphic records dating back several hundred years B.C. describe the growing of plants in water." Hydroponics is hardly a new method of growing plants. However, giant strides have been made over the years in this innovative area of agriculture.
Throughout the last century, scientists and horticulturists experimented with different methods of hydroponics. One of the potential applications of hydroponics that drove research was for growing fresh produce in nonarable areas of the world. It is a simple fact that some people cannot grow in the soil in their area (if there is even any soil at all). This application of hydroponics was tested during World War II. Troops stationed on nonarable islands in the Pacific were supplied with fresh produce grown in locally established hydroponic systems. Later in the century, hydroponics was integrated into the space program. As NASA considered the practicalities of locating a society on another plant or the Earth's moon, hydroponics easily fit into their sustainability plans. This research is ongoing.
Choosing the right system--whether you decide to build it or buy it--can make or break your hydroponic gardening experience.
Carefully consider your available space, lighting, budget, and time constraints before purchasing any equipment or settling on a unit to build yourself. Also think about what you want to grow, whether you may want to expand, and recurring costs.
Hydroponic systems can be "active" or "passive." They also can be "media-based" or "water culture." Active systems rely on a pump to flow nutrient around the plant's roots and to provide aeration. Passive systems work without a pump. A wicking material draws nutrients up to the roots or the root tips are suspended in a stationary solution with the main portion of the rootball hanging in the air.
Media-based systems, such as ebb-and-flow (flood-and-drain), top-feed (drip), or bottom-feed systems rely on a growing medium to support the plants and hold nutrient solution around their roots. Most operate on timers, alternately wetting the medium to wash out salts and replenish nutrients and then draining so the plants can draw in atmospheric oxygen.
Water culture systems usually operate without media. Sometimes rockwool cubes or small amounts of gravel are used because plants like tomatoes and cucumbers get top heavy when they start to bear fruit and need help to stand upright. You can also use plastic flaps, foam rings, fiber cups, or plastic collars for plant support. Some growers tie plants to a trellis.
Perlite is a volcanic rock that has been superheated into very lightweight expanded glass pebbles. It is used loose or in plastic sleeves immersed in the water. It is also used in potting soil mixes to decrease soil density. Perlite has similar properties and uses to vermiculite but generally holds more air and less water. If not contained, it can float if flood and drain feeding is used.
Like perlite, vermiculite is another mineral that has been superheated until it has expanded into light pebbles. Vermiculite holds more water than perlite and has a natural "wicking" property that can draw water and nutrients in a passive hydroponic system. If too much water and not enough air surrounds the plants roots, it's possible to gradually lower the medium's water-retention capability by mixing in increasing quantities of perlite.
Rockwool is probably the most widely used medium in Hydroponics. Made from basalt rock it is heat-treated at high temperatures then spun back together like candy floss. It comes in lots of different forms including cubes, blocks, slabs and granulated or flock. When this medium is dry, care needs to be taken so as not to inhale any particles - inhaling such particles may carry a health risk. Rockwool will cause a higher pH level. You must adjust the pH level of the nutrient solution to counteract this. A pH level of 5.5-6.5 should suffice to create a suitable pH.
Plant physiology researchers discovered in the 1800s that plants absorb essential mineral nutrients as inorganic ions in water. In natural conditions, soil acts as a mineral nutrient reservoir but the soil itself is not essential to plant growth. When the mineral nutrients in the soil dissolve in water, plant roots are able to absorb them. When the required mineral nutrients are introduced into a plant's water supply artificially, soil is no longer required for the plant to thrive. Almost any terrestrial plant will grow with hydroponics, but some will do better than others. It is also very easy to do; the activity is often undertaken by very young children with such plants as watercress. Hydroponics is also a standard technique in biology research and teaching and a popular hobby.
Hydroponics basically means working water ("hydro" means "water" and "ponos" means "labor"). Many different civilizations have utilized hydroponic growing techniques throughout history. As noted in Hydroponic Food Production (Fifth Edition, Woodbridge Press, 1997, page 23) by Howard M. Resh: "The hanging gardens of Babylon, the floating gardens of the Aztecs of Mexico and those of the Chinese are examples of 'Hydroponic' culture. Egyptian hieroglyphic records dating back several hundred years B.C. describe the growing of plants in water." Hydroponics is hardly a new method of growing plants. However, giant strides have been made over the years in this innovative area of agriculture.
Throughout the last century, scientists and horticulturists experimented with different methods of hydroponics. One of the potential applications of hydroponics that drove research was for growing fresh produce in nonarable areas of the world. It is a simple fact that some people cannot grow in the soil in their area (if there is even any soil at all). This application of hydroponics was tested during World War II. Troops stationed on nonarable islands in the Pacific were supplied with fresh produce grown in locally established hydroponic systems. Later in the century, hydroponics was integrated into the space program. As NASA considered the practicalities of locating a society on another plant or the Earth's moon, hydroponics easily fit into their sustainability plans. This research is ongoing.
Choosing the right system--whether you decide to build it or buy it--can make or break your hydroponic gardening experience.
Carefully consider your available space, lighting, budget, and time constraints before purchasing any equipment or settling on a unit to build yourself. Also think about what you want to grow, whether you may want to expand, and recurring costs.
Hydroponic systems can be "active" or "passive." They also can be "media-based" or "water culture." Active systems rely on a pump to flow nutrient around the plant's roots and to provide aeration. Passive systems work without a pump. A wicking material draws nutrients up to the roots or the root tips are suspended in a stationary solution with the main portion of the rootball hanging in the air.
Media-based systems, such as ebb-and-flow (flood-and-drain), top-feed (drip), or bottom-feed systems rely on a growing medium to support the plants and hold nutrient solution around their roots. Most operate on timers, alternately wetting the medium to wash out salts and replenish nutrients and then draining so the plants can draw in atmospheric oxygen.
Water culture systems usually operate without media. Sometimes rockwool cubes or small amounts of gravel are used because plants like tomatoes and cucumbers get top heavy when they start to bear fruit and need help to stand upright. You can also use plastic flaps, foam rings, fiber cups, or plastic collars for plant support. Some growers tie plants to a trellis.
2008年1月5日星期六
Top Ten Tips For Designing a Better Bathroom
Better Bathroom Design Tips
To keep ourselves updating we make frequent changes in our surroundings like home, office, dress, car etc. When one thinks to make some changes in home the first room that comes to our mind is bathroom. The only reason I think that bathroom is the frequently visited private place and a relaxing area free from all stresses of life, hence we plan it to design. You can only design your bathroom if you are highly creative, talented and willing to spend money for pleasure. Here are top 10 informative tips for designing a better bathroom:
1.Set a budget for designing Bathroom:
After setting a budget you can choose the style of bathroom as modern, contemporary or traditional.
2.Set the Area for bathroom:
Rectangular or square bathroom is preferable. You can get extra knowledge form bathroom magazines or form bathroom designers. Otherwise you can plan your bathroom with our bathroom planner software at Purebathrooms.net.
3.Plan your bathroom according to the user:
Before designing your bathroom you keep in mind about the users i.e. for whole family with children or personal.
4.Colour of Bathroom:
White is the most suitable colour for bathrooms because it matches to everything and looks neat & clean. Consider your bathroom accessories to be white.
5.Decorating walls :
Choose tile paints or a fresh colour for the walls of the bathrooms. You may paper the wall with borders or you can add windows and bathroom screens. Decorate walls at your own choice using various styles. Keep the bathroom doors in proper position.
6.Use Cabinets and mirrors:
Cabinets are very useful for storing the bathroom cosmetics, towels and other accessories. Choose a cabinet that of matching colour and size for the bathroom. Mirrors are the most essential thing in bathroom. So use well-designed and attractive mirrors.
7.Use Bath Tubs & Showers:
Bath tubs and showers adds a new look to your bathrooms. If possible use shower enclosures which prevents bathroom from wet.
8. Use Bath Sinks, Taps and Toilets:
Bath sinks and toilets are available of many colour, styles and designs. There must be faucets on the sinks, tubs, showers and toilets which act as a jewelry for your bathrooms. Stylish taps of various ranges give your bathroom a better look.
9.Flooring:
Flooring should be hygienic and safety. You may choose tiles, ceramics, marbles granites etc according to your budget. You can also use heat coils to keep your bathroom floor warm in winter.
10.Lightening:
Light your bathroom with very cool dim lights. Other wise you can choose colorful lights which suits your bathroom. The positions of light must be on top position of the bathroom.
While designing your bathroom keep yourself cool, be patients and implement the above tips. Now you will get unbelievable result as a luxurious modern bathroom. For Further details Visit: www.purebathrooms.net
To keep ourselves updating we make frequent changes in our surroundings like home, office, dress, car etc. When one thinks to make some changes in home the first room that comes to our mind is bathroom. The only reason I think that bathroom is the frequently visited private place and a relaxing area free from all stresses of life, hence we plan it to design. You can only design your bathroom if you are highly creative, talented and willing to spend money for pleasure. Here are top 10 informative tips for designing a better bathroom:
1.Set a budget for designing Bathroom:
After setting a budget you can choose the style of bathroom as modern, contemporary or traditional.
2.Set the Area for bathroom:
Rectangular or square bathroom is preferable. You can get extra knowledge form bathroom magazines or form bathroom designers. Otherwise you can plan your bathroom with our bathroom planner software at Purebathrooms.net.
3.Plan your bathroom according to the user:
Before designing your bathroom you keep in mind about the users i.e. for whole family with children or personal.
4.Colour of Bathroom:
White is the most suitable colour for bathrooms because it matches to everything and looks neat & clean. Consider your bathroom accessories to be white.
5.Decorating walls :
Choose tile paints or a fresh colour for the walls of the bathrooms. You may paper the wall with borders or you can add windows and bathroom screens. Decorate walls at your own choice using various styles. Keep the bathroom doors in proper position.
6.Use Cabinets and mirrors:
Cabinets are very useful for storing the bathroom cosmetics, towels and other accessories. Choose a cabinet that of matching colour and size for the bathroom. Mirrors are the most essential thing in bathroom. So use well-designed and attractive mirrors.
7.Use Bath Tubs & Showers:
Bath tubs and showers adds a new look to your bathrooms. If possible use shower enclosures which prevents bathroom from wet.
8. Use Bath Sinks, Taps and Toilets:
Bath sinks and toilets are available of many colour, styles and designs. There must be faucets on the sinks, tubs, showers and toilets which act as a jewelry for your bathrooms. Stylish taps of various ranges give your bathroom a better look.
9.Flooring:
Flooring should be hygienic and safety. You may choose tiles, ceramics, marbles granites etc according to your budget. You can also use heat coils to keep your bathroom floor warm in winter.
10.Lightening:
Light your bathroom with very cool dim lights. Other wise you can choose colorful lights which suits your bathroom. The positions of light must be on top position of the bathroom.
While designing your bathroom keep yourself cool, be patients and implement the above tips. Now you will get unbelievable result as a luxurious modern bathroom. For Further details Visit: www.purebathrooms.net
2008年1月4日星期五
Home Decor Halloween Arts and Crafts That Are Fun to Make
Wouldn't it be great to create your own Halloween arts and crafts and transform your home into one big fun haunted house on Halloween? Your kids will absolutely love this idea. All you need is a theme, some accessories, appropriate lighting and sound effects.
Cemetery Halloween Arts and Crafts Theme
For this Halloween arts and crafts theme, think of coffins, bones, stone hedges, and dead bodies.
Use a cardboard box for your very own coffin! Also get a large-size cardboard piece and cut out the shape of a coffin for the opening/cover. Paint a red or white cross over the top of the coffin.
You can imitate the sound of stepping over a mass of bones by drying bread in the oven and placing them under an area rug.
Cut out stone hedges out of Styrofoam, paint them gray, and write R.I.P. over them with a marker. You can also write your names or guest's names for that spooky feeling.
Make body parts by stuffing rubber/latex gloves with cotton and painting the opening red for that bloody effect.
Add a unique touch to your decor by filling goblets with blood and displaying them in hallways and your dining area! This will enhance that vampire-in-coffin feel. You can purchase clear plastic goblets and have fun mixing red food coloring. Make the blood thicker by adding cornstarch to the mixture.
Pumpkin Yard Halloween Arts And Crafts Theme
If you want a really chilling yet unique Halloween arts and crafts pumpkin theme, you don't always have to use real pumpkins. Use other fruits such as green bell peppers and mandarins and place tea candles in them to create scary faces.
Spreading dried leaves and fake cobwebs along the hallway and on the tables will also add a forlorn look to the whole place. Hang sticks in your porch. Place plastic spiders, rats and eyeballs within the mass of dead leaves and sticks.
A scary scarecrow would be another Halloween arts and crafts idea you can add to your pumpkin yard. Hang an old, dusty shirt over a clothes hanger. Staple the bottom part of the shirt and stuff it with hay or dead grass. Use dead branches for the arms. Then, use a witch's hat for the covered scarecrow head. Punch a hole in the hat where the hook of the hanger can go through. Hang the body over windows, doors or cabinet handles.
You can use cotton for cobwebs and you can spread it all over the place for each theme. You can also use washable paint on your windows-you can either use spooking green all over or apply splashes of red for "blood".
For lighting, replace your white bulbs with black, orange or red ones. You can also cover lamps with colored cloth or netting for eerie shadows.
You can play scary background sounds which you can easily get and download from the internet. Choose sounds of creaking doors, howling wolves, screaming, and ghosts.
Decorating your home with Halloween arts and crafts is as easy as choosing a theme, adding basic Halloween props, altering your lighting and downloading music over the Internet. Just try to be creative and have fun while decorating!
Cemetery Halloween Arts and Crafts Theme
For this Halloween arts and crafts theme, think of coffins, bones, stone hedges, and dead bodies.
Use a cardboard box for your very own coffin! Also get a large-size cardboard piece and cut out the shape of a coffin for the opening/cover. Paint a red or white cross over the top of the coffin.
You can imitate the sound of stepping over a mass of bones by drying bread in the oven and placing them under an area rug.
Cut out stone hedges out of Styrofoam, paint them gray, and write R.I.P. over them with a marker. You can also write your names or guest's names for that spooky feeling.
Make body parts by stuffing rubber/latex gloves with cotton and painting the opening red for that bloody effect.
Add a unique touch to your decor by filling goblets with blood and displaying them in hallways and your dining area! This will enhance that vampire-in-coffin feel. You can purchase clear plastic goblets and have fun mixing red food coloring. Make the blood thicker by adding cornstarch to the mixture.
Pumpkin Yard Halloween Arts And Crafts Theme
If you want a really chilling yet unique Halloween arts and crafts pumpkin theme, you don't always have to use real pumpkins. Use other fruits such as green bell peppers and mandarins and place tea candles in them to create scary faces.
Spreading dried leaves and fake cobwebs along the hallway and on the tables will also add a forlorn look to the whole place. Hang sticks in your porch. Place plastic spiders, rats and eyeballs within the mass of dead leaves and sticks.
A scary scarecrow would be another Halloween arts and crafts idea you can add to your pumpkin yard. Hang an old, dusty shirt over a clothes hanger. Staple the bottom part of the shirt and stuff it with hay or dead grass. Use dead branches for the arms. Then, use a witch's hat for the covered scarecrow head. Punch a hole in the hat where the hook of the hanger can go through. Hang the body over windows, doors or cabinet handles.
You can use cotton for cobwebs and you can spread it all over the place for each theme. You can also use washable paint on your windows-you can either use spooking green all over or apply splashes of red for "blood".
For lighting, replace your white bulbs with black, orange or red ones. You can also cover lamps with colored cloth or netting for eerie shadows.
You can play scary background sounds which you can easily get and download from the internet. Choose sounds of creaking doors, howling wolves, screaming, and ghosts.
Decorating your home with Halloween arts and crafts is as easy as choosing a theme, adding basic Halloween props, altering your lighting and downloading music over the Internet. Just try to be creative and have fun while decorating!
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