<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<!-- generator="wordpress/2.3.3" -->
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Flower Garden Care</title>
	<link>http://www.itsc2007.org</link>
	<description></description>
	<pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:40:25 +0000</pubDate>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=2.3.3</generator>
	<language>en</language>
			<item>
		<title>Add a Fountain Bird Bath to Your Garden and Attract More Backyard Birds</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/365/add-a-fountain-bird-bath-to-your-garden-and-attract-more-backyard-birds/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/365/add-a-fountain-bird-bath-to-your-garden-and-attract-more-backyard-birds/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>leedobbins</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A fountain bird bath is a great way for both you and your backyard birds have more fun out in your yard. Not only will also add a wonderful ambience to your garden along with the soothing sounds of trickling water, but it will also attract a huge variety of different species of wild birds.
In [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A fountain bird bath is a great way for both you and your backyard birds have more fun out in your yard. Not only will also add a wonderful ambience to your garden along with the soothing sounds of trickling water, but it will also attract a huge variety of different species of wild birds.</p>
<p>In fact, birds cannot resist the trickling water that can be found in these types of bird baths. And there is nothing more fascinating on a hot summer day and watching birds frolic under the water of your phone while they enjoy a refreshing bath.</p>
<p>There are a few things you want to look out for when buying a fountain bird bath. First of all, you might want to opt for a solar powered one so that you don&#8217;t have to worry about where to plug in. However if you do get one that needs electricity you want to be sure that you have a source close by.</p>
<p>Another thing to consider is the depth of the birdbath bowl. Don&rsquo;t get one that&#8217;s too deep because birds prefer shallow bowl and will actually avoid one that is deeper than 3 inches. That being said, if you do find one that you fall in love with and it is deeper than that , you can always fill it up with little stones or pebbles to make it shallower.</p>
<p>The other thing, is that you want the surface of the birdbath to be little bit gritty so the birds can grip it and get a good purchase on the edges.</p>
<p>Finally, you want to choose one that enhances your garden.  If you have a big traditional garden, you might want to pick a tiered fountain bath but if your garden is small, you can by smaller bird baths that attract birds just as well but don&rsquo;t overwhelm your garden.  Choosing a fountain that goes with the landscaping will help to make it look like it belongs right in your yard.</p>
<p>Of course, the location that you install the birdbath is critical because you wanted to be a place where birds feel safe and comfortable so that they can let their guard down and really have fun in the bath! Make sure it is in a somewhat sheltered spot where other animals can&#8217;t sneak up on them.</p>
<p>Once you have your bird bath installed and working properly, you want to be sure that you keep it clean. Cleaning out at least once a week is imperative that you might want to clean it every day during summer. You wouldn&#8217;t want to be that dirty water and neither do your birds. Keeping it free of mold and algae will help ensure that it is a safe environment for your feathered backyard friends.</p>
<p>If you situate your fountain bird bath in the right place and keep the water clean, you will find that it soon attracts a huge variety of wild birds.  You may see birds that you have never seen in your yard before as most species love a good bath.  Not only will your birds appreciate the bird bath, but you and your family will enjoy their antics all year long.</p>
<p>If you want to learn more about <a href="http://birdbathbuys.com/fountain-bird-bath">choosing a fountain bird bath</a> as well as see a great variety of bird baths, all you have to do is <a href="http://birdbathbuys.com">click here</a>!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/365/add-a-fountain-bird-bath-to-your-garden-and-attract-more-backyard-birds/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Houston Storm Drainage</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/364/houston-storm-drainage/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/364/houston-storm-drainage/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>JeffHalper</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Storm Drainage
We are barely into the 21st century and already the Houston area has dealt with Tropical Storm Allison and Hurricane Ike&#8212;not to mention other countless, nameless storms. This reality means that a Houston landscape design pretty much demands a well-thought-out storm drainage system. Like irrigation systems, a storm drainage system is an unsung hero [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Storm Drainage</p>
<p>We are barely into the 21st century and already the Houston area has dealt with Tropical Storm Allison and Hurricane Ike&mdash;not to mention other countless, nameless storms. This reality means that a Houston landscape design pretty much demands a well-thought-out storm drainage system. Like irrigation systems, a storm drainage system is an unsung hero of your property. Both systems help your landscape flourish, come rain or shine.</p>
<p>Expertise Required</p>
<p>In addition to the antics of Mother Nature, storm drainage issues are very serious in Houston due to our flat topography, dense clay soils, and heavy forested lots compacted by years of construction that have increased impervious surfaces. These factors have caused more streets and homes to become flooded during the heaviest rainfalls. Consequently, local ordinances are beginning to follow the model used by the Memorial Villages that require minimum pipe sizes, flow rates, temporary drainage systems, engineered drainage plans, calculations, topographic maps, and as/built plans.</p>
<p>&ldquo;If drainage contractors embark on a drainage project without a thorough understanding of these demands, homeowners may find themselves drowning in a big mess that can cost thousands to rectify,&rdquo; says Jeff Halper with Exterior Worlds.</p>
<p>Storm Drainage: Parts and Pieces</p>
<p>&bull; Gutter downspout tie-ins. Downspout tie-ins are designed to take water from the gutters to the landscape drainage system. These connections are made of plastic, metal or brass and sometimes have a side cleanout with a see-through grate so they can be easily inspected for clogs.</p>
<p>&bull; Catch basins, or yard drains. Catch basins can be placed under downspouts when it is undesirable or not possible to tie into the gutter. They tie into a PVC main drain line instead and carry water out through the landscape drainage system. Catch basins are usually a plastic or concrete box that uses a plastic or metal drain grate cover to filter out leaves and other waste debris.</p>
<p>&bull; Channel drains. These long narrow strip drains are used between main structures and paving or at the edge of a patio or deck.</p>
<p>&bull; French drainage. Designed to take water away from saturated soil, French drains are small ditches that are filled with undersized rocks or gravel.</p>
<p>&bull; Deck drains. Deck drains are installed in patios, decks and walkways so that water is either sloped toward drains or drained into the landscape beds. They have special drain covers, usually decorative, made of metal, brass or stone. Deck drains are smaller in size than catch basins and are only intended to drain patio surface areas.</p>
<p>When installing a yard drainage system, it is recommended to hand-dig trenches around trees to minimize damage to them. It is best to tunnel under tree roots by using compressed air. This tree preservation method exposes tree roots so they are not torn. Alternately, water can be used to dig deep trenches and expose roots, which also minimizes damage.</p>
<p>Storm Drainage: Affect on Other Systems</p>
<p>Drainage systems and irrigation systems can work in concert with each other. Landscape designers or landscape architects can develop a whole-system approach so that the nuts and bolts of both systems are hidden as much as possible. When that is not possible, the use of custom decorative drain gates can be used to reduce the negative visual impact. The design and location of the two systems should be seamless with the rest of the landscape design.</p>
<p>Storm drainage impacts residential landscape maintenance as well. Since it drains water from low-lying areas, it prevents standing water that can cause slippery surfaces, mosquito breeding grounds and drowned landscaping. A proper landscape drainage system is essential for the care of your lawn as it moves water off of your property in a timely manner, thus encouraging healthy grass and allowing your maintenance crew to perform their regular lawn service duties.</p>
<p>Jeff Halper is passionate for Landscaping and wants to share infomation about that passion. At <a href="http://www.exteriorworlds.com">Exterior Worlds</a> you can read more about <a href="http://www.exteriorworlds.com/Storm_Drainage_Houston.html">Houston Storm Drainage</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/364/houston-storm-drainage/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Care For Your Lawn - Tips on Watering</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/363/care-for-your-lawn-tips-on-watering/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/363/care-for-your-lawn-tips-on-watering/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>JanetAshby</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Watering requirements for your lawn will depend on a lot of different factors and will vary considerably from lawn to lawn and area to area. In general, in the hot summer months, lawn made from bluegrass or ryegrass will need about 2 ¼ inches of water every week. less in cooler weather. If your lawn [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Watering requirements for your lawn will depend on a lot of different factors and will vary considerably from lawn to lawn and area to area. In general, in the hot summer months, lawn made from bluegrass or ryegrass will need about 2 ¼ inches of water every week. less in cooler weather. If your lawn is made from fescues less frequent watering is needed as this type of grass has a deeper root system and can store more moisture between waterings. Buffalograss and blue grama grass also require less watering and can often stay green for weeks between watering even in the hottest summer months.</p>
<p>If your lawn is protected from the wind or is shaded it will also require less watering than a more exposed lawn. However large trees and mature bushes and shrubs compete with the grass for any available water so lawns surrounded by these may require more water. A healthy, well fertilised lawn also needs less frequent watering than a neglected lawn.</p>
<p>Applying Water</p>
<p>Before watering it is a good idea to find out how deep the roots go as this is the depth you need moisture to penetrate. Take a soil probe, stick or a shovel and check out the root depth. The first time you water check the depth that the water has penetrated and the time this took and use this as a guide to the length of time needed to apply water in the future. The type of soil will influence how long and how much water it takes to sufficiently penetrate the soil. A heavy clay soil will be harder to penetrate than a light sandy soil. Take care not to over water which is especially easy for a sandy soil.</p>
<p>How Often To Water</p>
<p>The frequency of watering is again dependent on the soil type. Heavy clay soils retain water much more efficiently than light sandy soils and need much less frequent watering. It is better to use less frequent watering where possible as evaporation wastage is less and this also helps to discourage weeds.</p>
<p>Water is best applied slowly to prevent wastage by run off, particularly on clay soils or heavily thatched lawns. using a sprinkler is an efficient way to water, easier to do and the sprinkler can easily be moved to different areas. Water is absorbed better by the soil and roots and run off is minimal. run off can also be minimised by aerating the soil. particularly if it is heavy clay, and reducing thatch by raking.</p>
<p>When to Water</p>
<p>The lawn will take on a wilted appearance and may look gray or purplish blue when watering is needed. Another way to tell is if footprints stay instead of the grass springing back up fairly quickly. Small areas of wilting often develop and these can help you predict when watering is needed. If you see spots develop do a spot water and expect to water the whole lawn in the next two days.</p>
<p>Deep irrigation and less frequent watering can &#8216;harden&#8217; a lawn so that it stands up to short periods without water more easily. However even for a hardened lawn don not allow it to go too long between watering as this may make it more susceptible to diseases and weeds.</p>
<p>Watering in the fall or winter may still be necessary but will, of course, be needed much less frequently than in the summer. Provided the ground is not frozen a good interval between watering is about four weeks. Take special note of lawns on shallow soil or those on exposed south or west facing slopes as these may require more frequent watering.</p>
<p>The Time of Day</p>
<p>Watering in the late evening or early morning is ideal as it tends to be less windy and more humid at these times so loss due to evaporation will be less. It is often thought, incorrectly, that watering in the evening encourages diseases. You should also find out if there are any by-laws in your area that restrict the use of hose pipes or sprinklers to certain times of the day.</p>
<p>For more information to help you <a href="http://lawn-mower-reviews.net/category/lawn-mower-reviews-articles/">Care for Your Lawn</a> and help in choosing a new lawn mower visit <a href="http://lawn-mower-reviews.net">Lawn Mower Reviews</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/363/care-for-your-lawn-tips-on-watering/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Growing Mexican Sunflowers</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/362/growing-mexican-sunflowers/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/362/growing-mexican-sunflowers/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RyanJ</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Everyone knows intuitively what a &#8220;normal&#8221; sunflower looks like. Tall and bright, they take on an almost majestic appearance by the time they&#8217;ve grown to full height. Mexican sunflowers are striking in the way they look, but many passersby would be surprised to discover that the plants are actually part of the sunflower line. They [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Everyone knows intuitively what a &#8220;normal&#8221; sunflower looks like. Tall and bright, they take on an almost majestic appearance by the time they&#8217;ve grown to full height. Mexican sunflowers are striking in the way they look, but many passersby would be surprised to discover that the plants are actually part of the sunflower line. They look different, they&#8217;re shorter, but they look no less regal than their taller brethren.</p>
<p>In this article, we&#8217;ll explore growing Mexican sunflowers (it&#8217;s scientific name is Tithonia rotundifolia). I&#8217;ll describe some of the traits that are exclusive to the breed as well as how to plant and care for them to encourage the best crop.</p>
<p>Their Appearance</p>
<p>They typically grow to a full height of only 5 feet. Some varieties have been known to reach 8 feet while others only reach 2 or 3. In most cases, the plant is relatively short when compared to a regular sunflower at twice the height. One of the reasons why people don&#8217;t realize that they&#8217;re part of the same breed is because they look completely different. Tithonia have heads that are only a few inches in diameter and they boast a deep orange-red color. Through cross-breeding, some varieties have been grown with yellow heads, though most growers prefer the distinctly sharp orange or vibrant red.</p>
<p>The leaves of the Mexican sunflower are usually coarse and reach a length between 6 and 8 inches. They&#8217;re green, shaped like a spade, and have a noticeable fuzz across their surface.</p>
<p>Traits Of The Breed</p>
<p>Tithonia love the sun and grow quickly under full exposure. They have 2 flowering seasons: one in the summer (from July to the middle of September) and one during the fall (from October through the end of November). When grown to harvest, they&#8217;ll only yield approximately 50 seeds, a tiny amount compared to the several hundred seeds produced by a regular sunflower. Most gardeners who grow them do so for their appearance rather than their seed yield.</p>
<p>How To Plant Them</p>
<p>Most varieties of Tithonia are extremely easy to grow as long as they have direct, plentiful access to sunlight. They&#8217;ll develop well in fertile soil that has been drained properly, but can also thrive in sites that haven&#8217;t been drained or offer less fertility. Like regular sunflowers, they&#8217;re resilient. That said, they should be planted after the last trace of frost has disappeared; while the plant can withstand arid or dry climates well, it can&#8217;t tolerate frost.</p>
<p>Also, it&#8217;s important to note that Tithonia are soil scavengers. Because they tend to scavenge the nutrients within the soil and grow outward, they should be planted approximately 3 feet apart. That will prevent them from cannibalizing the site.</p>
<p>How To Care For Them</p>
<p>Mexican sunflowers need plenty of water when they&#8217;re grown in extremely dry climates. However, take care not to drown them. They absorb water well and don&#8217;t need a constant supply. When you first plant them, you should water them daily. After a week, watering them every other day is sufficient. Also, consider using a compost or fertilizer mix, especially if the site in which they&#8217;re planted isn&#8217;t particularly fertile.</p>
<p>You may also want to mulch the soil around each plant and stake them once they&#8217;ve reached nearly a foot in height.</p>
<p>A Dazzling Display</p>
<p>Because this variety has such a vibrant color, it makes an ideal ornamental plant. When used within an outside garden, only a few are necessary to have a noticeable impact. When used in a bouquet of flowers, 1 or 2 heads in the middle can have an unparalleled intensity. Inside or out, in gardens or bouquets, Tithonia captures attention and makes an unforgettable impression.</p>
<p>This sunflower information is brought to you by The Sunflower Guy, the best way to send <a href="http://www.sunflowerguy.com">sunflowers</a> anywhere.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/362/growing-mexican-sunflowers/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>An Overview of Sunflower Diseases</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/361/an-overview-of-sunflower-diseases/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/361/an-overview-of-sunflower-diseases/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RyanJ</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Sunflowers have always been the target of disease. Even though some of them are most dominant in certain locations in the U.S., others manifest wherever the crop is grown. For example, head rot is prevalent throughout California, but downy mildew can be found on crops harvested across the entire country. Over the past few decades, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Sunflowers have always been the target of disease. Even though some of them are most dominant in certain locations in the U.S., others manifest wherever the crop is grown. For example, head rot is prevalent throughout California, but downy mildew can be found on crops harvested across the entire country. Over the past few decades, more than 30 diseases have been found on crops (though most of them either won&#8217;t cause severe damage or can be controlled easily). Below, we&#8217;ll explore a few of the most important diseases and the type of damage they usually cause.</p>
<p>Rust</p>
<p>Rust is a constant thorn in the side of commercial growers because it evolves, making it difficult (though, not impossible) to cultivate resistant hybrids. It&#8217;s caused by a fungus called Puccinia helianthi and shows up on sunflower planted throughout the U.S. In mild cases, you&#8217;ll notice auburn-colored spots showing up on the leaves and stems. When an infestation has occurred, rust can show up on the backs of the heads.</p>
<p>The damage caused by rust can be substantial. It can lead to reduced seed count, smaller seed size, and less oil content. The most effective way to prevent an infestation is to plant resistant breeds, though again, it&#8217;s hard to keep up with the fungi&#8217;s evolution. Also, it&#8217;s worth noting that some types of fertilizer can make the problem even worse.</p>
<p>Downy Mildew</p>
<p>Another disease that affects sunflower crops nationwide is downy mildew. It&#8217;s usually found in places where the soil is either water-logged or has a significant amount of clay. For years, professional growers were able to use resistant breeds to keep it at bay. However, new strains of the parent fungus (Plasmopara halstedii) have caused growers to revisit their methods. Most hybrids that are used commercially can resist a couple of different strains of downy mildew. However, 9 strains have been identified in the U.S.</p>
<p>This fungus often takes hold at the seedling stage. When that happens, it stunts the growth of the crop and causes the heads to face skyward (as opposed to nodding late in the growth cycle). If the infection spreads across the entire crop, it can have a significant impact on seed yield.</p>
<p>Spots</p>
<p>Spots can appear on the stems and leaves of sunflowers due to 2 different fungi: Alternaria helianthi and Alternaria zinniae. They&#8217;re dark brown and can gain control quickly during the flowering stages. The infection is mostly seen in crops that are grown in the Northern states and is associated with high humidity and warm temperatures. If you plant sunflowers in soil that is already infected, there&#8217;s a good chance you&#8217;ll see spots during the early growth stages.</p>
<p>There are a couple of fungicides that can be used on crops to prevent an infestation. But, most growers prefer to use crop rotation methods. When they notice sunflowers that are infected with spots, they&#8217;ll typically bury them, so they&#8217;ll decompose quickly.</p>
<p>Disease Management</p>
<p>The strategies that are used to manage the onset and spread of diseases vary by grower. Some use fungicides and seed treatments. Others rotate crops. Most professional growers make use of hybrids that are resistant to specific infections. That said, there&#8217;s an ongoing challenge to develop resistance to new strains of the most prevalent fungi. In all cases, it&#8217;s important to limit the rotation of sunflowers in the same soil to at least 4 years. Not only does that help minimize the spread of diseases throughout the crops, but it also helps increase yield and soil productivity.</p>
<p>This sunflower information is brought to you by The Sunflower Guy, the best way to send <a href="http://www.sunflowerguy.com">sunflowers</a> anywhere.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/361/an-overview-of-sunflower-diseases/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>4 Tips For Drying Sunflowers</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/360/4-tips-for-drying-sunflowers/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/360/4-tips-for-drying-sunflowers/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RyanJ</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Your drying strategy will depend on whether you&#8217;re growing sunflowers for crop yield or in a personal garden. Today, we&#8217;ll focus on a large harvest. The time required to dry the crop is going to be influenced by the moisture content, temperature of the drying room, and the humidity to which your harvest is exposed. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Your drying strategy will depend on whether you&#8217;re growing sunflowers for crop yield or in a personal garden. Today, we&#8217;ll focus on a large harvest. The time required to dry the crop is going to be influenced by the moisture content, temperature of the drying room, and the humidity to which your harvest is exposed. Variances in any of these factors will change the dry rate. For example, raising the temperature a few degrees will cause the moisture level of your sunflowers to decline, thereby shortening the time needed to dry them. Below, I&#8217;ll provide a few helpful tips that you can use when drying your next crop.</p>
<p>#1 - Use A Moisture Meter</p>
<p>You&#8217;ll need to invest in a reliable moisture meter. If you&#8217;re a hobby grower, you won&#8217;t need one. But, assuming you&#8217;re harvesting a large crop, a meter is essential for measuring the level of moisture contained in the seeds. It&#8217;s only by taking this measurement that you&#8217;ll be able to accurately judge the approximate drying period. If you&#8217;re already an experienced grower, you&#8217;ll probably already own one. If not, plan on spending $200 or more.</p>
<p>#2 - Don&#8217;t Overcompensate</p>
<p>If you grow other crops that need to be dried (for example, corn and grain varieties), take care not to over-dry your sunflowers. Compared with a lot of other crops, lower quantities of moisture need to be removed from them. At any given temperature, it&#8217;s easy to overdo it. If you&#8217;ve harvested your crop early to prevent bird and disease damage, they&#8217;re going to have a higher moisture content and require more time to dry. Even so, keep a close eye on the dryer and take several moisture measurements with the meter.</p>
<p>#3 - Watch For Fires</p>
<p>Sunflowers always present the potential for a fire if you&#8217;re using a dryer with an open flame. The reason is due to the fibers. The seeds have fine hairs and fibers that invariably rub loose when you&#8217;re handling the crop. When they get caught in the flame, they ignite in the burner. If the hairs and fibers are consumed by the flame before touching the rest of the harvest, there&#8217;s no chance that a fire will spread. The best way to manage the risk is to place fans that blow across the sunflowers, away from your dryer. That way, the fibers are pushed in the opposite direction of the burner.</p>
<p>#4 - Maintain Consistency</p>
<p>A common mistake made by both new and experienced growers is to neglect drying consistency. If you&#8217;ve harvested a relatively small crop, this won&#8217;t be much of an issue. However, larger crops are susceptible to &#8220;patch drying&#8221; where certain areas of the facility receive more exposure to air flow than others. When that happens, you&#8217;ll find that some of your sunflowers will be dried out while others retain too much moisture. Make sure that the fans and blowers you&#8217;ve set up deliver a consistent flow across the entire facility.</p>
<p>Confluence Of Small Factors</p>
<p>There aren&#8217;t any secrets to drying sunflowers. It&#8217;s mostly a matter of applying a number of smart tactics and adhering to common safety measures. By using a moisture meter and taking steps to prevent overdrying, you&#8217;ll enjoy a higher yield. And by setting up fans in the right positions (blowing away from your dryer&#8217;s open flame), you can reduce the always-present risk of fire. Finally, apply a consistent flow of air. If you do those 4 things, you&#8217;ll have a higher yield with better quality.</p>
<p>This sunflower information is brought to you by The Sunflower Guy, the best way to send <a href="http://www.sunflowerguy.com">sunflowers</a> anywhere.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/360/4-tips-for-drying-sunflowers/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Memorial Landscaping Services</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/359/memorial-landscaping-services/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/359/memorial-landscaping-services/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>JeffHalper</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In large city like Houston it can be challenging to find landscape companies that deliver all-inclusive landscape solutions. Since 1987 we have been serving the Memorial Villages, installing landscape projects and providing landscape maintenance in Bunker Hill Village, Hedwig Village, Piney Point Village, Hunters Creek Village were discriminating clients have impeccable taste. Our solution has [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In large city like Houston it can be challenging to find landscape companies that deliver all-inclusive landscape solutions. Since 1987 we have been serving the Memorial Villages, installing landscape projects and providing landscape maintenance in Bunker Hill Village, Hedwig Village, Piney Point Village, Hunters Creek Village were discriminating clients have impeccable taste. Our solution has been a 20 year customer service commitment, delivering creative quality work with experienced landscape contractors that have integrity. We are centrally located minutes from the Memorial Villages, I-10 and 610 loop so we are able to reach and support memorial landscaping projects in minutes. This location also allows us to service clients in the more remote Houston suburbs such as Sugarland, Woodlands, Clear Lake, Carlton Woods, Kingwood and Richmond Rosenburg in an hour or less.</p>
<p>Knowledge of Local Codes and Permitting</p>
<p>For landscape design to be truly effective a firm must have an eye for design as well as complete knowledge of local codes and permitting. Due to our constant presence and flow of projects in Piney Point Village, Bunker Hill Village, Hunters Creek Village and Hedwig Village; Exterior Worlds stays update on these frequently changing codes, rules and procedures to make your project go smoothly. If you are expanding an existing home or building a new home you will need to consider permitting requirements for lot coverage percentages, tree removal codes, replacement quotes, storm water drainage, pool regulations, landscape lighting codes, fence and gate codes. Memorial landscaping companies unfamiliar with these permitting procedures can bring your construction to an abrupt halt. If the proper regulations and procedures aren&rsquo;t followed you can be sure to see back charges, fines for reinstalling elements, changing parts and pieces because they didn&rsquo;t comply with codes and exposing infrastructure for inspections.</p>
<p>Memorial Landscaping and Drainage</p>
<p>The villages have begun to take memorial drainage systems VERY seriously due to the flat topography, dense clay soils, and heavy forested lots compacted by years of construction that have increased impervious surfaces. These factors have cause more streets and homes to become flooded during the heaviest of rainfalls. Consequently, the Memorial Villages have started to require minimum pipe sizes, flow rates, temporary drainage systems, engineered drainage plans, calculations, topographic maps and as/built plans. If a landscape company embarks on a project without a thorough understanding of these demands the homeowner may find themselves with a big mess that can cost thousands to rectify.</p>
<p>Contractor Relationships with Experienced Memorial landscaping companies</p>
<p>Exterior Worlds has formed solid partnerships with top artisans and contractors throughout the city of Houston and the gulf coast region. Long-term working relationships create a smooth construction process were scheduling, creativity, problem solving, and proven construction standards manifest themselves as a cohesive progression of the construction process. The result of these synergic partnerships is evident in the final creative details, nuances and delivery of a personal touch which discriminating clientele demand. These results simply cannot be achieved by less experienced landscape companies.</p>
<p>Sourcing, New Technologies, Old materials</p>
<p>Knowledge, experience and relationships working with the best sources of Houston landscaping materials, plants, stone, European tile, antique pottery and planters, is a requirement for all designers at Exterior Worlds. Few of our competitors hold themselves to such a standard, as they find it more cost-effective to use sub pare materials to increase profits. Lowering material standards seldom brings the client the expected level of benefit.</p>
<p>Jeff Halper is passionate for Landscaping and wants to share infomation about that passion. At <a href="http://www.exteriorworlds.com">Exterior Worlds</a> you can read more about <a href="http://www.exteriorworlds.com/Memorial-Landscaping.html">Memorial Landscaping Services</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/359/memorial-landscaping-services/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Houston Patio Design, Harscape Design, Harscape Contractors</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/358/houston-patio-design-harscape-design-harscape-contractors/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/358/houston-patio-design-harscape-design-harscape-contractors/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>JeffHalper</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A patio is a transition space between the house and the yard. Depending on your preference, your patio design can run the gamut from an elegant open-air greenhouse to an outdoor living room. Regardless, a patio expands the living space of the house and creates a focal point out the window. By adding a personal [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A patio is a transition space between the house and the yard. Depending on your preference, your patio design can run the gamut from an elegant open-air greenhouse to an outdoor living room. Regardless, a patio expands the living space of the house and creates a focal point out the window. By adding a personal touch to the overall property, your patio design affects the emotional and physical space by changing the view and showing your personal aesthetic.</p>
<p>Patios belong to the subset of landscape design called hardscapes&mdash;the non-plant material of your landscape design&mdash;that play a critical part of any garden landscape project. In general, when hardscapes are combined with green, growing plants, they create an outdoor living environment that invites you, your family and friends to come in, to sit and enjoy, to meander or explore. In this way, a patio is an extension of the home that is both functional and appealing to the senses.</p>
<p>Patio Design: The Beginning</p>
<p>These outdoor spaces come in many forms. The most common here in Houston is a concrete pad that is attached to the house. Things to consider while planning your patio design:</p>
<p>&bull; The existing view from your patio.<br />
<br />&bull; The weather.<br />
<br />&bull; Where the sun hits at different times of the year.<br />
<br />&bull; A focal point. The focal point will draw the eye to it and will be the highlight of your patio. If you have an odd spot in the layout and want to disguise it, a focal point such as a water feature or flower beds is an artful camouflage.</p>
<p>Popular structures on patios include arbors, loggias and pergolas, most often used to create a decorative entrance, frame a focal point or provide shelter from the elements. These architectural elements are attractive ways to make a strong statement and highlight a sense of something happening outside.</p>
<p>Patio Design: Hard Surfaces</p>
<p>For the flooring of your patio, there are many different types of materials. They include:</p>
<p>&bull; Concrete. A popular choice, concrete is durable, inexpensive and can be poured into a site-specific shape. It can be colored, stained or textured to create long-lasting beauty.</p>
<p>&bull; Pavers. A man-made brick that recalls old world charm, pavers can be installed to create intricate patterns, including cobblestone. Laid on sand or a concrete base, usually without mortared joints, they are environmentally friendly.</p>
<p>&bull; Stone. Types of stone used in hardscape construction include cut limestone, sandstone, quartzite and slate. These materials are available in cut pieces, like squares, rectangles or irregular pieces.</p>
<p>&bull; Cast stone. A masonry product that adds ornamental or functional features to buildings and other structures, cast stone gives the appearance of natural stones such as limestone, granite, slate, travertine or marble.</p>
<p>Patio Design: Other Elements</p>
<p>Garden pathways connect the patio to the rest of the landscape, thus finishing off the patio design. Paths direct the eye and create interest across the green expanse of a yard. They can be dressed up or dressed down, depending on the material used.</p>
<p>An important component of any hardscape project, a landscape drainage system should be taken seriously&mdash;especially with Houston&rsquo;s infamous torrential downpours. It makes the difference between having usable hard surfaces or dealing with seasonal small lakes and swamps. A skillful landscape designer or landscape architect can design patio drains in a way so that they are invisible or, at the very least, discrete. Drainage contractors can help as well.</p>
<p>Landscape lighting can bring your patio to life. It really ratchets up the impact of the space and turns your entire landscape into a 24-hour-a-day delight. Landscape lighting also serves as a security measure.</p>
<p>In selecting attributes and elements, remember to choose designs that complement the architecture of your house. You also want the designs to be reflective of your personality, so you can have maximum enjoyment of this personal and private space.</p>
<p>Jeff Halper is passionate for Landscaping and wants to share infomation about that passion. At <a href="http://www.exteriorworlds.com">Exterior Worlds</a> you can read more about <a href="http://www.exteriorworlds.com/Patio_Design.html">Patio Design</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/358/houston-patio-design-harscape-design-harscape-contractors/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>10 Must Have Garden Tools</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/357/10-must-have-garden-tools/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/357/10-must-have-garden-tools/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>JayGaulard</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For anyone interested in gardening, the thrill of getting your hands dirty, smelling the fresh dirt and watching your carefully nurtured plants grow from seeds into proper bushes that produce flowers or veggies is the most important draw.
Very few people who hate gardening actually make much progress with it, it seems to be one of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For anyone interested in gardening, the thrill of getting your hands dirty, smelling the fresh dirt and watching your carefully nurtured plants grow from seeds into proper bushes that produce flowers or veggies is the most important draw.</p>
<p>Very few people who hate gardening actually make much progress with it, it seems to be one of those things that you&#8217;ll do if you love it.</p>
<p>When gardening, it&#8217;s a good idea to have good quality tools on hand. These will make the entire process faster and easier and leave you more time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. There&#8217;s nothing so sweet as strawberries plucked fresh from the patch that you planted and nurtured yourself and the right tools will help you grow more than just one small patch.</p>
<p>Top Ten Gardening Tools</p>
<p>1. Automatic sprinklers. Good gardeners know that the best time to water the garden is before the sun comes up, since water droplets can magnify the sun and cause the plants to burn. But unless you are truly dedicated, chances are you won&#8217;t be getting up before the sun to stand out in the garden with a hose. The other option is to set up automated sprinklers that are set to go off at a certain time. This is also very handy for keeping the garden watered while you are away on vacation.</p>
<p>2. Gardening multi-Tool. Why carry ten different gardening tools when just one will do? A multi-tool is based on a military concept that combined pliers and a variety of other tools and blades into one tool. Likewise, a gardening multi-tool will include handy items like a saw, weed remover and wire cutters, among others, all tucked into the handle of a nice pruner. The whole thing is the size of a handheld trimmer and can be easily slipped into your belt, making those frequent trips back to the garden shed obsolete.</p>
<p>3. Garden stool. Most gardeners are familiar with those handy little kneepads that help keep your body from getting too stiff while in the position to weed, but not everyone is able to stay on their knees for extended periods of time. A simple garden stool lets you sit while you work and is low enough to the ground to provide easy access to weeds. Look for one that has wheels and you won&#8217;t even need to carry it from one vegetable patch to the next. Some stools also feature storage space under a lift-top which lets you store your tools, seeds and gloves all in one place.</p>
<p>4. Folding garden bucket. These handy buckets are ideal for working with in the garden or anywhere you need to be weeding and want somewhere to toss the weeds. This type of bucket is roomy, but lightweight and can simply be twisted and folded down to a light disc that takes up virtually no room in the gardening shed. They are usually made of sturdy fabric, so they can just be hosed down, which makes cleanup nice and simple.</p>
<p>5. Anti-pest decoys. These range from the familiar scarecrow, which rarely works anymore, to realistic owls that swivel their heads when sensing motion. No matter what your style of garden, there is a way to frighten off birds and other critters that would like to share in your harvest. If you aren&#8217;t interested in moving birds or metallic streamers that twirl in the wind to frighten off would-be raiders, then you can always opt for motion sensor sprinklers that are barely noticeable, yet have good results.</p>
<p>6. Non-kinking hose. The hose is one of the more basic gardening tools, but if you opt for cheap ones, they&#8217;ll be full of holes in no time, not to mention kinking up right when you need water the most. It&#8217;s well worth the money to invest in a non-kink hose. Not only will it never bend so sharply as to cut the flow of water off, these types of hoses tend to last far longer than regular plastic ones.</p>
<p>7. Ergonomic grips. There are so many different gardening tools on the market that it can be difficult to choose which trowel, rake or other small implement you should purchase. The best tools will have ergonomic grips on them, large, comfortable handles that won&#8217;t strain or irritate your hands when using them. Look for softer handles, as well, since unaccustomed use of wood can give blisters.</p>
<p>8. Aerator shoes. These aren&#8217;t really shoes, they are actually spiked plates that strap onto your gardening shoes. As you move about, weeding, planting and trimming, the spikes drive into the earth with each step and help aerate it. This is just another way to improve the health of your garden without any extra work, something busy gardeners will appreciate. .</p>
<p>9. Ph soil tester. While the average person might not care if their soil is acidic or not, this is just the sort of thing that will matter to the avid gardener. When you discover what the Ph of your soil is, you can adjust it to produce the best environment for your plants. In some cases, such as with hydrangea, the acidity of the soil actually determines the color of the flowers.</p>
<p>10. Good gardening gloves. Perhaps one of the most important gardening tools, gloves protect hands from things like blackberry or rose thorns. They also keep hands from becoming completely saturated in dirt or fish meal, neither of which is pleasant. Good gardening gloves will be soft enough to be comfortable, yet sturdy to allow for long term use. Most have small dots or other types of gripping paint on the palms to aid with friction.</p>
<p>By selecting the best gardening tools possible, you ensure that your time in the garden will be enjoyable. There&#8217;s nothing fun about working with difficult tools that make it hard to do even the simplest chores. Instead, invest in real tools and have a great time with your gardening.</p>
<p>This article was written on behalf of MyGardenMarket, a popular online <a href="http://www.mygardenmarket.us">gardening tools and supplies</a> website.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/357/10-must-have-garden-tools/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Starting a Home Garden</title>
		<link>http://www.itsc2007.org/356/starting-a-home-garden/</link>
		<comments>http://www.itsc2007.org/356/starting-a-home-garden/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 1999 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>CharissaBear</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false"></guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Having a garden is a great idea that is greatly advised to everyone. It provides a fun &#8211; filled way of spending one&#8217;s time. Not only that but it also a good method of helping the environment. Plants help in renewing the oxygen supply of the world as well as reduce the pollution in the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Having a garden is a great idea that is greatly advised to everyone. It provides a fun &ndash; filled way of spending one&rsquo;s time. Not only that but it also a good method of helping the environment. Plants help in renewing the oxygen supply of the world as well as reduce the pollution in the air. They not only provide beauty to our surroundings but they are also a good source of food and other important materials. All of these things are reasons why starting a home garden is recommended to all of us.</p>
<p>Planning the garden is the first thing that must be done by anyone who plans of having one. The type of garden must be considered as this is the basis of all the things that will be done with it. The gardener can choose between flowers, vegetables and fruits or he can make use of a combination of them. After choosing the type, he must now know the things that he will plant. For starters, plants that are easy to grow and nourish is the best thing to have. Other thing that must be considered in this area is the method of planning; when to start; and the location of the garden.</p>
<p>The next thing that must be done in when starting a garden is the familiarization of the different gardening tools and equipment. These highly &ndash; specialized tools are needed for all the processes that will be done in the garden. There are garden tools each for digging, cutting, watering and measuring. By knowing and having these tools, the aspiring gardener could make his work easier and faster.</p>
<p>Preparing the garden area should be next on the list. These include removing all weeds as this can compete with the plants for all their basic needs. Although removing them does not often results in a permanent effect, they must still be done in order to avoid many of the disadvantages that come with weeds. After that, the soil must then be turned over so as to soften it more effectively and efficiently. This can be easily done with the use of a shovel or a pick. This is to help the plant to grown easily since it a softer soil will make it easier for the plants to grow and spread their roots. Watering the soil first can also help in softening it before turning it over.</p>
<p>Planting can be done once the soil has been prepared well. For beginners, planting through seeds is not advised since it will take a longer time and a more delicate process. Instead, they should make use of seedlings which can be planted directly to the soil. These can be acquired and purchased from many garden shops and nurseries. After planting, the soil should be moistened around the plants so as to make the plant more secure and stable in the soil. This process is then repeated everyday until the plants are observed to have adjusted to their new environment. After new growths have appeared, fertilizers can now be added to the soil. This is to ensure that the plants will grow healthy and fat. All of these things must be considered by anyone who wants to be successful when starting a home garden on their own.</p>
<p>Need more tips about<a href="http://www.startingagarden.net"> starting a home garden</a>? We have topics on home gardening,<a href="http://www.startingagarden.net/organic-gardening.html">organic gardening</a>, container gardening, and more.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.itsc2007.org/356/starting-a-home-garden/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
