Published on: 27 June 2017
Last Updated on: 29 October 2024
If you’re unfamiliar with the spray drying process, you might be wondering what it’s used for and how exactly it works. Plus, you’ll learn about some applications you’re probably already using.
How does a spray dryer work?
A slurry is a mixture of liquid solution and other solid materials. Companies like Elan Technology use a spray dryer to produce dry, granular powders from this mixture. This is achieved by applying the spray dryer, which uses hot air coming from a rotating wheel or nozzle to rapidly dry the slurry.
Why is it used?
In simple terms, a spray dryer is used to turn a liquid into a powder. There is a multitude of applications for spray drying that stretch across many different industries. One application that you’ve definitely seen, heard of, and likely even used before is powdered milk products.
Milk is 80% to 90% water, which means spray drying is an effective way to reduce its bulk down and make it last longer on the shelf. Using spray drying for milk products allows milk to be taken to areas where it would otherwise be unreachable.
Spray drying is also used to make whey protein supplements and countless other products, along with instant coffee and corn starch.
Outside of the food industry, it is used in the manufacturing of soap products, detergents, fertilizer, resins, and mineral ores and clays.
Is it like dehydrating?
Spray drying is similar to the traditional dehydration process (usually used for solid foods) in that it applies hot air in order to remove the water from a substance. The liquid is rapidly dried out, producing a fine powder that will later likely return to a liquid when the end-user adds backwater (like with powdered milk).
How old is the process?
Spray drying is nothing new. And although still very prevalent today, the concept of it has remained unchanged for decades. It is a patented process and is traceable back to 1872. Samuel Percy is considered to be the inventor as he was the first to describe the process. However, it was 50 years before the process was fine-tuned and finally began being used in commercial manufacturing.
While it sounds simple, it does take a bit of science to get the perfect temperature to produce a usable end powder.
A certain amount of moisture has to be removed, or the powder will be clumpy due to some water being left over.
Spray drying is a very useful technique that is in place in countless industries. Without it, people would not be able to enjoy powdered milk, instant coffee, or many kinds of detergent—like the most common dishwasher and clothing detergent products.
Samuel may have been the first to invent the process, but thousands of companies use it today. While the machines have been upgraded to work faster and produce more product, the basic concept has remained the same, and thanks to 50 years prior to fine-tuning, it always will.
Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.
Sunflowers are not only beautiful and cheerful, but they also produce delicious and nutritious seeds that you can enjoy as a snack or use in various recipes. Harvesting sunflower seeds is a fun and easy activity that you can do with your whole family. It is also a great way to teach your kids about nature, gardening, and healthy eating.
In this article, I will show you how to harvest sunflower seeds in a few simple steps, as well as some tips and tricks to make the most of your sunflower harvest. If you enjoyed reading my blog on harvesting lettuce, you will enjoy reading this one!
So, if that is what you are interested in knowing, I have you covered! Keep reading this blog till the end to learn more…
How to Grow Sunflower Seeds: A Simple and Rewarding Gardening Project?
Sunflowers are one of the most iconic and cheerful flowers in the world. They are also one of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow from seeds.
Sunflowers can brighten up your garden, attract pollinators, provide shade, and produce edible seeds that you can harvest and enjoy.
In this part of the article, I will show you how to grow sunflower seeds in a few simple steps, as well as some tips and tricks to make the most of your sunflower growing experience.
How to Choose Sunflower Seeds?
The first step to growing sunflower seeds is to choose the right seeds for your garden. Sunflowers come in a wide range of sizes, colors, shapes, and types. Some of the most common types of sunflowers are:
Giant sunflowers
These are the tallest and largest sunflowers, reaching up to 15 feet in height and 12 inches in diameter. They produce huge and heavy flower heads that are filled with large and plump seeds. They are ideal for creating a dramatic and impressive display in your garden, as well as for harvesting large quantities of seeds. Some examples of giant sunflowers are Mammoth, Titan, and Kong.
Dwarf sunflowers
These are the smallest and shortest sunflowers, growing up to 3 feet in height and 6 inches in diameter. They produce smaller and lighter flower heads that are easier to manage and maintain. They are ideal for growing in containers, pots, or small spaces, as well as for adding a splash of color and charm to your garden. Some examples of dwarf sunflowers are Teddy Bear, Sunny Smile, and Little Becka.
Colored sunflowers
These are the most diverse and colorful sunflowers, ranging from yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, brown, and even green. They produce medium-sized flower heads that are attractive and eye-catching. They are ideal for creating a vibrant and varied display in your garden, as well as for cutting and arranging in bouquets or vases. Some examples of colored sunflowers are Autumn Beauty, Moulin Rouge, and Lemon Queen.
Things to Consider While Choosing Sunflower Seed
When choosing sunflower seeds, there are several things that you need to keep in mind. For instance, you should also consider the following factors:
Climate and season of your area
Sunflowers are warm-season plants that need full sun and warm temperatures to grow and bloom. They are best planted in late spring or early summer, after the last frost, when the soil is warm and moist. If you live in a cold or frost-prone area, you can start your seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors when the weather is favorable.
Soil and water conditions of your garden
Sunflowers are adaptable and tolerant plants that can grow in most types of soil, as long as they are well-drained and fertile. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. They also need regular watering, especially during the germination and flowering stages. However, they can withstand some drought and dryness once they are established.
Space and support available in your garden
Sunflowers are large and sturdy plants that need ample space and support to grow and thrive. They should be planted at least 2 to 3 feet apart from each other and from other plants, to avoid overcrowding and competition. They should also be staked or tied to a fence, a trellis, or a pole, to prevent them from bending or breaking under their own weight.
How to Plant Sunflower Seeds?
Once you have chosen your sunflower seeds, you can proceed to the next step. Planting sunflower seeds is a simple process that involves preparing, sowing, and caring for the seeds. Here is how to do it:
Prepare the Soil
Prepare the soil by loosening it with a fork or a spade. Ensure that you remove debris, weeds, or rocks. You can also enrich your soil by adding some compost, manure, or fertilizer, to boost its fertility and drainage. Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy, and has a temperature of at least 50°F.
Sow the Seeds
Sow the seeds by making holes or furrows in the soil, about 1 to 2 inches deep and 2 to 3 feet apart. You can use a ruler, a stick, or your finger to make the holes or furrows. Drop one or two seeds in each hole or furrow, and cover them lightly with soil. You can also sprinkle some water over the seeds to help them settle in the soil.
Nurture
Care for the seeds by watering them regularly, but not excessively, to keep the soil moist but not wet. You can also mulch the soil with straw, grass clippings, or leaves, to retain moisture and prevent weeds. You should also protect the seeds from birds, squirrels, or other animals, by covering them with a net, a cage, or a cloche. You should also thin the seedlings when they are about 4 to 6 inches tall, by removing the weaker or smaller ones, and leaving only the strongest and healthiest ones.
How to Grow Sunflower Seeds?
After planting your sunflower seeds, you can watch them grow and enjoy their beauty and bounty. Growing sunflower seeds is a rewarding and satisfying experience that requires minimal maintenance and care. Here are some tips and tricks to grow sunflower seeds successfully:
Water
Water your sunflowers regularly, but not excessively, to keep the soil moist but not wet. Sunflowers need about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, depending on the weather and the soil conditions. You can use a hose, a sprinkler, or a drip irrigation system to water your sunflowers. You should water them in the morning or evening, and avoid wetting the leaves or the flower heads, to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your sunflowers occasionally, but not excessively, to boost their growth and flowering. Sunflowers need a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, such as a 10-10-10 or a 20-20-20 formula. You can apply the fertilizer once or twice during the growing season, following the instructions on the label. You should avoid over-fertilizing your sunflowers, as this can cause them to grow too tall and weak, and make them prone to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Prune your sunflowers occasionally, but not excessively, to improve their shape and health. Sunflowers do not need much pruning, as they are naturally self-pruning and self-cleaning. However, you can prune them to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves, stems, or flowers, to prevent infection and improve air circulation. You can also prune them to control their height and spread, by pinching or cutting off the tips of the main stem or the side branches.
You should use clean and sharp scissors or pruners to prune your sunflowers and do it in the morning or evening when the plants are less stressed.
When to Harvest Sunflower Seeds?
The first step to harvesting sunflower seeds is to know when they are ready. Sunflowers typically bloom in the summer and their seeds mature in late summer or early fall. You can tell when your sunflowers are ready to harvest by looking at their appearance and feel. Here are some signs that your sunflowers are ready to harvest:
Petals have fallen off or turned brown.
The back of the flower head has turned yellow or brown.
Seeds have developed black and white stripes.
The seeds are plump and firm to the touch.
If you are not sure if your sunflowers are ready to harvest, you can do a simple test by rubbing your thumb over the seeds. If they come off easily, they are ready to harvest. If they are still attached to the flower head, they need more time to ripen.
How to Harvest Sunflower Seeds?
Once you have determined that your sunflowers are ready to harvest, you can proceed to the next step. Harvesting sunflower seeds is a simple process that involves cutting, drying, and storing the seeds. Here is how to do it:
Cut the flower heads from the stems using a sharp knife or scissors. Leave about 12 inches of stem attached to the flower head for easier handling.
Place the flower heads in a dry and well-ventilated area, such as a garage, shed, or porch. You can hang them upside down or lay them flat on a screen or rack. Make sure they are not touching each other to prevent mold and rot.
Let the flower heads dry for about two weeks or until the seeds are completely dry and hard. You can check the dryness by biting or cracking a seed. If it is crunchy and not moist, it is dry enough.
Remove the seeds from the flower heads by rubbing them gently with your hands or a soft brush. You can also use a fork or a spoon to scrape them off. Discard any debris, such as petals, leaves, or insects.
Store the seeds in an airtight container, such as a glass jar, a plastic bag, or a metal tin. Label the container with the date and the variety of sunflower. Keep the container in a cool and dark place, such as a pantry, a cupboard, or a basement.
How to Enjoy Sunflower Seeds?
Now that you have harvested your sunflower seeds, you can enjoy them in various ways. You can eat them raw or roasted, salted or unsalted, shelled or unshelled. You can also use them in salads, soups, breads, muffins, granola, trail mix, pesto, butter, and more.
Sunflower seeds are rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can help manage high cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation and boost your immune system, brain function, and mood. Here are some tips and tricks to enjoy your sunflower seeds:
Roast
To roast your sunflower seeds, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp. You can season them with salt, pepper, garlic, onion, paprika, cumin, or any other spices you like.
Shell
To shell your sunflower seeds, you can use your teeth, your fingers, or a nutcracker. You can also soak them in water for a few hours to make them easier to shell. To remove the shells, you can blow them away with a fan, a hair dryer, or your mouth, or you can shake them in a colander or a sieve.
Sunflower Seed Butter
To make sunflower seed butter, you need to blend the shelled and roasted sunflower seeds in a blender until it turns smooth and creamy. You can add a little oil, honey, salt, or vanilla to enhance the flavor and texture. You can use sunflower seed butter as a spread for toast, crackers, or fruit, or as a dip for pretzels, celery, or carrots.
Pesto
To make sunflower seed pesto, blend roasted and shelled sunflower seeds with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor or a blender until smooth and thick. You can use sunflower seed pesto as a sauce for pasta, pizza, or sandwiches, or as a dressing for salads or roasted vegetables.
Wrapping It Up!
Harvesting sunflower seeds is a fun and easy activity that you can do with your whole family. It is also a great way to enjoy the beauty and bounty of nature, as well as the health benefits of sunflower seeds. By following the steps and tips in this article, you know how to harvest sunflower seeds in a few simple steps, as well as enjoy them in various ways. I hope you found this article helpful and informative.
If there are any other queries related to the same, please feel free to let me know. All that yo need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. And I will be ether to answer them all for you!
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With organic fertilizers, you can make the earth stronger and healthier than any other method. They are good for the earth because they don't hurt it much and let plants grow naturally. This piece has a lot of information about how organic fertilizers can help soil stay healthy.
What Are Organic Fertilizers?
These natural materials from plants or animals help your plants grow better. They've got the good stuff like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that plants love. People like them because they're eco-friendly and don't harm the environment.
How Do Organic Fertilizers Work?
Organic fertilizers are natural plant nutrients that enrich the soil and provide essential elements for healthy plant growth. They release nutrients slowly, feeding plants over time and improving soil structure. This gradual release helps prevent nutrient runoff and ensures plants receive a balanced diet for optimal development.
One key advantage of organic fertilizers is their eco-friendly nature. Since they're made from organic matter, they promote soil health by fostering beneficial microorganisms and earthworms. These tiny soil allies aid in nutrient absorption, making it easier for plants to access the necessary nourishment.
Organic fertilizers also contribute to long-term soil fertility, reducing the need for frequent applications and potentially harmful chemicals.
Organic Fertilizers Vs. Chemical Fertilizers
They have a friendly, Earth-loving vibe. In contrast, chemical fertilizers are made in a lab, which sounds more scientific. In terms of effectiveness, both types can make your plants happy, but they differ in how they do it.
Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly and improve soil structure over time, like a gradual health boost. Chemical fertilizers, on the other hand, provide a quick nutrient fix, like giving your plants a shot of an energy drink.
Now, let's talk eco-friendliness. Organic fertilizers are environmentally kind, enriching the soil and reducing the risk of chemical runoff into waterways. Chemical fertilizers can sometimes be harsh on the environment, as they may lead to pollution if not used carefully.
Organic fertilizers are the "green" choice, slow and steady, while chemical fertilizers are the quick fix, but be cautious about potential downsides like environmental impact and short-term results.
The Different Types Of Organic Fertilizers
Organic fertilizers come from a variety of natural sources. These include the following:
Compost
Compost is a fantastic organic fertiliser from decomposed organic matter like kitchen scraps, leaves, and yard waste. It's rich in nutrients and improves soil structure, making it easier for plants to access vital elements. Composting at home is an eco-friendly way to recycle kitchen waste and create nutrient-rich soil additives for your garden.
Manure
Manure, typically from animals like cows, horses, or chickens, is an excellent source of organic nutrients. It's widely used in farming and gardening to enrich the soil with essential elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Just make sure to compost or age manure before applying it to your garden to avoid potential issues with odor and pathogens.
Bone Meal
Bone meal come from grounded animal bones. It's an excellent source of phosphorus, which promotes root development and flowering in plants. Gardeners often use bone meal for bulbs, roses, and other flowering plants to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Fish Emulsion
Fish emulsion is a liquid organic fertilizer derived from fish byproducts. It's rich in nitrogen and provides a quick nutrient boost to plants. It's easy to apply but be prepared for the fishy smell. Dilute it before use to reduce the odor and prevent burning your plants.
Seaweed and Kelp
Seaweed and kelp-based fertilizers are eco-friendly options that offer a wide range of nutrients, including trace minerals. They improve soil structure and enhance plant resistance to stress. These organic fertilizers are especially beneficial for vegetables and fruits.
Blood Meal
A blood meal is a high-nitrogen organic fertilizer made from dried animal blood. It's a potent nitrogen source, making it ideal for plants that require rapid growth. Be cautious not to overapply, as it can be strong and potentially harm plants if used excessively.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are an easily accessible organic fertilizer for your garden. They add nitrogen to the soil and help improve its water retention capacity. If you're a coffee lover, consider recycling your used coffee grounds to nourish your plants.
Worm Castings
Also known as vermicompost, are nutrient-rich excretions of earthworms. They enhance soil fertility and microbial activity while providing a slow-release source of nutrients to plants. Worm castings are gentle on plants and are often used for seedlings and potted plants.
Green Manure
Green manure crops are grown and then tilled back into the soil. In this way, they improve the structure and fertility of the soil by enriching it with organic matter and nutrients. Green manure is an excellent way to prepare your garden for future plantings while reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
Eggshells
Crushed eggshells are a natural source of calcium and can help prevent calcium deficiency in tomatoes and other plants. They also deter certain pests like snails and slugs. Save your eggshells, crush them, and sprinkle them around your garden to boost your plants' calcium.
Benefits of organic fertilizers
Aside from its eco-friendly nature, organic fertilizers offer numerous advantages for every farmer or gardener. These are the key benefits of using organic fertilizers:
Nutrient-Rich Soil
Organic fertilizers enrich the soil with various nutrients. This helps promote healthier plant growth.
Improved Soil Structure
Organic fertilizers enhance soil structure. This makes it better at retaining water and preventing erosion.
Enhanced Microbial Activity
Adding organic fertilizers to the soil promotes beneficial microorganisms. The soil is then able to absorb nutrients better.
Healthier Plants
Plants nourished with organic fertilizers often exhibit better resistance to pests and diseases. This contributes to the overall health of your farm or garden.
Choose organic!
Organic fertilizer is a green choice for promoting lush plants and nurturing the soil. It offers many great perks, making it a smart choice for the long haul. Choosing organic fertilizer ensures not just tasty produce but also those grown healthily!
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Living with lots of bills and an average income means having to economize wherever you can. Prices seem to go up faster than seasons change, and adopting some savvy skills is sure to lighten your load. Installing new kitchen cabinets can easily be the most significant expense when redoing a kitchen, so we've assembled some top tips for saving money the next time you reach for the plastic.
How to Find the Best Wholesale Kitchen Cabinets:
1. Shop Around:
Don’t always buy the first thing you see. If you’re in the market for new kitchen cabinets to impress guests at your next dinner party, compare prices wherever possible. You’d be surprised at the options that are available from online retailers. You could easily save a pretty penny by shopping online.
2. Discount Is Your Friend:
Black Friday sales and wholesale discounts are wonderful ways to take advantage of good deals by planning well ahead. Things like wholesale kitchen cabinets can be a cost-effective way of changing the entire dynamic of an existing kitchen. Every cent adds up and saving a little bit here and there could yield a handsome saving at the end of the day. Many retailers also offer a friendly reward system that allows customers to accumulate credit for later use.
3. Type:
There is an assortment of different kitchen cabinets available for sale. Some have tekta glass doors, some have doors that are patterned, and some have no doors at all. Keep in mind what type of image you are trying to end up with and remember that different styles will vary in price. The door-less variety of wholesale kitchen cabinets are usually more cost-effective and can have the effect of making the kitchen appear more spacious, but generally suit only the most organized among us.
4. Functionality:
Consider why it is that you are getting your cabinets in the first place. Do you need more storage area or are you looking to install cabinets to fill vacant space? Sometimes less is more, and cabinets should always compliment the rest of a kitchen. The cost of functionality also cannot be overstated. Anything can be functional on any budget with proper planning.
5. Appearance:
While it's easy to feel uninspired when you've been looking at the same kitchen year after year, making some changes here and there could make space feel brand new. Old worn cabinets can be replaced at competitive prices or revitalized with a paint job, and sticking to one color saves on paint and makes for cheaper maintenance in the long-term. Keep in mind the fact that your kitchen tells a story, and all the separate parts of your kitchen should be harmonious.
People tend to make big life changes reluctantly, but when those changes are budget-friendly and add value to your life, there's no need to remain stagnant. Online retailers like Wholesale kitchen Cabinets make the job that much easier for shoppers to make thrifty decisions, so taking the plunge and making steps towards your dream has never been easier.
Read Also:
4 Tips For A Successful Home Renovation
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7 Unique Kitchen Design Ideas That Your Family Will Enjoy
