Published on: 01 November 2021
Last Updated on: 18 January 2025
Almost every person has locked himself/herself out of the house at some point in life. In such scenarios, the first thought of individuals is to ask for assistance from a friend or family member.
Nevertheless, if nobody can deliver you a set of spare keys to enter the house, the next call you make should be to a local locksmith.
The inceptive thing to do when choosing a locksmith in Chicago is checked their credentials. Illinois is one of the many US states requiring these professionals to be bonded and licensed. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation is in charge of issuing such a license after verifying the qualifications of candidates.
Candidates are required to be at least eighteen years of age, pass a criminal background history check, pass a licensing exam in theory and practice, and pay the required license application and examination fees. Nevertheless, there are not any requirements associated with having formal training or work experience. Additionally, to register a company, locksmiths in Chicago are supposed to get an agency license.
Therefore, when hiring such an expert in Illinois, make sure you start the process by checking the credentials. Apart from providing proof of license, these specialists should also provide any professional certifications they have, which prove their skills and knowledge.
Determine the types of services you need
Another important consideration when hiring the best locksmith in Chicago is the type of service you need. Not all professionals offer the same service types, as they might specialize in residential, commercial, or auto services. Some providers perform all these services. For instance, most companies provide an installation of mechanic and electronic locks, both at commercial and residential properties.
In addition, established locksmiths should offer lock replacement, lock repair, making duplicate keys, changing electronic access cards, etc. In terms of commercial services, they should supply, install, and service high-security commercial locks. Additionally, these experts are expected to fix components of biometric, keyless access control systems. Check out the most common types of door locksets.
Check if the provider is indeed local
Individuals should be extremely careful when checking whether a locksmith is indeed local as it claims to be. It often happens for some providers to advertise in your local phone book, even though they are not local at all. Some companies outside of Chicago might advertise as local by choosing a business name that is similar to the name of a local provider.
Nevertheless, when you call the provided number, you will probably be connected to a call center in another town. Additionally, there will not be a shop at the listed address, meaning the company is a scam. In general, locksmith companies that claim to be local have a large number of separate listings in a telephone book with various names. Nevertheless, all the calls eventually led to the same number in another city.
Even if you don’t suspect a scam in the beginning, make sure to ask for identification upon the arrival of the locksmith at your door. Licensed locksmiths are expected to have a Master Security License Number displayed on their photo identity card and vehicle. If the vehicle is unmarked or the worker claims to have forgotten his/her card, you should do no business with this person.
Get an estimate
Another helpful tip for finding a locksmith in Chicago is requesting a written estimate after the technician reviews the work. These estimates should include two types of fees, service, and hardware fees. The former encompasses transportation fees and any additional charges for emergency service outside standard working hours. For instance, most handymen charge a flat trip fee that covers the time and cost of driving to your home and back to their shop.
In contrast, the latter includes any fees related to the hardware. If a locksmith has to replace a lock, the cost of the new lock will be calculated in hardware fees. Follow this link, https://mydecorative.com/four-types-of-locksmith-services/, to see the most sought-after locksmith services.
The bottom line
Lockout situations and other locksmithing issues require professional assistance.
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If you are a gardener like me, you must have thought about harvesting greens that you eat at restaurants at your house. One of these days, I was with my friends from my university, and we were discussing the importance of eating veggies for staying healthy. And they could not figure out the best ways to effectively do so. Reading my previous blog about cilantro, Laila asked me, “how to grow and harvest asparagus?”
Well, surely asparagus is one of the most delicious and nutritious vegetables you can grow in your garden. But what a lot of people do not know is that it's also one of the easiest once you know how to harvest asparagus properly.
In this article, I will cover everything you need to know about harvesting asparagus, from when to start, how to cut, and how often to do it. Additionally, I will also share some tips on how to store and freeze asparagus, as well as the benefits of eating this green wonder.
So, keep on reading till the end to learn more...
How Does Asparagus Grow?
Before I dive into the seemingly difficult process of how to harvest asparagus, let me help you grow it.
Asparagus is a perennial plant that grows from a crown of roots that can live for up to 20 years. The crown produces spears, which are the edible part of the plant, every spring.
The spears grow rapidly, sometimes up to an inch per day, and can reach a height of 6 to 10 inches. The spears are harvested before they open into fern-like leaves, which are edible and tough.
Asparagus grows best in well-drained, sandy soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. It prefers full sun and moderate temperatures and needs regular watering and fertilizing.
Asparagus can be grown from seeds or crowns, but crowns are easier and faster to establish. Crowns are planted in trenches about 12 to 18 inches apart and covered with 2 to 3 inches of soil. As the spears emerge, more soil is added until the trench is filled
Benefits of Asparagus
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Asparagus is not only tasty, but also healthy. It's low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants just like spinach. It can help lower blood pressure, regulate blood sugar, support digestion, and prevent urinary tract infections.
Asparagus also contains a compound called asparagine, which is a natural diuretic that helps flush out excess fluids and salts from the body. Asparagus is also a good source of folate, which is essential for pregnant women and fetal development
When to Harvest Asparagus?
The first year after planting, you should not harvest any asparagus spears, as they need to grow and strengthen the root system.
The second year, you can harvest a few spears for a short period, about two to three weeks.
The third year and beyond, you can harvest asparagus for a longer period, up to eight weeks, depending on the climate and the health of the plants.
The best time to harvest asparagus is in the early morning when the spears are crisp and tender. You should harvest asparagus when the spears are about 6 to 10 inches tall, and before the tips start to open up. If you wait too long, the spears will become woody and bitter.
How to Plant and Care for Asparagus?
Asparagus is a long-term investment that can reward you with years of delicious harvests. However, it requires some planning and preparation before planting.
Here are some steps to follow to plant and care for asparagus:
Choose the Day
Choose a sunny and well-drained spot in your garden, preferably with sandy or loamy soil. Avoid areas where water tends to pool or where weeds are hard to control. Asparagus also needs plenty of space, so make sure you have at least 4 to 5 feet between rows and 12 to 18 inches between plants.
Prepare the Soil
Prepare the soil by adding organic matter, such as compost or manure, and adjusting the pH to 6.5 to 7.5. You can use a soil test kit to check the pH and nutrient levels of your soil. You may also need to add some fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 10-20-10, to boost the phosphorus and potassium content.
Dig it Deep
Dig a trench about 8 to 12 inches deep and 12 to 18 inches wide. You can make the trench longer or shorter depending on how many asparagus crowns you have. Asparagus crowns are the dormant roots of the plant that you can buy from nurseries or online. They usually have one-year-old or two-year-old crowns, which are more reliable and productive than seeds.
Fertilize
Spread some fertilizer along the bottom of the trench, about 2 pounds per 100 square feet. Then, cover the fertilizer with 2 to 3 inches of soil, forming a ridge in the center of the trench.
Placing the Plant
Place the asparagus crowns on top of the ridge, about 12 to 18 inches apart, with the buds facing up. The crowns should be slightly below the soil surface, about 1 to 2 inches deep. Do not bury them too deep, as this will delay the emergence of the spears.
Focus on the Crown
Cover the crowns with another 2 to 3 inches of soil, and water well. As the spears grow, gradually fill in the trench with more soil, until it is level with the ground. This will help protect the crowns from frost and weeds.
Add Mulch
Mulch the bed with straw, leaves, or wood chips, to conserve moisture and prevent weeds. You can also add some organic fertilizer, such as fish emulsion or seaweed extract, every few weeks during the growing season, to encourage healthy growth.
Keep in Mind
Do not harvest any asparagus spears in the first year, as they need to establish a strong root system. In the second year, you can harvest a few spears for a short period, about two to three weeks. In the third year and beyond, you can harvest asparagus for a longer period, up to eight weeks, depending on the climate and the health of the plants.
How to Harvest Asparagus?
Now, coming to the most important part that you wanted to know about. Let us talk about the ways to harvest asparagus!
To harvest asparagus, you need a sharp knife or a pair of scissors. You should cut the spears at the base, about an inch below the soil surface.
Be careful not to damage the crown or the emerging spears. You should also avoid cutting too many spears from one plant, as this will weaken the plant and reduce the yield. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least one-third of the spears on each plant.
You should harvest asparagus every day or every other day, depending on how fast the spears grow. You should stop harvesting asparagus when the spears become thinner than a pencil, as this indicates that the plant is running out of energy.
You should then let the spears grow into ferns, which will replenish the crown and prepare it for the next season.
How to Store and Freeze Asparagus?
Unlike lettuce, which you can store for more than a week, asparagus is best eaten fresh, as it loses its flavor and texture quickly. If you can't eat it right away, you should store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To keep it fresh, you should trim the ends of the spears and stand them upright in a glass of water or wrap them in a damp paper towel and put them in a plastic bag.
If you want to preserve asparagus for longer, you can freeze it. To freeze asparagus, you should first wash and trim the spears, and then blanch them in boiling water for two to three minutes, depending on the thickness.
Blanching is a process of briefly cooking and cooling the vegetables to stop the enzyme activity that causes them to spoil.
After blanching, you should drain and cool the spears, and then pack them in freezer bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. You can freeze asparagus for up to a year, and use it in soups, casseroles, or stir-fries.
How to Prevent and Treat Asparagus Pests and Diseases?
Asparagus is generally a hardy and resilient plant, but it can still suffer from some pests and diseases that can affect its growth and quality.
Here are some of the most common problems that affect asparagus plants, and how to prevent or treat them:
Asparagus beetles
These are small, black or red beetles that feed on the spears and the ferns, causing them to wilt and turn brown. They can also lay eggs on the spears, which hatch into larvae that chew on the stems and leaves.
To prevent asparagus beetles, you should keep the area around the plants clean and weed-free, and remove any old or damaged spears. To treat asparagus beetles, you can hand-pick them and their eggs, or spray them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Fusarium wilt
This is a fungal disease that infects the roots and the crowns of the plants, causing them to rot and die. It can also cause the spears to become yellow, twisted, and stunted. Fusarium wilt is more likely to occur in poorly drained, acidic, or infested soil.
To prevent fusarium wilt, you should plant disease-resistant varieties, rotate crops, and avoid overwatering or injuring the plants. To treat fusarium wilt, you should remove and destroy any infected plants, and apply fungicides to the soil.
Rust
This is another fungal disease that affects the ferns, causing them to develop orange or brown spots and pustules. Rust can reduce the vigor and yield of the plants, and make them more susceptible to other diseases. Rust is more likely to occur in humid, wet, or shady conditions.
To prevent rust, you should plant resistant varieties, space the plants well, and prune any excess or infected ferns. To treat rust, you should apply fungicides to the ferns, and avoid watering them from above.
Crown rot
This is a bacterial disease that causes the crowns and the bases of the spears to become soft, mushy, and foul-smelling. Crown rot can spread quickly and kill the plants. Crown rot is more likely to occur in wet, compacted, or poorly drained soil.
To prevent crown rot, you should plant healthy crowns, improve the drainage and aeration of the soil, and avoid overwatering or injuring the plants. To treat crown rot, you should remove and destroy any infected plants, and disinfect the tools and the soil.
Bonus: How to Cook and Enjoy Asparagus?
There are many ways to cook and enjoy asparagus, from steaming, boiling, roasting, grilling, to sautéing. The key is not to overcook it, as it will become mushy and lose its flavor.
You should cook asparagus until it is bright green and crisp-tender, which usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the method and the thickness of the spears.
You can season asparagus with salt, pepper, butter, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, cheese, or any other condiments you like. You can also pair asparagus with eggs, bacon, ham, chicken, fish, pasta, rice, or salad. Asparagus is a versatile and delicious vegetable that can complement any meal.
Wrapping It Up!
Asparagus is a wonderful vegetable that you can grow and harvest in your own garden. It's easy to care for, once you know how to harvest asparagus properly.
You should harvest asparagus when the spears are about 6 to 10 inches tall and before the tips start to open up. You should cut the spears at the base and leave some on the plant to grow into ferns. It would be best to store asparagus in the refrigerator for later use.
And yes, you should also enjoy the many benefits and flavors of asparagus, by cooking it in various ways and pairing it with different dishes. Asparagus is a springtime delight that you don't want to miss.
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What is the fastest growing plant on earth? The answer to this question is Duckweed which is known as the fastest-growing plant in the world in 2021.
The Duckweed family consists of 37 species and can be found pretty all over the globe. Besides, this plant is also known as Wolffia, a plant that is easy to harvest and float on water. It grows very fast that you have never imagined of.
Wolffia is found everywhere in freshwater and has become a subject of fascination for scientists. This plant acts much like a weed, although it is eaten by humans, animals, and ducks.
What Is The Fastest Growing Plant On Earth?
As already discussed above, the fastest growing plant on earth is Duckweed, also known as Wolffia. This plant is a tiny type of duckweed that grows faster.
On the other hand, you are probably familiar with this plant (duckweed) that is found on ponds where several green beads seem to form a lid on water sources. The genetics underlying this strange little plant’s success has long been a mystery to scientists.
The Genome Research of February 2021 will help scientists to know how plants grow up so fast and what are the functions that allow them.
What Makes Wolffia (Duckweed) The Fastest Growing Plant In the World?
There are various reasons why Wolffia is known as the fastest-growing plant in the world. Many individuals are taking the benefit of this unusual crop as it is extremely high in protein and is a part of some Southeast Asian cuisines.
This plant reproduces very quickly. According to many types of research, Wolffia is regarded as the fastest growing plant in the globe. About forty percent of the plant’s genes are influenced by this time of day factor. Wolffia, clocks in with only 13 percent of its genes restricted by time.
Can You Speed Up Growing Rate Of Plants?
Smaller plants and trees grow faster than bigger versions of the same tree and plant because of the root ratio. These variants grow fast as they highlight a great balance of roots to top growth.
On the other hand, the plant and trees can place all their strength into top growth enables it to grow taller. And fast-growing plants only grow as fast as their roots support.
Besides, if you are growing plants, they must be planted right. In order to encourage deep root growth, you can also give continuous watering to the same.
The Final Thoughts
Duckweed is the fastest growing plant on earth and this is the correct answer to your question. The characteristics of the same are described above and if you have any queries about the same, you can specify them below in the comment section.
More Resources:
Garden Edging for Beginners
How to Maintain a Bright and Beautiful Garden During Winter
Smart Fun Gardening: How to Take Care of a Money Tree
The dining room is more than just a space where meals are taken. It is the heart of the home and the one place that brings people together. As a space where families get to spend time and enjoy delicious meals, it is only right that homeowners would want it to be stylish and luxurious. The modern dining room comes in two types; the formal dining room is a separate area from the kitchen. On the other hand, open-plan dining where the kitchen connects to the living space.
For the past years, the open plan dining has gained traction among homeowners, and the formal dining room is becoming more uncommon. Why? Because the large open plan is more practical and allows them to save space.
Thus, the modern dining room concept has typically become the kitchen area that transitions into the living area. So how do you proceed with creating a modern dining room? Whether you are doing an extreme dining makeover or making a few tweaks to make your dining room, there are so many options to explore to give your space a modern tone. These tips will help you give your dining space a refreshing modern vibe.
1.Add a centerpiece
When creating a modern dining room, it is essential also to decorate the dining table. A contemporary table centerpiece could spice up your dining room, giving it that modern look you are going for. Depending on your style, centerpieces go from a simple vase of flowers and candles to a decorative bowl with fruits.
You can even customize one by DIYing decorations. Greenery centerpieces like succulents or snake plants would also do an excellent job bringing life into space. A bonus is they are low maintenance, and you won't have to deal with withered plants frequently. Mixing different statement-making materials with bold and neutral colors to decorate the room will give it a sophisticated look. Apart from elevating the dining room's overall appearance, a fantastic centerpiece will transform your dining into a classy space.
2.Integrate wooden furniture
Wooden furniture has a lot to offer in the dining room. It's simple, and its natural attribute can bring style to the room. However, before you go in over your head with displaying cabinets and sideboards, start with the basics; dining table and chairs. However, you should consider adding a wooden dining table handcrafted to meet your preferred style and needs.
There is a vast choice of wooden dining tables you can add to update your dining area. A large dining design would do a great job adding comfort. Team your dining table with classic chairs to give your dining space a whole new look. Anne Quin furniture offers to handcraft modern style dining tables at affordable rates. If you crave a luxurious dining set, you can learn more about Anne Quin furniture on their site.
3.Light it up
One way to make a statement in your dining space is by adding a modern lighting fixture. Pendant lightings are on-trend, and most importantly, they work perfectly in the dining room. Always remember to choose a soothing light because you want people to be comfortable. The pro tip is the bigger you go, the better it is for the room's appeal.
You can choose a single large hanging pendant or install a group to make a bolder statement in the room. There are many shops filled with affordable lighting fixtures, so you have free reign, one that marries well with the existing décor and finishes in the area. A beautiful lighting fixture will bring the room together and boost its visual appeal.
4.Add a banquette
A modern dining space is about mixing different aspects: classic, elegant, and contemporary. Create a relaxed vibe in the room by adding a banquette near the dining table. A banquette is an ultimate steal when modernizing your dining space; homeowners get to enjoy a modern vibe while adding more storage space. It also offers a flexible seating option which is a bonus. You can top the banquette with colorful plush pillows to cheer up the area and add comfort.
5.A gallery wall
Modern dining styles are about breaking the norm, and many homeowners are embracing going bold in their dining areas. To give the room a purposeful look, you can choose to add modern art or a couple of picture frames.
Since most modern furniture tends to be sleek and cold, a wall of art would create a warm look and maintain a contemporary tone at the same time.
A beautiful piece of contemporary art will bring in some color to finish the dining room. Family photos or botanical-inspired prints could add personality to your dining space. However, ensure you use matching frames to give the room a cohesive look.
Trust us; displaying them in your dining room would look twice as good as it would on your social media.
How to Create a Cozy Dining for A Rented Apartment
Moved from your hometown for work?
Want to know how to create a cozy environment? Especially in the dining space? Here is how you can.
Moving to a new city for work is exciting. But first, you need an apartment.
Then, you’ll want to make that space feel like home — especially the dining area where you’ll gather for meals and memories. Here’s how to create great dining in a rented space.
Purchase a Compact Dining Set
In a rented apartment, the space is often limited! Yes, it is a nuisance, but we have to do the most
A small round-dining table with two comfortable chairs can make the space feel intimate, and it doesn’t take up that much space. You can choose it to your liking if you prefer modern, rustic or in between.
Think About your Lighting Options
Lighting is so important to help create a warm and inviting space. A great floor lamp or a simple set of string lights can add a nice glow to your dining area.
If you’re able to, I would love the idea of installing a pendant light above the table as well.
Use Rug To Define Space
Add some seasonal greenery or flowers. A geometric rug in neutral tones will ground a black dining room and contrast the heavy pattern of your living room.
Try to keep the rug color the same as your kitchen floor for a seamless blending. This also creates a focal point, which is where all the cooking and cleaning will go on.
Sometimes, less is more when it comes to a beautiful black dining room.
Add Personal Touches
Stop searching for the perfect inspiration from the latest AD. Just do what feels right to keep it cozy!
Make the space your own with personal decorations. A small gallery wall with your favorite photos, a vase of fresh flowers, or a few candles can add a homey feel to your dining area. These touches make the space uniquely yours, even in a rental.
Keep it Functional
Lastly, make sure your dining space works for you. When space is tight, use furniture that can serve double duty. For example, a bench with built-in storage or a table that you can fold & move out of the way when not needed.
There you have it – an inviting and cozy eating space in your apartment.
A place where you can enjoy meals, put your feet up, and recharge as you immerse yourself in your home sweet home.
Final Notes!
Even though the kitchen wins many people’s hearts, the dining area will always be a special place in the home. As seen above, the simplicity and minimalism that a modern dining design calls for taking.
Different forms. These are a slew of tips you can incorporate to give your dining area a modern feel.
Remember to go for designs that complement one another to give your room a seamless pattern. If you remember these things and find the right design combo, you should be good to go.
Have fun and happy redesigning!
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