Published on: 16 March 2016
Last Updated on: 04 September 2024
The convex mirror otherwise known as a fish-eye mirror is used in many places for protection and to avoid accidents. It is one of the simple ways to alert you to impending dangers. You don’t need to spend a fortune for sophisticated security systems in order to protect your home. There are many varieties of mirrors for your safety like dome mirrors and bathroom safety mirrors. However, they are one of the most flexible mirrors. These mirrors allow you to view different directions without having to adjust the mirror or allowing others to know what you are looking for.
What is a Convex Mirror?
Convex mirrors are made of acrylic or glass and are hardened to make it unbreakable. They diverge light to reflect images. These mirrors have a broad view as against ordinary mirrors. Vehicles use these mirrors to provide a rear view to the drivers. It is also used in stores, grocery shops, etc. as a security device. They can be used both indoor and also in outdoor. They are easy to install and affordable.
Why do you need a convex mirror?
A convex mirror has several applications. It is used in huge apartment complexes and commercial buildings for security. It allows security personnel to check on intruders and to help them in alerting for a possible attack or security breach. It is important because it can provide adequate time to plan and be prepared for any attack either by calling the police or face them yourself. You can avoid a lot of damage to the people and property just with this simple device. It also saves a lot of money since it can avoid shoplifting.
You can use these mirrors as an additional accessory along with a camera to enhance the visibility. They provide multiple angles simultaneously allowing the camera to record several angles of a scene. It can be a very useful investigative material for law enforcing agencies to nab the guilty. You could also use them effectively in parking spaces to regulate and avoid any untoward accidents. These mirrors at street bends can make the riding safer. An outdoor mirror can avoid a lot of accidents since they provide a view of the corners.
Advantages & disadvantages
The most important advantage of a convex mirror is the ability to provide different angles from a stationary point. However, the clarity is sacrificed which is the major disadvantage of the convex mirror. They are also resistant to extreme weather conditions making them ideal for outdoor use. You just have to take care that they don’t get covered in frost. If the mirror is covered with frost then it will lead to dangers since people will have a false sense of security which can be damaging.
How to use?
When you are choosing the mirror, you need to make sure that you decide on the location you intend to install them. If the location is a small one, it is enough if you use a flat mirror. However, larger areas need a convex mirror for better visibility from different angles. You should also decide whether you want to use them indoors or outside. These mirrors can also be used in cell phones to take better selfies.
Where to buy?
You can but these mirrors from a store at your location selling mirrors or order them from online stores, it sells security items for both indoor as well as outdoor use. Online stores provide at a much cheaper cost. You could buy them for as little as $20. However, the cost varies depending on size and the type of use. If the size is bigger and is for outdoor use, it may cost higher going up to even $180.
Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.
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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Having a pool in your backyard is a luxury that many homeowners in Knoxville, Tennessee, enjoy. It provides a refreshing oasis during the hot summer months and a place for friends and family to gather for fun and relaxation.
However, maintaining a pool's cleanliness and hygiene can be daunting. That's where professional pool cleaning services in Knoxville come to the rescue. This article will tell you the benefits of hiring expert professional companies specializing in cleaning swimming pools Knoxville TN, and how they can help you keep your pool pristine.
The Importance of Pool Cleaning
Proper pool cleaning is crucial to ensure the health and safety of swimmers. A dirty pool breeds harmful bacteria and algae, leading to waterborne diseases and infections. Debris, leaves, and other particles can accumulate over time, affecting the pool's aesthetics and filtration system. This is where the expertise of professional pool cleaners comes into play.
Professional Knowledge and Experience
Professional pool cleaning companies in Knoxville possess the necessary knowledge and experience to maintain your pool's cleanliness effectively. Their trained technicians understand the complex chemistry of balancing pool water, ensuring it remains crystal clear and safe for swimming. They are well-versed in using pool chemicals, such as chlorine and pH balancers, to maintain optimal water quality.
Comprehensive Pool Cleaning Services
One of the key advantages of hiring expert pool cleaners is their wide range of services. These include:
Skimming and Debris Removal
Professional pool cleaners will meticulously skim the pool's surface, removing leaves, bugs, and other debris. They will also clean out the pool's skimmer basket, preventing clogs and optimizing filtration.
Brushing and Vacuuming
To eliminate algae and stubborn dirt, cleaners brush the walls, steps, and floor. They will then vacuum the pool to remove any loose particles, ensuring a spotless surface.
Tile and Grout Cleaning
Tile and grout are prone to mineral deposits, dirt, and grime buildup. Professional pool cleaners will use specialized techniques to clean and restore the sparkle of your pool's tiles, enhancing its visual appeal.
Filter Cleaning and Maintenance
Filters are the backbone of a pool's filtration system. Expert pool cleaners will inspect and maintain your pool's filter, ensuring optimal water circulation and efficient debris removal.
Water Testing and Chemical Balancing
Accurate water testing is vital to maintain proper chemical balance in your pool. Professional pool companies in Knoxville have advanced testing equipment and the expertise to analyze water samples. They will adjust the pool's chemical levels accordingly, ensuring a safe and sanitized swimming environment.
Related: Top 5 Tips in Designing Your Swimming Pool
The Benefits of Hiring Local Professionals
When it comes to pool cleaning, hiring a local pool company offers several advantages. Firstly, their proximity allows for quick and convenient scheduling of cleaning sessions, ensuring minimal downtime for your pool enjoyment. Moreover, local pool cleaners possess in-depth knowledge of Knoxville's specific climate, water conditions, and common pool-related challenges, enabling them to provide tailored cleaning solutions.
Maintaining a clean and well-functioning pool is essential for enjoying a safe and refreshing swimming experience. By entrusting your pool's cleaning needs to professionals with expertise in cleaning swimming pools in Knoxville, TN, you can rest assured that your pool will remain pristine throughout the year. Their expertise, comprehensive services, and knowledge of the local area make them invaluable partners in preserving the beauty and hygiene of your pool.
Read Also:
The Health Benefits Of Swimming And Using Pools For Exercise
Risks of Imbalanced Swimming Pool Chemistry
8 Reasons to Build Your Pool in the Fall
Most of the vintage wines which you now have in your cellar are a lot more than just proper storage and preservation. Wine cellars are often called the entertainment center of an abode and today you can find all kinds of custom-built wine cellar furniture. These furnitures run the whole gamut right from customized chairs and tables to lighting to tableware and other artistic works.
You can equip your cellar with just about any type of wooden wine furniture that will enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home and provide cozy culinary service. If you really prefer timber for your wine cellar furniture, make sure you pick a durable one that will not decay or be affected with mildew in the humid environment of your cellar. Or else what you can do is create a separate room next to your wine cellar for entertaining your guests in order to get rid of the humid environment.
Now that you have the option to select from a wide variety of wood types from top providers, picking your wood species to meet your personal preference is no exception. Undoubtedly, the 4 most popular wood species used these days while building wine cellar furniture are given below:
Pine- Pine, the most common and least expensive of all the popular wood types is used for manufacturing wine storage rack. It is best known for its durability and strength. This wood species is available in faded colors that assist in making it blend well with any interior decoration. The major benefit of pine is that has attractive and consistent grain patterns that can be stained to match the aesthetics of the rest parts of the wine cellar.
Cedar- A durable and light-weighted type of hardwood, slightly pinkish-gold toned cedar is able to resist rotting away of the woodwork. Its grain patterns are more consistent that other wood species and are released easily by sanding the wood. This kind of wood is ideal for giving a simple aesthetic appeal to an abode.
Redwood- Best known for its resiliency and sturdiness, redwood is a beautiful reddish wood species that grows in hot and humid places. Hence, redwood is an ideal choice for wine cellar furniture within the cellar since it contains natural wood preservatives within it that aid in resisting the humid conditions. There are 2 types of redwood and they are:
Premium Redwood- It is the least expensive and has much more variations and color in the wood than All Heart Redwood.
All-Heart Redwood- Its wood is much darker and consistent than Premium Redwood.
Mahogany- The most durable and appealing of all the 4 wood species commonly used in wine cellar doors is mahogany, a reddish-brown color redwood. Neither does it swelled up nor twisted out of shape over time. Apart from that, it is resistant to decay, making it perfect for the higher humidity levels usually found in wine cellars with climate-controlled systems. Those people who want that “furniture-grade look”, mahogany is undoubtedly the perfect choice as it is ideal for both lacquer and stain applications.
Each of them is unique in its own way. Moreover, to help preserve the quality of wines, it is better to avoid using any other wine rack material types rather than the above mentioned wooden wine racks.
Author Bio - Gary Wise, who has decided to go full time to wine writing this year, has recently written a wine article on wine cellar furniture where he shared about how beautifully wine cellar doors displayed his wines in his wine cellar.
