Published on: 21 June 2017
Last Updated on: 24 February 2020
How long does celery last? Do you know about Deadheading Petunias? Celery lasts for as long as any other quick expiring ingredient in the recipe. Many individuals consume celery stalks, but the leaves are also beneficial and edible. They make an excellent addition to soups and stir-fries.
You can find celery seeds either in extract form, whole seed form, or ground up, with its impressive health benefits. In many parts of the universe, people grow this plant because of its beneficial seeds. When you crash them, you can use the seeds as a spice because it contains a unique oily compound called apiol. The spice is good for providing flavor and also has medicinal benefits.
Celery facts:
Celery has a cholesterol-lowering power that makes it useful for maintaining heart health. The seeds contain a unique compound called BuPh that has lipid-lowering properties. However, researchers believe that this plant contains many other beneficial compounds that are still under research.
In a recent study, rats feeding on celery continuously for eight weeks recorded lower lipid levels in their blood compared to those that did not feed on celery. This group of rats also experienced reduced serum cholesterol, triglyceride concentrations, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Celery also contains polysaccharides and antioxidants that act as anti-inflammatories, especially polyphenol and flavonoid antioxidants. They support the overall health of individuals as they age by fighting free radical damage that causes inflammation. Inflammation causes chronic diseases like heart disease, arthritis, cancer, and much more.
Researchers have come up with several antioxidant types from celery which is beneficial like ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and phenolic acid, as well as flavors like quercetin. These acids make celery the right solution for treating inflammatory conditions like joint pain, liver and kidney infection, gout, irritable bowel syndrome, skin disorders, and urinary tract infection.
When you consume celery, and you have high blood pressure, the risk of high blood pressure reduces. These seeds help in controlling the chronic levels of blood pressure. The seeds contain aqueous ethanolic, methanolic, and hexane extracts that lower inflammation improves blood circulation, and help in controlling blood pressure.
These seeds also help in reducing bloating and boosting digestion with the aid of the NBP oily compound that contributes to detoxifying the body. The digestive benefits result from its diuretic effect. If you want to lose weight, consuming celery is vital because it has vital nutrients that help in regulating lipid metabolism.
How do you prune Deadheading petunias blooms?
Many garden tips will guide you on how to deadhead petunia. You need to allow your flowers to start blooming. You need to wait until the plant spends about six hours in the sun and are full of blooms. Once the flower starts dying, it is the right time to deadhead. You will also have to get a sharp pair of scissors and pruning shears. Give the plant a sharp cut when you use scissors. You will then have to pick the petunia stem gently with many blooms. You need to aim at the area that contains the most spent blooms and cut with your shears. Even though you need to cut back healthy sections of the plant to encourage new growth of Deadheading Petunias, pruning your plant extends your season of growth and helps produce more blooms.
It is recommended that you prune one stem per week on a small plant and eight stems for the large hanging basket. Regular pruning will help you avoid pruning the whole plant at once. On some occasions, you will have to prune a healthy-looking bloom so that the plant looks healthy for an extended period. If you cannot do it on a weekly basis, it is advisable to wait for the mid-summer season to make it bloom for long. You need to keep fertilizing Deadheading Petunias every two weeks.
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Lemongrass is a tropical herb that has a fresh and citrusy flavor and aroma. It is one of the most essential herb that is people widely use in Asian cuisines. They especially use it in Vietnamese, Thai, and Indonesian dishes. It is also a popular ingredient in teas, soups, curries, salads, and marinades. Lemongrass has many health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and relieving stress.
But did you know that you can grow and harvest your own lemongrass at home? Yes, you can! Lemongrass is easy to grow and maintain, and can thrive in pots, containers, or gardens. You can enjoy fresh and organic lemongrass all year round, and save money and time from buying it at the store.
In this article, I will show you how to harvest lemongrass, and share some tips and tricks for growing and using this versatile herb. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how to harvest lemongrass, and how to make the most of this wonderful herb.
So, if that is something that you want to know, I have you covered! Keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more…
How to Grow Lemongrass?
Lemongrass is a wonderful herb that can add a refreshing and citrusy flavor to your dishes, drinks, and teas.
It is also a beautiful ornamental plant that can brighten up your garden with its tall, graceful stalks and fragrant leaves. Lemongrass is native to tropical regions, but you can grow it in cooler climates as well with some care and preparation.
Here are the steps and conditions for growing lemongrass successfully at home:
1. Choose a healthy lemongrass plant or stalk
You can buy a potted lemongrass plant from a nursery or garden center, or you can start your own from a fresh lemongrass stalk that you can find in most grocery stores or Asian markets. Look for a stalk that is firm, green, and has some roots at the base. Avoid any that are dry, brown, or moldy.
2. Prepare a sunny and warm spot for your lemongrass
Lemongrass loves full sun and heat, so choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If you live in a colder region, you can grow lemongrass in a container that you can move indoors during the winter.
Use a large pot with drainage holes and fill it with rich, loamy soil that is high in organic matter. You can also add some compost, manure, or leaf mold to improve the soil quality and fertility.
3. Plant your lemongrass in the soil
If you bought a potted plant, simply transplant it to the ground or a larger container, making sure to bury the roots well and leave some space between the stalks.
If you are starting from a stalk, peel off any dead or yellow leaves and trim the top part to about six inches.
Place the stalk in a glass of water and keep it in a sunny windowsill until roots start to grow, which can take a few weeks.
Then, plant the rooted stalk in the soil, leaving about two inches of the stem above the ground. Space the plants about two feet apart to allow them to spread
4. Water and fertilize your lemongrass regularly
Lemongrass needs moist soil to thrive, so water it frequently and deeply, especially during hot and dry periods.
A good rule of thumb is to water it once a week or whenever the top inch of the soil feels dry. You can also apply a layer of mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and prevent weeds.
Lemongrass also benefits from a monthly dose of liquid organic fertilizer during the growing season, such as fish emulsion or seaweed extract. This will help it grow faster and produce more leaves and stalks.
5. Harvest and enjoy your lemongrass
You can start harvesting your lemongrass when the stalks are about a foot tall and half an inch thick. Cut the stalks at the base with a sharp knife or scissors, leaving about two inches of the stem in the ground.
Additionally, you can use the whole stalk, or peel off the outer layers and use only the tender inner part. You can also harvest the leaves and use them fresh or dried for teas and infusions.
Lemongrass can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to six months. You can also dry it and store it in an airtight container for later use.
How to Harvest Lemongrass?
Harvesting lemongrass is a simple and satisfying process that can be done in a few steps. Here are the basics of how to harvest lemongrass:
Choose the right time
The best time to harvest lemongrass is when the stalks are about 12 inches tall and 0.5 inches thick. This usually happens after 3 to 4 months of planting. You can harvest lemongrass throughout the year, as long as the temperature is above 40°F. You can also harvest lemongrass in batches, leaving some stalks to grow and regenerate.
Cut the stalks
To harvest lemongrass, you need a sharp knife or scissors, and a clean cutting board. Cut the stalks at the base, as close to the soil as possible. You can cut as many stalks as you need, or as many as you can use within a week. You can also trim off the leaves, as they are not edible and can be used for other purposes.
Wash and store the stalks
After cutting the stalks, wash them under running water, and pat them dry with a paper towel. You can store the stalks in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel, and placed in a plastic bag. They can last for up to a week. You can also freeze the stalks, chopped or whole, in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 6 months.
Dividing Lemongrass: What is It and How to Do It?
Dividing lemongrass is a great way to propagate and maintain this aromatic and flavorful herb. Lemongrass is a perennial plant that grows in clumps of stalks and leaves.
Over time, these clumps can become crowded, woody, and less productive. By dividing lemongrass, you can rejuvenate the plant, increase its yield, and share it with others.
Here are the steps and reasons for dividing lemongrass:
1. When to divide lemongrass?
The best time to divide lemongrass is in the spring, after the last frost date when the plant is actively growing and has new shoots.
You can also divide lemongrass in the fall if you live in a warm winter climate or if you plan to overwinter the divisions indoors.
Avoid dividing lemongrass in the summer, when the heat and drought can stress the plant and reduce its survival rate.
2. How to divide lemongrass?
To divide lemongrass, you must dig up the entire plant and separate it into smaller sections. You can use a shovel, a sharp knife, or your hands to do this.
Each section should have at least one inch of root and several healthy stalks and leaves attached.
You can trim the leaves to about six inches to reduce water loss and make the divisions easier to handle. Discard any old, brown, or damaged parts of the plant.
3. Where to plant lemongrass divisions?
You can plant lemongrass divisions in the same spot where you dug up the parent plant or in a new location with full sun, moist and well-drained soil, and plenty of organic matter.
You can also plant lemongrass divisions in containers at least 10 inches deep with drainage holes. Space the divisions about two feet apart to allow room for growth.
Plant the divisions at the same depth as they were before, with the crown just below the soil surface.
4. How to care for lemongrass divisions?
Lemongrass divisions need regular water and fertilizer to establish and thrive. Water them deeply and frequently, especially during the first few weeks and during hot and dry periods.
You can also apply a layer of mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and prevent weeds. Fertilize the plants once a month with a liquid organic fertilizer, such as fish emulsion or seaweed extract, during the growing season.
Protect the plants from frost in the winter by moving them indoors or covering them with a frost cloth.
5. How to harvest and use lemongrass divisions?
You can start harvesting lemongrass divisions when they are about a foot tall and half an inch thick. Cut the stalks at the base with a sharp knife or scissors, leaving about two inches of the stem in the ground. You can use the whole stalk, peel off the outer layers, and use only the tender inner part.
Additionally, you can also harvest the leaves and use them fresh or dried for teas and infusions. Lemongrass can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to six months. You can also dry it and store it in an airtight container for later use.
How to Use Lemongrass in Food?
Lemongrass has a long, green stalk with a bulbous base and grassy leaves. It has a lemony taste with a hint of mint and ginger. Lemongrass can be used fresh, dried, or powdered, depending on the recipe and preference. Here are some ways related to how to use lemongrass in different ways:
Fresh lemongrass
Firstly, fresh lemongrass is the most aromatic and versatile form of lemongrass. You can find it in the produce section of most supermarkets, Asian markets, or online.
To prepare fresh lemongrass, you need to peel off the tough outer layers and trim off the root end and the top third of the stalk. You can use a sharp knife or scissors to do this. The part that you want to use is the pale and tender lower part of the stalk.
After that, you can slice it thinly, chop it finely, or bruise it with a pestle or the back of a knife. Slicing or chopping is good for salads, stir-fries, curries, and marinades, while bruising is good for soups, stews, and broths.
You can also make a paste by pounding or blending lemongrass with other ingredients, such as garlic, ginger, chilies, and cilantro.
A paste is great for adding flavor to meats, seafood, tofu, and rice. You can store fresh lemongrass in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to six months.
Dried lemongrass
Secondly, dried lemongrass is less potent than fresh lemongrass but still has a nice, lemony flavor. You can buy it in whole or sliced form or dry your lemongrass by hanging the stalks in a warm and airy place until they are brittle.
Dried lemongrass is good for making teas, infusions, and herbal blends. You can also use it to flavor soups, stews, and broths, but you must soak it in hot water for about 20 minutes before adding it to the pot.
Additionally, you can store dried lemongrass in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Powdered lemongrass
Lastly, powdered lemongrass is the most convenient form of lemongrass, as it does not require any preparation. You can buy it in spice shops, Asian markets, or online.
Powdered lemongrass has a mild and sweet flavor and can be used in baking, desserts, sauces, and dressings. You can also sprinkle it over salads, soups, and stir-fries for a touch of freshness.
The shelf life of powdered lemongrass is also great. For up to six months, you can store powdered lemongrass in an airtight container in a cool and dark place.
How to Use Lemongrass in Other Things?
Apart from cooking, you can use lemongrass in many other ways. Some of the best and most popular uses of this herb are as follows:
Beautifying
You can use lemongrass to make your own beauty products, such as soap, lotion, or shampoo. You can infuse the stalks or the leaves with oil, such as coconut, olive, or almond oil.
Moreover, you can also add other ingredients, such as honey, aloe vera, or essential oils. You can use the products to cleanse, moisturize, or scent your skin and hair.
Healing
You can use lemongrass to treat various ailments, such as headaches, colds, or infections. You can inhale the steam from boiling the stalks or the leaves, or apply the oil to your temples, chest, or throat.
Additionally, you can also drink the tea, or gargle with the syrup. You can use the products to relieve pain, inflammation, or congestion.
Wrapping It Up!
If you want to know how to harvest lemongrass, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries about the same, please feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the bottom of the page. Then leave your suggestions and comments in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you!
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There is so much to look upon when you have to choose the perfect kitchen flooring for your kitchen. It is not an easy task because you have to look at so many factors.
Deciding on a kitchen flooring you have to consider numerous factors like the look, will it merge with the rest of your interior or not, the climatic effects on it and the most important factor “durability”. The durability factor is the one which has to be reconsidered because you don’t change your kitchen flooring every week. It’s an investment which lasts for an average of 5-7 years or even more. Sometimes it’s just twice or thrice in a lifetime for a middle-class person.
These days when people do not have time to go even for grocery shopping and instead buy it from the online grocery store then how would people get time to go for a consultant who would suggest the best flooring for your home. It is expensive as well that everyone cannot afford it.
So here we have come up with some of the best kitchen flooring options which you can go for, you just have to choose the best for your home as per the features which we will be discussing here:
Hardwood Flooring:
Hardwood timber flooring is flooring which never goes out of fashion and is highly durable. It needs low maintenance You can have an open floor plan with this type of flooring.
Vinyl Flooring:
Vinyl flooring is good when you are tight on a budget and want easy maintenance. It is an excellent choice if you love cooking and have a huge family for whom you have to cook a lot. If you want to buy grocery and other kitchen appliances in a budget, you can visit Askmegrocery store where you can take benefits of coupons too and can really shop in a budget.
Cork Flooring:
Cork Flooring is good when you want to go for an eco-friendly option. It is softer than wood or tile. It is slip-resistant.
Stone or Tile:
Stone or tile is an option for people who want to do it for one time. You have the option to change it but if maintained properly, it can last for a very long period. It comes in various textures and colors. You can easily decide the appearance based on this type of flooring.
Wooden flooring:
Wooden flooring is quite classy and gives you a good feel under the feet. These days it’s used in the way that it is also resistant to water stains.
Laminated Flooring:
Laminate flooring is an alternative option of wooden flooring in a cheap budget. They provide the same look as of wooden flooring and that too in a less budget.
So, after going through this list I think it will be much easier now for you to choose the best and the most durable flooring for your kitchen. Go for the most compatible flooring considering the factors texture, color, look, durability.
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The soil is a fundamental resource base for agricultural production systems. Besides being the main medium for crop growth, soil functions to sustain crop productivity and maintain environmental quality. Soil quality is determined by the soil's ability to perform these functions.
Organic gardening means avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides without necessarily implying that plants are left to fend for themselves. Therefore, it is Merely creating the best possible environment for plant growth using biological processes that create a supply of nutrients to the plants and maintain the structural and biological integrity of the soil.
Organic farming provides sites for nutrient retention by adding compost, animal and green manures in soil. In the process, soil nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium among others are added to the soil.
Leading gardening professionals such as Tree Service Deltona point out that organic farming can help promote sustainability and improve crop productivity. It can also allow helping create an ecosystem that is not dependent on artificial fertilizers, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals that ultimately end up getting into the composition of the vehicles.
Several natural soil enhancers used in organic gardening include:
Humus: This basically refers to completely decomposed, stable organic matter. Organic materials are decomposed over a long period of time. Humus has important functions in soil, particularly in enhancing soil structure and water-holding capacity
Growing of cover crops: A wide range of cover crops can be grown to enhance soil building properties. Mixtures of cover crops may be the best way to maximize soil building properties. When allowed to decompose, these cover crops have a large amount of biomass that when released into the soil have benefits. Examples of cover crops include leguminous grasses
Compost: Compost is one of the most stable forms of crop nutrients and is an effective means of building soil organic matter, it is also rich in carbon particularly when produced with carbon-rich materials.
Application of compost or manure is an effective means of building up soil organic matter, feeding a wide range of beneficial micro-organisms that aerate the soil and maintain soil PH levels.
A PH of 7 is neutral while values below 7 show increasing acidity and those above 7 show increasing alkalinity. When natural manures are used, the amount of soil PH is naturally maintained since artificial fertilizers add certain elements to the soil such as zinc and copper which when their levels are high become very toxic to the soil.
Through organic farming, soil organic matter is increased thus making the soil to be healthy and its quality also increased. The Use of natural manures aids in moisture retention within the soil, thus ensuring that the crops being grown in the farming process don't lose water to several biological processes such as evaporation. This is because the amount of water being retained by the soil is more than the lost amount by several factors. This is especially vital in sandy soils, which have low water retention capabilities due to their well-drained nature.
Building soil quality by the use of organic methods helps increase the soil's resilience. This is the ability to overcome stress or to bounce back after being disturbed. Crops grown in resilient soils have a better ability to withstand extreme conditions such as drought, flood, extremely high temperatures or pest infection.
Using a case study of a carrot sprout, which is mainly grown in home gardens and known for their sweet taste, we will notice that they are hard to grow and they thrive in areas of minimal artificial fertilizers and thus would do best in organic gardens that use natural means of soil improvement. They would also be best in chilly aquatic conditions considering the amount of moisture needed during their growth to full maturity.
You may have asked yourself this question - what do carrot sprouts look like. Well, carrot sprouts look like grass and can easily be mistaken for weeds in a garden.
Carrots are best grown in sandy soils since the sandy soil is well-drained in contrast to the high amounts of moisture needed to grow the carrots. The use of organic methods of enhancing the soil moisture retention will ensure that the conditions are similar to that of the best aquatic chiller thus favoring the growth of the carrots even in well-drained soils.
The growth of carrots is a good indication of how organic gardening is beneficial to the improvement of soil quality and also in ensuring that the conditions for the growth of several crops are successful, unlike when artificial enhancers such as fertilizers are used.
Advantages of organic gardening
Stabilizes the soil with time by repairing the soil composition and restoring the soil structure so as to ensure its properties are retained
Improve with time by using adequate and adaptive techniques to restore key soil functions
Increase productivity since a number of nutrients provided by the soil is adequate for crop growth
Provides healthy food supply since the crop produced is by natural means and artificial enhancers are not in the components of the crop which is being grown.
Organic gardening, therefore, does improve the quality of the soil.
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