Published on: 07 June 2016
Last Updated on: 29 May 2021
For woodworkers, buying a router is simply not enough. They need a woodwork machine also known as the router that is capable of providing all the basic functionalities along with some advanced features. If you are in search of the perfect router that would help you carry out your woodwork efficiently as well as smoothly then your search can end at Bosch RA1181.It is probably the most trusted router table in the tool industry. It is also the best pick when you are tight on budget.
Why Bosch RA1181 the Best Choice?
Bosch RA1181 is undoubtedly the most trusted router table in the tool industry. However, this statement is simply not enough to persuade people to buy this product. Hence, here are a few reasons which will clearly state why this router table is regarded as the most trusted one and why you should invest your money on this.
The work area provided by the Bosch RA1181 is quite wide. Also, this router table has an aluminum fence along with MDF face plates as well as aluminum router mounting plate. This router table has a set of 3 mounting plates. These factors contribute to providing strong support as well as can help you in carrying out your job in a smooth manner.
In spite of the low cost, Bosch RA1181possess all the necessary router mounting hardware that you expect in a costly router. Hence, there is no reason to say no this cost-effective woodwork machine.
A dual-outlet with 15 Ampere switch is also present in order to provide overload protection.
Two flexible feather boards along with 1/16-inch fence shims are also present in this cost-effective woodwork machine.
One of the most important features that people expect as well as want too to be present in the router is the dust collection system. This system can be found in Bosch RA1181. Because of the dust collection system, a clean working environment can surely be expected.
This router is designed for versatility thereby allowing you to work with different types of materials. It is also built to provide precision with every cut.
Also, this router table is completely adjustable to allow various pieces to fit in.
All the important features that you can expect in a costly router such as clear adjustable guard, starter pin as well as guard, etc. are all present in the Bosch RA1181.
It is because of all the features that people who have invested in this router table have been jubilant with its performance. One of the factors that make Bosch RA1181 the most trusted router table in the tool industry is customer satisfaction. This router table has all the necessary features that any woodworker would like to have in a woodwork machine. On top of that, it is not too expensive. Thus, is suitable for all those people who are looking for cheap yet powerful woodwork machine.
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.
Over the years, the perception of gardening has changed from the traditional method of tilling a patch in the backyard for fruits and vegetables to more sophisticated types of gardening. Front yard gardening is steadily taking root in the suburbs as homeowners strive to decorate their front yards with more than hydrangeas in the flower bed.
Needless to say, front yard gardening adds aesthetic value to the property and not just for you but your neighbors as well. In open-plan neighborhoods, exposed front yards call for constant admiration or scrutiny from neighbors who may get upset if they do not approve of what is in your yard.
If you are confused about which plants will be able to uplift the aesthetics of the garden you can always count on experts in the industry. Home and property owners can get a mix of plants selected by Tree Service Roseville that are not only pleasant to look at, but also require low maintenance. This will help you keep your garden in top shape and be appreciated by everyone that visits the same.
5 Essential Tips to Designing a Beautiful Front Yard Garden
An unsightly front yard is likely to hurt your neighbor's property as well. For instance, if he is trying to sell his home, open house visits with potential buyers will not go well if there are overgrown bushes right next door. Some neighborhood associations go as far as stipulating guidelines on what is allowed in the front yard. If you are contemplating starting a garden in your front yard, read on for useful tips.
1. Determine Size of the Garden
How much land you allocate for your front garden is dependent on the size of your front yard; you cannot extend your garden to the neighbor's property. Consider other activities that go on your front yard, for instance, parking vehicles, a playpen for young children, and so on.
Read also: 3 Amazing Flower Street Garden – How To Design
Planting beds can be horizontal, along with the width of the house, or vertical from the house to the sidewalk to the fence. Leave enough space for a walkway so that people can access the home with ease without the risk of stepping on plants or getting their shoes muddy from dirt.
2. Select Mix of Plants
Once you know how much land is available, identify a plant. Since front yard gardens are meant to enhance the look of your home, avoid monotony in one crop. Try a mix of different plants that will look great when they grow and plants that do not compete for nutrients.
You also need suitable methods of nourishing your plants to give them the best chance of survival. Applying fertilizer and compost will greatly boost the nutrient content of the soil. Whatever plants you settle for, they should not block the view of the street-facing windows as this will block natural sunlight from gracing your living room or kitchen.
Bushy plants with overgrown foliage look unsightly and are likely to mar the look of your front yard. Drop by your local garden store and find the best pole saw for trimming excess foliage to maintain the desired look and avoid harboring pests.
3. Establish Order
While growing a variety of plants in your front yard is encouraged, do not get carried away. Planting too many species affects the appearance of the landscape making looks like different patches of land with no cohesion. This type of mess is best moved to the backyard away from the prying eye of onlookers.
Read also: How to make a perfect summer retreat from your backyard
Gardening experts recommend five to ten species of perennials, three to five shrubs and if you like, add two varieties of trees. Before making a decision, investigate what types of plants thrive in the climatic conditions of your area.
4. Regular Maintenance
Having a front yard garden demands your full attention. You cannot afford to ignore drooping leaves, weak stems, or an insect infestation. Establish a maintenance routine that works well with your other responsibilities such as work or taking care of the family.
Regardless of your schedule, there are important activities that must be done on a regular basis and sometimes daily. For instance, watering, trimming bushes, weeding, etc. You can choose to do this in the evening after work or if you are too busy, enlist the services of a gardener during the day.
5. Year-Round Gardening
When starting a front garden, you want your plants to grow throughout as opposed to only a few months of the year. While not all plants can do well in the dead of winter or the sweltering heat of summer, you can count on evergreen trees and shrubs.
Planting trees in your garden provide a natural fence around your property and trees provide natural shade for smaller plants. A reasonable amount of shade helps to control evaporation in the hotter months of the year
A front yard garden may be the solution you have been looking for since you purchased your home. Gardening is an ideal alternative to mowing the lawn and running sprinklers all day. You do not have to do it all by yourself; involve the rest of the family for some added fun.
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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Biophilic design has become a popular global interior design trend. Pinterest Business reported a 100% increase in searches for "biophilic design bedroom" between 2019 and 2021.
This design approach is rooted in biophilia, humans' innate affinity with the natural world.
Moreover, it has practical applications in design. Research indicates that it can positively affect productivity and well-being.
For instance, a study showed that people spent 11% more time in biophilic-inspired hotel lobbies.
Similarly, schools in Washington State saw a 5% increase in student test scores and a 15% reduction in absenteeism with a biophilic design approach.
Let us explore what interior designers suggest for a biophilic home and ideas that you must explore!
Understanding Biophilic Home Designs
The modern world of technology has taken a new direction towards nature. Robotics, AI, and the Internet of Things (IOT) have caused urban architects to incorporate biophilic designs.
These designs involve greenery and natural elements. It helps to improve air quality, airflow, circadian rhythm, heart rate, and human health.
Biophilic designs stimulate visual connection and enhance the multi-sensory experience using indoor plants and natural patterns.
Stephen Kellert and Edward O. Wilson, who founded biophilic designs, have made nature feel more accessible at home. He incorporates plants, sunlight, natural materials, and fresh air.
How To Make Your Home Biophilic?
Given below are the different aspects that you can add to your home for a biophilic design—
Add Plenty Of Greens
Integrating plants into your interior design can create a natural and inviting ambiance. Adding greens helps enhance the aesthetic aspects of a biophilic home, ensuring a calming environment. Moreover, indoor plants help purify the air inside your home.
However, this does not necessarily mean you must go overboard and transform your home into a tropical paradise.
You can opt for potted plants, hanging baskets, or even a simple vase with fresh-cut flowers. Match your live elements with the color scheme of your decor. Most home designing experts advise you to get more succulents for your home. These plants require less watering but look amazing in every setting.
Alternatively, nature-inspired artwork, botanical prints, or murals can bring the outdoors in.
The idea is to create a synergy between the artificial environment and the natural world. This home design can positively impact your mood, health, and well-being.
Therefore, incorporating natural elements into your interior design can create a more harmonious and balanced living. This biophilic element can be functional and beautiful at the same time.
Enable Natural Lighting
Incorporating natural light into interior spaces has numerous benefits.
Biophilic design emphasizes the connection between humans and nature. Therefore, it prioritizes light and space to create a healthier, harmonizing, and more comfortable environment.
Biophilic home designs use different components of warmth and sunlight. Natural light can blend the boundaries between the interior and exterior of a space.
For instance, large windows and skylights can allow sunlight to stream in, making a space more open and inviting.
Additionally, glass roofs and walls allow you to save electricity with natural lighting during the daytime.
If you can reduce your exposure to artificial lighting, you say goodbye to stress and fatigue. It helps invigorate the body and mind.
Therefore, we can design spaces incorporating biophilic principles to improve our well-being and strengthen our connection to nature. It creates spaces that promote well-being and encourage a greater appreciation for the natural world.
Use Organic Decor Items
Biophilic design is a concept that aims to connect people with nature by incorporating natural elements into the built environment.
To create a peaceful atmosphere and promote a sense of well-being in your home, incorporate natural materials like leather, wood, and stone for your decor items. This brings a natural touch to the textures, colors, and forms around your home.
Furthermore, using subdued and organic color schemes can also help to enhance the calming and stress-reducing properties of biophilic design. Handcraft your decor with jute ropes,
Therefore, you can create an affordable and easy-to-maintain space with these decor items. That is aesthetically pleasing and enhances your physical and mental health.
Maintain The Patio
Biophilia is an evolutionary concept that suggests humans have an innate affinity for nature. This idea is gaining traction in outdoor architecture and design as well.
Biophilic design is a concept that aims to create a connection with nature and its resources. To achieve this in your outdoor space, you can incorporate some major additions like the following:
Eco-friendly composite decking.
Vertical gardens.
Green screens in small spaces.
Native plants can help support wildlife and blur the boundaries between the territory and nature. Therefore, it is essential to consider factors such as sunlight exposure and irrigation when selecting plant species for your patio.
Furthermore, incorporating water elements like fountains or cascades can help create a tranquil atmosphere.
It is also important to choose outdoor furniture inspired by nature instead of plastic. Install fire pits made of natural materials like stone or metal. This can help create a comfortable and inviting outdoor biophilic space.
Let The Air Flow
Achieving a biophilic home design involves paying attention to the air circulation within each room.
You can start by determining the direction of the wind around your home. Next, open your windows accordingly to facilitate the flow of fresh air.
Additionally, you can enhance the airflow in your home by ensuring that your rooms are spacious and free of clutter.
Consider using furniture that provides ample storage space to keep your rooms organized and uncluttered. This allows the air to circulate freely throughout your home.
By creating a well-ventilated and spacious environment, you can enhance the biophilic design of your home. Therefore, bring nature indoors and improve your overall well-being.
Add Water Features
Adding water features like cascades, fountains, or reflecting pools to your outdoor space can incorporate a biophilic design. It helps create a serene atmosphere.
The sound and sight of water can instantly transport you to nature and induce a feeling of tranquility and relaxation.
You can go for a small pond or stream in your backyard if you have a generous budget. This addition can create a more natural and immersive experience.
However, a small water fountain in your garden, patio, or deck can do the trick if you prefer a simpler option.
It's a quick and easy way to add elegance and calmness to your outdoor space!
Wrap It Up With A Fire Pit
Adding a fire pit to your outdoor space can significantly impact its ambiance and appeal.
By creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, fire pits can make your outdoor area a more comfortable and enjoyable place to spend time.
Furthermore, fire is a natural element that can uniquely evoke feelings of tranquility and connection with nature.
Therefore, incorporating a fire pit into your outdoor design can help create a biophilic environment that promotes relaxation and well-being.
Read Also:
Enhancing Spaces With Greenery: The Art Of Plant Styling In Interior Design
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Top 5 Interior Designers from Singapore
