Published on: 31 August 2017
Last Updated on: 29 May 2021
How’s your outdoor space coming along? Outdoor spaces such as our patios are our sanctuary to relax and unwind after a long day from work. It is also a place where we spend quality time with our family and where we have chit-chats about how our day went.
We can’t afford, for sure, to see the place we called sanctuary as lifeless and dull. Therefore, adding some refreshing colors to enliven it is necessary for us to have the best family bonding and a place to relax.
The good thing is, giving some life to your outdoor spaces doesn’t have to be laborious and expensive. The colors may come from your furniture, tiles, plants, pots, and outdoor rugs. Here are some ways to consider if you want to add up some color and life to your outdoor spaces.
Colorful Plantscaping
Bringing some ambiance of nature into your outdoor spaces cannot be understated, and plant-scaping is necessary to put in that ambiance.
When choosing for plants, it’s alright to be simple and to go with a greeny landscape. But it’s much better if we add up an array of colorful flowers. To be more colorful, you can opt for a collection of Mandevilla, gardenia, plumbago, and sunflower. But there are many other colorful plants out there in your nearest garden shop that will surely suit your taste.
Pot Art
Do your flower pots look dull? Perhaps, it’s time to do them some paint job.
Not only your plants and flowers can spice up your garden, but also your flower pots. You can do some fun art on them with a color scheme that can add an artistic beauty to your landscape. In this way, your garden will not anymore look dull.
Put Colorful Outdoor Furniture on Display
Chairs, tables, and shades are center attractions in our patios. You can turn them into a more attention-grabbing status if you show them off in bright colors. For sure, it can add a more refreshing ambiance while you’re having your afternoon coffee.
Roll Out The Outdoor Rug
If you want to add some interesting detail to your outdoor dining or seating areas, you can place an outdoor rug under it. Rugs with beautiful designs are essential in order not to give your outdoor spaces a basic look.
A mural is the best way to brighten up your dull wall. Not only that this will not consume up a lot of space, but a wall with a mural can also bring us peace of mind every time we look at it.
Outdoor Decors
You can enliven your patio or garden with outdoor decorations. For example, you can put bright-colored hanging baskets on display in your garden. Mosaic art, colorful stepping stones, and tabletop lanterns are also things that will give charm to your outdoor spaces.
Takeaway
We must not settle for the simple and basic when it comes to designing our outdoor spaces. There are a lot of ways to put some life to it such as adding up some colors. It also does not have to be challenging and expensive as some ideas mentioned above are do-it-yourself tips. What we only need is a little budget and our creativity.
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.
with a car donation in New Jersey, one can turn the tables of life for many underprivileged children. It just needs a noble gesture to give up a used car.
It is one thing to grow up with a belief, and a different thing altogether to use that and follow the same in real life. That charity begins at home and we should help those in need are lessons that we receive in the very early stages of our life. And just as we grow old, we tend to forget all those lessons mainly because we either get too busy with our lives or we don’t come across too many opportunities to practice what we have been preached. But, think about this. Will you make the best of the opportunity if you got one in life? Will you be a part of a charity that can change the world of underprivileged children? And will you donate to a good cause if you could? If all the answers are in the affirmative, then there is an opportunity for you to explore. But there is a clause. You have to be the owner of a car. No, not necessarily a luxury vehicle or an SUV. It can just be anything. A station wagon, a hatchback, a Sedan- anything will do. This is because the donation that you will make will not be in cash. It will be a car donation in New Jersey to a non-profitable organization.
Why The Need To Own a Car?
You just got the answer. It will be a different kind of charity. You will be giving your vehicle up to a car donation foundation New Jersey that works for the betterment of helpless children. The organizations do not accept any monetary donations. What they ask instead is to give the cars up. Definitely, they won’t ask the vehicle owners to give up a car that works or which they do not plan to sell. But families in New Jersey do have more than one vehicle in the family and both usually are not always in the best of condition. So, if you are thinking of replacing the old car or just sell it away and utilize the money for a new car, then you need to sit back and think. You can always afford a new car, but if you do not sell the old car and donate it instead, then you will be doing a huge favor to many underprivileged children. Also, selling an old car will invite hassle which you will not want to take. Donating it will be easier and good deed always comes back to the doer. When you donate your car in New Jersey, be prepared to get some nice return too.
Is There Any Surprise For The Car Donor?
Charities usually do not bring back returns. That is why they are called donations and the donor should just give something with the intention of giving and not thinking that they will get back something in return. But, when you donate your car in New Jersey to organizations that work for the betterment of needy children and are recognized by the IRS, you are actually signing up for a little surprise reward. All donations that go to IRS recognized organizations make the vehicle donor eligible for tax deductions. They can rightfully claim the deductions and when the donation is finalized, they will get all the papers required to document the donation. The entire car donation process is hassle-free so there are no nasty surprises waiting for the donors at the end.
How Does The Car Donation in New Jersey Take Place?
The entire process of car donation is simple. Those who are interested to donate their car, can get in touch with the organizations directly either through the website and fill up the online form or they can also put across a call and talk to one of the representatives who are friendly and courteous enough to guide them. Once the decision is made to donate the car, they will fix up a date, time and place convenient to the donor and send over the tow truck to receive the donated vehicle. No payment is asked from the car donor for towing.
What Happens To My Donated Vehicle?
A cause of concern definitely for the car donor as to what purpose the donated vehicle has been put to. But don’t think too much. When a vehicle is donated to an IRS recognized organization, it goes to the right place. The car is auctioned off and the money that comes from it is used to fund various service programs for the benefit of the underprivileged children. With that money, these children can go to school, enjoy a hot meal or visit summer camps. They can practically do anything that they had only dreamt of doing their entire life.
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The world of art is vast and diverse, with countless mediums and forms explored and celebrated throughout history. While traditional canvas paintings have long held a special place in the hearts of art enthusiasts, a realm of artistic expression goes beyond the canvas and is found in framed wall art. This article delves into the fascinating world of framed wall art, exploring its unique characteristics, diverse styles, and how it can elevate any living space's aesthetic.
A Unique Medium
As the name suggests, framed wall art is enclosed within a frame. This medium offers a departure from conventional canvas painting by adding an extra layer of dimension and sophistication to the artwork. The frame becomes an integral part of the composition, enhancing the overall visual impact of the piece. These frames come in various materials, including wood, metal, and acrylic, allowing for a wide range of styles and aesthetics to be explored.
Diverse Styles and Themes
One of the most captivating aspects of wall art is the sheer diversity of styles and themes available. Whether looking for a penchant for classic art, contemporary design, or something unique, one will find framed art that resonates with your taste. The possibilities are endless, from abstract expressions of color and form to realistic portrayals of nature and culture.
In-Home Decor
Framed art has emerged as a favored choice for interior decorators and homeowners looking to infuse their living spaces with artistry and personality. Its versatility is a critical factor in its popularity. Art on the wall can suit your vision, whether to create a focal point in a room, add a subtle touch of elegance, or convey a particular theme.
Choosing the Right Piece
Selecting the right framed artistic pieces for your space is an art form. Consider your room's existing color palette and decor style to ensure that the artwork complements the ambiance. Additionally, consider the wall's size and the piece's desired impact. A large, bold framed artwork can become a captivating centerpiece, while smaller pieces can be grouped to create a gallery-like atmosphere.
The Impact
This art form can transform a room, evoking emotions, sparking conversations, and leaving a lasting impression on anyone who enters. It can reflect your personality, tell a story, or add a touch of beauty to your surroundings. The beauty of this art lies in its ability to engage and inspire, making it a valuable addition to any space.
How To Beautify A Space Using A Walled Art Frame?
Be it your home decor or getting a gallery ready, beautifying a space with a walled art frame is a lot of work. Easy, it may sound, but it requires a certain level of expertise to decorate your space using intricate art piece/s. A blank wall acts as a canvas; it is a missed opportunity for decor. A bare wall is a perfect canvas for sharing stories and revealing your identity through wall art.
If the above tips weren't enough, we're bringing ideas to elevate your wall decor and be the talking point for your dinner parties.
1. Be sure to make the art reflect who you are
We all have interests and hobbies that reflect that we are more than just our professional selves. There is more to our personalities than what we share at work! When you decide to put up an art piece on your wall, you show a piece of your personality. A part of you is inviting guests to speak more on it, taking the conversation forward for the rest of your party.
It's not as complicated as it sounds, but choosing pieces that convey your love for some place or a thing is quite simple. You may deeply love an artist such as Monet or Picasso. Or you may be a superfan of a comic company such as Marvel or DC (the best is obviously....this one's an unsettled debate, let it stay that way.)
Let the art piece show your love for a quirky fashion item, sense of humor, latest trends, or the classics. Find art that is an accurate representation of your personality.
2. Make a wall centerpiece that mixes art pieces.
Need help figuring out where to start? Try to coordinate a few colors to contrast with the wall color. Or choose something that has a common theme, creating one big art piece. You can experiment with the theme and create a piece that catches people's eyes. Don't just stick to canvases or paintings; reach out for quirky designs, vintage art pieces, or photographs. The point is to let your mind create something that genuinely feels like you.
3. Aim for a vibe.
Consider using the spare wall to fill up the space and add a dimension to your room. For example, if you have to decorate the wall space in your yoga room, you may consider adding oil on a canvas of white lilies/lilies. This would bring a sense of calm to the room. Similarly, change the wall art in your room and create an immaculate vibe.
4. Create your art!
What's better than adding a completely unique art piece with your personal touch as well? Art is not meant to be perfect, so don't worry if you are no Picasso! Even Picasso wasn't "Picasso" until the people recognized his work! No famous artist was "The one" until people showed their work with appreciation.
So pick a blank canvas, sit with your thoughts for a while, and channel the thoughts with every brushstroke.
These were all the additional tips to make your boring walls interesting, giving an elegant touch to your space.
Conclusion
In artistry, framed wall art is a testament to the endless possibilities of creative expression. Its unique blend of form and function and its ability to adapt to various styles and themes make it a captivating choice for art enthusiasts and home decorators. Whether seeking to enhance the aesthetic of your living space or appreciate the beauty of art in all its forms, wall art offers a captivating journey of discovery and expression.
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Basil is one of the most popular and versatile herbs you can grow in your garden or indoors. It has a fresh and aromatic flavor that can enhance any dish, from salads and soups to pizzas and pastas. Basil is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants just like cilantro. It can benefit your health and well-being. But how do you harvest basil properly so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves?
If these are some of the things you want to know, I have you covered! In this article, I will answer all these questions and more and give you everything you need to know about harvesting basil! So, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more…
How to Harvest Basil Leaves?
The first thing you need to know about harvesting basil is when to do it. The best time to harvest basil leaves is in the morning when the plant is still fresh and moist. Avoid harvesting basil in the afternoon or evening when the plant is dry and wilted. Also, avoid harvesting basil when it is raining or wet, as this can cause the leaves to rot or mold.
Steps to Harvest Basil Leaves
To harvest basil leaves, you will need a pair of scissors or a sharp knife and a basket or a bowl to collect the leaves. You can also use your fingers to pinch off the leaves, but be careful not to damage the stem or the plant. Here are the steps to follow:
Start from the top of the plant, and look for the stems with leaf clusters. These are called the terminal buds, and they are where the basil flowers will grow. You want to remove these buds, as they will make the plant stop producing new leaves and focus on flowering and seeding. This will reduce the flavor and quality of the basil leaves.
Cut or pinch off the stem just below the terminal bud, leaving about a quarter of an inch of stem above the next pair of leaves. This will encourage the plant to grow two new stems from the leaf nodes and produce more leaves. You can also cut or pinch off any other stems that are too long or leggy and leave about four to six pairs of leaves on each stem.
Repeat this process for all the stems that have terminal buds, and collect the leaves in your basket or bowl. You can also harvest some of the lower leaves but leave enough leaves on the plant to allow it to photosynthesize and grow. You should not harvest more than a third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and reduce its growth and health.
After harvesting, rinse the leaves with water and pat them dry with a paper towel. You can use them fresh or store them for later use.
How to Harvest Basil So It Keeps Growing
One of the benefits of harvesting basil is that it stimulates the plant to grow more leaves and branches and prevents it from flowering and seeding.
However, you need to harvest basil regularly and correctly, so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves.
Here are some tips to follow. For instance, you must harvest basil:
At least once every two weeks, or more often if you see the terminal buds forming. This will keep the plant bushy and compact and prevent it from becoming woody and bitter.
From different parts of the plant, and not always from the same spot. This will ensure that the plant grows evenly and does not become lopsided or uneven.
Before it flowers. This is because the flowers will reduce the flavor and quality of the leaves. If you see any flowers forming, remove them as soon as possible. You can also pinch off the flowers and use them as edible garnishes or decorations, as they have a mild and sweet flavor.
Before the frost, as the cold weather will kill the plant. You can either harvest the whole plant and store it for later use, or bring it indoors and keep it in a sunny and warm spot. You can also propagate the plant by taking cuttings and rooting them in water or soil and grow new plants for the next season.
How to Harvest Basil Without Killing The Plant?
Harvesting basil is different from harvesting lettuce or other plants. The process is good for the plant and you, as you can enjoy the fresh and aromatic leaves in your dishes.
However, you need to be careful not to harvest too much or too often, as this can harm and kill the plant.
Here are some dos and don'ts of harvesting basil without killing it:
Do harvest basil from the top of the plant, not the bottom or the middle. This will allow the plant to grow stems and leaves from the lower nodes and maintain its shape and structure.
Don't harvest basil from the main stem or cut it too close to the ground. This will damage the plant and prevent it from growing new stems and leaves. Leave at least four to six pairs of leaves on each stem and about an inch of stem above the ground.
Do harvest basil gently and carefully, and not roughly or forcefully. This will avoid injuring the plant and exposing it to diseases or pests. Use a sharp and clean tool, such as scissors or a knife, and make clean and smooth cuts. You can also use your fingers to pinch off the leaves but be gentle and precise.
Don't harvest basil when it is stressed or unhealthy, such as when it is wilting, yellowing, or diseased. This will weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to further damage. Wait until the plant recovers and looks healthy and green before harvesting. You can also water and fertilize the plant to help it grow and thrive.
Do harvest basil when it is young and tender, not old and tough. This will ensure the leaves are fresh, flavorful, and not bitter or woody. Harvest basil when the leaves are about two to three inches long before they curl or turn brown.
How to Pick Basil Leaves?
Picking basil leaves is another way to harvest and use the leaves in your dishes. You can pick basil leaves with your fingers or with a pair of tweezers, depending on your preference and convenience. Here are some tips on how to pick basil leaves. For instance, you can pick it:
From the top of the plant, not the bottom or the middle. This will allow the plant to grow stems and leaves from the lower nodes and maintain its shape and structure.
From the stems that have terminal buds, not from those that have none. This will prevent the plant from flowering and seeding and producing more leaves. You can also pick some of the lower leaves but leave enough leaves on the plant to allow it to photosynthesize and grow.
Gently and carefully, and not roughly or forcefully. This will avoid injuring the plant and exposing it to diseases or pests. Use your fingers to pinch off the leaves or a pair of tweezers to pluck them off. Be gentle and precise, and do not pull or tug on the leaves or the stems.
When they are young and tender and not when they are old and tough, this will ensure the leaves are fresh, flavorful, and not bitter or woody. Pick basil when the leaves are about two to three inches long before they curl or turn brown.
How to Store Basil Leaves?
Storing basil leaves is a great way to preserve and enjoy them for later use. You can store basil leaves in different ways, depending on how long you want to keep them and how you want to use them. Here are some of the best ways to store basil leaves:
Refrigerate Them
You can refrigerate basil leaves for up to a week, by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and placing them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. This will keep them moist and fresh, and prevent them from wilting or drying out. However, you should not wash them.
Freeze Them
You can freeze basil leaves for up to six months, by blanching them in boiling water for a few seconds, and then plunging them in ice water to stop the cooking process. This will preserve their color and flavor, and prevent them from browning or oxidizing. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel, and place them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. You can also chop them and mix them with some olive oil, and freeze them in ice cube trays. This will make it easier to use them in soups, sauces, or dressings.
Dry Them
You can dry basil leaves for up to a year, by hanging them upside down in a warm and dry place, such as a closet or a pantry. This will dehydrate them and concentrate their flavor, and make them last longer. However, you should avoid drying them in direct sunlight, as this can bleach them and reduce their quality. You can also dry them in an oven or a microwave, but be careful not to burn them or overcook them. Once they are dry, you can store them in a glass jar or a spice container, and crush them or grind them before using them.
Make Pesto
You can make pesto with basil leaves, by blending them with some garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This will create a delicious and versatile sauce that you can use for pasta, sandwiches, salads, or dips. You can store pesto in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to six months. You can also customize pesto by adding other herbs, nuts, cheeses, or spices, according to your taste and preference.
How to Cut Basil?
Cutting basil is a simple and easy way to harvest and use the leaves in your dishes. You can cut basil with scissors, a knife, or your fingers, depending on your preference and convenience.
Here are some tips on how to cut basil:
Wash and dry the basil leaves before cutting them to remove any dirt or insects. You can rinse them under running water or soak them in a water bowl with a few drops of vinegar. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel or spin them in a salad spinner.
Cut the basil leaves just before using them, to preserve their flavor and aroma. If you cut them too early, they will lose their freshness and wilt. You can also bruise or damage the leaves if you cut them too roughly or with a dull tool.
Cut the basil leaves according to the size and shape that you need for your recipe. You can either leave them whole or chop them finely or coarsely. You can also cut them into ribbons or strips, by stacking several leaves together, rolling them up, and slicing them thinly. This is called the chiffonade technique, and it creates a beautiful and elegant garnish.
Cut the basil leaves with a sharp and clean tool, such as scissors or a knife, and not with a blender or a food processor. This will avoid bruising or crushing the leaves and releasing their oils and juices. You can also use your fingers to tear or pinch off the leaves but be gentle and careful.
How to Use Basil Leaves?
Using basil leaves is a fun and easy way to add flavor and aroma to your dishes. You can use basil leaves in different ways, depending on your mood and occasion. Here are some of the best ways to use basil leaves:
Fresh
You can use fresh basil leaves to garnish and enhance your dishes, such as salads, soups, pizzas, and pastas. Also you can use fresh basil leaves to make salads, such as caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, or Greek salad with cucumbers, feta cheese, and basil. You can also use fresh basil leaves to make drinks, such as lemonade, tea, or cocktails, with basil, lemon, sugar, and water.
Cooked
You can use cooked basil leaves to flavor and season your dishes, such as sauces, stews, curries, and casseroles. Also you can use cooked basil leaves to make dishes, such as tomato sauce with basil, garlic, and onion, or chicken with basil, cream, and mushrooms. You can also use cooked basil leaves to make breads, such as focaccia with basil, olive oil, and salt, or muffins with basil, cheese, and eggs.
Preserved
You can use preserved basil leaves to store and enjoy them for later use, such as freezing, drying, or making pesto. Also you can use preserved basil leaves to make dishes, such as pesto pasta with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese, or roasted vegetables with basil, olive oil, and salt. You can also use preserved basil leaves to make snacks, such as crackers with basil, cheese, and honey, or popcorn with basil, butter, and salt.
Wrapping It Up!
Basil is a wonderful herb that you can grow and harvest in your garden or indoors. It has a fresh and aromatic flavor that can enhance any dish, and a rich and nutritious profile that can benefit your health and well-being. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can learn how to harvest basil properly, so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves, how to cut basil, pick basil leaves, and store them for later use, and how to use basil leaves in different and delicious ways.
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