Published on: 25 August 2017
Last Updated on: 16 August 2019
Have you tried deep cleaning your carpets such as using solutions in order to remove stains? Vacuuming is fairly easy and anybody can do it. But with the complexity of cleaning your rugs, the dirt, stains, and all that, leaving it to a professional is better. You do not know what lurks under those rugs.
Why do you need to hire a professional cleaner?
The who are specialists in many types of fibers. They know the type of cleaning material to use for any type of fiber. Their technician will simply have to inspect the rug to be treated and teach you ways to prolong the life of your rug.
Cleaning your carpet and rugs by yourself is time-consuming. It might even result in a disaster if you do not know what you are doing. By hiring a professional to do the work, you can save a lot of time.
Whenever you hire professionals, they will also be the ones to move the furniture and put them back. This is also another convenience because you do not have to do the moving. It can be quite exhausting.
Extend Your Rug’s Life
A rug cleaning in Dallas, when done by professionals, can extend the life of your carpets and rugs. With regular cleaning, your rugs will look as good as new.
A professional cleaner will always perform a better job than hiring an amateur without so much experience. You can expect that every inch and fiber of your rug will be cleaned without damaging them.
Preserve Indoor Air
Rugs and carpets trap a lot of bacteria that you are not aware of. These can pollute your house and might cause allergies. Regular cleaning will prevent the growth of bacteria and allergens that can make you sick. By maintaining clean rugs, you will also preserve a dirt-free surrounding.
Feeling Clean and Comfy
Have you ever felt good walking into a house that is clean? Chances are, you know the feeling of a newly cleaned house. This is pretty much the same when you have a newly cleaned rug. There is that smell of freshness and your rug feels good on your bare feet.
Certification
Professionally trained cleaners are certified in all types of fibers. They know how to clean your rugs and spot any other necessary treatments to prolong the life of the rugs.
While it is true that professional rug cleaners cost more than an amateur, DIY or rentals, in the long run, you are still able to save more. A professional cleaner knows what to do with dirty and stained rugs. They know the chemicals to use without damaging the rug. They are also equipped with the necessary tools and cleaning solutions that are effective than those found in stores.
You can be sure that with professionals, your rugs will not get destroyed as opposed to doing everything yourself and not knowing the precautions on the use of chemicals.
Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.
With organic fertilizers, you can make the earth stronger and healthier than any other method. They are good for the earth because they don't hurt it much and let plants grow naturally. This piece has a lot of information about how organic fertilizers can help soil stay healthy.
What Are Organic Fertilizers?
These natural materials from plants or animals help your plants grow better. They've got the good stuff like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that plants love. People like them because they're eco-friendly and don't harm the environment.
How Do Organic Fertilizers Work?
Organic fertilizers are natural plant nutrients that enrich the soil and provide essential elements for healthy plant growth. They release nutrients slowly, feeding plants over time and improving soil structure. This gradual release helps prevent nutrient runoff and ensures plants receive a balanced diet for optimal development.
One key advantage of organic fertilizers is their eco-friendly nature. Since they're made from organic matter, they promote soil health by fostering beneficial microorganisms and earthworms. These tiny soil allies aid in nutrient absorption, making it easier for plants to access the necessary nourishment.
Organic fertilizers also contribute to long-term soil fertility, reducing the need for frequent applications and potentially harmful chemicals.
Organic Fertilizers Vs. Chemical Fertilizers
They have a friendly, Earth-loving vibe. In contrast, chemical fertilizers are made in a lab, which sounds more scientific. In terms of effectiveness, both types can make your plants happy, but they differ in how they do it.
Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly and improve soil structure over time, like a gradual health boost. Chemical fertilizers, on the other hand, provide a quick nutrient fix, like giving your plants a shot of an energy drink.
Now, let's talk eco-friendliness. Organic fertilizers are environmentally kind, enriching the soil and reducing the risk of chemical runoff into waterways. Chemical fertilizers can sometimes be harsh on the environment, as they may lead to pollution if not used carefully.
Organic fertilizers are the "green" choice, slow and steady, while chemical fertilizers are the quick fix, but be cautious about potential downsides like environmental impact and short-term results.
The Different Types Of Organic Fertilizers
Organic fertilizers come from a variety of natural sources. These include the following:
Compost
Compost is a fantastic organic fertiliser from decomposed organic matter like kitchen scraps, leaves, and yard waste. It's rich in nutrients and improves soil structure, making it easier for plants to access vital elements. Composting at home is an eco-friendly way to recycle kitchen waste and create nutrient-rich soil additives for your garden.
Manure
Manure, typically from animals like cows, horses, or chickens, is an excellent source of organic nutrients. It's widely used in farming and gardening to enrich the soil with essential elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Just make sure to compost or age manure before applying it to your garden to avoid potential issues with odor and pathogens.
Bone Meal
Bone meal come from grounded animal bones. It's an excellent source of phosphorus, which promotes root development and flowering in plants. Gardeners often use bone meal for bulbs, roses, and other flowering plants to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Fish Emulsion
Fish emulsion is a liquid organic fertilizer derived from fish byproducts. It's rich in nitrogen and provides a quick nutrient boost to plants. It's easy to apply but be prepared for the fishy smell. Dilute it before use to reduce the odor and prevent burning your plants.
Seaweed and Kelp
Seaweed and kelp-based fertilizers are eco-friendly options that offer a wide range of nutrients, including trace minerals. They improve soil structure and enhance plant resistance to stress. These organic fertilizers are especially beneficial for vegetables and fruits.
Blood Meal
A blood meal is a high-nitrogen organic fertilizer made from dried animal blood. It's a potent nitrogen source, making it ideal for plants that require rapid growth. Be cautious not to overapply, as it can be strong and potentially harm plants if used excessively.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are an easily accessible organic fertilizer for your garden. They add nitrogen to the soil and help improve its water retention capacity. If you're a coffee lover, consider recycling your used coffee grounds to nourish your plants.
Worm Castings
Also known as vermicompost, are nutrient-rich excretions of earthworms. They enhance soil fertility and microbial activity while providing a slow-release source of nutrients to plants. Worm castings are gentle on plants and are often used for seedlings and potted plants.
Green Manure
Green manure crops are grown and then tilled back into the soil. In this way, they improve the structure and fertility of the soil by enriching it with organic matter and nutrients. Green manure is an excellent way to prepare your garden for future plantings while reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
Eggshells
Crushed eggshells are a natural source of calcium and can help prevent calcium deficiency in tomatoes and other plants. They also deter certain pests like snails and slugs. Save your eggshells, crush them, and sprinkle them around your garden to boost your plants' calcium.
Benefits of organic fertilizers
Aside from its eco-friendly nature, organic fertilizers offer numerous advantages for every farmer or gardener. These are the key benefits of using organic fertilizers:
Nutrient-Rich Soil
Organic fertilizers enrich the soil with various nutrients. This helps promote healthier plant growth.
Improved Soil Structure
Organic fertilizers enhance soil structure. This makes it better at retaining water and preventing erosion.
Enhanced Microbial Activity
Adding organic fertilizers to the soil promotes beneficial microorganisms. The soil is then able to absorb nutrients better.
Healthier Plants
Plants nourished with organic fertilizers often exhibit better resistance to pests and diseases. This contributes to the overall health of your farm or garden.
Choose organic!
Organic fertilizer is a green choice for promoting lush plants and nurturing the soil. It offers many great perks, making it a smart choice for the long haul. Choosing organic fertilizer ensures not just tasty produce but also those grown healthily!
Read Also:
From Dreams To Reality: A Comprehensive Beginner’s Guide On How To Buy A Farm
A Viable Alternative to Wild Fish: Can Salmon Farming Be Sustainable?
Here Are a Few Reasons Why You Should Use Real Estate Farming Postcards to Increase Visibility of Your Business
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
https://giphy.com/gifs/food-asparagus-taylor-lee-nicholson-pejh5q5BBXxi2m4PgF
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.
Learn More About:
Planting & Harvesting Mint
7 Health Benefits of Black Seed Oil
Spirulina: The Complete Plant Based Protein Source | Health Benefits
Ensuring the visual allure of your residence is vital in crafting an inviting and cozy atmosphere. From immaculate landscaping to elegant interior design, each element shapes the overall atmosphere. However, one often overlooked aspect of preserving your home's beauty is hiring pest control services from sources like Forterra Pest Control. This article delves into how pests control measures help protect your home's aesthetic charm.
Preventing Structural Damage
Termites, carpenter ants, and rodents present substantial risks to the structural stability of your residence. These invaders can cause extensive damage to wooden structures, including support beams, door frames, and furniture. Left unchecked, this damage not only compromises the safety of your home but also detracts from its aesthetic appeal. Implementing regular pests control measures helps prevent infestations and minimize the risk of structural damage. By addressing potential entry points and eliminating nesting sites, pests control professionals safeguard your home against the destructive effects of pests, preserving its architectural beauty for years to come.
Maintaining Cleanliness
Pests are not only a nuisance but also carriers of disease and filth. Cockroaches, rodents, and flies can contaminate food, surfaces, and air quality, posing health risks to you and your family. The presence of pests not only compromises the cleanliness of your home but also detracts from its visual appeal. Effective pest control practices focus on eliminating existing infestations and implementing preventive measures to maintain cleanliness. By targeting pest breeding grounds, sealing entry points, and employing safe eradication methods, pests control professionals help keep your home free from unwanted visitors, ensuring a clean and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Preserving Outdoor Spaces
Your residence's exterior plays an integral part in shaping its overall visual allure. Beautifully landscaped gardens, well-maintained lawns, and inviting outdoor living areas enhance the curb appeal of your property. However, pests such as mosquitoes, ants, and spiders can disrupt outdoor activities and mar the beauty of your outdoor spaces. Integrated pest management techniques help protect your outdoor areas from pest infestations while minimizing environmental impact. By utilizing targeted treatments and natural deterrents, pests control specialists create a pest-free environment, allowing you to enjoy outdoor spaces without compromising their beauty.
Safeguarding Decor And Furnishings
Interior decor and furnishings are essential elements that contribute to your home's aesthetic charm. However, these items are susceptible to damage from pests such as moths, beetles, and rodents. If not adequately protected, fabric upholstery, wooden furniture, and delicate decor items are particularly vulnerable to infestation and deterioration. Regular pests control inspections and treatments help safeguard your decor and furnishings against potential damage. Pest control professionals ensure that your home's interior remains pristine and visually appealing by implementing preventive measures such as barrier treatments, fumigation, and targeted eradication.
Promoting Peace of Mind
Beyond the tangible benefits, pest control provides homeowners with peace of mind. Knowing that your home is protected against pest infestations allows you to relax and enjoy its beauty and comfort. Whether hosting gatherings with friends or simply spending quiet moments with family, a pest-free environment enhances your overall quality of life.
Tips For Selecting The Right Pests Control Services
Pest control is one of the most important things about maintaining a certain aesthetic of your home. However, this would only happen if you get a hold of the right control company. Hence, this section will help you do just that. We have curated a small bonus section discussing the important factors that you need to know in order to select the right Pest Control Services.
Quality
Pests come in varied shapes and sizes. As a result, you need to deal with them with specific care. Therefore, quality assistance should be your first priority. Go for companies that offer 24*7 support crews for your every query. Make sure the professionals you hire have enough experience and training to handle your pest problems. Finally, only go for a firm that has a 24*7 customer support team and warranty for their services. All of these metrics ensure that you get quality assistance from the firm.
License
Licensing is an important thing to consider while selecting the right pests control services. Make sure that you are partnering up with the right firm that is qualified and authorized in order to deal with the kind of pests control services that you want to avail. Use Google to do your research. Make sure you know all the angles before you make any sort of decision. Narrow down your search according to your requirements and look for the licensing you might need in order to deal with the problem. Then, use this information to approach the right firms.
Chemicals
If you are already on the internet, you should also start inquiring about the required chemicals. Chemicals are an integral part of a pests control operation. Therefore, you need to understand these chemicals very closely. Google whatever you can about these chemicals. See how these chemicals morph your instant atmosphere. Understand the repercussions of these chemicals and how they affect your family’s health. If you have a pet, you need to google if these chemicals are pet-friendly or not. Otherwise, you might end up with a disaster on your hands.
User Review
Taking recommendations is a very important thing. We suggest that you start inquiring about the local pests control firm that usually works in your neighborhood. Start by asking the neighbors. Ask about their personal experience and assess it. If the reviews are mostly okay, then start looking up the firm on the internet. Yelp could be a good place to start your research. Never go for unverified firms that have less than 4 stars. Otherwise, you might end up doing more damage than fixing.
Cost
The final aspect of this whole journey is the cost. Cost is a very important thing to keep in mind. However, lower costs are not always good. Always compare the cost with the aforementioned parameters. A firm that offers several levels of quality and assurance at $20 is definitely doing something fishy compared to a firm that is offering the same thing at $1000. Cost needs to be looked at from a logical perspective.
Conclusion
Effective pests control measures are crucial for preserving your home's aesthetic appeal. By hiring services from a reputable source like Forterra Pest Control to prevent structural damage, maintain cleanliness, safeguard outdoor spaces, protect decor and furnishings, and promote peace of mind, pests control measures ensure that your home remains a beautiful and welcoming sanctuary for years to come. Prioritizing pests control is not just about protecting your property; it's about preserving its inherent beauty and creating a harmonious living environment for you and your loved ones.
ADDITIONAL READING:
10 Hidden Dangers Of DIY Pest Control
The ROI Of Proactive Pest Control For Property Management
9 Signs You Have a Pest Infestation in Your House (And What to Do About It)
