Published on: 07 September 2017
Last Updated on: 30 July 2024
It is often said that if the grass is greener on the other side, you need to work on your lawn. One of the tools that can help you to maintain your lawn and keep it in good shape is the weed wacker. Also known as a string trimmer or a weed eater, this versatile tool is designed to keep your lawn free from weeds and tall grasses. But selecting the right weed wacker for your lawn can be quite a task if you don’t know where to begin. Outlined below are a few things that you need to keep in mind while selecting a weed wacker.
Examine the area of action
One of the first things that you need to examine is the area where you plan to use the weed wacker. Not just the size of your yard or lawn, you must consider its distance from available electrical outlets as well. While a small yard will provide you more flexibility in terms of the weed wacker you select, it may not be always true for a large yard.
For instance, if you need to remove strong weeds from the far end of a large lawn, an electric trimmer may not be the perfect machine to opt for because of the distance of the spot from the electrical outlet. Additionally, you must keep in mind any structures or features present in or near your lawn, such as bushes and fences. The weed wacker you select must be able to work smoothly around such things.
Consider the intensity of the task
The type of weed you need to remove with the weed wacker also plays a significant role in its selection. If you are looking to eliminate normal weeds from your lawn, a standard weed wacker will usually be sufficient for your requirements. But if you need to use it for more intense weed-cutting purposes, such as the removal of tough weeds or cutting of thick grass covering a large segment of the lawn, a commercial-grade machine will be a better option for you.
Pay attention to the mode of operation
Weed wackers are available in various types, including electric, gas, and battery-operated models. Battery and gas operated models do not need the use of extension cords. So, they offer more freedom as far as the mobility of the tool is concerned. But battery-operated models need to be frequently recharged. Gas operated models can be used for bigger jobs, where more time is required. Electric models are light, quiet, and easy to use. But they are restricted by the extension cord. Select the mode of operation based on your requirements.
Keep your budget in mind
The make or break of any buying decision ultimately depends on the budget. So, set a basic budget first and then look for a model that satisfies your budget as well as your weed eating requirements. But before you finalize your decision, do not forget to compare the features of the different models. You can check out the best weed wackers here to get an idea of their budgets and features.
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When you think about landscaping, you probably think about visiting a nursery to pick out plants or planting flowers to create a beautiful accent garden. Flowers, plants, and trees are only one part of the equation, however. You also need to think about how your landscape will look after the sun goes down. Residential landscape lighting can enhance the look of your home after dark, drawing attention to key architectural details of your house and highlighting the beautiful plants that surround it. Use these tips to boost your home's curb appeal today.
Understand that landscape lighting goes beyond solar path lights
Lighting up your landscape involves far more than just sticking a few solar lights along the edge of your sidewalk and calling it good. Instead, it is about creating a specific feeling in your yard after the sun goes down. When done correctly, landscape lighting can transform your outdoor space, turning it into a beautiful accent for your home. This type of lighting is not only meant to be functional but also to enhance the look and feel of your home.
Decide what you hope to achieve
Before you start picking out lights and deciding where to place them, come up with an overall plan for what you hope to achieve. Are you trying to make your yard safer by lighting up your sidewalk or patio area? Do you want to create a well-lit area where you can entertain? Do you want to draw attention to certain areas of your home, highlighting its unique architecture? Are you trying to improve the security of your property? By identifying your objectives before you begin, you can do a much better job of designing a lighting setup that will help you achieve your goals.
Take care of an essential lighting first
There are certain parts of your yard that should definitely be lit. Here are some of the key components that you should include in your overall design:
Pathway lights. Any sidewalks, pathways, or entrances should be well lit to make it easy for people to see.
Driveway lighting. You should incorporate plenty of light in your driveway area so that you can get to and from your car with ease.
Stairs. If you have stairs leading up to your home, make sure that they are well illuminated so that people don't trip and fall.
Patios or decks. Any outdoor gathering area should incorporate lighting so that it can be used after dark.
Trees. If you have any trees that you want to highlight, you can easily do it with lighting.
Key architectural features. You can use lighting to enhance the architecture of your home. If you have any water features on your property, you should also consider lighting them.
Choose LED lights
Rather than going with halogen bulbs, opt for LED lighting. Not only do these bulbs last a long time but they are extremely energy-efficient.
A single bulb can last as long as 100,000 hours. That means that you won't have to replace them often - an important consideration since outdoor lighting fixtures are not always easily accessible.
LED lights can also stand up to the elements, making them perfect for use outdoors. No matter how bad the weather gets, you shouldn't have to worry about your lighting.
Another advantage of LED lights is that they are extremely versatile. You can change everything from the color of the light to its intensity. This can allow you to create a completely customized look for your outdoor space.
Read More : Secrets To The Perfect Bedroom Light
Incorporate multiple types of lighting to create an interesting design
Your residential landscape lighting design should include ambient lighting, which is lighting that shines over the entire space. It should also incorporate task lighting, which is used to provide illumination for tasks like cooking. Finally, it should also include accent lighting, which is used to draw attention to certain features of your yard. For instance, you could put a spotlight on a tree to draw attention to it. Incorporating all three types of lighting will help create a balanced, professional look that will set your yard apart from others in your neighborhood.
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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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Exploring Ideas For A Biophilic Home Design
Your yard is an extension of your home. Just like your home, you want to keep your yard in great shape. Like your home's interior, you also want to make sure the yard is an entirely inviting place. You also want your lawn to stay tidy and green. There are lots of steps you can take to accomplish this task. A beautiful yard is not only a place to admire. It's also a credit to the neighborhood for your neighbors to adore as much as you do. If you're going to put that house on the market, you'll want to make sure it has instant curb appeal. Homeowners planning on staying put can also benefit from a lush yard full of pleasing features any day of the year.
Here are 7 secrets to keeping your Lawn Tidy and Green:
1. Creating Outdoor Rooms:
It's best to think about the entire yard as a series of open rooms. Each room can be dedicated to a separate purpose. One area might be where you grow your beautiful roses. The next might be an area dedicated to growing lots of fruit and vegetables or a grove of trees that you can retreat to on a hot day. Each area can serve different purposes and yet still be part of an organic whole at the same time. Each area can also provide you with hours of enjoyment. Keeping each area in the best shape possible makes it possible for you to use that part as intended.
2. Other Features:
A yard typically has lots of other features besides the grass. You might have a birdbath or a pool. One area might have a large deck and a patio where you take your morning coffee before heading off to work. When making sure that your own lawn is in ideal shape, you'll want every single feature to work effectively. Allow enough space to make sure that any chlorinated water in your pool is firmly away from your more delicate flowers and growing vegetables. Keep a close eye on your deck and the patio area. These need to carefully examined as the season's pass. Look for any cracks in the pavers and other parts of the patio. Apply a coat of stain to the entire deck with waterproof features to keep it looking good and avoid problems with wood rot.
3. New Forms of Grass:
Different kinds of grasses can also be used in your yard. Synthetic turf from SurfaceIT Sydney can provide you with a useful alternative to your standard yard materials. This new form of grass is easier to maintain than many other types of grasses. There's no need to use lots of messy chemicals like fertilizers to keep in looking good. This form of grass also needs a lot less help to make it look good. You don't have to spend hours mowing it each year. It will also last longer than a handful of grass seeds and won't get full of dirt in the middle and muddy patches in the middle of a storm. This is a good choice that can work well with other types of lawn material for a coherent and elegant look.
4. Proper Fencing:
Fencing is another way to keep your yard looking fabulous. If you have a large dog, the fence will make sure they're not wandering the neighborhood. Fencing also provides a safe space for kids to enjoy as parents watch them have fun. Think about the kind of fencing you want to use. There are many choices ranging from standard wood to aluminum siding. Fencing can be easily integrated with the rest of the home's look and materials by using the same material as the rest of the house in this design. Add additional privacy by training a series of vines to climb over varied areas of the property. They'll add lots of colors and provide a lot of interest to the entire yard.
5. Long Term Plans:
Any plan for your yard should have both short term and longer-term ides in place. In the short term, you might want to begin by removing any existing features that you don't like. For example, you might have bushy areas with lots of growth that have grown over time and even uprooted areas in your yard.
Investing in the right tools to help you clean your yard effectively and swiftly is essential. One must-have tool is the Milwaukee M18 electric string trimmer which is a flexible, multi-use tool that is durable and long-lasting.
Your longer-term plans for the yard might include other aspects of it such as putting down a brand play space for the kids and installing new railings. Consider how you reach each area in the yard. Keeping it in good shape also means removing any obstacles in the path to the yard such as redoing the paths that lead to it.
6. Feeding the Yard:
All cards need to be fed to look good. You'll want to think about how to feed your yard and when to feed it. Now is the time to bring in the tools you need and store them in an easy and convenient place such as your garage. The yard needs to have food typically several times a year. You'll want to take the time to make sure the yard is fed on schedule. Adding additional items such as mulch can help by adding even more interest and protecting areas of the yard that might otherwise get too much sun all day long.
7. Watering It Right:
A yard also needs water. Water makes sure are all areas of the yard look nice. Nature typically waters the yard as needed. However, sometimes nature needs a little help now and then with the watering process. If you see areas that look as if they are getting a little bit brown, you'll want to make sure they are fully watered. A few minutes of watering once a week can keep your yard in great shape even in the middle of long, hot days. Consider grasses and other plants that need less water but will still look great. You'll conserve water and have a stunning yard at the same time.
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