Published on: 20 June 2019
Last Updated on: 24 August 2020
Moving, according to many, is a stressful process. They do not even know where to begin, which makes them more anxious. Apart from direct costs, there are some hidden costs of buying a home too that you need to plan for. Read to get an insight into such costs and make your plans accordingly.
If you are also planning to move, and do not know how to start, don’t worry. This article will guide you in the right direction.
Following are 8 steps to move in your new house:
1. Opt for a Place to Live
Look for a place that is near your workplace or your children’s school. This will reduce the hassle of traveling long distances every day.
2. Notify Your Family about Your Move
Moving is a nerve-racking task, especially when it is long distances. It can be difficult for both – the adults and the children of the family. Telling the kids that they need to goodbye to their classmates and school is difficult. Therefore, you should find a way to break the news positively.
3. Hire a Mover
Many people plan to move on their own. However, this takes a lot of time and effort. Therefore, it is better to hire a mover, especially the one who does not have a hidden-fee. One such company is Atlant Movers: Moving Services in Sacramento, CA. The company provides a wide range of services to move locally, long-distance, and even for piano and office moving. They securely store the stuff by packing it themselves for their customers. If you are planning to move under a budget, this company is just right for you.
4. Set up a Budget
Set up a budget to keep track financially and to know how much moving can eventually cost you.
5. Start Packing up
If you do your own packing, make sure you have at least 6 weeks before your moving date. A careful plan will save you a lot of money, time, and hair-tearing.
6. Pack Room by Room
Start from one room. Pack the stuff completely and then go for the other room. This way, you will know how much is packed and how much is left. This will help you pack all your stuff in no time.
7. Save Money
If you are like other people, you cannot resist a garage sale. No matter what the reason is, a garage sale is something that people won’t see. This way, you will make money by getting rid of the bunch you have been willing to throw for a long time.
8. Finally, You have moved in!
Once the moving truck is gone and you are at your home, start unpacking the boxes. Get your mail, newspaper, magazines, and milk, all delivered to your home. Connect your telephone and broadband. Be ready to live a new life.
Moving can sometimes be a difficult process. However, once you have moved into your new place, you will feel different and will enjoy the new home. So, bid a goodbye to all the hassle and just think about the wonderful experience that you will have after you have shifted.
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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.
Read Also:
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Exploring Ideas For A Biophilic Home Design
Garden fences are an essential part of any outdoor space, providing privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal. One way to enhance the look of your garden fence is to plant greenery on it.
Not only does it add visual interest, but it can also provide shade and habitat for birds and other wildlife. However, planting and maintaining greenery on decorative garden fences can be challenging.
How To Maintain Greenery On Garden Fences?
Maintaining greenery on decorative garden fences addition is a beautiful and natural touch to your outdoor space. When it comes to maintaining greenery on garden fences, consider the versatility of custom window boxes. These personalized window boxes can enhance your garden's aesthetic and provide a perfect space for your favorite plants.
Without proper care theses, the beautiful natural touch can look like a small wild bush. More than installing the fence panels, regular maintenance is required to ensure the long life of the fences. Check out cedarmountainfence.com for fencing repair and maintenance ideas.
Let’s see the easy caring tips that do not require expert help. You can apply these tips on your own by using small and readily available tools.
1. Choosing The Right Plants For Your Garden Fence
The first step in planting greenery on your garden fence is to choose the right plants. When selecting plants, consider the amount of sunlight your fence receives and the soil quality.
Some plants, such as ivy and jasmine, are ideal for shady areas, while others, like clematis and morning glories, prefer sunny spots. You should also choose plants well-suited to your soil type and moisture levels.
It's also important to choose garden fences and plants that will complement your existing landscaping and the style of your garden fence. Consider planting wildflowers or climbing roses if you have a rustic wooden fence. You might opt for succulents or grasses if you have a more modern fence.
2. Planting Your Greenery
Once you've chosen the right plants for your garden fences, it's time to start planting. Before you begin, be sure to prepare the soil. Clear any present debris or weeds from the area, and amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
When planting your greenery, be sure to follow the specific planting instructions for each plant. Some plants, such as climbing roses or ivy, may require a trellis or other support structure to climb up the big or small garden fences. Other plants, like clematis, may require regular pruning to keep them from becoming too heavy and damaging the fence.
3. Caring For Your Greenery
Proper care is essential for the health and longevity of your greenery. Be sure you are watering your plants daily, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize your plants as needed, following the specific instructions for each plant.
Regular pruning is also important to keep your greenery healthy and well-maintained. Be sure to remove any dead or diseased branches and prune back any overgrown areas that are crowding out other plants or obstructing your view.
4. Protecting Your Garden Fence
While planting greenery on your garden fences can be a beautiful and eco-friendly solution, it's important to protect your fence from damage. Be sure to use plant ties or other support structures to prevent your plants from pulling down or damaging your fence.
You should also be aware of any potential pests or diseases that could harm your greenery or your fence. Be sure to monitor your plants regularly and take action if you notice any signs of infestation or disease.
5. Provide A Sufficient Amount Of Water And Nutrients
Make sure your plants receive enough water and nutrients to thrive. Consider using a slow-release fertilizer or compost to give your plants the necessary nutrients.
Regular pruning helps your plants to maintain their shape. And regular pruning also prevents them from becoming overgrown or damaged. Prune away dead or diseased branches, and remove any growth encroaching on other plants or structures.
Keep your eye out for pests and diseases which can damage your plants. Using the natural pest control methods, like companion planting or organic pesticides, keeps your plants healthy.
Conclusion
Planting greenery on your garden fence is a great way to add beauty and interest to your outdoor space. If you are concerned about deer damaging your garden, installing a deer fence from https://www.critterfence.com/hemp-drying-mesh by a professional can provide the protection you need while adding value to your property.
By choosing the right plants, planting them properly, and providing proper care and maintenance, you can create healthy and thriving garden fences that will enhance the look and feel of your outdoor space for years to come.
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Fountains are a center of attraction for any home, office, or estate but are surrounded by some ill notions like you need a big space to enjoy that soothing sounds of water and they are not cost-effective and do need a huge amount of water to keep it running. After completing this article you will be free from all those notions. Fountain designs have evolved with time and the trends of the users. The best example of those designs is Campania Fountains, you will be amazed to see the range of fountains they provide. You can have a fountain for any place in your home. No matter how big or small a house you have they have a fountain for you. And forgot to mention one more notion that fountains are more likely found in the outside garden area of the house. Well to break that notion Indoor Wall Fountains are trending products amongst all the fountains. They are well designed, they come in amazing look and they fit practically anywhere. As they are attached to the wall.
Indoor wall Fountain
Just imagine one of those hanging in your home, they are best to add natural beauty to your home, many people say that the home becomes dull and less lively. To make it more lively how about soothing water flowing from a beauty flowing through the wall? You can have your evening tea listening to the soothing sound of water and a fire burning on a chilly winter eve. They are available in many shapes and sizes as well as designs. Just make sure you measure the space first where you want to keep the fountain, this will ease the process of shortlisting one perfect fountain for you. One other thing you need to keep in mind is the color and material of the fountain, it will look more beautiful when it blends in the interior of your home. It will beautify the whole area. And also the material, they come in metal, glass, stone and many other materials. Just make up your mind that which material will be best suitable for your interior. Basically, all these things are just to make sure that you get optimum value for all the money you are spending. It should blend in and not fall apart from the interior of your home.
Garden Wall Fountains
If you have a small garden and a large outdoor fountain doesn't seem like an option, then you can always find one that can be attached to your garden wall or placed anywhere near your lawn or gate. They come in various shapes and sizes. If you have a small garden space where you have a lush green lawn or a place where you’ve kept a few planters, these garden wall fountains can add charm to any of these spaces. They come with a unique lighting setting that is a must-watch. Try to find a fountain that best suits your surroundings and also which makes the whole area more beautiful when it matches the lightings and its color which you have set in your garden area. This will make the whole area look more ravishing. The view becomes just mesmerizing in the night. You can impress your neighbors with the view over a Barbeque Party. And you don’t even need to do much for maintaining the fountain. It can be cleaned easily and you won’t need more water to maintain the flow of the water through the fountain. It fits any size and also helps you save more as it comes at many affordable rates as compared to those large garden fountains.
As I said earlier that wall fountains are the best when it comes to breaking the stereotypes and ill notions about fountains. No matter which area you choose, indoor or outdoor get a wall fountain and make things more beautiful and lively.
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