Published on: 14 October 2017
Last Updated on: 16 August 2019
When you are renovating your home or building a new one, it’s easy to visualize the big details, like the color of the roof and the walls. Something you may not necessarily be thinking of immediately is the color of your window frames, and yet this is such an important color to consider. It may help to think of them as something similar to the frame on a painting — it adds a finishing touch to the artwork, or in this case, the house. If you are not sure how to choose a color, here are some tips that may help you in your choice.
Choose a color palette: It helps to include the color of your window frames in the complete color palette you choose for your home. If the amount of color choices is overwhelming, keep it simple by choosing either a warm or a cool palette.
Pick a color that highlights or hides: If you are repainting your home, you can highlight your beautiful window frames by painting them a color that makes them stand out. Conversely, if they are ugly as sin, paint them a boring white, or any color that makes them blend in with the walls.
Select a color that complements your home’s exterior: Your walls should have a big say in what color you paint your window frames. If you have exposed brick walls, you should choose a bright contrasting color, and avoid warm browns and dark colors. For painted wood siding, it could work well to pick a darker accent color that complements the rest of the color palette of your home.
Consider neutral colors: Neutral colors are trendy again. The current variety is a far cry from boring beige, so you don’t have to fear to have a sterile hospital look. The new generation of beiges and grays are soulful and colorful, and they will prove to be timeless at the same time. No need to be embarrassed about bright lime or electric pink, or any such garish eyesores in a few years from now.
Choose a color that fits the style of your home: It is very important to choose a color that is appropriate to the style of your house. Certain colors go well with certain types of architecture. A red brick building already imposes a limit on the color palette due to the characteristic hue of the walls. A historic manor would benefit from modest colors that fit in with the time period in which the house was built. If the architecture is more modern, choose colors that enhance that particular style. But if it’s just your typical family home without any noteworthy architectural provenance, you are free to choose colors that match your personality and sense of style. It should be something that you like, and feel comfortable looking at every day.
Use bold colors wisely: For most people who doubt their stylishness, it would be best to stick to neutral colors. But if you are brave and daring, and you are sure you can pull it off, bold colors can add an unexpected twist to your decor.
Apex Window Werks is home and Commercial Window Repair Company with the headquarters in Chicago, IL. If you are looking for a reliable and experienced contractor to get the fog out of your windows, replace broken glass or repair rotten wood window frames, then AWW is your expedient choice. Feel free to give them a call to leave a message.
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The decision to pursue further education is a significant milestone for young adults, signaling a transition toward independence and self-exploration. Among the various accommodation options available, student apartments have gained popularity due to their appeal.
They share a mix of freedom, convenience, and community, enhancing the academic journey in diverse ways compared to traditional dorms or off-campus housing.
Benefits of Staying in a Student Apartment
As a student, you probably have two places to live — on-campus and off-campus. Now, most people tend to choose the first option due to the security it offers. However, if you ask me, I’d always choose the latter for five specific reasons.
Here’s what you need to know about them.
1: A Haven of Independence
Student apartments serve as sanctuaries of independence.
Unlike traditional dorms, these living spaces offer a heightened sense of autonomy, providing students with the freedom to curate their environment according to their preferences.
From choosing roommates to decorating the space, the core ability to personalize their living quarters fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility. Besides, it will also help you nurture essential life skills that transcend the academic sphere.
2: Communal Dynamics
Living in a student apartment is more than just securing a roof overhead; it's about building a vibrant community. Most of these spaces often house a diverse mix of individuals, fostering an environment ripe for cultural exchange and forging lifelong friendships.
The shared experiences, collaborative study sessions, and impromptu gatherings create an enriching social tapestry that contributes significantly to a student's holistic growth.
3: Enhanced Amenities and Facilities
Student apartments frequently come equipped with an array of amenities designed to cater to the modern student's needs.
From well-appointed study lounges and fitness centers to recreational areas and communal kitchens, these facilities are tailored to support students —
Academically,
Physically, and
Socially
Such conveniences augment the overall living experience, promoting both productivity and relaxation within arm's reach.
4: Proximity to Campus
Location plays a pivotal role in a student's life, and student apartments often boast strategic proximity to campus grounds. The convenience of being just a stone's throw away from lecture halls, libraries, and other academic facilities —
Not only save precious commuting time
But also fosters a stronger sense of connection to the university community.
5: Financial Prudence
While the prospect of independent living might seem financially daunting, student apartments often offer cost-effective solutions compared to other housing options.
Shared living arrangements and split rental expenses among roommates can also significantly alleviate the financial burden.
Moreover, some apartment complexes provide inclusive utilities or amenities, streamlining expenses and offering a more predictable budget for students.
How to Choose the Right Student Apartment?
Picking the right type of student accommodation as a new college student can greatly impact your university experience. Unlike standard rentals, student housing offers access to a lot of student-focused amenities, support systems, and opportunities to connect with peers.
Additionally, it tends to be a more budget-friendly choice. But, the question is — how do you choose the best option amongst everything that’s available out there? Let’s find out.
1. Location Matters
Location is paramount when selecting a student apartment. So, be sure to consider its proximity to your campus, amenities, and other essential facilities.
Living closer to campus can save time and money on commuting, allowing you to attend classes, access resources, and engage in campus activities more conveniently.
Additionally, a location with easy access to grocery stores, restaurants, and public transportation can enhance your overall convenience and comfort.
2. Budget Wisely
Establish a realistic budget before apartment hunting. Consider not only the monthly rent but also additional expenses like utilities, internet, and groceries.
Ensure your budget allows for these costs while also leaving room for unexpected expenses. It's advisable to prioritize affordability without compromising on safety and comfort.
3. Roommates and Space
Choosing the right roommates can significantly impact your living experience.
Discuss preferences, habits, and responsibilities beforehand to ensure compatibility. Additionally, consider the space offered by the apartment.
Ensure it provides enough room for privacy, studying, and relaxation.
4. Safety and Security
Prioritize safety and security when selecting a student apartment.
Look for various well-lit areas, and secure locks, and consider the neighborhood's safety track record. Research the building's security measures, like CCTV cameras, secure entrances, and emergency protocols, to ensure your peace of mind.
5. Amenities and Facilities
Evaluate the amenities and facilities offered by the apartment complex.
Look for features that align with your needs and preferences, such as laundry facilities, gym access, study rooms, and communal spaces. These can enhance your living experience and provide opportunities for socializing and relaxation.
6. Lease Terms and Flexibility
Review the lease terms thoroughly before signing any agreements.
Understand the duration of the lease, policies on subletting, maintenance responsibilities, and any additional fees. Ensure the lease terms are flexible enough to accommodate any changes in your academic or personal circumstances.
7. Visit and Inspect
Schedule visits to potential apartments before making a decision. Inspect the condition of the apartment, checking for any damages or maintenance issues.
Also, do pay attention to details like water pressure, heating, and cooling systems, as these can significantly impact your comfort.
8. Research the Landlord or Management Company
Gather information about the landlord or management company managing the property.
Read reviews and seek opinions from current or previous tenants to understand their reputation regarding responsiveness to maintenance requests, fairness in dealing with tenants, and overall professionalism.
9. Transportation and Parking
If you own a vehicle or rely on transportation, consider parking availability and transportation options near the apartment. Evaluate parking fees, accessibility to public transportation, and bicycle storage if relevant to your needs.
10. Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a student apartment. If something doesn't feel right or if you have lingering doubts, explore other options. Your living space should feel comfortable, safe, and conducive to your academic success and well-being.
Final Thoughts
The allure of student apartment living lies not just in the physical space but in the myriad of experiences and opportunities it affords.
Beyond mere accommodation, these spaces serve as incubators for personal growth, fostering independence, community, and responsibility.
By offering a mix of convenience, affordability, and flexibility, student apartments seamlessly complement the academic journey Embracing this specific lifestyle choice can prove to be a transformative and rewarding chapter in a student's educational odyssey.
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Plants and humans have a long mutual understanding relationship since the beginning of this civilization. Mother Nature has provided us a diverse range of flora that caters to our various requirements of nourishment, clothing, commercially important products, oilseeds and other such things for the growth of mankind.
Not just that, there are other plants that are known to bring good luck, positive vibes, improved health and a host of other such benefits. These good luck plants need to be a part of every home due to their significance and importance. You need to grow these auspicious plants and also send good luck plant to other people. Check out these five best good luck plants that can help in transforming your home environment completely.
The Lucky bamboo plant:
It is one of the most importantly good luck plants that has a great significance in Chinese tradition. This lucky bamboo plant is a part of Feng Shui and is quickly adopted by the people in modern times. This good luck plant helps in keeping the family together and is an effective home décor item. If you are unable to find this lucky bamboo plant in your local nursery, you can easily buy good luck plants online through various stores.
The Four Leaf Clover plant:
This good luck plant is a native of the USA and consists of four miraculous leaves. The plant is a mutant variety of the normal clover plant that is found at rare places. The four-leaf clover is said to bring good luck or fortune and this sentiment is based on a 17th-century belief. According to the ancient belief, finding a four-leaf clover is said to bring a good thing for the person.
Read More: How To Grow Tomatoes From Seed
The Tulsi or The Holy Basil plant:
Tulsi is one of the good luck plants that can be widely seen in numerous homes of Hindu families. It is considered as the wife of “Lord Krishna” and is meant as very sacred or pure. This good luck plant is said to possess magical medicinal properties and removes the negative energy from the homes. The significance of the basil plant is also mentioned in the religions like Islam and Christianity which considers it as a “divine plant”. You can even send good luck plant of basil to your close friends and relatives as an ideal gift.
The Snake plant:
This good luck plant is believed to absorb certain poisonous gases from the internal air of our home. Snake plant releases a large amount of water vapor and helps in maintaining the humidity in our surroundings. If you are thinking about how to get this plant, here is the solution for you. You can easily buy this plant from an online good luck plants store without any need to step outside.
The Money plant:
Money plant is an important member of the good luck plant family. It can be easily grown in a jug of water and are seen as creepers in various homes. You need to point the shoot of this money plant in the upward direction in order to bring wealth and good luck to your home.
So, visit your nearest plant nursery or buy good luck plants online from a store to enhance the internal appeal and aura of your homes. Involve these good luck plants as a home décor item and experience their multiple benefits yourself.
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Sunflowers are not only beautiful and cheerful, but they also produce delicious and nutritious seeds that you can enjoy as a snack or use in various recipes. Harvesting sunflower seeds is a fun and easy activity that you can do with your whole family. It is also a great way to teach your kids about nature, gardening, and healthy eating.
In this article, I will show you how to harvest sunflower seeds in a few simple steps, as well as some tips and tricks to make the most of your sunflower harvest. If you enjoyed reading my blog on harvesting lettuce, you will enjoy reading this one!
So, if that is what you are interested in knowing, I have you covered! Keep reading this blog till the end to learn more…
How to Grow Sunflower Seeds: A Simple and Rewarding Gardening Project?
Sunflowers are one of the most iconic and cheerful flowers in the world. They are also one of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow from seeds.
Sunflowers can brighten up your garden, attract pollinators, provide shade, and produce edible seeds that you can harvest and enjoy.
In this part of the article, I will show you how to grow sunflower seeds in a few simple steps, as well as some tips and tricks to make the most of your sunflower growing experience.
How to Choose Sunflower Seeds?
The first step to growing sunflower seeds is to choose the right seeds for your garden. Sunflowers come in a wide range of sizes, colors, shapes, and types. Some of the most common types of sunflowers are:
Giant sunflowers
These are the tallest and largest sunflowers, reaching up to 15 feet in height and 12 inches in diameter. They produce huge and heavy flower heads that are filled with large and plump seeds. They are ideal for creating a dramatic and impressive display in your garden, as well as for harvesting large quantities of seeds. Some examples of giant sunflowers are Mammoth, Titan, and Kong.
Dwarf sunflowers
These are the smallest and shortest sunflowers, growing up to 3 feet in height and 6 inches in diameter. They produce smaller and lighter flower heads that are easier to manage and maintain. They are ideal for growing in containers, pots, or small spaces, as well as for adding a splash of color and charm to your garden. Some examples of dwarf sunflowers are Teddy Bear, Sunny Smile, and Little Becka.
Colored sunflowers
These are the most diverse and colorful sunflowers, ranging from yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, brown, and even green. They produce medium-sized flower heads that are attractive and eye-catching. They are ideal for creating a vibrant and varied display in your garden, as well as for cutting and arranging in bouquets or vases. Some examples of colored sunflowers are Autumn Beauty, Moulin Rouge, and Lemon Queen.
Things to Consider While Choosing Sunflower Seed
When choosing sunflower seeds, there are several things that you need to keep in mind. For instance, you should also consider the following factors:
Climate and season of your area
Sunflowers are warm-season plants that need full sun and warm temperatures to grow and bloom. They are best planted in late spring or early summer, after the last frost, when the soil is warm and moist. If you live in a cold or frost-prone area, you can start your seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors when the weather is favorable.
Soil and water conditions of your garden
Sunflowers are adaptable and tolerant plants that can grow in most types of soil, as long as they are well-drained and fertile. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. They also need regular watering, especially during the germination and flowering stages. However, they can withstand some drought and dryness once they are established.
Space and support available in your garden
Sunflowers are large and sturdy plants that need ample space and support to grow and thrive. They should be planted at least 2 to 3 feet apart from each other and from other plants, to avoid overcrowding and competition. They should also be staked or tied to a fence, a trellis, or a pole, to prevent them from bending or breaking under their own weight.
How to Plant Sunflower Seeds?
Once you have chosen your sunflower seeds, you can proceed to the next step. Planting sunflower seeds is a simple process that involves preparing, sowing, and caring for the seeds. Here is how to do it:
Prepare the Soil
Prepare the soil by loosening it with a fork or a spade. Ensure that you remove debris, weeds, or rocks. You can also enrich your soil by adding some compost, manure, or fertilizer, to boost its fertility and drainage. Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy, and has a temperature of at least 50°F.
Sow the Seeds
Sow the seeds by making holes or furrows in the soil, about 1 to 2 inches deep and 2 to 3 feet apart. You can use a ruler, a stick, or your finger to make the holes or furrows. Drop one or two seeds in each hole or furrow, and cover them lightly with soil. You can also sprinkle some water over the seeds to help them settle in the soil.
Nurture
Care for the seeds by watering them regularly, but not excessively, to keep the soil moist but not wet. You can also mulch the soil with straw, grass clippings, or leaves, to retain moisture and prevent weeds. You should also protect the seeds from birds, squirrels, or other animals, by covering them with a net, a cage, or a cloche. You should also thin the seedlings when they are about 4 to 6 inches tall, by removing the weaker or smaller ones, and leaving only the strongest and healthiest ones.
How to Grow Sunflower Seeds?
After planting your sunflower seeds, you can watch them grow and enjoy their beauty and bounty. Growing sunflower seeds is a rewarding and satisfying experience that requires minimal maintenance and care. Here are some tips and tricks to grow sunflower seeds successfully:
Water
Water your sunflowers regularly, but not excessively, to keep the soil moist but not wet. Sunflowers need about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, depending on the weather and the soil conditions. You can use a hose, a sprinkler, or a drip irrigation system to water your sunflowers. You should water them in the morning or evening, and avoid wetting the leaves or the flower heads, to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your sunflowers occasionally, but not excessively, to boost their growth and flowering. Sunflowers need a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, such as a 10-10-10 or a 20-20-20 formula. You can apply the fertilizer once or twice during the growing season, following the instructions on the label. You should avoid over-fertilizing your sunflowers, as this can cause them to grow too tall and weak, and make them prone to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Prune your sunflowers occasionally, but not excessively, to improve their shape and health. Sunflowers do not need much pruning, as they are naturally self-pruning and self-cleaning. However, you can prune them to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves, stems, or flowers, to prevent infection and improve air circulation. You can also prune them to control their height and spread, by pinching or cutting off the tips of the main stem or the side branches.
You should use clean and sharp scissors or pruners to prune your sunflowers and do it in the morning or evening when the plants are less stressed.
When to Harvest Sunflower Seeds?
The first step to harvesting sunflower seeds is to know when they are ready. Sunflowers typically bloom in the summer and their seeds mature in late summer or early fall. You can tell when your sunflowers are ready to harvest by looking at their appearance and feel. Here are some signs that your sunflowers are ready to harvest:
Petals have fallen off or turned brown.
The back of the flower head has turned yellow or brown.
Seeds have developed black and white stripes.
The seeds are plump and firm to the touch.
If you are not sure if your sunflowers are ready to harvest, you can do a simple test by rubbing your thumb over the seeds. If they come off easily, they are ready to harvest. If they are still attached to the flower head, they need more time to ripen.
How to Harvest Sunflower Seeds?
Once you have determined that your sunflowers are ready to harvest, you can proceed to the next step. Harvesting sunflower seeds is a simple process that involves cutting, drying, and storing the seeds. Here is how to do it:
Cut the flower heads from the stems using a sharp knife or scissors. Leave about 12 inches of stem attached to the flower head for easier handling.
Place the flower heads in a dry and well-ventilated area, such as a garage, shed, or porch. You can hang them upside down or lay them flat on a screen or rack. Make sure they are not touching each other to prevent mold and rot.
Let the flower heads dry for about two weeks or until the seeds are completely dry and hard. You can check the dryness by biting or cracking a seed. If it is crunchy and not moist, it is dry enough.
Remove the seeds from the flower heads by rubbing them gently with your hands or a soft brush. You can also use a fork or a spoon to scrape them off. Discard any debris, such as petals, leaves, or insects.
Store the seeds in an airtight container, such as a glass jar, a plastic bag, or a metal tin. Label the container with the date and the variety of sunflower. Keep the container in a cool and dark place, such as a pantry, a cupboard, or a basement.
How to Enjoy Sunflower Seeds?
Now that you have harvested your sunflower seeds, you can enjoy them in various ways. You can eat them raw or roasted, salted or unsalted, shelled or unshelled. You can also use them in salads, soups, breads, muffins, granola, trail mix, pesto, butter, and more.
Sunflower seeds are rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can help manage high cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation and boost your immune system, brain function, and mood. Here are some tips and tricks to enjoy your sunflower seeds:
Roast
To roast your sunflower seeds, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp. You can season them with salt, pepper, garlic, onion, paprika, cumin, or any other spices you like.
Shell
To shell your sunflower seeds, you can use your teeth, your fingers, or a nutcracker. You can also soak them in water for a few hours to make them easier to shell. To remove the shells, you can blow them away with a fan, a hair dryer, or your mouth, or you can shake them in a colander or a sieve.
Sunflower Seed Butter
To make sunflower seed butter, you need to blend the shelled and roasted sunflower seeds in a blender until it turns smooth and creamy. You can add a little oil, honey, salt, or vanilla to enhance the flavor and texture. You can use sunflower seed butter as a spread for toast, crackers, or fruit, or as a dip for pretzels, celery, or carrots.
Pesto
To make sunflower seed pesto, blend roasted and shelled sunflower seeds with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor or a blender until smooth and thick. You can use sunflower seed pesto as a sauce for pasta, pizza, or sandwiches, or as a dressing for salads or roasted vegetables.
Wrapping It Up!
Harvesting sunflower seeds is a fun and easy activity that you can do with your whole family. It is also a great way to enjoy the beauty and bounty of nature, as well as the health benefits of sunflower seeds. By following the steps and tips in this article, you know how to harvest sunflower seeds in a few simple steps, as well as enjoy them in various ways. I hope you found this article helpful and informative.
If there are any other queries related to the same, please feel free to let me know. All that yo need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. And I will be ether to answer them all for you!
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