#Trellis Method

[tchistorygal]

Story Chat Digest: Countdown by Grant P. Ferguson

Countdown by Grant P. Ferguson Before I tell you my secret, let me ask you a few questions. Do you really want to know when you’re going to die? If you knew, how would your life change? And here’s the clincher. Would you tell someone if you knew when they were going to die? Forty-five days have passed since an army of AI-powered nanobots declared war on my brain tumor, and I’ve told only three…

[solomonara]

[ID: I am building a careful frame for grief: trellis words to train it so it does not get crushed under my bare feet.

Someday, I will wear shoes that have never touched the floors in your house. /ID]

[embyrinitalics]

EMBYR, I BRING TIDINGS OF GOOD PLANTS AND GREAT CHEER.

I have recently learned of a whimsical and venerable agricultural practice called espalier, and it made me think of you.

What it was in particular about these carefully pruned and nurtured fruit trees growing in planful patterns against a wall... I cannot be sure. 😂

The old world magic of clever science and growing things, maybe?

THEY ARE SO PRETTY and YOU HAVE TO LOOOOOOK.

If anyone knows how to get me to show my face after a long absence it's SPARKLYHYPERBOLE WITH THE ESPALIER COMING IN CLUTCH

Real quick, for the uninitiated: espalier is the ancient practice of pruning and training trees to grow into unique two dimensional shapes, either against a wall or free-standing trellis. It has both decorative and practical value: trees trained on a sun-facing wall that retains heat will have an extended growing season, and horizontally-trained branches can produce higher yields with less space and are easier to harvest.

There's also a particular diamond-shaped method that I just learned is called Belgian Fencing, and I am a fan:

ANYWAY ALL THIS TO SAY THAT SPARKLYHYPERBOLE KNOWS ME SUPER DUPER WELL AND YES I AM GOING TO JUST POP UP OUT OF NOWHERE TO TALK ABOUT THIS 😂🦋

also speaking of horticulture did I mention I got accepted to that extension office program and it starts next month? My focus is going to be native habitat restoration and I am ✨quite jazzed.✨ I've also been writing a lot over the last couple weeks, at least compared to the six months or so prior, but it's split between multiple projects so there's nothing publishable to show for it 🫠 But hey, progress is progress! And that concludes this random life update addendum 😂

[oh-no-another-idea]

Unusual Associations Tag!

@mysticstarlightduck tagged me a very long time ago but I thought I'd dust this one off today and do it for Antonio West ;)

Seasoning: Paprika or black pepper Weather: Late night fog, warm lamps illuminating the way home, coat collar pulled up around the ears. Color: Scarlet Sky: Nighttime, cloudy, a glimpse of stars on occasion Magic Power: If he had one, it'd probably be some sort of healing Plant: Maybe yellow roses winding up a trellis... Weapon: Handgun and fists. (he'd like to think his words also, but no) Social media: Thank goodness social media hasn't been invented yet Candy: Chocolates or licorices Fears: Watching his whole life slip by from a place of indecision, never measuring up to his father's high standards, being alone, being alone, being alone Method of long distance travel: ;) A steam engine train Art style: Charcoal sketches Stationary: Plain white paper, embossed with an ornate W Celestial body: The Milky Way

I'll tag anyone who sees this and also @sleepy-night-child @eccaiia @writernopal @charlesjosephwrites @leahnardo-da-veggie @indecentpause @revenantlore and @dyrewrites <3

[jensownzoo]

7 out of 10 fava beans are up!

And so are the Sweet Annie and Alyssum (4 days since sowing).

It looks like the yellow pansies I pulled out of the green waste dumpster last year are coming back. These are sprouting from the original roots, not from dropped seed, which was unexpected.

Here's one of the crimson clovers that is sprouting from dropped seed. You can tell the difference from white Dutch clover because the leaves are fuzzy.

Pulled the straw away from the strawberries today. Looks like I have three surviving plants, so less than 50%. Definitely moving them to a different bed all by themselves, particularly as the spearmint is taking off. I knew the fennel was very allelopathic, but recently learned that mint is moderately so. The two of them can duke it out for this bed.

Lettuce in the east cold frame (sorry about the glass glare), living their best life. Will probably transplant at least half of these to the tunnels to give them more room.

I potted up the germinated tomatillo seed and about half of the tomatoes last night. Probably will be able to do the remaining tomatoes tonight.

Resowed poblano seed as despite using the pre-germination method, only one of six cells actually came up. I have had the most trouble with poblanos despite using seed I bought just last year. I have one overwintered plant (out of three) that's surviving so far but it's pretty spindly. If I had the money I'd just give up and buy transplants for this one this year and conduct a search for seeds for a more vigorous strain.

In addition to the spindly poblano, two jalapeños and two biquinhos have survived overwintering. I've moved them up from the basement to a warmer room with south-facing window so they start to leaf out. I'll take them outside mid-April to harden off (throwing an insulating blanket over them at night) prior to planting in early May.

I need to move a few of last year's sweet potatoes up from the basement to give them light and humidity to encourage sprouting. Hopefully two months is long enough for slip production for sweet potatoes that haven't been sprayed with anti-sprouting compound. Still want to buy slips for purple sweet potatoes, but maybe next year.

Also need to direct sow peas and carrots this afternoon. Which means I need to set up the three big rectangular containers with their olla and pvc trellis tower. And soak the peas for a few hours. And pull out the net bag to go over the trellis towers so the squirrels don't steal all the peas.

Busy busy busy...

[goingmerryied]

The Pirate Who Loved Me~Chapter 8

Masterlist

Bridgerton kind of meets One Piece in this.

Summary: (Y/N)  grew up in a noble home and island. Her family were members of high class, and were invited to lavish parties thrown by the highest members of society. Although she was raised to be a proper woman, she always longed for something more in life. At the age of 18, she is now ready to enter the social season and her father is to find her a suitable husband much to her dismay.

That same season, a group of rookie pirates in a submarine land on the noble island to secure funds and supplies for their next adventure.

*3 years before Luffy sets out on his adventure*

Pairing: Trafalgar D. Law x reader

Warnings: MDNI, 18+ explicit sexual themes

———————————————————————————

The night after the engagement ball, I couldn't sleep. The echo of Keelan's words lingered in my mind, the weight of his concern and his desires pressing down on me like the heavy weight of the world. I had smiled through the evening, played my part, danced and laughed, but all I had wanted was to escape.

Escape to where the sea called to me, to where my heart truly lay.

The music from the ball still reverberated in my mind as I stood at the window, staring out into the night. The soft waves crashed against the shore just beyond the estate, a reminder of the world I could never seem to touch. The moon was high in the sky, its silver light casting a faint glow over the water, and for a fleeting moment, I felt the same pull, the same yearning that had always been there.

And then, out of the corner of my eye, I saw him.

Trafalgar Law.

He stood just below my window, a shadow in the night. He must have known I was watching because he glanced up and caught my gaze. His eyes were as piercing as ever, filled with a quiet intensity that spoke of unspoken words, and a longing that mirrored my own.

For a moment, neither of us moved. The air between us was thick with the tension of everything left unsaid. But then, Law gave a small nod. It was almost imperceptible, a gesture of understanding, a signal to follow.

I didn't hesitate.

I opened the window quietly, careful not to alert anyone inside the house. Then, I climbed out, my heart racing, and slid down the vine-covered trellis to the ground.

Law was waiting for me at the base, his usual stoic expression softened by a rare hint of something I couldn't quite place—anticipation, perhaps. Without a word, he turned and led me toward the edge of the estate, where the boat was hidden in the shadows.

My heart thundered in my chest as I followed him. A boat—a small, makeshift vessel—sat at the water's edge, concealed under a tangle of ropes and sailcloth. It was a simple thing, nothing grand, but to me, it was freedom. It was a promise of something real, something alive.

"Are you sure about this?" I asked, though I knew the answer. My words were a whisper in the night air, but I couldn't help the flutter of nervousness in my chest. There was something thrilling about this, something dangerous.

Law didn't answer immediately. He simply began to untangle the ropes, his movements calm and methodical. His eyes, however, were fixed on me as if he was reading something I couldn't see.

"Do you want to leave, (Y/N)?" he finally asked, his voice low and steady.

I swallowed, the question hanging in the air like a challenge. I had thought about leaving before. The idea had haunted me, a fleeting dream. But now, with Law standing before me, so close, I felt the weight of my choice pressing down on me.

"I don't know," I replied softly. "But right now, I want to be with you. Just for tonight."

He nodded and stepped into the boat, holding out his hand to me. Without hesitation, I took it, allowing him to pull me aboard. The boat rocked gently under us as we sat down, and he began to row, the rhythmic sound of the oars cutting through the water filling the silence between us.

We didn't speak for a while. There was no need. The distance between us from the estate grew smaller as the boat sailed further away from the shore. With each stroke of the oars, I felt more detached from the life I had known, and more connected to the life that lay just beyond the horizon.

The moonlight bathed us as we moved toward the small island, its silhouette dark against the vast ocean. I could feel my pulse quicken, both from excitement and nervous anticipation. The island was not far from my home, a secluded little place that few knew about. It was the perfect escape for the night.

As we reached the island, Law slowed the boat and began to anchor it just offshore. He turned to me then, his eyes searching mine, as if trying to gauge my thoughts.

The boat gently rocked against the shore, the sound of the water a soothing, rhythmic lullaby. Law's quiet presence beside me, his steady breathing, made my heart race for reasons I hadn't fully understood yet. The island before us was small, bathed in the silvery glow of the moon, a place where the world felt distant, and everything else seemed far away.

It was just us now.

We stepped off the boat, our feet sinking softly into the sand. Law's hand brushed against mine, the brief contact sending a ripple of warmth through me. There was something about tonight—the solitude, the wildness of it all—that made the pull between us feel even more undeniable. The tension that had been building ever since our first encounter was now at its peak. His presence was magnetic, and I couldn't help but be drawn to him, the space between us closing in small increments, until we were standing inches apart.

He turned to me then, his eyes dark and unreadable, yet there was something flickering behind them—an emotion I wasn't quite able to name. His lips parted slightly, as if to speak, but no words came. Instead, his gaze dropped to my lips, and I could feel his breath, warm and steady against the cool night air.

For a moment, everything went still. The night was heavy with the sound of the waves, the rustling of the wind in the trees, and the steady thrum of my heartbeat in my chest. And then, without a word, Law moved closer.

His hand reached up, gently brushing a stray strand of hair from my face. The touch was tender, but there was an undercurrent of something more. His fingers lingered at the nape of my neck, his thumb lightly tracing the curve of my jaw. His eyes held mine, searching, as if he was asking for permission—asking if I was ready for whatever this moment was going to become.

And for the first time, I knew what I wanted.

I nodded softly, my voice barely a whisper. "Yes."

The word was enough. His lips found mine with a tenderness that startled me. The kiss was slow at first, almost cautious, as if we were both savoring the feeling of finally being this close. But as the moments passed, the kiss deepened, becoming more urgent, more demanding. He pulled me closer, his arms wrapping around me, drawing me into the warmth of his body. I could feel the steady thrum of his heart beneath his chest, and it mirrored my own, a rhythm that seemed to sync with the very air around us.

His hands moved, tracing the curve of my back, his touch lingering over the fabric of my dress before sliding beneath it, skin to skin. The contact was electric, the heat between us rising, building, until it was almost unbearable. Every touch, every brush of his fingers, sent sparks of fire through my veins. I wasn't sure when the world around us had faded away, but now it felt like there was nothing but the two of us—here, in this moment, in this world where nothing else mattered.

His lips traveled from my mouth, trailing soft, burning kisses down the line of my jaw, across the sensitive skin of my neck. A shiver ran through me, and I instinctively tilted my head, giving him more access, craving more of his touch. His hands slid to the sides of my body, gently pulling the fabric of my dress down just enough to reveal the soft curve of my shoulder. He kissed the exposed skin, his breath warm against it, making me gasp softly.

I could feel his pulse quicken beneath my fingertips as I reached up, threading my hands through his hair, tugging him closer. His kiss was hungry now, fierce, and yet every movement was full of reverence, as if he was memorizing every part of me, every reaction. There was no hesitation between us anymore, just the overwhelming need to be closer, to feel everything—every inch, every breath, every beat of our hearts.

I pressed my body against his, the heat of him seeping into me, and I felt something stir inside me, something raw and untamed. His lips moved to my ear, his voice low and husky. "Are you sure?"

I swallowed hard, the question sending a tremor through me. I had never been so sure of anything. "Yes," I whispered again, my voice barely a breath. "I'm sure."

The world felt like it was spinning around us, and yet, in this moment, I was perfectly anchored in him. He paused, his forehead resting gently against mine, his breathing uneven, as if he was holding himself back. But I didn't want him to hold back anymore.

I kissed him again, this time with everything I had, pouring all the desire, all the feelings that had been building up into that single, electrifying kiss. He responded with equal fervor, his hands moving to the back of my dress, undoing the laces slowly, methodically, as if savoring every moment. The fabric fell away, leaving me in just the lightest slip, my heart racing as I stood before him, exposed, vulnerable—but completely safe in his presence.

Law's eyes darkened, his gaze intense as he took in the sight of me, his lips curling into the faintest of smiles. He took a step back, his fingers tracing along my arm as if trying to memorize the feeling of my skin beneath his touch. "You're beautiful," he murmured, his voice rough with emotion.

The words sent a shiver down my spine, and I felt the butterflies in my stomach take flight. I reached for him again, pulling him into me, desperate for more of him. He didn't hesitate. He kissed me again, deeper this time, his hands moving with purpose as he explored the curves of my body, memorizing every inch of me, his touch tender but demanding.

The night stretched on, the only sound the beating of our hearts and the soft whisper of the waves against the shore. We shed every last barrier between us—clothes, doubts, fears—and for the first time in my life, I felt truly free. Free from expectations. Free from the constraints of the world that had tried to define me.

And with Law, on that small island, beneath the vast expanse of the stars, I realized something—something I had known for a long time but had never fully allowed myself to accept.

I was in love with him.

The way he kissed me, the way he touched me, the way he held me close in the quiet of the night—everything about this moment felt like it was meant to be. No words were needed anymore. The feelings we shared were more than enough to communicate everything that had been building between us.

When we finally came together fully, it was with a kind of reverence. He was gentle, attentive, as though he wanted to make sure I was with him every step of the way. It was a delicate dance, the joining of our bodies a perfect extension of the connection we had already built, our breaths matching, our hearts in perfect sync.

And as the world seemed to fall away, leaving only the two of us beneath the moon and stars, I realized I had found something I hadn't known I was searching for. In Law, I had found my freedom. In him, I had found my home.

[usgardening]

A Rustic Garden Trellis for Vertical Vegetable Growth

Gardening enthusiasts often look for creative ways to maximize their space while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing environment. This beautifully crafted A-frame trellis, made from natural wooden branches, serves as both a functional plant support and a charming focal point in the garden.

In the image, vibrant tomato plants climb the trellis, their ripe fruits hanging gracefully, benefiting from the structured support. The surrounding area is filled with lush leafy greens, herbs, and flowers, creating a diverse and thriving edible landscape. This method of vertical gardening allows plants to grow upward rather than spreading out, making it ideal for small spaces or raised garden beds.

The trellis not only provides stability for climbing plants but also enhances air circulation, reducing the risk of disease and making harvesting easier. Additionally, the rustic, handmade design seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings, offering an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to gardening.

For gardeners looking to replicate this setup, selecting sturdy branches or untreated wood, securely fastening them into a teepee or A-frame shape, and using twine or natural ties to guide plant growth will result in a productive and picturesque garden feature. Whether used for tomatoes, beans, or climbing flowers, a DIY trellis is a rewarding addition to any outdoor space.

[nawilla]

Coping with Existential Dread Through Agriculture

I'm trying to balance myself emotionally by only reading one news article a day about our narcissistic dictator and his henchmen. It's healthier to have other things to focus on.

What I've been focusing on is gardening, and it's kind of turning me (mentally) into the liberal equivalent of a doomsday prepper, trying to increase my capacity to grow my own food in the event I lose my job and quite realistically cannot get a similar paying job with similar benefits.

This week's project is sowing peas. The internet says plant in zone 6 on St. Patrick's Day (which was Monday) directly in the ground. The seed packet says plant in April directly in the ground. The internet says you can sow peas in toilet paper rolls indoors to protect the delicate roots and then transplant them directly into the ground toilet roll and all (which just breaks down in the soil). I'm opting for this third method so I will have successful plants that I can arrange when I know how many I have, and can space them based on what did grow, not what might grow.

I plan to start both culinary and sweet peas (which both can use this method), and YES I will be sure to label them well because you don't want to mix them up, as sweet peas are bred for flowers and are poisonous! (Fortunately, I bought the sweet peas in colors, so that should be a good clue in the event that the ornamental peas end up on the trellis and the culinary peas end up on the decorative yard ornament.

This seems reasonable.

I can tell I'm getting anxious about life because after seeing eggs priced at $6.12 a dozen at Target (for regular eggs, not organic or anything) and $5.97 at ALDI, I actually looked up whether I could keep chickens where I live.

Apparently, I could keep up to three chickens (no roosters) on land the size of my property, but that is a LOT of work, so I really can't with the job I have. Still, it's good to know that if I do lose my job and my life goes to shit, chickens are an option when I would have more time and less income in the mix. (I would probably need to have my yard graded to be able to have chickens though, because it's sloped and the coop would fall over).

[thestudentfarmer]

Smallish post for the moment, to reply to some questions and comments made on prior posts :)

I've been asked a few times over the last couple of months about where I live as well as the grow seasons in my area.

I'm in a fairly populated area of the US, largely in usda grow zone 9-10.

Where I'm at in particular doesn't get snow, but further upstate does. (Those areas can't grow yr round, not without some adjustment such as greenhouses.)

Technically, I can grow almost all yr round. But once the Temps start hitting 100*f regularly it's too hot for us and most plants stop flowering or fruiting (pollen starts getting damaged at 95*f, but multiple 100*f days is bad for both plants and most pollinators) so we end up just letting what can struggle along till its cooler or we take everything up and solarise (Personally i Iet the plants that'll grow grow, keeps the soils covered, where it belongs and gives a fresh food source for my chickens that isnt trucked in everytime.)

In winter, we do get cold, but not too many frost days. When we do have frost days, often I can toss a few thin blankets over most crops at night and be good till the next day. If I only plant winter crops, I don't even need to do that.

I also do not follow a lot of the planting guides available. I often use them as a rough draft (like starting tomatoes in pots/grow cells in November around Thanksgiving. So their ready to be planted around valentines day).

Side note, 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌻🌻🌻 If your looking into starting gardening or farming and are in the USA, I 1000% would say check with your local county extension office or county extension ag office. Some of the larger state collages as well have offices dedicated to answering plant questions. You don't even have to be in the same state

I've asked for help with potatoes through 3 different counties (including the state I live in) each one has given valuable info, advice and several different answers. They are amazing resources if you don't have someone to buddy up with!

Sadly, I cannot give much info for such programs outside the states as im unknowledged in the possible resource shares. I believe most countries do have a similar equivalent though. 🌻🌻🌻🌱🌱🌱

Because I'm in an urban area (surrounded by neighbors and city), it does mess with the microclimate a bit. This means some crops do way better at different times than expected.

For examples, armenian cucumbers do great yr round.

Regular cucumbers? Only winter/fall. I don't grow them much, though cause they've tasted terrible.

Carrots are more a fall crop here and are much tastier and sweeter. Spring/summer carrots are hit or miss. Edible but less enjoyable.

Spinich? Haven't had any luck in either season yet. Either in ground or in raised bed or pots.

Regular potatoes? Soils too hard in the ground and the raised beds I've tried so far get too dry or too wet. :'( next try i intend to try a raised row/straw method.

Sweet potatoes? Vines grew and flourished well throughout the whole summer! I've yet to see what the spud harvest will look like yet, but I've gotten around 10 lbs of greens, plus a few pounds of vines that the chickens demolish quite eagerly. To me, that's a win, plus the vines trellis easily and can double as a nice shade structure when trained on trellis.

@oh-he-grows carrot seeds do smell fantastic! I was quite suprised how nice they smelled! Tbh I've been a little interested in collecting some umbells before they open next time and seeing if I might infuse some olive oil for a soap batch.

@tinyshe Thank you for your encouraging words! I hope as well to encourage more people to look into growing gardens, saving seeds, doing more small scale things to eventually make a positive difference for future and current generations :)

And to wrap up today a lil appearance from two of our lovely gals :)

🌻🌻🌻 Happy Homesteading🌱🌱🌱

10 8 2023

[paintedscales]

WoLstinien Week 2024 :: Day 5 :: Time Apart

Thankfully, when it comes to Nomin and Estinien, time apart never really is as bad as it could be. Not when there are methods and ways to get letters or other things that help to let each other know that they are both thriving in their own, respective ways.

Word Count: 1,596

Lonely days and nights were not uncommon on the island sanctuary. Nomin often busied herself with getting more furniture built that could improve the cabin, or tending the gardens and creatures that she curated for herself since she had been left to her own devices. The experience was all quite relaxing as opposed to venturing elsewhere to combat any threats.

Quiet relaxation…

Nomin breathed out a sigh of relief as she buried the last seed in her personal garden. The soil beds were all filled with seeds not of the island itself. Each little plot was instead seeded with those that were gifted to her from Estinien. He had often brought back seeds  that he found in the markets for Nomin to take care of.

Getting up, Nomin traveled to a different side of her garden, looking down at the soil bed that had been seeded at least a couple moons ago at this point. A row of trellis had been erected alongside the seeds, and vines were now snaking their way up along them. Seeing how healthy and green it was all looking, a smile spread across Nomin’s lips.

Crouching, Nomin was just glad to see how everything was coming together. She was glad that she had mixed cinnamon and clove together to mix with the soil, because the grape vines were looking great aside from small chewed up leaves from vilekin that could fly and avoid the ground.

Bringing out a small phial, Nomin took her watering can and tapped a couple drops of the solution into the water. She then made sure to water the smile thoroughly before finally feeling finished with her garden chores.

When the telltale clamor of a mammet walking up the pathway reached her horns, Nomin walked over to the fence and peeked around. The mammet that acted as courier was approaching, its wig bouncing with each ambling step it took. A sealed letter was clutched in its hand, and Nomin opened the gate so that she could meet the mammet before it reached the cabin proper.

“A lEtTeR hAs CoMe iN fOr YoU.” The courier mammet paused, lifting the letter abruptly.

“Where from?” Nomin asked as she approached and took the letter.

“RaDz-At-HaN.”

“Ah… Thank you.” Nomin then waved off the mammoth, turning the envelope over and breaking the wax seal. Taking out the letter revealed handwriting she did not immediately recognize, but the signature at the bottom tipped her off. The letter had been written by Vrtra -- or rather, his simulacrum, Varshahn.

Skimming the contents that she could read, Nomin had some difficulty parsing the handwriting. It was far more fanciful writing than she was used to. However, the gist of it was clear: Vrtra wanted to let her know the state of Radz-at-Han and the efforts going toward rebuilding. There was also an apology for making extra use of Estinien’s time in Thavnair, keeping him away for an extended period than what may have been discussed between him and Nomin in the past.

Shaking her head with a small sigh, Nomin folded the letter and tucked it away. Nothing to have been done about that. Even she herself had been getting the mammets on the island to help with relief efforts by making things that could be transported toward those in need. It was better than trying to turn a profit for the time being at any rate. That would have felt like turning a blind eye toward everyone and everything that still needed aid.

There was much and more to have been done, certainly, but at least Nomin could have solace knowing that everything at this time was rooted in aiding one another and setting aside differences. Much as the notion made her feel like a hypocrite at times. After all, there was still much and more to be said about her feelings regarding the Jhungid and her past with them.

No matter…

Nomin headed into the cabin, taking her boots off before entering, and went to look for some ink and parchment. At the very least, she could send back a response. Maybe she could have even sent a small care package along with it. While she mulled over that, she did wonder how exactly Estinien was doing during his time back under Vrtra's employ.

A small smile found its way onto Nomin’s lips once she procured her writing supplies and took a seat at the dining table. All things considered, this era that was spreading itself across Etheirys was a welcome one.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Apply your body into the actions of wielding your lance. ‘Tis not just upper body strength alone that you need, but the ability to remain steady on foot.” Estinien stood close to a younger member of Vrtra’s Radiant Host, arms folded over his chest as he gave instruction. He recalled that in Coerthas, the art of the lance evolved from being something that was primarily done on chocoboback to needing to be practiced steadily for being on foot after the Calamity struck. Chocobos were less of an accessible beast of war since that had happened.

Hraesvelgr’s imparted information of dragoons fighting alongside dragons also hung in the back of Estinien’s mind. Surely, lancers at the sides of dragons must have been something. Alas, the only dragon that Thavnair had was the satrap himself.

Returning his mind to the lessons he had undergone, Estinien thought about how the Knights Dragoon mastered aspecting their aether to the winds so that they could assist in guiding their movements. It even allowed the miraculous jumps that would leave many people looking on in awe. It sure did when Estinien performed such techniques for the recruits of either the Temple Knights or the Radiant Host to watch and take note from.

A familiar presence pulled Estinien from his thoughts, and he looked over his shoulder. Walking his way was one of few simulacrums Vrtra used for himself that held the name ‘Varshahn.’ A bag was slung over his shoulder, and Estinien figured that it must have been supplies or goods for the Radiant Host.

“‘Tis unusual to see you out here,” Estinien said, foregoing a greeting.

“More unusual that we receive letters and goods for a particular dragoon who happens to find himself in Thavnair,” Varshahn replied in kind. There was a slight smirk upon the simulacrum’s face as he came to a halt not too far away from one of the nearby tents that served as a place of rest for any of the recruits who were done with training.

Estinien’s eyes narrowed momentarily.

“... If these letters and goods come from Aymeric, I request they be sent to my lodgings instead. I am not want for letters nor the potential bribery of returning to Ishgard,” Estinien said, looking back toward the Radiant Host he was overseeing that day.

“Ah, but they are from someone else,” Varshan replied. He walked further to meet with Estinien, shrugging the bag from his shoulder and handing it off. “I would not think you would wish to be kept from Nomin’s words and gifts. So I endeavored to get them to your hands as soon as they were received at the Meghaduta.”

Estinien’s attention went right back to Varshahn after learning who the sender was, and he dropped his arms to his sides. Taking up the bag, he glanced down at it and then replied, “I suppose she’s enjoying her time at the island Tataru got for her… No matter. My thanks for taking the time to make such a delivery.”

“Of course,” Varshahn said. His attention soon went to the Radiant Host. “I trust that everything has gone well otherwise?”

“I’ve no complaints.” Estinien walked over toward the shade of the tent, unclasping his gauntlets as he did so. “Your Radiant Host are ever eager to improve upon their technique. You may very well have your own set of Radiant Dragoon ere long.”

A chuckle escaped Varshahn. “Would that we would have need of dragoons in Thavnair. Were my sister, Ratatoskr still among us, perhaps she would wish to see dragon and man fight side by side once more and help aid those efforts. Here in Thavnair, however…it is just me and Azdaja. Spearmen who are capable are more than enough.”

“... Aye… With luck, Thavnair won’t have need of them.”

“Indeed…” Varshahn glanced over at Estinien. “It gladdens me that you have been looking out for my Radiant Host. I shall not keep you any longer. You are surely eager to read of Nomin’s writing.”

“A strong sentiment, but aye…” Estinien grimaced at the idea of sitting down to skim over the written word. But, having something of a physical item from Nomin was appreciated nevertheless.

“Then I shall leave you to it.”

Estinien watched as the small version of Varshahn began his journey back toward Radz-at-Han before opening the bag that had been given to him. New clothes had been provided, as had snack items of varying kinds. Eventually, Estinien reached in and pulled out the sealed envelope. Breaking the seal, he set to reading the letter that caught him up on what Nomin had been up to and the little drawings she included of some of the seeds she had planted thanks to him bringing them to her.

A small smirk found its way onto Estinien’s lips as he glanced over Nomin’s words. She kept things to the point, and had more sketches than paragraphs to share, thankfully.

All-in-all, Estinien was simply glad that Nomin was getting all this time for the rest and enjoyment she deserved.

[brookstonalmanac]

Beer Events 4.3

Events

Emile Sirret patented an Improvement in Beer-Faucets (1866)

ABC Brewing Co. fled bankruptcy (Missouri;1935)

John L. Fitzsimons died (1942)

Gustave Reich patented a method of improving the quality of Yeast obtained in alcoholic fermentation (1945)

Lulu's Roadhouse opened (Ontario, Canada; 1984)

Donald Desmarais patented a Low-Trellis Mobile Hop Picker (1990)

Glove Capable of Opening Beer Bottles patented (2012)

Brewery Openings

Firehouse Brewpub (Pennsylvania; 1996)

Birrificio Italiano (Italy; 1996)

River Horse Brewery / Bucks County Brewing (New Jersey; 1996)

Portsmouth Brewing (Ohio; 1997)

Russian River Brewpub (California; 2004)

[victim9d]

@contradictivs: i thought you had a key.

she should, she really should. it is her own home after all, having a key is the most logical thing in the world. but it's never that simple in the michaels household, and punishment is always hanging over their heads. "i did." spoken almost defensively, a slight whine in her voice as if she's trying to prove she hadn't lied. breaking into their home isn't the hardest thing in the world, years of work put into learning how to sneak out. they don't do it often, it's too much of a risk, the consequences of being caught were undoubtedly dire. but she had it up her sleeve for emergencies, and this clearly fit that bill. she'd been told if she was back within curfew that the door would be unlocked, but clearly that wasn't the case - she still had a whole two minutes until seven, technically she was on time. but with her mother it was never enough - on time was late, early was on time, and late was something so mortifying that cassie never wanted to find out what it meant. "my mom took my key 'cause she saw a picture of me with cake at marvel's party last week, which is so stupid 'cause, like, i didn't even eat any! she just thinks it's "bad for my brand" to be seen with cake as if that's, like, the most reputation destroying thing you can do." ranted like some typical teen angst tirade, oblivious to just how awful the implications of it all were. "and she said the door would be unlocked if i was home before curfew, which I AM!" pointed out with great emphasis as she stops what she's doing to shove her phone in ryder's face, making a point of being home with just moments to spare. with a dramatic sigh she goes back to positioning the trellis in just the right way, shifting it so it can reach up to her window.

"follow my lead but, like... you gotta be kinda careful 'cause i don't know how much weight this holds." not intentionally rude, more of a commentary on the fact that he's taller and more muscular than she is, and she's never tried this with two people at a time. she's pretty sure it would hold casper, and knows for a fact that cassius has used it, so she's hopeful that it'll work out. "if it breaks try not to scream 'cause then mom will find out about it and, like, i think if i land just right i won't even get hurt that bad, 'cause it's only, like, the second floor so it's not even that big of a fall." flawed thinking without a doubt, but something she's entirely confident in. she climbs the frail trellis with a practiced ease, her entirely unpractical outfit barely seeming to slow her down. it's only as she finally reaches the top that she reaches the worst case scenario: "okay, uh, so, the window is locked." not her doing, clearly. turns out her super cool secret sneaking out method may not be as secret as she thought. "okay, well, that's fine. that's okay." there's an edge to her voice now, a fear. she wouldn't admit as much, but it's obviously there. it doesn't matter that she technically wasn't late, it doesn't matter how hard she tried to be on time. chances are the door and window were both locked as soon as she left the house, further punishment for percieved misbehavior. "no, this is so fine. it's totally cool, actually, 'cause we can, like, totally stargaze." it isn't even dark yet. "and we can sit on the beach, and we can hang out, and it's not even a big deal at all!" she hasn't even begun to climb down again, hands gripping to the thin wood slats with all the might she can muster, paranoia and anxiety channeled in through her hands. "don't even freak, ryder, everything is so totally fine."

[agroseedssupplierindia]

Premium Quality Bottle Gourd Seeds for High Yield Farming

When it comes to successful vegetable farming, starting with the right seeds makes all the difference. For Indian farmers aiming for a high-yield, profitable harvest, premium quality bottle gourd seeds are a smart investment. Known for their fast growth, disease resistance, and abundant output, these seeds are the foundation of a productive farming season.

Whether you're an experienced grower or a new entrant in the agri-business space, choosing the best bottle gourd seeds for farming can greatly influence your yield and income.

Why Bottle Gourd?

Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria), also known as lauki or doodhi, is one of the most widely grown vegetables in India. Valued for its nutritional benefits, versatility in cooking, and strong local demand, it presents a reliable opportunity for farmers. However, maximizing its potential depends on the quality of seeds you sow.

This is where choosing seeds from a trusted agro seeds producer and supplier in India becomes critical.

The Importance of High-Quality Seeds

Poor-quality seeds can lead to uneven germination, susceptibility to diseases, and disappointing yields. On the other hand, bottle gourd hybrid seeds in India, developed through advanced breeding techniques, offer:

Faster germination and growth

Higher fruit yields per plant

Resistance to common pests and diseases

Uniform size and shape of the gourds

Better shelf life and marketability

By opting for premium bottle gourd seeds online, farmers can ensure a great start to their crop cycle with consistency and reliability.

What Makes a Seed "Premium"?

Not all seeds labeled "premium" live up to the promise. Truly premium quality bottle gourd seeds come with:

High germination rate (above 80%)

Certification from agricultural authorities

Disease resistance and climate adaptability

Proven performance in field trials

Packaged with proper moisture protection

When you buy quality bottle gourd seeds, make sure you’re getting them from a reputable source that offers traceability and quality assurance.

Choosing the Right Agro Seeds Supplier

India has no shortage of seed companies, but finding a reliable agro seeds producer and supplier in India is essential. Look for a supplier with:

A strong R&D team

Field-tested hybrid varieties

Transparent seed quality standards

Positive reviews from farmers and agri-businesses

Nationwide delivery and easy ordering process

Many leading suppliers now offer their premium bottle gourd seeds online, making it easier for farmers across India to access top-performing seeds without leaving their farms.

Tips for High-Yield Bottle Gourd Farming

Here are a few best practices to maximize your harvest with bottle gourd hybrid seeds in India:

Soil Preparation: Bottle gourd prefers loamy, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5–7.5.

Seed Treatment: Soak seeds for 12–24 hours before sowing to boost germination.

Spacing and Support: Use a trellis or support system for better air circulation and cleaner fruits.

Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during flowering and fruiting stages.

Pest Management: Regularly inspect for aphids, fruit flies, and fungal infections, and use organic or recommended control methods.

Final Thoughts

Farming is both a science and an art, and the right seeds are the starting point of any successful season. With increasing competition and rising demand, farmers cannot afford to compromise on quality. That’s why choosing premium quality bottle gourd seeds from a trusted agro seeds producer and supplier in India is the key to higher profitability and crop success.

[tsmom1219]

New method promises to upend accounting for short-lived pollutants

Read the full story at Trellis. Conventional carbon accounting measures impact over 100 years, lessening the focus on short-lived drivers of global warming. The Global Heat Reduction Initiative is offering an alternative accounting methodology that emphasizes near-term impacts. The science behind the methodology is broadly accepted, but adopting it requires trade-offs in what companies and…

[jensownzoo]

Well that's a sense of accomplishment! I got all my transplanting done today that it is possible to do without putting in whole new beds (on the agenda), minus the baby basil that's too small to do anything with yet. Hopefully the storm that's rolling in right now will gently water everything in and not pound them flat.

This is the front yard bed (and little bed of fennel, strawberries, and spearmint to the side). There's a permanent flowerbed wedged up against the porch, but then we have a row of favas and borage, a row of peppers (all small-sized fruiters since it's part shade), the stepping stone walk that has crimson clover/Kentucky colonel mint/numerous cosmos seedlings/and two passionfruit vines, then a row of tomatoes, then a row of peppers, then a row of eggplant, and then the sidewalk.

This raised bed is more or less in the middle of my paved "backyard". It's got perennial pea vine in the front, sunchokes in the rear, a line of beet seedlings in the center, six Heinz 1350VF tomatoes on the sides along with marigold seedlings, and I transplanted in the five little sweet potato vines that I overwintered from my late summer experiment growing slips. One of the vines had a tiny sweet potato growing about the size of my pinky. This bed may be a little iffy because it's still pretty mulchy. I'm going to keep an eye out for nitrogen issues and add it as necessary. You can also see the bed with my snap peas to the left with an A-frame trellis made from two woven fence panels.

This bed is along my rear privacy fence facing the alley. It gets weird sun so I planted all my Japanese black trifle tomatoes on the right side (towards us in the pic) and put some cherry and pear tomatoes in the shadier left. Also have morning glory and hyacinth bean sprouting at the back which will climb up the crib spring panels and drape over the fence.

This is the big raised bed running all along the property line on the west side and has a semi-privacy fence (it's like a picket fence but 6 feet tall) as a part of it's build. It's divided into four sections, though you can only see three here (the fourth is nearly entirely shaded and currently is full of mostly kale and covered with row cover. I just finished installing the hardware cloth on the fence and over a top frame yesterday. The front of the beds (to the left) will eventually have doors of framed hardware cloth too creating a garden cage to keep wildlife from stealing everything. In the nearest section pictures, there are two pear tomatoes and 8 tomatillos (2 varieties). The next two sections have tomatoes and basil. All three beds have nasturtium, French marigold, and zinnia seedlings growing at the front edge, but they're still very tiny. There's also a salvaged mum in the second bed that I hauled out of the green waste dumpster in the fall and stuck in the ground to see if it would survive. It did. No idea what it will look like either.

Tomorrow is for inside tasks, but I want to get some zucchini, winter squash, and the first planting of beans in the ground this weekend so they can sprout and get growing.

I'm delaying putting in cucumber this year until the peas are done in hopes the cucumber beetles will fuck off elsewhere and I won't need my insect net bags. They worked well until the plants got very leafy--they then developed fungal disease due to the reduced air circulation. I still got some cucumbers, so it was better than the year before, and I killed literally thousands of cucumber beetles with my unprotected trap plant. But going to try a bit of tweaking to the method and some patience. I would like enough this year to restock my pickles AND eat fresh.

[thatwildyard]

Complete Guide to Planting and Caring for Dragon Fruit from Cuttings

Introduction

🌵 Overview

Dragon Fruit, also known as pitaya, is a fast-growing climbing cactus that produces stunning flowers and exotic, edible fruits. Growing from cuttings is the quickest and most reliable method to propagate Dragon Fruit.

🧬 Foundation

Native to Central and South America, Dragon Fruit thrives in warm climates and well-draining soil. Cuttings grow faster than seeds, fruiting in as little as 18 months with proper care.

🌟 Transformation Promise

By following this guide, you'll learn to:

Successfully root and plant Dragon Fruit cuttings

Build proper support structures for vertical growth

Maintain healthy, productive plants for years

Core Principles

1. Healthy Cutting Selection

Explanation: Choose mature segments 10–18 inches long. Practical Application: Cut from the middle of the parent cactus with sterilized tools. Avoid tips and overly young growth.

2. Callusing is Critical

Explanation: Dragon Fruit cuttings need to form a callus to prevent rot when planted. Practical Application: Allow the cut end to dry in shade for 5–7 days before planting.

3. Vertical Support and Sunlight

Explanation: These climbing cacti require strong support and full sun to thrive. Practical Application: Install trellises or posts and position in at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Most Powerful Methods

Method 1: Rooting and Planting in Containers (Beginner-Friendly)

Description

This method offers full control over soil, watering, and sun exposure.

Step-by-Step:

Cut & Callus: Take a healthy cutting and allow it to callus for 5–7 days in the shade.

Prepare Soil Mix: Use a cactus/succulent mix or a 1:1 blend of sand and compost.

Plant Cutting: Insert 2–3 inches of the cut end into the soil. Plant upright with the original base end downward.

Water Lightly: Mist lightly every few days.

Provide Support: Use a small bamboo stake at first, then move to a strong vertical post once roots establish.

Best Practices:

Water sparingly until rooted (2–4 weeks).

Use pots with drainage holes.

Keep in filtered sun initially; transition to full sun after rooting.

Expected Results:

Root development in 2–4 weeks

New growth in 4–6 weeks

Transplant to garden or large container at 8–10 weeks

Method 2: Direct Outdoor Planting (Tropical/Subtropical Zones)

Description

For those in USDA zones 10–12 or warm, dry climates.

Step-by-Step:

Prepare Site: Choose a sunny spot with good drainage and install a sturdy trellis or vertical post.

Soil Prep: Amend soil as needed; Use sand, compost, and/or perlite for adequate drainage.

Plant Callused Cutting: Place 3–4 inches deep near the base of the support.

Water Lightly: Wait 1–2 days after planting, then water lightly every 3–4 days.

Best Practices:

Mulch with gravel to avoid fungal issues

Stake the cutting initially until it grabs the post

Shield from heavy rain during first two weeks

Expected Results:

Strong roots by week 3–4

Visible growth at 6–8 weeks

First flowering in 6–12 months under ideal conditions

Method 3: Propagation Tray Rooting (For Mass Propagation)

Description

Ideal for rooting many cuttings at once.

Step-by-Step:

Place several callused cuttings upright in a propagation tray with a sand-perlite mix.

Mist daily and keep in indirect sunlight.

Transplant individually after root development (2–4 weeks).

Best Practices:

Label varieties

Space cuttings to prevent mold

Advanced Strategies

Strategy 1: Grafting for Faster Fruiting

Purpose: Encourage faster fruit production using a mature rootstock

Methodology: Graft a cutting onto a rooted Hylocereus base

Tools Needed: Sharp knife, grafting tape

Implementation: Slice angled cuts on both scion and stock, align, and tape for 7–10 days

Strategy 2: Supplemental Lighting (Indoors or Low Sun Areas)

Use full-spectrum LED grow lights on a 12–14 hour cycle

Raise lights as plant grows to prevent legginess

Integration Protocols

Daily Routine

Morning: Check moisture; mist if needed

Midday: Ensure adequate light (natural or artificial)

Evening: Inspect for pests or signs of rot

Weekly Intensive

Clean supports and prune dead segments

Apply compost tea or low-nitrogen fertilizer (after rooting)

Monthly Assessment

Check root zone health and potting depth

Rotate containers for even sun exposure

Obstacle Mastery

Challenge 1: Rotting Cuttings

Cause: Overwatering or not allowing callus to form

Solution: Only plant once callus is fully formed; water minimally

Challenge 2: Weak or No Rooting

Cause: Poor soil or insufficient warmth

Solution: Use well-draining mix and maintain 77–86°F

Challenge 3: Yellowing Segments

Cause: Sunburn or root issues

Solution: Gradually introduce to full sun; check for root rot

Acceleration Factors

Factor 1: Bottom Heat

Root faster by using a propagation heat mat

Factor 2: Rooting Hormone

Dip base in powdered rooting hormone (IBA) before planting

Factor 3: Controlled Humidity

Use mini-greenhouse or plastic cover to retain moisture (remove once rooted)

Measurement and Tracking

Progress Indicators

Internal: Firmness at base

External: Root tips visible, upright new growth

Tracking Methods

Maintain a propagation journal: cutting source, date, environment

Mark pots with plant variety and start date

Specialized Applications

Home Fruit Production: Enjoy fresh fruit from container-grown plants

Living Fence: Train along walls or trellises as edible landscape

Grafting Stock: Base for grafting rare epiphytic cacti

Indoor Decor: Compact ornamental cactus for bright windows

Botanical Education: Fast and visual growth stages for learning

Evidence and Validation

Research Foundation

Studies show Hylocereus species root faster with warmth and low-humidity airflow

Ideal pH: 6.0–6.5; ideal soil texture: sandy loam

Expert Perspectives

Tropical growers emphasize well-draining substrate and gradual light exposure

Vietnamese and Thai farms rely heavily on cutting propagation for yield uniformity

Case Studies

Home growers in USDA zone 9 report fruiting within 12–18 months using 18" cuttings and proper trellising

Indoor enthusiasts succeed with grow lights and 5-gallon fabric pots

Resources and Next Steps

Essential Reading

Growing Dragon Fruit by Richard S. Wallace

UC Agriculture Extension on Pitaya Cultivation

Practical Tools

5-gallon pots with drainage

Perlite, compost, cactus soil mix

Rooting hormone (optional)

PVC or wood trellis

Learning Opportunities

Online propagation workshops

YouTube channels like “Grafting Dragon Fruit” or “California Rare Fruit Growers”

Community Connections

Reddit: r/dragonfruit

Facebook: Dragon Fruit Growers & Enthusiasts

Conclusion

Key Takeaways

Let cuttings callus before planting to prevent rot

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering

Provide full sun and strong vertical support

Immediate Next Steps

Source healthy Dragon Fruit cuttings

Prepare your soil mix and planting site or containers

Set your support structure and begin planting

Long-Term Vision

With proper care, a Dragon Fruit plant grown from cutting can yield for 20+ years, producing sweet, exotic fruit—and vibrant blooms—season after season.

Final Motivation

Every cutting holds a future of climbing vines, giant blossoms, and glowing fruit. With care and consistency, your Dragon Fruit garden will become a living masterpiece.