#greenery coriander flower

[mollyringle]

Lava Red Feather Blue: the perfume list

(I mention in the afterword of Lava Red Feather Blue that I can recommend perfumes to go with those described in the book. For my fellow perfumistas out there, here is that list, which is also on my website and is subject to change as I think of more.) For all of the scents listed here, or for any perfume at all, I highly recommend starting with a sample and not springing for a blind buy of a full bottle. Scents vary a great deal on each person’s skin, and to each person’s nose, and should be test-driven before one commits to a larger purchase. Some reliable sites where I’ve bought perfume samples include Luckyscent, Surrender to Chance, Olfactif, and The Perfumed Court. For Solstice Scents fragrances, though, you’ll likely only find them at the Solstice Scents site itself.

If you know of a perfume you think would fit well into this list, let me know! We can keep adding to the list. True perfume fanatics always want to try more scents!

Sia Fia’s realm: for Silver and Lunacy, described as island-harvested rose, ylang-ylang, sandalwood, patchouli, incense, musk, and honey:

One of the top contenders that comes to mind for me is Absolue Pour le Soir by Maison Francis Kurkdjian…but it’s been discontinued! If you CAN find any to sample, I warn you that a fair number of people who smell it think it’s disgusting. The rest of us, however, find it highly sexy. This is often the case with the most carnal scents! MFK describes its notes as rose honey from Bulgaria, incense absolute, cumin, benzoin from Siam, and sandalwood.

Another possibility I love, heavy on the honey, is Bee by Zoologist Perfumes. It starts out like a freshly opened jar of orange blossom honey, then deepens into facets of mimosa, benzoin, sandalwood, incense, ginger, heliotrope, labdanum, tonka, and musk.

Yet another, more floral and hay-like but still rich with honey and carnality, is Tabac Tabou by Parfum d’Empire, which is advertised as having notes of immortelle, tobacco, narcissus, honey, grass, and musk.

If you want to go old-school carnal, look on eBay for a vintage bottle of Bal a Versailles by Jean Desprez. It’s usually easy to find, and is a yummy, powdery concoction of civet, resins, balsam, amber, vanilla, musk, sandalwood, orris root, rose, orange blossom, jasmine, ylang-ylang, and more.

For old-school carnal on the macho side, I love Kouros by Yves Saint Laurent (white bottle, not Body Kouros in the black bottle). A small dab will do—it’s potent! On my skin it’s both shower-clean and sexy-dirty, a mix I love. It’s got civet, honey, patchouli, aldehydes, leather, carnation, coriander, musk, oakmoss, artemisia, and other spices and florals.

And one more beauty, which is less about the honey and more about the rose, but still has a very “sexy boudoir” feel, is Salome by Papillon, a huge fan favorite in the indie perfume fandom, featuring jasmine, musks, Turkish rose, carnation, cumin, mosses, and tobacco.

Arlanuk’s realm: for Hunter’s Night, described as earth, stone, oakmoss, island redwood, cedar, vetiver, and a hint of wood smoke:

I suggest Runestone by Solstice Scents, which, according to the fragrance creator, contains aged patchouli, dirt, oakmoss, cedar, muhuhu, violet leaf absolute, leaves, vetiver, sandalwood, cypress, spruce, pine and very faint hints of lavender absolute, rosewood, rosemary, hinoki, spikenard and more. It has that “potting soil” feel that comes with patchouli, but is nicely tempered by greenery and stone, and when I smelled it, I thought, “This is what the forest in the fae realm smells like.”

Another good one worth trying is Fille en Aiguilles by Serge Lutens, as a tribute to the pines that delineate Arlanuk’s territory. Its notes are pine needles, vetiver, sugary sap, laurel, fir balsam, frankincense, candied fruit, and spice.

Vowri’s realm: for Melancholia, notes of cold flowers in rain, iris, lilac, and the sadness of vintage perfume on old clothes:

Clearly the ideal choice here is a vintage perfume, especially the mega-classic L’Heure Bleue by Guerlain. Guerlain describes it as containing aniseed, bergamot, carnation, neroli, iris, violet, vanilla, benzoin, and tonka beans, but to the perfumistas of the world it is famous for its melancholy feel. Its name, after all, means “the blue hour.”

See also Après l'Ondée from the same house, which has similar notes to L’Heure Bleue but with more of a feel of rain on a garden—again, as its name suggests.

Another lovely vintage-based scent, which in my opinion would fit the bill for this section, is Pourpre d’Automne by Maison Violet. It has cool violet and iris at center stage, supported by rose, plum, peach, musk, benzoin, and oakmoss, all with an early-1900s powdery cosmetic atmosphere.

For the quest in general:

I’d feel remiss if I didn’t include Enchanted Forest by The Vagabond Prince. I mean, could its name get any more fitting? But its actual scent is ideal too, a chilly forest smell, mysterious and lovely and fairy-tale-ready, featuring blackcurrant, fir, red wine, wet green branches, pine needles, woods, and mosses.

Dryad by Papillon is another beautiful take on an enchanted forest, perhaps one in late summer, full of warm golden sunlight between the trees. It has notes of galbanum, bergamot, narcissus, clary sage, orris root, oakmoss, fruits, herbs, and vetiver.

Larkin remembers walking through the lemon orchard at the palace with his lover, back in the late 1700s. And citrus blossom scents were indeed popular in that century, in the perfumes of that time. (Perfume options were more limited then in general, as chemistry practices weren’t nearly as advanced as they are now—but on Eidolonia, who knows?) Therefore I think for nostalgia reasons he might like Fleurs de Citronnier by Serge Lutens, a lovely, gentle lemon blossom scent that also includes neroli, tuberose, and musk.

Larkin notices Merrick (and his car) smelling of leather and sweet spice early in their acquaintance. We can assume this is a Mirage Isle Perfumes scent he and Cassidy created. I haven’t given it a name, but I had in mind something like Cuir Ottoman by Parfum d’Empire. It’s a deliciously smooth, sweet leather scent, which also includes incense, jasmine, iris, benzoin, balsams, and resin.

[multiplex4]

Benefits Of Growing Plants In Balcony- Balcony Gardening

Do you have access to Balcony, Patio, space in your Apartment and planning to utilize the empty space? Balcony Gardening is an excellent option for all Urban dwellers who love being a plant parent. Based on the interest and space available, one can start growing veggies, flowers, Ornamental, and even fruit plants!

You can reap the same benefits of Gardening while growing plants in your Balcony space!

Bring Greenery into your Space: Growing a Garden is like bringing a piece of nature into your space.

City Dwellers clearly understand the pleasure they revel in once they watch the plants grow. They appreciate each phase of plant life whilst they grow, such as looking at the seeds germinate, new leaves open, flowers bloom, and happiness you experience from the colours of the plant.

Grow Your Food: Although not everything, depending on the space available you can start growing vegetables, herbs, and even fruits in your balcony space.

Few Indian Herbs you can start are Methi/Fenugreek, Coriander, Mint, Lemon Grass.

Vegetables like Tomato, Chilli, Brinjal, Okra, Cucurbits, Beans can be grown on your balcony gets more than 3 hours of Sunlight!

If one is interested in growing fruits, they can try growing strawberries too! They are small, bushy plants that can fit very well into your small space!

Beautification: Plants are becoming interior designers' favourites. Plants can lighten up any space and enhance any corner giving it an elegant look. Your balcony garden can be a point of attraction in your home. Not to mention, the colours from your Garden can be highly appealing and also induce a refreshing feel to the space.

A Healthy activity: Gardening is proven to have both physical and psychological benefits to those who are involved with it. Gardening can release your stress and help in the release of happy hormones. Any activity in the Garden is the best form of Excercise.

HAPPY GARDENING! For more visit https://www.multiplexgroup.com/

[babafusion]

[rederiswrites]

Hey, Red! If you don't mind, I'd like to hear more about homesteading. I know you have an herb garden. How do you harvest them properly/sustainably? How much space is "enough space" for an herbal plant? Thank you in advance!

You’re just softballing me fun questions for my sake, I’m pretty sure, but I’d never be so churlish as to waste the gift. Let’s see, uhh, this is a big subject, so what to cover?

Okay first of all, there’s a different answer for every different plant. I’ve got lovage (looks like giant parsley, tastes like celery) growing next to chives (tastes like green onions, looks like a clump of fat grass), planted the same year, and one is a clump about three inches across and eight inches tall, and the other is a shrub nearly five feet tall at its tallest, with a 2 x 3 foot footprint. Thyme is a low-growing mound that’ll spread over a few feet if it’s happy, basil grows more or less straight up along a single stem (unless you strategically pinch it off to make it bushy), and even then, how far up and how bushy depends on what *variety* of basil.  Fortunately, this sort of information is often found on plant tags at the store, and readily available online, but you just have to know the answer for each plant.

Harvesting depends on WHAT you’re harvesting. Flowers, for example: Lavender flowers should be harvested actually just before they bloom, and you just cut individual stems. Chamomile, you cut the flowers when they’re fresh blooms. Chamomile is torture because I’m unaware of any way to do it except to individually clip six billion tiny blossoms, and it takes like...I dunno, at least ten blossoms for a single cup of tea. Dammit now I gotta go make some chamomile tea, hang on.

Seeds, you harvest just after they’ve turned color from green to some variant of brown, like dill or coriander, but if you wait too long they’ll all drop off and that will suck. One standard way to collect just the seed is to clip seed heads into a paper bag and then shake it/knock it around until the seeds come loose and then you can filter/winnow/pick the excess plant material out.

Greenery you just clip good condition leaves. For fresh use in cooking, I usually just clip what I need whenever I need it. If you’re clipping them for drying and you want a bunch at once, the rules are thus: usually, don’t harvest more than 1/3 of the plant at a time (there are exceptions), don’t harvest wet plant material (if it’s been rained on or the dew hasn’t dried), and the volatile oils (scent, medicinal principles, flavor) are best in the morning on a sunny day after the dew’s gone. Then hang them/spread them out to dry in a place that’s warm but out of direct sun. Hanging works best for stuff with clear central stems, like mint, which you can tie into bundles. Spreading stuff out, ideally on a screen for good airflow, works for stuff like chamomile or calendula blossoms or individual leaves.

Some plants you harvest roots, but I never get around to that. Basic theory is that you give the plant a few years to get well established and send off shoots to start new “crowns” (clumps), and then you dig up some but not all of the crowns, divide them (literally just gently pull them into chunks) and replant the divisions, and then clean and dry the roots you didn’t replant. This isn’t really feasible unless you have room to let a plant grow in-ground and spread for a while, so not a lot of people bother with roots.

Okay! TL; DR, everything depends on everything and you just have to learn individual plants! But at least herbs are mostly really hardy and easy to grow, and a lot of the basic culinary herbs are very happy in pots. Most herbs do require a lot of sun, though, so be mindful of that.

[hellospunkiebrewster]

Tumblr ate this ask when I went to answer it, but I thought it was a good question so here’s me trying to reconstruct it...

In the US lilies are a popular funeral flower, but I have never heard of them being thought of as bad luck because of it. Here, it is much more the aspect of what the bride/couple like the look of for their wedding. I’ve been to several weddings that had lilies.

The Regency Era marked the start of the popularity of the language of flowers which reached its peak in the Victorian Era. They published books about it. Ladies and gentlemen alike would choose their perfumes, soaps, decor, and gifts based on it. They may base their gardens around it. I was pretty happy that PB decided to include it even though it was very quickly done with a cursory hand.

So what did these books say about lilies? Here’s the index of Flores Poetici: the Florist’s Manual:

Lilies symbolized purity, beauty, and simplicity. They also signaled deep sentiment which is likely how they came to be funeral flowers.

What would a bridal bouquet likely have at this time though? Only the rich could afford flowers from hot houses (greenhouses) and the common bride would use a bouquet of locally grown flowers, wildflowers, greenery, and herbs. She might even gather them on the way to the church for her wedding and arrange them herself.

There was, however, a traditional, en vogue bridal bouquet of the time. The perfume shop (Floris) in London even created a signature scent for it. The bouquet included orange blossom, carnation, coriander (or as Americans call it, cilantro), lily of the valley, stenphanotis, and jasmine. Stenphanotis meant good luck, jasmine signaled loveliness, carnation was pride and beauty, and lily of the valley indicated delicate simplicity. It was a very popular perfume for Regency brides.

And on a not wedding related note, I also found this:

[abhi16]

Frozen Food Products Sales and Marketing Agency in Pune

The Importance of Marketing Plan for Frozen Food SalesBranding and marketing are the two important pillars when it comes to business strategy and improving your sales. However, there is a vast difference between branding and marketing, as well as the actions for success for each. Branding relates to creating a company’s name, logo, and design that easily describe belonging to the company. It helps to identify the product and differentiate it from other products and services.Brand Improves RecognitionBrand Build TrustBrand Increases The Business ValueBrand Attracts New CustomersMarketing gets the word out about your business. It allows you to connect with potential customers and inform them of all the services you offer. Proper marketing and branding combined can boost your sales at an astounding pace and help you build a consistent client-base. Marketing Informs The ConsumerMarketing Sustains The Company ExistenceMarketing Engages More Customers and Sells More ProductsNot doing sales planning is like running your business on a wing and praying and hoping that the dart you threw blindfolded will hit the bullseye.There might be a chance you will get lucky and hit the bull’s eye but there is also a  chance you’ll poke someone’s eye out.Planning Helps To Overcome The Unforeseen RisksPlanning Minimizes Your RiskPlanning sets Achievable Goals And MilestonesOur main tasks to cater to improving your sales, therefore involve Distribution Network Set-Up, Find Channel Partners, Appointing Distributors and Dealers and Find Sales Agents.We are a frozen food sales and marketing agency in Pune, and do sales pitching of your products for distribution to our interested sellers and give them appropriate marketing support to create demand. We are a one stop B2BMarketing and B2B distribution solution all over India. Our up to date marketing and branding strategies are top notch and cater to the present market and customer choices. Want our trusted services and offers to boost your frozen food sales, then continue reading about us.

About Pune

Pune is the 8th largest metropolis in India and the  largest in Maharashtra. It is situated on the western side of Western Ghats and has a booming real estate market right now.

It has been ranked as "the most livable city in India" several times. It is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and the key sectors of the local economy are education, manufacturing and information technology. It has also emerged as the new hub for tech startups in India.

Pune has witnessed engineering and other crucial sectors making it their headquarters, transforming it into a major industrial centre. Considered as the greenest urban areas of the nation, Pune has more than 40% of its area covered by greenery that is slowly degrading because of the real estate boom in Pune.

How to Reach

By air- The nearest airport is in Lohegaon, 10 kms from the main city of Pune. It is accessible by buses, cars or cabs.

By rail- Pune Railway Station is one of the major and most important railway junctions in the country. It is connected to all major Indian cities.

By Road- Indian and state highways are all connected to Pune. NH-4 connects Pune, Bangalore, Mumbai and Kolhapur. NH-9 joins the city to Hyderabad and NH-50 to Nashik. There is also a high-speed expressway connecting Pune to Mumbai.

Top Places of Commercial Interest in Pune

The Market Yard in Pune is a well-known market and vegetables, fruits and flowers are sold here at wholesale rate. Other major marketplaces in the city are Tulsi Baug Market, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Market, Juna Bazaar or Old Market, Laxmi Road Market, Phule Market (Mahatma Phule Mandai), The Hong Kong Market Lane, Phoenix Market City, Viman Nagar, Inorbit Mall, Viman Nagar, SGS Kakde Mall, Amanora Town Centre, Hadapsar, Jewel Square, Koregaon Park.

India’s Frozen Food Market and Demand

The frozen food market in India is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the forecast period, and its market is expected to be US$ 3.1 Billion by 2026, from US$ 1.1 Billion in 2020.

In the previous years, only french fries and basic frozen vegetables were sold in India. But in the span of 5 to 10 years the frozen food industry in India has completely revolutionized. With the evolution of modern retail outlets like Food Bazaar, DMart, Spencers, and online grocery stores like Big Basket, Groffers frozen food industry in India is witnessing a positive growth. Although the consumption and supply of frozen food in India is still negligible in comparison to the world due to various reasons. These are a handful of existing players, the large population of India, higher-priced foods products, lower awareness among the consumers and challenges regarding infrastructure and logistics like shortage of cold storage are the present barriers to the growth of the frozen food market. A 180% increase in market is forecasted due to the fact that there has been a significant rise in the number of millennial and gen-Z consumers among the semi-urban and urban people. They are opting for improved awareness, convenience and acceptance of frozen food because it is quick and easily available. But the real challenge would be to maintain the price range of frozen food the same as normal products, for example fruits, vegetables and meat. 

Several government schemes like Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) have provided financial support for building and enhancing new cold storage facilities in India. The advancement in cold chain infrastructure has further supported the supply and distribution of frozen food products in tier I cities. This has spurred growth in the country's frozen food market. The surging cases in this second wave of the coronavirus have made the whole country go into lockdown mode again. With most people working from home, shelves of frozen foods are clearing thick and fast  these days. These items are available year-round regardless of the season.

COVID-19 greatly impacted the restaurant businesses, giving more momentum to frozen foods. The low-ingredient availability has left everyone shifting towards ready-to-cook meals and frozen food alternatives. Looking at the spike in frozen foods, Indian companies are capitalising on local delicacies that comprise organic ingredients. 

Frozen food consists of frozen fruits, vegetables, fish & marine produce, meat, ready meals, bakery products, soups, and appetizers that provide domestic consumption and export opportunities. The surging number of Farmer Producer Organisations, solar-based refrigeration technologies, freezing and chilling facilities would boost the values of the farmers in India. When it comes to cuisine, India is known for its diversity. In order to satisfy the unique Indian palettes that require a different taste every now and then, companies have come up with more Indian variants like cutlets, samosas, parathas and kebabs, among others and there will never be a shortage of variety of food to freeze.

The key players of the India Frozen Food market are IFB Agro Industries Limited, McCain Foods (India) Private Limited, Godrej Tyson Foods Limited, Mother Dairy Fruit & Vegetable Private Limited, Tanvi Foods, Venky’s (India) Limited, ITC Limited, Innovative Foods Limited, West Coast Fine Foods Private Limited, Vadilal Industries Limited, Gadre Marine Export Private Limited, Al Kabeer Exports Private Limited and Darshan Foods Private Limited, among others.

Moreover, with the evolution of modern retail outlets like Food Bazaar, DMart, Spencers, and online grocery stores like Big Basket and Grofers, the frozen food industry in India is witnessing positive growth.

FRESH SNACKS AT HOME WITH A DELICIOUS RANGE OF FROZEN FOODS French FriesSoya ChaapFrozen ChapatiFrozen ParathaFrozen Baby CornFrozen IdliFrozen Chicken TikkaFrozen PotatoFrozen Aloo ParathaFrozen CutletFrozen Veg ParathaFrozen Cheese BallFrozen Chicken Seekh KababFrozen Sweet CornFrozen Spring RollFrozen Chicken Popcorn

Frozen Food Products Sales and Marketing Agency

As a frozen food products marketing and sales agency, we help to manufacture & market a broad assortment of indian frozen food acquired by local dealers that includes ready to heat and eat food items, ready to be fried food and snacks, frozen desserts and many more. Maintaining hygiene and safety protocols in accordance with modern food standards is of utmost importance to us. Our well installed facility and efficient team supports us to deliver products like frozen snacks food, that are of high quality, hygienic, nutritional and tasty.

Why waste hours of your precious time, when you can prepare hot and delicious snacks within a few minutes? Frozen snacks are the best way to enjoy yummy, piping hot snacks at home. Scrumptious snacks such as burgers, french fries, pizza or kebabs, can be prepared within a matter of minutes. Buy delectable frozen snacks from renowned brands such as Foods, Yummiez, Mc Cain, Alf- Farms, Zorabian, IFB, and Prasuma. Enjoy mouthwatering and new Yummiez products like Lassooni Chicken Tikka, Sausages, Cheese Fingers, Afghani Seekh Kabab, Veg Pizza Pocket and Veg Burger Patty. Besides Yummiez, you can choose from popular brands of frozen snacks India such as McCain Chicken Nuggets, IFB Cocktail Fish Fingers, Bombay Bites Pizza Samosa, Frozen Pizza India, McCain Potato Cheese Shots and much more. We sell various packaging options and also supply in bulk to institutions using modern technology.

Frozen Pastes

We are also a well-known supplier of pastes that are best for quick cooking in domestic & commercial kitchens. We have a variety of frozen pastes including garlic, ginger, onion, tamarind etc. Use of modern processing technology assures product hygiene, retaining food value and ensuring good shelf life.

 Crushed Garlic Paste

Ginger Paste

Garlic Paste

Coriander Paste

Methi (Fenugreek)

Green Chilli Paste

Frozen Desserts

This category includes delicious Indian desserts that are completely natural, preservative free and economical too. An important part of an Indian festivals & celebrations is sweets and desserts, thus we offer frozen desserts in a variety of packaging to meet buyer’s requirements.

Mango Basundi

Anjeer Basundi

Strawberry Basundi

Sitafal Rabdi

Gajar Halwa

A few Strategies to Increase Sales:-

Contemporize brand engagement- The type of snacks consumers purchase often depends on their age and lifestyle preferences, for example millennials tend to consume assorted snacks throughout the day whereas older people consume very less frequently and tend to have a certain specific choice.

Incorporate local flavours and tastes- For your business to thrive in Pune, you need to cater to understand the taste buds of local people. Their preferences and choices have to be considered to boost your sales.

Promote bundling opportunities- Encourage your customers to try something new by promoting a bundle or two-for deal, and buy one-get one free deals.

Know about your inventory- Customers are loyal to your best selling products, so be aware of the top products’ inventory levels.

Watch upcoming trends- It is important to keep a watchful eye on upcoming trends for continued growth in the industry. Trends in the snack category show which ingredients must be premiumtized at what time.

We help our clients solve their Sales, Marketing and Distribution issues and boost their ready-to-eat and instant food sales.

We offer Sales and Marketing services to help frozen food dealers on how to improve sales. Not only that, we also work with other small businesses and are dedicated to solving their issues. Complete Marketing plan for frozen food is prepared to help sort out your doubts and issues. The quality of the products is well taken care of, following the latest international market standards. Everything from creating standards of excellence to training your people to work in more effective ways, introducing ground-breaking strategies, assessing how you’re doing, and helping you perform even better in future.

The Importance of Marketing Plan for Frozen Food Sales

Branding and marketing are the two important pillars when it comes to business strategy and improving your sales. However, there is a vast difference between branding and marketing, as well as the actions for success for each. Branding relates to creating a company’s name, logo, and design that easily describe belonging to the company. It helps to identify the product and differentiate it from other products and services.

Brand Improves Recognition

Brand Build Trust

Brand Increases The Business Value

Brand Attracts New Customers

Marketing gets the word out about your business. It allows you to connect with potential customers and inform them of all the services you offer. Proper marketing and branding combined can boost your sales at an astounding pace and help you build a consistent client-base.

Marketing Informs The Consumer

Marketing Sustains The Company Existence

Marketing Engages More Customers and Sells More Products

Not doing sales planning is like running your business on a wing and praying and hoping that the dart you threw blindfolded will hit the bullseye.There might be a chance you will get lucky and hit the bull’s eye but there is also a  chance you’ll poke someone’s eye out.

Planning Helps To Overcome The Unforeseen Risks

Planning Minimizes Your Risk

Planning sets Achievable Goals And Milestones

Our main tasks to cater to improving your sales, therefore involve Distribution Network Set-Up, Find Channel Partners, Appointing Distributors and Dealers and Find Sales Agents.

[soulblossomlove]

" Do you khow this Veggie name "?? .... Coriander is an annual herb in the family Apiaceae. It is also known as Chinese parsley or cilantro. All parts of the plant are edible, but the fresh leaves and the dried seeds are the parts most traditionally used in cooking. . Follow @soul_blossom.love . . #flowers #flowerphotography #flowersofinstagram #flowers🌸 #nature #naturelovers #natgeo #discovery #digitalart #photooftheday #photography #babyflower #rose #sunflower #orange #green #peace #peaceofmind #loveyou #sun #greenery #littleflowers #littlethings #littlethingsmatter #affection #loveyourself#marketflowery#plants (at India) https://www.instagram.com/p/CKTr1hJrA29/?igshid=avg5i4oq9zt0

[fromtraveldiaries]

Kanha - 2

The Drive

According to Google Maps, the Kanha Earth Lodge is a little less than 800 kms from where we live. The estimated time for the drive is 14.5 hours. We take the Nizamabad - Nirmal - Adilabad - Hinganghat - Khawasa - Seoni - Nainpur - Chiraidongri - Sarekha route. A few reviews on the internet say that the road around Hinganghat is filled with massive potholes and it’s unwise to take that road at night. Another review says that the road is dangerous around this part and robberies are common at night. We are worried but our main concern is the fog at night. Driving will be tough.

We start at 9:30 pm and have a relatively uneventful drive. The road is indeed bad (owing to construction in progress) around Hinganghat. However, we don’t feel in danger at any point in time. There is little or no fog to worry about. The temperature, however, dips constantly as we progress. On a smoke break, around 2:30 am, the temperature is 10 degrees outside. It’s common knowledge that Maharastra roads aren’t the best in the country and it’s vindicated on this drive too. While we flew on the Telangana roads, speed reduces drastically in Maharastra before picking up again on the smooth Madhya Pradesh roads.

The road passing through the Pench National Park is under construction. It’s a beautiful smooth road that’s dug up at a few places. To go to Seoni, you have to take this road. Around 4:30 am we come upon a diversion on this road. While we wait hesitantly, we see some local vehicles passing through the barricade. We ask the forest guards if we could also go through. They say that one could pass through only in case of emergencies but that we could go through after ‘taking care of them’. It needs Rs.100 for them to let us through. The parts under construction are really bad stretches and the loaded car groans to climb the steep gradients. In hindsight, we should probably have taken the diversion and saved ourselves Rs.100. 

The last couple of hours of the drive are on long winding roads through verdant forests. We cross numerous low lying bridges in the early winter morning and spot a jackal here, a monkey there, and many many birds throughout. These 2 hours of the drive are absolutely gorgeous. Though we are sleepless and tired, we thoroughly enjoy driving at low speed, taking in all the sights and sounds of the forest. There are a few hamlets lined with white-walled houses with low roofs. Excited children from these houses wave at us with smiles - some shyly, some vigorously. We wave back.

We arrive at the lodge at 9:30 am - 12 hours after we started and 4 hours before the stipulated check-in time. Mr. Harpreet who manages the lodge had assured us beforehand that early check-in wouldn’t be a problem.

The Arrival

The Kanha Earth Lodge is tucked away at a remote location, far away from all the other resorts that dot the region. One has to pass through small villages, bridge over streams, drive off the roads, go through forests, and be generally overwhelmed by nature to get there.

We are greeted by Mr. Harpreet and staff who take our temperatures and sanitize our luggage. The check-in is quick and hassle-free.

The lodge consists of 12 very private bungalows spread over a 16-acre property. Each bungalow has a very spacious bed room with a seating area by the large glass windows, a backyard porch, a tiny pantry, and a big washroom. The porch opens to the greenery outside and provides a great place to sit under the sun on winter mornings. The common dining area has both indoor and outdoor seating. There’s a great backyard seating in the open under mahua, palash, and sal trees with lanterns and an outdoor fireplace. We immediately fall in love with the place.

After a sumptuous lunch, we visit the kitchen garden that provides vegetables for the kitchen. It has okras, tomatoes, cauliflowers, cabbages, lettuce, spinach, red spinach, coriander, chillies, and many other vegetables. Next to the kitchen garden there’s a small butterfly park that has many different flowers. The entrance to the butterfly park is made from an old discarded doorway from one of the villages. Butterflies swarm the park before the morning sun becomes harsh. They again visit the flowers in the evening after the last rays of the sun are gone.

Beyond the butterfly park, there’s a tree trail that resembles a small forest. Amaltas, tendua, sal, mahua, palash, bamboo, and other trees make up this forest. The underfoot foliage is thick with many different wild flowering plants and shrubs. Tall grass all around provides thick cover. It feels great to take a long walk in this forest and emerge out of the thicket at the far end of the lodge.

Nightfall is early in forests. The sky fills with stars - much more than we see in the cities. We go inside to watch a documentary on forest guards and the challenges they face in protecting the wildlife and thwarting attempts at poaching. We are introduced to Mr. Ashu Khan, who’s to be the accompanying naturalist for our safaris. Starters are served and fireplaces are lit. We enquire about local mahua. We are told that it tastes best when fresh and that we could possibly get some tomorrow.

We sit outside for dinner. Our bravado doesn’t last long. Bitten by the severe cold, we retreat indoors. Dinner exceeds lunch in grandeur. It’s amazing how such good food is served at this remote location consistently. We sit around long after other guests have retired for the night. When we finally leave, we stroll around the place marvelling at the bright moon and the stars. Noisy crickets fill the air with their sound. We go to bed in anticipation of the safari the next day.

[wondersofdreaming]

🍀 🌿 🌷 💐 🐌 🌊 🍃🌲🐸🌻🐢 🦔🐝 🌙🍄 🦨🏰 🐛🐞⚘

🍀 - Since COVID, what natural place have you longed to visit again more than any other?

The forest. I miss walking outside but there are so many families that use the same trails and I’m afraid to get too close to the children.

🌿 - Do you think hiking is romantic/would you go on a hiking date?

Yes, yes and yes! I’m in horrible form, meaning I hate working out, and I used to hate hiking, but the view at the top of a mountain or hill is so satisfying.

🌷 - Do you like to garden or keep plants? What plants are you currently nurturing?

I do. I have different herbs on my balcony. I have thyme, rosemary, parsley, chives, ramson and coriander.

💐 - I’m sending you a bouquet! What flowers and plants would you like to see in it?

Definitely roses! Lilies, orchids, dahlias, tulips, sunflowers XD

🍃 - What’s your favorite season and what’s your star sign?

I love Summer! And Spring! My star sign is Aquarius

🌲 - Do you like camping? What’s your favorite place to camp, if so?

Not really, but I’ve camped in a tent during my time at the boarding school.

🐸 - What is your favorite animal that you can find in your backyard, or near where you live?

Swans. They’re so beautiful and graceful but can seriously injure you.

🌻 - Describe one of the loveliest days you’ve spent outdoors – who were you with, what did you do?

I was walking in the forest, listening to music, just enjoying the nice Spring weather (before covid-19).

🦔 - What natural place do you think is underrated?

Forests, all of them.

🍄 - Since quarantine, do you miss being outdoors? Have you found ways to spend time outdoors?

Yes! And no, I’ve been doing school work, then writing exam papers, planning a wedding and now I’m working XD

🦨 - What’s your favorite creature of the forest?

Deers, they’re so cute!

🏰 - You get a choice between three castles; one perched on a beachside cliff, one nestled in the dark greenery of a forest, and one on the steep ridge of a mountain. Which do you choose?

Oh, eeeeh, beach... no, forest... no, mountain... I can’t choose! 

🐛 🌙 🐝 🐢 🐌🌊 🐞 ⚘

Already answered these <3 

Thank you for the lovely questions, my love <3 <3

[stonerindia]

This is Goa based hemp made Gin Gin is a great path of greenery as they are using hemp in it. This Gin is going to be made by Industrial hemp that is less than 0.3 percent THC. This Gin is going to bang the market in the price of 999 for 700 ml. Gin Gin will be available in New Delhi soon.  @ginginwala is taking Gin scene to a higher level. (This Indian Gin is a single shot vapor infused spirit which consists of 9 botanicals, namely Himalayan Juniper, Coriander, Lavender, Rosemary, Caraway seeds, Cinnamon, Lemongrass, Butterfly pea flower, and Hemp.) Source: @thecocktailstory Today we have our own Indian Hemp made Gin. The owner of this cannabis infused Gin is a 24 years old man Shubham Khanna. @stonerindia for Indian cannabis industry news. #gin #cocktails #bar #cannabisgin #bhang #hindi #desi #weedvsalchol #stonerindia #highindia #weedindia #hempindia (at Goa, India) https://www.instagram.com/p/CCbYrHtJHAf/?igshid=w7siyrezpy2k

[gardeninghowto-blog]

Benefits to start an organic garden

You've been trying to eat more organic foods, both to decrease the amount of pesticides you and your family consume and to help protect the environment. But take one look at your grocery store receipt and you know that buying organic can get very expensive, very fast. Luckily, there's a way to grow your own delicious, fresh produce while having fun and learning at the same time: organic gardening! Don't know where to start? It is possible to hire someone to install and maintain a beautiful organic garden for you, but most of us can roll up our sleeves with a surprisingly low amount of effort. Remember, you can start small, even with just a single plant or two. Don't worry if things aren't perfect right away.

Organic gardening means you won't use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, but that doesn't mean your plants fend for themselves. There are an array of tools you can use to bolster plant health and ward off pests. Read on for specific tips, taken from expert garden blogger, Leslie Land, her New York Times book 1000 Gardening Questions & Answers, and other sources. How to Revive An Air Plant https://www.justhomegardening.com/how-to-revive-an-air-plant

Getting Started

Lightweight Watering Can: Union Watering Can ($10, amazon.com) Preparing the Soil

In order to get the best results with your new organic garden, you'll want to make sure the soil is properly conditioned. You have to eat, and so do plants, so make sure your veggies get lots of fresh nutrients. Healthy soil helps build up strong, productive plants. Chemical soil treatments can not only seep into your food, but they can also harm the beneficial bacteria, worms, and other microbes in the soil. The best way to gauge the quality of your soil is to get it tested. You can get a home testing kit, or better, send a sample to your local agricultural extension office. For a modest fee you'll get a complete breakdown of pH and nutrient levels, as well as treatment recommendations; be sure to tell them you're going organic. Typically, it's best to test in the fall, and apply any organic nutrients before winter.

Even if you don't have time for testing, you'll want to make sure your soil has plenty of humus — the organic matter, not the similarly named Mediterranean spread. According to 1000 Gardening Questions & Answers, you'll want to mix in compost, leaf and grass clippings, and manure. Manure should be composted, unless you aren't harvesting or planting anything for two months after application. Preferably, get your manure from local livestock that's organically and humanely raised. How To Get Rid Of Bugs In Houseplants Soil https://www.justhomegardening.com/how-to-get-rid-of-bugs-in-houseplants-soil Making Good Compost

All gardens benefit from compostetty Images and you can make your own on site. Hey, it's free! Compost feeds plants, helps conserve water, cuts down on weeds, and keeps food and yard waste out of landfills by turning garbage into "black gold." Spread compost around plants or mix with potting soil — it's hard to use too much! The best compost forms from the right ratio of nitrogen- and carbon-rich organic waste, mixed with soil, water, and air. It might sound like complicated chemistry, but don't worry too much if you don't have time to make perfect compost. Even a minimally tended pile will still yield decent results.

1. To get started, measure out a space at least three feet square. Your compost heap can be a simple pile or contained within a custom pen or bin (some can be rotated, to improve results). 2. Add alternating layers of carbon (or brown) material — leaves and garden trimmings — and nitrogen (or green) material — such as kitchen scraps and manure, with a thin layer of soil in between. 3. Top off the pile with four to six inches of soil. Turn the pile as new layers are added and water to keep (barely) moist, in order to foster microbe action. You should get good compost in as little as two months or longer if it's cold. 4. A properly maintained compost pile shouldn't smell. If it does, add more dry carbon material (leaves, straw, or sawdust) and turn it more frequently. How To Care For A Yucca Plant: A Comprehensive Guide For Beginners https://www.justhomegardening.com/how-to-care-for-a-yucca-plant-a-comprehensive-guide-for-beginners

Choosing the Right Plants

It really pays to select plants that will thrive in your specific micro-conditions. As a general guide, check the USDA's Hardiness Zones. Choose plants that will adjust well to each spot in terms of light, moisture, drainage, and soil quality. Most gardens have gradations in these variables. The happier your plants are, the more resistant they'll be to attackers.

If you're buying seedlings, look for plants raised without chemical fertilizers and pesticides. A great place to look is at your local farmers' market, which may also have native plants and varieties well-suited to your area. It's better to buy stocky seedlings with few, if any blooms yet, and root systems that don't look overcrowded.

Many things are best grown from seed, including sunflowers, annual poppies, coriander, dill, annual phlox, larkspur, annual lupine, morning glories, sweet peas, squash, and cucumbers.

Planting Crops

Plants that you will be harvesting, such as vegetables or cutting flowers, should be grouped tightly in beds that you don't walk on. Raised beds work great. Grouping reduces weeding and water waste, and helps you target compost and nutrients. Ample space between rows helps promote air circulation, which repels fungal attacks. Remember that seedlings won't always stay diminutive, and you do want to limit overshadowing. It's a good idea to thin crops based on nursery suggestions.

According to Leslie Land, if you want the highest returns of organic produce with limited space and time, these plants are typically winners:

1. Indeterminate tomatoes: so named because the vines keep getting bigger and producing new fruit until frost.

2. Non-hybrid (old-fashioned) pole beans: They keep growing and producing 'til frost — assuming you keep them picked. 3. Zucchini: Everything they say about avalanches of zucchini is true, especially of hybrid varieties. 4. Swiss chard: You can keep breaking off outer leaves for months, and every picking will be tender as long as plants get enough water. 5. Tall snow peas and sugar snaps: They grow readily and produce delicious rewards.

Watering

The best time to water plants is usually in the morning. Why? Mornings tend to be cool with less winds, so the amount of water lost to evaporation is reduced. If you water in the evening, plants stay damp overnight, making them more likely to be damaged by fungal and bacterial diseases.

Ideally, you want to water the roots, not the greenery, which is easily damaged. A drip or soak system can work great, or just carefully water the bases of plants by hand.

Most experts recommend substantial, infrequent watering for established plants, typically a total of about one inch of water per week (including rain). One or two applications a week encourages deeper rooting, which promotes stronger plants. To avoid shocking tender greenery, try to use water at or near air temperature; collected rainwater is best.

Weeding

No matter where you live, you'll still get weeds. Pulling them by hand may sound like hard work — and it can be — but it also can be good exercise, and gets you outside in the fresh air.

Reduce the number of weeds you have to contend with by applying mulch, which also helps protect the soil. Organic mulch and burlap can work in a pinch. Straw is cheap but doesn't last long. Wood chips are nice, but can get pricey. Many people opt to use lawn clippings, although it should be noted that because they are high in nitrogen, clippings should only be used on plants that need a lot of the nutrient, such as squash and lettuce.

Protecting Plants Without Pesticides

If your garden is being assaulted by pests, it may be a sign of other problems, so the first thing you should do is make sure plants are getting enough light, nutrients, and moisture. Also remember that a diverse garden helps prevent pests by limiting the amount of one type of plant offered up to enemies.

It's a good thing to foster natural predators in your garden, such as frogs, toads, lizards, birds, and even bats. Beneficial insects can be your best friends, especially ladybugs. Many nurseries even sell cans of them, though it's true there's a high probability they won't stick around. Leave a small source of water out to attract friendly predators. It's also a good idea to grow plants with small blossoms, such as sweet alyssum and dill, which attract predatory insects. Nets and row covers can also work.

Organic weapons include Bacillus thuringiensis, a naturally occurring bacteria that disrupts the digestion of caterpillars and other leaf-eaters. You can also use horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps, garlic, or hot pepper sprays. Best Gardening Tool Set for Mom : Delightful Gift For Mom Gardener https://www.justhomegardening.com/best-gardening-tool-set-for-mom-delightful-gift-for-mom-gardener

Harvesting

Don't forget to harvest the fruits of your labor! Generally, the more you harvest, the more your plants will produce for you. During peak harvest season, you'll likely find that it's best to check your garden every day. Got herbs? If you use them fresh, pick them right before you need them. But if you'll be drying and storing them, it's best to wait until just before they flower, since they'll have the most flavor. Gather all herbs except basil in mid-morning, shortly after dew has dried. Harvest basil in the late afternoon, since it will last longer after some time in the sun.

When harvesting leafy greens, pick sporadically from the entire crop, a little from each plant. For broccoli, wait until the central head is as large as it will get, before sending off buds for flowering. Cut it off right above the leaf node, and you'll likely get better production from the rest of the plant. In general, it's best to cut produce off with a sharp knife or scissors versus ripping with your fingers, which can cause more damage to plant tissue.

If you get too much bounty, remember you can also freeze, store some types of produce in a root cellar, or take up canning. Enjoy!

Cleaning Up

If you notice sick plants either during the season or at the end of the year, make sure you pull up the entire organism. Don't forget to rake up underneath, since diseased leaves can harbor problems for a long time. Put all infected material deep in the woods, in the ground at least a foot deep, or on the bonfire.

Most healthy or expired plants can actually be left in place over winter. You'll provide some food and habitat for birds and other wildlife, and plant cover can help protect your soil from eroding. It's better to chop off annuals instead of yanking them out. That way you'll leave soil intact, and help prevent weeds from gaining a foothold.

[samyalter354]

Organic garden making ideas

You've been trying to eat more organic foods, both to decrease the amount of pesticides you and your family consume and to help protect the environment. But take one look at your grocery store receipt and you know that buying organic can get very expensive, very fast.

Luckily, there's a way to grow your own delicious, fresh produce while having fun and learning at the same time: organic gardening! Don't know where to start? It is possible to hire someone to install and maintain a beautiful organic garden for you, but most of us can roll up our sleeves with a surprisingly low amount of effort. Remember, you can start small, even with just a single plant or two. Don't worry if things aren't perfect right away.

Organic gardening means you won't use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, but that doesn't mean your plants fend for themselves. There are an array of tools you can use to bolster plant health and ward off pests. Read on for specific tips, taken from expert garden blogger, Leslie Land, her New York Times book 1000 Gardening Questions & Answers, and other sources. Related Articles : https://www.justhomegardening.com

Preparing the Soil

In order to get the best results with your new organic garden, you'll want to make sure the soil is properly conditioned. You have to eat, and so do plants, so make sure your veggies get lots of fresh nutrients. Healthy soil helps build up strong, productive plants. Chemical soil treatments can not only seep into your food, but they can also harm the beneficial bacteria, worms, and other microbes in the soil. The best way to gauge the quality of your soil is to get it tested. You can get a home testing kit, or better, send a sample to your local agricultural extension office. For a modest fee you'll get a complete breakdown of pH and nutrient levels, as well as treatment recommendations; be sure to tell them you're going organic. Typically, it's best to test in the fall, and apply any organic nutrients before winter.

Even if you don't have time for testing, you'll want to make sure your soil has plenty of humus — the organic matter, not the similarly named Mediterranean spread. According to 1000 Gardening Questions & Answers, you'll want to mix in compost, leaf and grass clippings, and manure. Manure should be composted, unless you aren't harvesting or planting anything for two months after application. Preferably, get your manure from local livestock that's organically and humanely raised.

Making Good Compost

All gardens benefit from compost and you can make your own on site. Hey, it's free! Compost feeds plants, helps conserve water, cuts down on weeds, and keeps food and yard waste out of landfills by turning garbage into "black gold." Spread compost around plants or mix with potting soil — it's hard to use too much! best mushroom growing kit for beginners https://www.justhomegardening.com/8-best-edible-mushroom-growing-kit-plus-growth-tips-for-beginners

The best compost forms from the right ratio of nitrogen- and carbon-rich organic waste, mixed with soil, water, and air. It might sound like complicated chemistry, but don't worry too much if you don't have time to make perfect compost. Even a minimally tended pile will still yield decent results.

1. To get started, measure out a space at least three feet square. Your compost heap can be a simple pile or contained within a custom pen or bin (some can be rotated, to improve results).

2. Add alternating layers of carbon (or brown) material — leaves and garden trimmings — and nitrogen (or green) material — such as kitchen scraps and manure, with a thin layer of soil in between.

3. Top off the pile with four to six inches of soil. Turn the pile as new layers are added and water to keep (barely) moist, in order to foster microbe action. You should get good compost in as little as two months or longer if it's cold.

4. A properly maintained compost pile shouldn't smell. If it does, add more dry carbon material (leaves, straw, or sawdust) and turn it more frequently.

Choosing the Right Plants

It really pays to select plants that will thrive in your specific micro-conditions. As a general guide, check the USDA's Hardiness Zones. Choose plants that will adjust well to each spot in terms of light, moisture, drainage, and soil quality. Most gardens have gradations in these variables. The happier your plants are, the more resistant they'll be to attackers. crimini mushroom growing kit https://www.justhomegardening.com/8-best-edible-mushroom-growing-kit-plus-growth-tips-for-beginners

If you're buying seedlings, look for plants raised without chemical fertilizers and pesticides. A great place to look is at your local farmers' market, which may also have native plants and varieties well-suited to your area. It's better to buy stocky seedlings with few, if any blooms yet, and root systems that don't look overcrowded.

Many things are best grown from seed, including sunflowers, annual poppies, coriander, dill, annual phlox, larkspur, annual lupine, morning glories, sweet peas, squash, and cucumbers.

Planting Crops

Plants that you will be harvesting, such as vegetables or cutting flowers, should be grouped tightly in beds that you don't walk on. Raised beds work great. Grouping reduces weeding and water waste, and helps you target compost and nutrients. Ample space between rows helps promote air circulation, which repels fungal attacks. Remember that seedlings won't always stay diminutive, and you do want to limit overshadowing. It's a good idea to thin crops based on nursery suggestions.

According to Leslie Land, if you want the highest returns of organic produce with limited space and time, these plants are typically winners: 1. Indeterminate tomatoes: so named because the vines keep getting bigger and producing new fruit until frost.

2. Non-hybrid (old-fashioned) pole beans: They keep growing and producing 'til frost — assuming you keep them picked. 3. Zucchini: Everything they say about avalanches of zucchini is true, especially of hybrid varieties. 4. Swiss chard: You can keep breaking off outer leaves for months, and every picking will be tender as long as plants get enough water. 5. Tall snow peas and sugar snaps: They grow readily and produce delicious rewards.

Watering

The best time to water plants is usually in the morning. Why? Mornings tend to be cool with less winds, so the amount of water lost to evaporation is reduced. If you water in the evening, plants stay damp overnight, making them more likely to be damaged by fungal and bacterial diseases.

Ideally, you want to water the roots, not the greenery, which is easily damaged. A drip or soak system can work great, or just carefully water the bases of plants by hand.

Most experts recommend substantial, infrequent watering for established plants, typically a total of about one inch of water per week (including rain). One or two applications a week encourages deeper rooting, which promotes stronger plants. To avoid shocking tender greenery, try to use water at or near air temperature; collected rainwater is best.

Weeding

No matter where you live, you'll still get weeds. Pulling them by hand may sound like hard work — and it can be — but it also can be good exercise, and gets you outside in the fresh air.

Reduce the number of weeds you have to contend with by applying mulch, which also helps protect the soil. Organic mulch and burlap can work in a pinch. Straw is cheap but doesn't last long. Wood chips are nice, but can get pricey. Many people opt to use lawn clippings, although it should be noted that because they are high in nitrogen, clippings should only be used on plants that need a lot of the nutrient, such as squash and lettuce.

Protecting Plants Without Pesticides

If your garden is being assaulted by pests, it may be a sign of other problems, so the first thing you should do is make sure plants are getting enough light, nutrients, and moisture. Also remember that a diverse garden helps prevent pests by limiting the amount of one type of plant offered up to enemies.

It's a good thing to foster natural predators in your garden, such as frogs, toads, lizards, birds, and even bats. Beneficial insects can be your best friends, especially ladybugs. Many nurseries even sell cans of them, though it's true there's a high probability they won't stick around. Leave a small source of water out to attract friendly predators. It's also a good idea to grow plants with small blossoms, such as sweet alyssum and dill, which attract predatory insects. Nets and row covers can also work.

Organic weapons include Bacillus thuringiensis, a naturally occurring bacteria that disrupts the digestion of caterpillars and other leaf-eaters. You can also use horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps, garlic, or hot pepper sprays.

Harvesting

Don't forget to harvest the fruits of your labor! Generally, the more you harvest, the more your plants will produce for you.

During peak harvest season, you'll likely find that it's best to check your garden every day. Got herbs? If you use them fresh, pick them right before you need them. But if you'll be drying and storing them, it's best to wait until just before they flower, since they'll have the most flavor. Gather all herbs except basil in mid-morning, shortly after dew has dried. Harvest basil in the late afternoon, since it will last longer after some time in the sun.

When harvesting leafy greens, pick sporadically from the entire crop, a little from each plant. For broccoli, wait until the central head is as large as it will get, before sending off buds for flowering. Cut it off right above the leaf node, and you'll likely get better production from the rest of the plant. In general, it's best to cut produce off with a sharp knife or scissors versus ripping with your fingers, which can cause more damage to plant tissue.

If you get too much bounty, remember you can also freeze, store some types of produce in a root cellar, or take up canning. Enjoy! flower bed ideas front of house https://www.justhomegardening.com/flower-bed-ideas-for-front-of-house

Cleaning Up

If you notice sick plants either during the season or at the end of the year, make sure you pull up the entire organism. Don't forget to rake up underneath, since diseased leaves can harbor problems for a long time. Put all infected material deep in the woods, in the ground at least a foot deep, or on the bonfire.

Most healthy or expired plants can actually be left in place over winter. You'll provide some food and habitat for birds and other wildlife, and plant cover can help protect your soil from eroding. It's better to chop off annuals instead of yanking them out. That way you'll leave soil intact, and help prevent weeds from gaining a foothold.

[onlineshoppergardening]

Outdoor Fence Décor Ideas

Are you looking for something special to add to your garden? Your outdoor fence shouldn’t look boring and ordinary. As a matter of fact, there are a lot of incredible ideas that can help you make a statement by decorating your outdoor fence.

If you are not satisfied with the good old wood or the greenery growing on your outdoor fence, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will highlight some of the most innovative ideas that can help you make your fence look special and unique.

Recycled Dragonflies:

You can hang your very own DIY dragonfly to your wooden fence. All you need is to recycle some of the old furniture you have. The body of the dragonfly can be made of a leg of an old table or wooden chair. The wings could be parts of old ceiling fans. Just add two to each side of the body to create the design.

You can keep the original color of the wood or plan this ahead as a family summer project. Your children will have so much fun creating and customizing their dragonflies. After the wood is cleaned, painted and left to dry, you can secure your bugs to the wooden fence. These will look great and will last for a long time. Don’t forget to add some antennas using your favorite paint.

Hanging Baskets:

Add some life to your old wooden fence. Hanging baskets and filling them with flowers will make your old wooden fence look new and full of life. You can get your own wooden baskets, fill them with soil and make sure that there are holes in the bottom to let the excess water out. Add your favorite flowers to make your fence look beautiful.

You can also keep some baskets for your culinary herbs. Basil, coriander, and parsley will look great and you can always have them fresh whenever you need to add them to your meals.

Create your Graffiti Art Exhibition:

This is not just a chance to renew your outdoor fence but an opportunity to encourage your kids to get creative. Your wooden fence can be a graffiti ar display for all the family members. Summertime can be boring if kids have nothing interesting to do. You can ask your kids to transform the old wooden fence or even other outdoor benches nearby to a work of art.

All you have to do is to make sure that the wood is clean and ready to be painted. You can help by creating the outline of the design and let your kids color it the way they want to. You can divide it into different sections for a summer contest as kids compete to express themselves. Keep this forever or till next summer when kids are ready to commit to a new project.

The list of creative ideas goes on and on. If you have the right materials and the time, there is nothing that could stop you from transforming your old outdoor fence into something special and unique.

The post Outdoor Fence Décor Ideas appeared first on Online Shopper.

[eli-logan-tx]

Wedding Florals: Inspiration from Toronto’s Top Florists

It’s no secret that the art of floral design has certainly blossomed (pun intended) from the old days of simple floral arrangements and perfectly round, symmetrical bouquets. From show-stopping ceremony backdrops to breathtaking accent pieces, the possibilities are endless! With so many talented professional wedding florists in the GTA, any bride’s floral dreams can come true! To help kick start your wedding inspiration, we reached out to some of Toronto’s top florists and asked them to share some of their favourite designs with us! If you’re looking for some jaw-dropping floral inspiration, you’ve definitely come to the right place!

Hunt & Gather Photo Courtesy of Danijela Weddings “The idea behind this installation was Eternal Spring where spring floral prints come back in a fall with a moodier feel. I love how this installation made the space feel as though it was being taken over by nature. These custom flower walls can also be used as a ceremony backdrop, behind the head table or for a photo booth. ” – Tellie, Hunt and Gather

Secrets Floral Photo Courtesy of Rhythm Photography “We absolutely love this circular arch (we have named it as The Circle of Love) that we designed for Maryann and Victor’s wedding. The couple wanted a focal point that is unique, but also romantic. To coordinate with their garden wedding theme, we draped the entire arch with greenery, and added flowers to one side of the arch. The asymmetric design has proven to be real eye-candy, and has acted as the magnificent backdrop for many guests when taking their own photosw.” – Zoe Chow, Secrets Floral Collection

Cool, Green and Shady

“My favorite floral arrangement is a simple vine wall focal, which makes a small private ceremony extra special. Sometimes deliberate simplicity is the best design!” – Amber, Cool, Green & Shady

Cedar and Stone Photo Courtesy of Jessica Lee Photography “Danielle’s gorgeous textural bouquet featured a romantic palette of blush pink and taupe blooms with accents of deep burgundy dahlias and astilbe. A variety of foliage was included to give the bouquet further interest and movement. Definitely a favourite from last season!” – Karen, Cedar & Stone Floral Studio

Weddings by Ardenian Photo Courtesy of AGI Studio, Planned by Fleur Weddings “This mint green and cream white wedding was a huge success for us! With mother nature on our side, we were lucky to have been able to find breathtakingly beautiful and fragile Lilies of the Valley, which made the lovely bride’s wish come true. The ceremony and reception was framed by a custom floral arch loaded with fresh mint green foliage, vanilla white David Austin roses, peonies, hydrangeas and Romeo and Juliet champagne garden roses. We had so much fun with the floral design for this wedding!” – Naira Ardenian, Weddings by Ardenian

Coriander Girl Photo Courtesy of Jennifer Rowsom “When Maya and Craig came to us and said their friend was making them a circular arch for their ceremony, we were jumping up and down inside with excitement. We never had the opportunity to design a circular arch and we didn’t want to disappoint. All of the Coriander Crew went out and foraged branches that had turned the most glorious shades of copper, rust and burgundy which when combined with the locally grown dahlias, amaranths and limelight hydrangea as well as garden roses, mums, and snow-berry, created the most magical October ceremony florals for the beautiful couple. We loved the uniqueness of the

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The post Wedding Florals: Inspiration from Toronto’s Top Florists appeared first on EliLogan.com.

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[decaffeinatedlightluminary-blog]

Cartier Perfume: Distinction and Quality like No Other

New Post has been published on http://rolexsubmariner.shop/cartier-perfume-distinction-and-quality-like-no-other/

Cartier Perfume: Distinction and Quality like No Other

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The name Cartier rolls fluidly off the tongue. It evokes images of elegance, refinement and the sumptuous privileges that accompany wealth and exquisite taste. Since 1981, Cartier has been producing some of world’s finest fragrances for women and men, and in every way Cartier perfume is every bit as elegant, unique and refined as the watches and jewelry that made the name a household word.

Cartier Panthere perfume is but one of their fragrances for women. This is no mere girls’ perfume. It is a fragrance that bespeaks experience, sophistication, worldly appreciation and understated passions. Panthere’s spicy, fruity aroma hints of wood and flowers, with a light, feminine air ideal for casual occasions or a mysterious rendezvous. Just like a cat, Panthere will brush against your senses with a sleek, luxuriant splendor that will make you want to purr with feline abandon. Like others in the Cartier line of fragrances for women, Panthere is available as Eau Legere, Parfum de Toilet and Eau de Parfum spray.

Must de Cartier is one of the more long lived of Cartier’s designer lines, and the inspiration behind Must, a classic feminine fragrance whose sensuality is enhanced with the oriental tones of neroli and green mandarin dancing with musk, vetiver and jasmine. Floral hints of daffodil and rose add a spring-like quality to this modern, complex scent. Le Baiser du Dragon celebrates the dragon’s kiss with an exotic and woodsy aroma, with citrus and floral accents. The musk and cedar blend with orange, gardenia and bitter almond, and a heady base of patchouli and vetiver to bring the fire of the dragon down to a gentle, warm breath. Delices de Cartier blends the spicy touch of pink pepper to cherry and bergamot for this distinctively delicious fragrance with violet, jasmine and freesia floral notes dusted with sandalwood, amber and musk. So Pretty is pretty personified, combining the gentle aromatic qualities of irises with the ladylike scents of exotic roses and mysterious orchids.

Women are not the only ones to appreciate the fine, sensual luxuries of Cartier perfume. They offer an extensive line of fragrances for men as well. Declaration makes a bold and romantic statement that women find difficult to resist. This blend of bitter orange and bergamot evokes a passionate response that makes men glad they were so outspoken. Nature lovers will drink in the light aroma of Eau de Cartier, which offers a refreshing mixture of cedar forests, lush greenery, cool, clear rivers and ripened fruit. Roadster brings out the adventurous spirit of masculine independence, while Pasha celebrates the man who appreciates the passion and beauty of life with a dash of virile sandalwood, oak moss, patchouli and coriander dancing with mint, mandarin and rosewood overtones.

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[gardeninghowto-blog]

How to maintain a beautiful organic garden?

You've been trying to eat more organic foods, both to decrease the amount of pesticides you and your family consume and to help protect the environment. But take one look at your grocery store receipt and you know that buying organic can get very expensive, very fast. Luckily, there's a way to grow your own delicious, fresh produce while having fun and learning at the same time: organic gardening!

Don't know where to start? It is possible to hire someone to install and maintain a beautiful organic garden for you, but most of us can roll up our sleeves with a surprisingly low amount of effort. Remember, you can start small, even with just a single plant or two. Don't worry if things aren't perfect right away.

Organic gardening means you won't use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, but that doesn't mean your plants fend for themselves. There are an array of tools you can use to bolster plant health and ward off pests. Read on for specific tips, taken from expert garden blogger, Leslie Land, her New York Times book 1000 Gardening Questions & Answers, and other sources.

Start off on the right foot with all of the tools you'll need for the job.

Top-Tested Clippers: Fiskars PowerGear Bypass Pruner ($25, amazon.com)

Ergonomic Trowel Set: Fiskars 3 Piece Softouch Garden Tool Set ($16, amazon.com)

Best-Selling Soil Test Kit: Luster Leaf Rapitest Soil Test Kit ($14, amazon.com)

Favorite Compost Bin: Yimby Tumbler Composter ($89, amazon.com)

Breathable Garden Gloves: Pine Tree Tools Bamboo Working Gloves ($8, amazon.com)

Lightweight Watering Can: Union Watering Can ($10, amazon.com)

In order to get the best results with your new organic garden, you'll want to make sure the soil is properly conditioned. You have to eat, and so do plants, so make sure your veggies get lots of fresh nutrients. Healthy soil helps build up strong, productive plants. Chemical soil treatments can not only seep into your food, but they can also harm the beneficial bacteria, worms, and other microbes in the soil.

The best way to gauge the quality of your soil is to get it tested. You can get a home testing kit, or better, send a sample to your local agricultural extension office. For a modest fee you'll get a complete breakdown of pH and nutrient levels, as well as treatment recommendations; be sure to tell them you're going organic. Typically, it's best to test in the fall, and apply any organic nutrients before winter. More gardening tips : https://www.justhomegardening.com/

Even if you don't have time for testing, you'll want to make sure your soil has plenty of humus — the organic matter, not the similarly named Mediterranean spread. According to 1000 Gardening Questions & Answers, you'll want to mix in compost, leaf and grass clippings, and manure. Manure should be composted, unless you aren't harvesting or planting anything for two months after application. Preferably, get your manure from local livestock that's organically and humanely raised.

Making Good Compost

All gardens benefit from compost and you can make your own on site. Hey, it's free! Compost feeds plants, helps conserve water, cuts down on weeds, and keeps food and yard waste out of landfills by turning garbage into "black gold." Spread compost around plants or mix with potting soil — it's hard to use too much!

The best compost forms from the right ratio of nitrogen- and carbon-rich organic waste, mixed with soil, water, and air. It might sound like complicated chemistry, but don't worry too much if you don't have time to make perfect compost. Even a minimally tended pile will still yield decent results.

1. To get started, measure out a space at least three feet square. Your compost heap can be a simple pile or contained within a custom pen or bin (some can be rotated, to improve results).

2. Add alternating layers of carbon (or brown) material — leaves and garden trimmings — and nitrogen (or green) material — such as kitchen scraps and manure, with a thin layer of soil in between.

3. Top off the pile with four to six inches of soil. Turn the pile as new layers are added and water to keep (barely) moist, in order to foster microbe action. You should get good compost in as little as two months or longer if it's cold.

4. A properly maintained compost pile shouldn't smell. If it does, add more dry carbon material (leaves, straw, or sawdust) and turn it more frequently.

Choosing the Right Plants

It really pays to select plants that will thrive in your specific micro-conditions. As a general guide, check the USDA's Hardiness Zones. Choose plants that will adjust well to each spot in terms of light, moisture, drainage, and soil quality. Most gardens have gradations in these variables. The happier your plants are, the more resistant they'll be to attackers.

If you're buying seedlings, look for plants raised without chemical fertilizers and pesticides. A great place to look is at your local farmers' market, which may also have native plants and varieties well-suited to your area. It's better to buy stocky seedlings with few, if any blooms yet, and root systems that don't look overcrowded.

Many things are best grown from seed, including sunflowers, annual poppies, coriander, dill, annual phlox, larkspur, annual lupine, morning glories, sweet peas, squash, and cucumbers.

Planting Crops

Plants that you will be harvesting, such as vegetables or cutting flowers, should be grouped tightly in beds that you don't walk on. Raised beds work great. Grouping reduces weeding and water waste, and helps you target compost and nutrients. Ample space between rows helps promote air circulation, which repels fungal attacks.

Remember that seedlings won't always stay diminutive, and you do want to limit overshadowing. It's a good idea to thin crops based on nursery suggestions.

According to Leslie Land, if you want the highest returns of organic produce with limited space and time, these plants are typically winners:

1. Indeterminate tomatoes: so named because the vines keep getting bigger and producing new fruit until frost.

2. Non-hybrid (old-fashioned) pole beans: They keep growing and producing 'til frost — assuming you keep them picked.

3. Zucchini: Everything they say about avalanches of zucchini is true, especially of hybrid varieties.

4. Swiss chard: You can keep breaking off outer leaves for months, and every picking will be tender as long as plants get enough water.

5. Tall snow peas and sugar snaps: They grow readily and produce delicious rewards.

Watering

The best time to water plants is usually in the morning. Why? Mornings tend to be cool with less winds, so the amount of water lost to evaporation is reduced. If you water in the evening, plants stay damp overnight, making them more likely to be damaged by fungal and bacterial diseases.

Ideally, you want to water the roots, not the greenery, which is easily damaged. A drip or soak system can work great, or just carefully water the bases of plants by hand.

Most experts recommend substantial, infrequent watering for established plants, typically a total of about one inch of water per week (including rain). One or two applications a week encourages deeper rooting, which promotes stronger plants. To avoid shocking tender greenery, try to use water at or near air temperature; collected rainwater is best.

Weeding

No matter where you live, you'll still get weeds. Pulling them by hand may sound like hard work — and it can be — but it also can be good exercise, and gets you outside in the fresh air.

Reduce the number of weeds you have to contend with by applying mulch, which also helps protect the soil. Organic mulch and burlap can work in a pinch. Straw is cheap but doesn't last long. Wood chips are nice, but can get pricey. Many people opt to use lawn clippings, although it should be noted that because they are high in nitrogen, clippings should only be used on plants that need a lot of the nutrient, such as squash and lettuce.

Protecting Plants Without Pesticides

If your garden is being assaulted by pests, it may be a sign of other problems, so the first thing you should do is make sure plants are getting enough light, nutrients, and moisture. Also remember that a diverse garden helps prevent pests by limiting the amount of one type of plant offered up to enemies.

It's a good thing to foster natural predators in your garden, such as frogs, toads, lizards, birds, and even bats. Beneficial insects can be your best friends, especially ladybugs. Many nurseries even sell cans of them, though it's true there's a high probability they won't stick around. Leave a small source of water out to attract friendly predators. It's also a good idea to grow plants with small blossoms, such as sweet alyssum and dill, which attract predatory insects. Nets and row covers can also work.

Organic weapons include Bacillus thuringiensis, a naturally occurring bacteria that disrupts the digestion of caterpillars and other leaf-eaters. You can also use horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps, garlic, or hot pepper sprays.

Harvesting

Don't forget to harvest the fruits of your labor! Generally, the more you harvest, the more your plants will produce for you.

During peak harvest season, you'll likely find that it's best to check your garden every day. Got herbs? If you use them fresh, pick them right before you need them. But if you'll be drying and storing them, it's best to wait until just before they flower, since they'll have the most flavor. Gather all herbs except basil in mid-morning, shortly after dew has dried. Harvest basil in the late afternoon, since it will last longer after some time in the sun.

When harvesting leafy greens, pick sporadically from the entire crop, a little from each plant. For broccoli, wait until the central head is as large as it will get, before sending off buds for flowering. Cut it off right above the leaf node, and you'll likely get better production from the rest of the plant. In general, it's best to cut produce off with a sharp knife or scissors versus ripping with your fingers, which can cause more damage to plant tissue.

If you get too much bounty, remember you can also freeze, store some types of produce in a root cellar, or take up canning. Enjoy!

Cleaning Up

If you notice sick plants either during the season or at the end of the year, make sure you pull up the entire organism. Don't forget to rake up underneath, since diseased leaves can harbor problems for a long time. Put all infected material deep in the woods, in the ground at least a foot deep, or on the bonfire.

Most healthy or expired plants can actually be left in place over winter. You'll provide some food and habitat for birds and other wildlife, and plant cover can help protect your soil from eroding. It's better to chop off annuals instead of yanking them out. That way you'll leave soil intact, and help prevent weeds from gaining a foothold.