Topicr

Archive for August, 2009

Often considered an art form, bonsai care can be a meditative and enjoyable activity for anyone. The trees used can be one of many popular bonsai species such as juniper and black or white pine as well as some tropical tree varieties. How you care for your bonsai is the most important aspect of this activity.What is Bonsai?Originally practiced in China over a thousand years ago, bonsai constituted the growing of a single tree in pots. Early specimens often resembled animals, dragons and birds. The Japanese adopted the art for in the 12th century by means of Zen Buddhism. First practiced only by monks the art form soon spread to include the aristocracy.The term, bonsai, literally means tray planting or tree pot. The term specifically refers to the training and artistic vision applied to the trees. For the Japanese, bonsai care represented a fusion of ancient beliefs with the eastern philosophies of harmony between man and nature.Caring for Your BonsaiA fun and rewarding activity, bonsai care requires diligence and practice. As noted above, the species of tree may vary depending on personal taste. The type of care your bonsai will require depends on the tree species you choose to grow. .. more »

OKRAOkra is primarily a hot-weather tropical vegetable that can be grown in both northern and southern gardens. A tall-growing annual often called gumbo, it grows best in the southern states, where two crops of it can be grown in a single year.CultureThe spring okra crop can be planted as soon as all danger of frost has passed. In most mild regions, plant the fall crop from June 1 to July 1. The fruits can be harvested from 55 to 65 days after seeding, depending on the variety. Always plant seed when the earth has warmed, since okra is a warm-weather plant and will not stand cool weather and soilMoon Phase Planting of OkraOkra should be planted when the moon is in the 2nd or 3rd Quarter (i.e. waxing/waning) and in one of the following Zodiac Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces, LibraPlantingOkra thrives in any well-drained, good garden soil in full sunlight. If the soil is wet, the seed tend to rot, so good drainage is necessary. Okra is hard to transplant, but in very northern places the seed can be started in cold frames or hotbeds and transplanted into the garden with caution.Although okra will do well in any kind of .. more »