Respiration
Respiration usually occurs during the night when light is not present, though respiration can occur during the day in some plants, particularly some grasses. Respiration increases as temperatures increase. ... [... more]
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Composting -- Fertilizing
A couple cups or handfuls of a complete garden fertilizer such as a 10-10- 10, 12-12-12 or 15-15-15 should be added to the compost pile regularly. ... [... more]
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Bananas
Bananas, as the old Chiquita song goes, will darken if placed in the refrigerator. But that's just the peel that darkens. The banana itself will not darken and may stay at the "ripe" stage for a little longer. ... [... more]
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Grass Clippings -- Using Clippings Exposed To Weedkillers
If fresh grass clippings are used as a mulch, avoid using clippings from the first three (3) cuttings following the application of a pre-emergent or broadleaf weed killer. Otherwise, damage to desirable vegetable, ... [... more]
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Anti-Desiccants
Most anti-desiccants contain a waxy formulation which prevents water loss from leaves. Winter thaws may breakdown the compounds, necessitating re-application. ... [... more]
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Shade Plants -- Vegetables
The following is a list of vegetables of partial shade-tolerant vegetables. While productions may be greater in the sun, these plants will produce an edible crop when grown in a shady location. However, remember that ... [... more]
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Kalanchoe
Kalanchoes are succulent, and as such, can tolerate warm, dry conditions commonly found indoors during the winter. Flower colors range from red to orange to yellow. Plants prefer a bright, sunny location. Cool ... [... more]
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Phloem
Phloem vessels transport food (carbohydrates) and waste products throughout the plant. Phloem cells, like xylem cells, harden off and die after several months, forming bark tissue on woody plants. ... [... more]
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Pocket Book Plants
Calceolaria, sometimes called the "Pocket Book Plant", produces balloon like flowers. Most plants are grown from seed. Plants should be kept in bright light, but out of direct sun. Temperatures should be no warmer ... [... more]
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Hydrangea -- Changing The Color
Hortensia hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) will turn blue if the soil is on the acid side. Fertilize yearly with an acid fertilizer according to direction; modify the soil when planting with two (2) pounds of sulfur ... [... more]
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Orris Root
Orris root is a classified as a fixative (to keep color and fragrance longer) for making potpourri and can be purchased in small quantities at most pharmacies and drug stores. It can be poisonous and should be ... [... more]
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Fireplace -- Affecting Flame Colors
Keep chemicals away from pets and children. One pound of chemical is mixed with one gallon of water. Wear rubber gloves when mixing chemicals. Mix chemicals outdoors. Use a five gallon plastic bucket or crock. Mix ... [... more]
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