Category: Gardening & plants

Rainy Climates: Plants, like other living organisms, need water for their life. However, what amount of water is sufficient, differs with each type of plant; some may require plenty of water while some others may survive with a minimum of water. Too much water may spoil some types of plants, whereas there are some plants which require a huge supply of water.

When it comes to the quality of water, rain is considered the best of all. It is one of the purest forms of water available with us. For plants, rainwater is the best, as it does not have chlorine in it. Rainwater is also beneficial for the plants as it cleans the dust and dirt from the leaves and gives them a healthier and fresh look.

But depending on the nature of different plants, it is not necessary that every plant flourishes well in rains; some may not like to have abundant rain. That makes it a tricky affair; how to know which plant should we grow in rainy climatic conditions.

In this article, we will give you some useful tips on Plants Perfect for Rainy Climates

Rainwater

Rainwater is considered the purest water on earth. It is a natural source of water supply that is widely utilized in irrigating crops and plants. Some parts of the world receive more rains annually as compared to others while there are some areas which receive little or even no rain and are classified as arid regions. Similarly, some regions receive more rains during summer while some receive the maximum of rains during the winter season.

Apart from its role in agriculture, by way of irrigating the crops and plants, rains are also the major source of maintaining natural water reservoirs on the earth. Scientists have estimated that on average, 121000 cu ml of rains fall on earth each year, out of which 95000 cu ml falls directly on oceans. On the basis of averaged annual rainfall in a particular area, scientists have divided the earth into different climatic regions.

Deserts – the area that receives less than 10 inches of rain on average, is rated as “desert”

Polar Deserts – in very cold climates, rain cannot fall; hence the coldest areas on earth such as Antarctica is rated as Polar Desert

Rainforests – these are the areas on earth where rainfall is abundant. It includes both, temperate and tropical regions. Majority of tropical rainforests on earth are situated along the equator whereas the maximum of temperate rainforests is on the west coast (45-55 degrees latitude) in mountainous regions. Scientists have estimated that rainforests have around 40-75% of the biotic life of the earth.

Monsoons – the area around the equatorial region, also known as the monsoon trough receives the maximum of rainfall and is considered the wettest part of the earth. Cherrapunji is an area in the eastern Himalaya in India is known as the wettest part of the earth, as it receives an average annual rainfall of 450 inches.

So, with that classification in mind, you have to select the best available plants that can be grown in your region. However, we restrict the plants that can be grown perfectly in rainy climates.

There are a lot of varieties of plants that can be grown successfully under rainy conditions, following are a few that are most suited for rainy climatic conditions.

Cucumber – Cucumber is a climbing plant that needs too much moisture in the soil; hence best option to grow in rainy climates. Simultaneously, care is required to protect it from over flooding or waterlogged conditions, as its roots may be damaged. Moreover, it has to be in an area which receives plenty of sunshine during the most part of the day.

Mallow – mallow or most commonly called the hibiscus mallow rose is another plant that thrives well in the rainy season. You can find this type of roses near the swampy places. It is a perennial plant that gives white flowers in the initial stages, whereas the color tends to change to pinkish with the passage of time. Should ideally be planted during the spring season.

Elephant Ear – Elephant ear is a tropical plant that needs very moist soil to flourish. It needs soil that can hold moisture in it for an extended period. At the same time, direct sunshine is not suitable for this plant. So, plant them where the soil retains water and sunshine is minimum. However, waterlogged conditions are hazardous for this plant. It also needs protection against very high temperature. It can grow tall up to 3.5 meters, whereas its leaves are wide up to 2.5 meters.

Autumn Fern – autumn fern or most commonly known as Japanese shield fern needs moist soil and a good amount of shade to grow well. Too much water is not good for it; it just needs moist soil. It is an evergreen plant. Its leaves are initially brown which tend to turn greenish hue during the autumn season. It cannot grow tall, normally remain less than one meter in height.

Food Or Vegetables Suitable For Rainy Climates

Apart from the above, there are so many vegetables that are best grown in the rainy climatic conditions. But care it is necessary to add organic compost in the soil, especially in the tropical regions. All the vegetables that are traditionally grown in the tropics can be grown in the rainy climatic zones of the tropical regions, quite successfully.

There is a long list of such vegetables that are grown successfully under the rainy climatic conditions in the tropics; here are a few famous types that flourish well in these conditions

Tomatoes, Chinese Cabbage, Asian Greens, Sweet Potatoes, Amaranth (a type of spinach), Bamboo shoots, Climbing wattle, Chaya, Cowpea, Eggplant, Vegetable fern, jack beans, Malabar spinach, leaf pepper, mustard greens, pumpkins, okra, Roselle, scarlet ivy gourd, Sunn hemp, tropical or Indian lettuce, wax gourd and winged beans.

In addition to the above, bitter gourd melon, Angled luffa and calabash can also be grown in rainy climates but these have to be planted when the rainy season is towards its end.

If you like my article about ‘Plants Perfect For Rainy Climates‘ and you’re interested in reading more related articles you may visit the ‘Household‘ category at TryArticles. Please leave a comment below that how much you find this article helpful. You may also hit your queries in the comment section below if any.

Grow Tomatoes In Pot: Tomato is one of the most eaten fruit in the world. It is normally red in color and is used frequently in a wide range of recipes. In fact, the tomato is one of the essential parts of the dining table, whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner. In addition to its delicious taste, it is also very nutritious.

It contains Carbohydrates, fats, protein, and various vitamins. It is also a rich source of minerals such as Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorous, and Potassium. However, it is 95% water. 100 grams of raw tomato provides 18 calories.

Tomato can be consumed in different ways, such as raw, fried or cooked. It is an important ingredient in various dishes, salads, sauces, and drinks. The utilization of tomato is unlimited.

Tomato belongs to the genus Solanum, under the family Solanaceae. Its scientific name is Solanum Lycopersicum. Often common man categorizes it under the vegetables but scientifically it is a fruit or berry. Tomato is native of Western South America.

The name tomato comes from the Aztec language word “tomatl” converted into the Spanish word “tomate” and finally into English word tomato. Initially cultivated in Mexico, from where Spanish people brought it to Europe during Spanish Colonization of South America. From Europe, it spread all over the world and today it is one of the most eaten fruit/berry in the world.

Different varieties of tomatoes are grown widely in different parts of the world, mostly in temperate regions. With the facility of greenhouses, it can be cultivated around the year. The tomato plant is normally 3-10 feet tall. Its stem is relatively weaker. Botanically it is not a vegetable; rather it is a berry type fruit.

Size of the fruit is between 0.5 to 4 inches, depending on the variety. It is a perennial plant. A tomato plant is a vine and needs support to rise up the ground. Indeterminate type of tomato is a tender perennial which dying annually, in the temperate climate, whereas the determinate type of tomato is an annual plant and can grow in all climates.

So, tomatoes are very much useful and beneficial in our daily life. That’s why people like to grow their own tomatoes in their home gardens. In this article, we will give you some useful tips on how to grow the tomato in a pot?

Types Of Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are mainly of two types, known as Determinate and Indeterminate.

Determinate – Determinate tomato has a compact bushy plant, which doesn’t need any pruning. Since its growth is relatively limited, it is the best option for growing in pots. Fruit of this type of tomato plant is smaller in size and also called as Cherry Tomato. It give fruit at once; hence you have to harvest entire fruit at the same time.

Indeterminate – Fruit of this type of tomato is relatively larger in size. Its growth is unlimited; hence require more space for proper growth and therefore not fit for growing in pots. It gives fruit throughout the entire season.

Cultivation

For home cultivation of tomatoes in pots, Determinate type of tomato is the best option, as it needs less space and less maintenance.

Selection Of Pot – The first thing which needs your attention while growing tomatoes at home, is the selection of the correct type of pot. The pot must be at least 30 cm wide and equally deep. However, its depth may also be increased up to 45 cm, depending on the space. Remember, a relatively bigger pot is always better.

But when it comes to the weight of the pot, always go for a lighter one, so that you can handle it easily. Tomatoes need well-drained soil, therefore it is recommended that the pot must have holes on the bottom, allowing water to drain out easily. Too much of water damages the tomato plant.

Selection Of Seeds – Always choose the best quality seeds for growing tomatoes at home. Seeds can be bought from your nearest garden shop. Or otherwise, you can also get seeds from the tomatoes you have in your kitchen. But be sure to get the seeds of the Determinate type of tomatoes, as you are going to grow them in pots.

For extracting seeds from the available tomatoes, select ripe tomatoes. Extract seeds from it and place them on a sieve. Pour water on the seeds and remove any leftover particles of fruit on the seeds. Once the seeds are clear from all leftover particles, spread them on the paper towel and let them dry out.

Planting The Seeds – Best time to plant the seeds of this type of tomatoes in pots in the spring season. Remember tomatoes cannot grow successfully if the temperature is low. Follow the process mentioned below, for planting the seeds.

• All seeds can be sown in one pot and then transplant each plant in one single pot.
• Use potting soil, which is available with your local garden shop.
• Fill the pot with that soil, leaving around 5 cm space on the top.
• Spread seeds on the soil in a way that there should be reasonable space in between them.
• Push the seed with hands so that they penetrate in the soil. Then add a thin layer of soil over them and press the soil for compaction.
• Now it’s time to give plenty of water to your pot. Make sure that the soil should remain moist all the times but avoid too much water to prevent waterlogging.
• Place the pot at a place where it can receive a good amount of sunshine.

Transplantation – Once the seed starts germinating, wait for the sprouts to attain a height of around 8 cm. This is the right time to transplant the tomato plants.

• Before picking up the sprouts for transplantation, it is better to give some water to your pot, so that the earth softens and makes it easy to uproot the bud.
• While uprooting the sprout, make sure not to break the roots.
• Each plant should be transplanted in a separate pot.
• While uprooting the sprout, try to retain some earth on the roots.
• Place the sprout in the new pot and fill it with garden soil, ensuring that entire roots and a part of the stem should be buried in the soil.
• Press the soil around the new plant and then give a good amount of water to it.

Important Point To Grow Tomatoes In Pot

• The tomato plant needs plenty of water, especially during the hot season.
• Tomato plant should be provided ample sunshine during the winter season.
• Protect the tomato plant from gusty winds.
• Keep watch on your pots and immediately take corrective measures on detection of the attack of any pest or diseases.

If you like my article about ‘How To Grow Tomatoes In Pot?’ and you’re interested in reading more related articles you may visit the ‘Household‘ category at TryArticles. Please leave a comment below that how much you find this article helpful. You may also hit your queries in the comment section below if any.

According to the Feng shui (philosophical Chinese system of laws) theory, there are certain plants that are responsible for attracting negative or positive energy. You must read this post as we will discuss why it is bad luck to have a cactus in the house, plants that bring good luck and house cactus types.

As according to Feng shui system environment in a room can be influenced by furniture or element placement. This concept put a positive influence on people and space.

Their main goal is to avoid negativity so they introduce this concept to achieve a positive environment. So they introduce many things in which plants are also included. According to the system, some plants carry negative energy so people should avoid to bring them into a house.

Is It Bad Luck To Have A Cactus in the House?

Among these negative plants system also introduce cactus and said to place them in the right place. So which is the right place? we will discuss here in detail.

According to Feng Shui belief, although cactus is beautiful but transmits bad energy. He said bad energy is carried in their ‘‘prickly and sharp’’ thorns. His followers believe that cactus in the house can bring misfortune, like diseases, anxiety, stress or losses.

As cacti originate from deserts so people believe that it retains a large amount of liquid so are not a symbol of abundance. People also thought it causes financial problems.

So it doesn’t mean you should not put it in your home but you should know where to put in? if we take an example you should not put it at the house door.

If you really want to put a cactus in the house or might be your son insist you the put it on your terrace or window. As on the terrace or window, it will act as protectors.

Plants That Bring Good Luck

There are some plants which bring good luck, Wealth, Prosperity and Health to home.

Here is a list of those plants have a look:-

• Palms:- They create a room divider, especially when placed in a colorful planter
• Money Tree:- Money Trees are often braided together, but for good luck, you will need three to five
• Rubber Plant:- These plants are especially auspicious when placed in the “Wealth Area” of your home
• Peace Lily:- Peace Lily grows well under artificial light and produces white flowers
• Jade Plant:- Jade plant when placed near the entrance, bring prosperity and success
• Orchids:- They represent love, soothe the soul, and deepen friendships
• English Ivy:- English Ivy help soften any “poison arrows” that point at you where you sleep or work
• Boston Fern:- This plant is used to filling up a corner at the entrance to a home

House Cactus Types

Now let’s have a look at types of house cactus, here I mentioned below:-

Yes, Cactus can Die, as they will hardly grow, or die if the pot is too big and it has too much soil. This much soil holds too much water and can cause the roots to rot.

I hope you like my post about “Why Is It Bad Luck To Have A Cactus In The House?”. If you want to read more related articles then you can also visit:

• How To Plant Roses From Cutting?
• What Succulent Plant Should I Get?
• Plants Perfect For Rainy Climates

Planting rose from cutting is a great idea if you love them. Roses are the most common and favorite plant. Because of their beautiful color and smell, they are liked by most of the people.

Roses are the most common plant found in everyone’s gardens. Planting is good for our environment so we should promote such activities. Everyone likes to plant roses in their garden. To plant rose inside the home is a creative and easy way to decorate home.

Not every cutting can grow roots; roses are one of those plants which can be grown out from cuttings.  Not only planting but also to look after plants is very important. For this you should know how to care for plants, so try to learn some steps.

So, here on vequill.com, we are providing you some simple and easy tips on How to plant roses from cutting.

Steps to follow for planting roses from cutting

It looks very pleasant to have a lovely, colorful, blissful garden. Beautiful fragrance of a rose inside a home or in a room can never be a bad idea. We can easily grow a rose for a gratifying ourselves.

Plants are the part of our nature; nature is a blessing which brings happiness, peace, liveliness, and cheerfulness to our lives. Roses can play a great role in cheering someone, to get over anxiety or depression.

• Choose a place to grow a rose. To grow a rose inside or outside in the garden, in a bedroom or in a lounge. Keep in mind sunlight should reach to the plant for proper growth and long lasting life of a rose. Prepare that place for placing the plant. Properly clean that place before planting rose plant in that area.
• Take a beautiful pot or a vase according to a size of a room, or whether to grow a rose inside or outside in the garden. It’s up to one’s choice wherever he/she wants to grow a plant. If you want to grow inside a house then you need a proper clean pot or a suitable vase. If you are growing rose plants outside then you can plant them in your garden.

• Now prepare the pot, wash it first with plenty of hot water and liquid soap so there will no traces of soil left in it. Now put enough amount of soil in the prepared pot. Fill the pot to half with soil. Put some water in it, to moisten the soil. Don’t put too much or too less water in the soil. Just the perfect enough amount for dampness.
• If you will put so much water then the plant will not grow. Similarly, if you will not put enough water then the rose cutting will not give you flowers. So you just have to put the right amount of water in the pot.

• If you want to grow a rose on a ground, then just dig that area. Clean that area by removing tiny stones or rotten leaves. If the area will be properly clean and smooth then the plant will grow earlier and easier. Dampen that area by water accordingly.
• Now choose which color of the rose you want to grow. Roses are in so many colors, so select one of your choices. Select your favorite color of rose then cut out the stem of that rose from a bush of that specific rose color plant you want.
• If you are gardening in a ground/garden you have an option to cut a stem or whole branch of the rose. But if you are planting in a pot cut out according to the area of the pot. Pots have the small surface area so you can just plant few cuttings of the rose plant.

• Once you have selected from which rose bush you want to cut out. Now take a knife, a sharp knife. Don’t cut roughly be gentle and scrape off 1 to 2 inches/ 2.5cm.-5.1cm of the stem. Cut it in slanting shape because it allows rooting hormone to get into a stem. So be careful while cutting the stem of the rose.
• Make sure to sharpen a knife before cutting the stem of your favorite rose plant otherwise rough edges of the stem will not allow the plant to grow earlier.
• Damp the part you just cut off and put it immediately into the soil. If you have followed every step right then it will start to put out roots just within one or two weeks. Make sure that your root cutting is having a proper circulation of air and it gets proper sunlight. Root cutting in the soil should be moist all the times.
• The growth of the plant also depends upon the condition, types of rose and also on the weather. The root cuttings of roses in a pot will grow faster if they will be placed in full sunlight.

• The pot in which you are growing the rose should be very clean, even if you are reusing it. You should clean and wash it properly with liquid detergent and hot water, so it will be very easy for you to grow next plant in it. The pot will not have any traces of previous plants, so it will help the rose cuttings to grow earlier.
• For better growth you can also put good quality fertilizer in the soil, which you can get at any plant nursery at a cheap cost, it will help your rose cuttings to grow earlier and they will grow healthier.

• Roses look very beautiful and elegant in your garden and if you are planting them in your house they enhance the beauty of your home. Roses need extra care and protection, they need proper air, proper sunlight so if you are planting them you should take care of them. Don’t allow your kids to pluck them.

I hope you find my article helpful if you have any further queries you can mention in the comment section down below, I’ll be humble to help you out. For other related articles, you can visit Tape daily.

Roses are one of the most liked flowers. These are of different colors, such as red, yellow and white. Roses have always been used as a symbol of love, immorality and prosperity, in art and literature all over the world. But there is one species of roses, the Blue Roses, which is perhaps the most favorite topic of literature and art.

Roses or the blue roses belong to the genus Rosa under the family Rosaceae. In fact, there are no natural species of blue roses; roses are most commonly white, red or yellow. Since the blue roses have been a hot and favorite topic in literature and art, scientists were keen to evolve a species of blue roses.

For decades, this effort remained fruitless. In the year 2004, an Australian company (Florigene) in collaboration with a Japanese company (Suntory) created blue roses through genetic engineering with white roses which have a blue pigment known as delphinidin. But their color is close to pale mauve or lavender.

Another effort through traditional hybridization technique produced a type of blue roses called the “blue moon” but their color was also not true blue; rather it was more close to lilac. Despite all that, Suntory (the Japanese company) has succeeded in selling thousands of their genetically engineered blue roses.

A report says they have sold around 10000 blue roses between the years 2008 to 2010 at a price of 22-35 US Dollars per flower. Apart from its domination in arts and culture, blue roses are also associated with some traditions as well. In some old cultures, blue roses were associated with royal blood.

Since these are naturally available, blue roses also are a symbol of mystery and to attain the impossible. In some cultures, it was believed that the one having a blue rose will get his wishes accomplished. Since blue roses are not naturally available, people have also adopted various other techniques to produce blue roses.

One such technique is dyeing the white roses in blue color. So, whenever you intend to buy some blue roses from the flower shop, make sure whether you are buying a dyed or genetically produced blue rose. Despite the fact, that these do not exist naturally, the demand for blue roses is increasing day by day, over the decades.

These are so beautiful that everyone likes to have it in his/her home for decoration. In this article, we will give you some useful tips on how to grow blue roses, at home.

Buy A Blue Rose

For growing blue roses in your home, first of all, you need to have the blue rose flower. Somewhat difficult and may be expensive as well, but you have to buy a genetically engineered blue rose flower from any reliable flower/garden shop. However, you need to take extra care while buying one from any flower or garden shop:

• Make sure it is a genetically modified blue rose.
• Make sure it is not a dyed blue rose.
• Make sure it is a healthy and fresh flower, otherwise you will not be able to grow further blue roses from it.

When To Grow Blue Roses?

As with most of the flowers, the best season is the spring season to grow blue roses at your home garden. Spring season is most suited one, as you can get the fresh and healthy blue rose from any reputed flower shop in this season.

Once you have a fresh and healthy blue rose in hand, soak it for at least 24 hours. This will bring back its vigor and the moisture level will also be regained. If you feel necessary, the soaking period may be extended up to two days but be careful not to damage the flower.

Soil Preparation

Best place for growing blue roses is a place in your garden that receives plenty of sunshine during a good part of the day. Another factor to consider while selecting the site is soil; it should be a well-drained soil. Preferably the site should not be covered by large trees and plants, this may hinder the direct sunlight.

Dig out the soil once and then mix fertilizer in it. There are various specially manufactured fertilizers for blue roses, available in the market. Select a fertilizer from a reputable company. This type of fertilizer can also be made at home but that is a separate subject and for now, we recommend you to buy it from the nearest garden shop.

Once the soil is prepared with the mixing of fertilizers, the next step is to dig holes in the selected area. Holes should be approximately two feet deep and two feet wide. One plant of blue roses will be inserted in one hole with a distance of around 100 cm from each other.

Cover the roots with soil and water it thoroughly. Watering intervals should be fifteen days. Similarly, the rose plant should also be sprayed with water after a couple of weeks, regularly, so that they maintain their moisture level and remain fresh and healthy.

The second dose of fertilizer will become due after three months. Again, use the specific fertilizer meant for the roses. During this period, there is every possibility of growth of weeds around your rose plants. Remove these weeds carefully, without damaging the roots of your rose plants.

After a few weeks from here, it will enter into the blooming phase. At this stage, you will have to prune it. Pruning is always so important for the healthy growth of any plant. Once the plant starts producing blue roses, cut the flowers so that it has a long stem with it. This stem makes it easy to prepare you a bouquet of blue roses.

Important

Since the blue roses are difficult to find in flower or garden shops, growing them at home is a good option and we strongly recommend it for you.

Once you have your own blue rose plants, always take care to preserve some blue rose flowers so that you can grow more plants of blue roses whenever required. Preserving blue roses will also make it possible for you to gift some to your friends and neighbors for further propagation of blue roses.

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There are many indoor cactus types. Cactus is a plant which can grow and survive in every weather, it prefers to grow in warm areas but it also survives in cold weather. Cactus is a plant which needs very less care and maintenance.

You can grow cactus in a small pot, you can use it for the decoration of your garden. There are so many types of cactus so you should select the one which can be best suitable for the decoration of your garden.

You can easily grow them indoor; they are very useful for the décor of your home. Plants which you can grow indoor, allows you to bring the nature inside your home.

There can so many plants in cactus family that do not need any frequent weeding or any extra care. For planting cactus indoor you just need to know about their types. So, here on vequill.com, we are providing you with some very easy and effective information on What are the indoor cactus types.

Steps to follow for selecting indoor cactus types

• Majority of the cactus plants comes from the USA; they add different and unique touch to your garden if you are planting them outside. They look very nice and elegant if you plant them inside the home.
• If you have small children at home then we will never suggest you plant them inside as it can be dangerous for children if they deliberately touch them they could harm themselves. In this case, you can plant them outdoors in your garden to give a unique touch to it.

Trichocereus Spachianus

• Trichocereus Spachianus is the most common type of cactus which you can grow inside your house. It grows dark green in color and when it grows old it turns into yellowish color. Mature Trichocereus Spachianus looks completely yellow in color which adds beauty to your home.

• You can grow them in a suitable pot; new branches may also grow from the base of this cactus plant. If you are searching for cactus which you can grow inside easily then Trichocereus Spachianus is the best option for you.
• It does not need extra care and protection, just water it occasionally. All cactus plants do not need much water for growing.

Christmas cactus

• This is another type of indoor cactus, this is very beautiful. It is a flowering plant; it grows very beautiful flowers which are pinkish in color. You do not need to water Christmas cactus most often. They look very beautiful if you decorate your drawing room or living room with attractive Christmas cactus.
• If you want best results then you must keep the soil dry 2-3 inches below the surface of the cactus plant. Another thing you should do is to fertilize the plant with good and suitable fertilizer once in the summer season.

Bunny cactus

• This cactus is called bunny cactus because of its shape, it totally looks like bunny when they grow up. Keep these plants in full sun, except for in winter season. You can put them in a living room or drawing room in front of the window where sunlight hits the wall directly. You can put this plant directly in sunlight.

• This cactus plant is green and white in color, having polka dots on it. It turns into a yellowish color when getting mature, and then this yellow part become few inches long fruit and turns into a purplish red color which looks very beautiful for decoration.

Thorns

• This is other very famous types of cactus; you can grow them indoor as well as outdoor. This cactus plant is filled with spikes, if you plant them in a small pot and put in some corner of your home, they will look so beautiful and it will enhance the uniqueness of your home.
• Always make sure that it gets enough light, put this plant in front of the light and you can water it weekly or after two weeks.

• If you have much space in your home or in your garden then you can also grow a large cactus plant in the pot or in the garden. They are the famous plant in a desert, so you can create your own desert look. They do not need much water and care so you can easily grow them indoor and as well as in your garden.

Globular cactus

• There are many other types of cactus plants; globular cactus is one of them. Globular cactus comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. They come in compact shaped, they come in small size also but all they are covered with spikes.
• Their flowers grow in different colors like red, magenta, Red and pink. Noto cactus have yellow spines as well as yellow flowers, they look very beautiful in homes.
• Golden ball cacti is also yellow in color that why its name is a Golden ball, it has a mesmerizing shape and color which looks beautiful in homes and in gardens.

Pincushion cactus

• Pincushion cactus is also called snowball because it looks like a ball of snow, it has the white base on the plant. They look like a white ball, they are very famous indoor cactus plants. They look so beautiful inside the house, they can enhance the beauty of your home from its uniqueness.
• Cactus plant should be grown in dry soil. Once you water the soil and then leave it for drying completely then you can easily plant any cactus plant in it.

• Pincushion cactus is entirely covered with white spikes, so before handling it we will recommend you to wear rubber gloves so they will not harm you. Keep your children away from all the cactus plants, as they can harm them. Pincushion cactus can only grow five to six inches long because they are in a ball shape.

I hope you find my article helpful if you have any further queries you can mention in the comment section down below, I’ll be humble to help you out. For other related articles, you can visit Tape daily.

Have you ever tried to build a terrarium in your house? It’s a great idea to have a terrarium to give a beautiful natural look to your house. It will add beauty to your rooms and will give a nice pleasant look.

It is quite an easy task to build one on your own without much effort and without involving too much of expenses. Usually, a terrarium is made up of glass, though it can be made with other transparent materials as well.

The best option is, however, to build it with glass material. Once you build your terrarium, you can place many types of plants inside it depending on your liking. Although you can buy terrarium directly from the market, building it on your own is always a wise option when it comes to the expenses. In this article, we will give you some useful tips on how to make a cheap terrarium.

What Is A Terrarium?

A terrarium is simply a glass container which can either be open or sealed, containing plants and soil in it. Even if the terrarium is sealed, it should be openable so that you can do some maintenance work with your plants kept inside.

Terrarium, when sealed, builds up a unique environment for the plants kept in it that helps them to grow successfully. You can grow plants in the terrarium, which otherwise may not thrive well in your area due to climatic conditions.

In the sealed or closed terrarium, a small scale natural water recycling mechanism develops automatically. Due to its transparent walls, sunlight and heat can get inside and reach to the plants. The heat and light get trapped inside due to the fact that it is sealed.

This heat trapped inside, converts the moisture inside the terrarium into vapors, which can be seen on the walls. These vapors then condense on the walls and drop back into the soil and on the plant, where it is re-utilized by the plant. Due to this recycling, a unique environment is created inside the terrarium which is ideal for many plants.

First ever Terrarium was made by a botanist Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward. It was 1842, when Mr. Ward was working on insect behavior. A fern spore was accidentally left in a jar and that jar was left unattended by him for quite some time. The fern spore germinated and grown into a plant in that sealed jar.

This was the first terrarium in the history and was then called as the Wardian Case. Later on, such boxes were given the name of a terrarium. Mr. Ward transported Australian plants to England in these cases which remained well grown during this transportation. Vice versa he transported some English varieties to Australia as well.

Types Of Terrarium

The terrarium is mainly of two types, sealed or closed terrarium and open terrarium.

Closed Terrarium

A closed terrarium is the one which sealed from all sides but can be opened from the top for maintenance. Usually, it is used to place tropical plants, such as orchids, air plants, mosses, and ferns. Since the terrarium remains closed and sealed, the environment inside becomes just similar to the tropic conditions, i.e. humid and sheltered. It also facilitates circulation of water.

However, closed terrarium needs to be opened once in a week, so that excess moisture gets out of it. If left unattended for a long period, the mold may grow inside, which can damage the plants. It also needs watering occasionally.

Non-condensation of vapors on the walls of the terrarium is an indication that watering is required. This type of terrarium also needs a specific soil mixture preferably made up of peat moss, perlite and vermiculite

Open Terrarium

For dry plants or succulents, the open terrarium is the best option. As the name suggests, it is open from the top. It is just like a usual pot or container, as air, light and heat can have free access to the plants kept in this terrarium.

Building A Cheap Terrarium At Home

An open glass terrarium can easily be made at home without involving any extra expense. You just need to have a glass container, which may be a used bottle. Other things required are a potted plant, some moss, stones and paint if you like to paint your terrarium. One final item required is your imagination and aesthetic sense.

Once you have the required material you can prepare your terrarium following the process is given below.

• Take a glass container or bottle that should be wide open at the top. Clean it from all types of residual material so that plants should not be affected.
• Put a layer of small stones, on the bottom. If you can arrange, use different colored stones to give an artistic look to your terrarium. Now spread some moss on these stones so that all stones should be covered with moss.
• If you like and space allows you, you can create more layers of stones and moss.
• Place the potted plant on the base prepared by you. You also have the option to put a layer of soil on the base and insert the plant in it but it is advisable to place the plant in the pot.
• Now cover the pot and plant base with more moss so that the pot should not be visible from outside and the base of the plant is well covered with moss, giving a natural and wild look to your terrarium.
• Your terrarium is complete and ready to be placed in any suitable place in your room. But you may give it an artistic touch at this stage. You may paint one or two sides of the terrarium in an artistic way.
• You can write something on the front side of the terrarium. You can add any other material that may give it a natural wild feeling. You can do anything you may like that suits and fits in the ambiance of your room. It should look attractive.

One last thing, while placing your terrarium in your room, make sure it receives direct or indirect sunlight depending on the type of plants. Don’t forget to give water timely and make sure to clean the walls of the terrarium regularly to maintain its beauty.

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Snake plant is one of the most favorite indoor plants all over the world, as it is highly tolerant to any environmental conditions. Though initially it was utilized as a source of fiber plant for making bowstrings, its prime utilization is for decorative purposes, these days.

Its leaves are of unique shape and color that makes it the first-hand choice for any household, interior decoration. It is also known for its air purification qualities as it has the ability to remove most of the toxins from the environment.

Snake Plant belongs to the family Asparagaceae. Its genus is Sansevieria and its scientific name is Sansevieria Trifasciatea. Snake plant is a perennial, evergreen plant. It has a solid, dense base from where rhizomes creep up, sometimes above and sometimes below the ground level.

Leaves of snake plant grow vertically with a rosette-like base. Leaves are dark green with grey-green light colored cross bandings. Length of its leaves may extend up to 35 inches, however normal range is between 28-30 inches long and 2 to 2.5 inches wide.

The most interesting part of snake plant is its traditional names in various parts of the world. The most common name all over the world is “mother-in-law’s tongue”. Another traditional name is “viper’s bowstring hemp”. In Netherlands and Belgium, snake plant is called “Vrouwentong” which means “women tongue”.

Eurasian call it “Huweilan”, whereas Chinese call it “Tiger’s Tail Orchid”. The Japanese name of snake plant is “Tora No O” meaning “tiger’s tail”, while Turkish people call it “Pasa Kilici” meaning “Pasha’s sword”. In Brazil, they call it “Sword of Saint George”.

Due to its resistant nature, it needs the very low level of maintenance and watering. Even if you forget to take care of your snake plant for a couple of weeks it won’t mind.

Additionally, its beautiful looking leaves, make it one of the most favorite choices as an ornamental plant almost all over the world. In warmer areas, it is mostly grown outdoors whereas in cold areas it is mostly planted indoors.

So, if you are interested in growing snake plant at your home, this article will guide you on how to take care of a snake plant?

Types Of Snake Plant

While the most common species of the snake plant is the one, called Sansevieria Trifasciata, there are more than 70 different types of snake plants. If you are interested in doing something different you may try one of the following.

• Golden Hahnil – this type of snake plant has short leaves that have yellow borders.
• Cylindrical Snake plant – This type of snake plant has round leaves which have dark green colored stripes.

• Twist snake plant – It has twisted leaves, which are horizontally striped with yellow edges.
• Rhino Grass – It has red tinted leaves.
• White snake plant – it has narrow leaves with vertical stripes of white color.

Growing Snake Plant

Snake plant can be easily grown through cuttings. Despite the fact that it is one of the most resistant plants, these are vulnerable to excessive watering. Therefore, to successfully grow the snake plant from cuttings, plant them in a well-drained soil, otherwise, they may rot.

Another method of cultivation of snake plants is dividing. Roots of the snake plant have rich fleshy rhizomes which can be cut easily with a knife and planted in a pot for further growth and propagation of a new snake plant. However, remember to use a well-drained soil to avoid rotting.

Taking Care Of Snake Plant

As said earlier, snake plant does not need much care but still, you must follow a certain level of care and maintenance to keep your decorative snake plant in good health condition.

• Whenever you want to plant a snake plant, always plant it in a good planting medium in a small pot. Once the roots start coming out of the pot, it is time to transplant it. Remember not to transplant the snake plant until its roots start coming out of the pot.
• At the time of transplanting, you may add a fertilizer, most preferably during the spring season. You may use any reliable brand of houseplant fertilizers, available in your local garden shop. However, care should be taken to prepare the mixture strictly as instructed on the packaging. 
• Snake plant needs very low watering. Too much watering may result in rotting. Keep a close watch on the plant and water it only when the soil is drying out. Do not splash water on the leaves; water it around the base of the plant in the pot.

• Avoid too much of watering. Only water the snake plant, when its leaves are drying and the soil is also getting drier. It is recommended to let the leaves dry out to some extent before you give water to your snake plant. Give the small amount of water around the base of the plant and never water the leaves. 
• Though not necessary, try to use distilled water instead of normal tap water.
• Since the leaves of snake plant are quite large and wide, they are vulnerable to accumulating dust on them. Make sure to clean the leaves with a damp cloth preferably every day. However, remember not to splash water directly on leaves.
• Place the planters or containers having snake plant near the windows, so that they can get reasonable sunshine during the day.
• You may also arrange artificial fluorescent light for your snake plants if direct sunlight is not possible
• Very high level of direct sunlight for an extended period is also harmful to this plant. So, if you have placed the pots near a window which receives too much of sunshine during the most part of the day, you may need to protect your snake plant by installing curtains or drapes. 
• Make it a habit to rotate the pot once a week so that all its leaves may get chance of direct sunlight through the window.

Having a snake plant in your room is a nice experience. It gives freshness to your room, cleans the environment by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene and above all, it adds beauty to your interior decoration.

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Dragon Tree Plant is a very charming plant both for indoors and outdoors. It is a tropical plant. It has long hanging green leaves with yellow stripes on the edges, which gives it a very beautiful look. It can be placed anywhere inside your house to give a decorative touch to your rooms.

Dragon tree plant belongs to the genus dracaena under the family Asparagaceae. It has various different species, such as Dracaena Draco and Dracaena Marginata. It is a tall growing plant and may attain a height of 6-8 feet. It is known as a low maintenance plant that can easily be grown and maintained both indoors and outdoors.

Different cultivars of dracaena can be grown indoors and outdoors for adding beauty to your home and garden. The original variety of dragon tree, from which various cultivars were grown has long green leaves with narrow reddish-purple bands on its edges.

Another cultivar of dragon tree plant has a yellowish-white on leaves, in between the green and yellow color of leaves, thus making it a beautiful tricolor variety. Another variety of dragon tree plant has a red band on the green leaves. This band is so prominent that apparently, the leave looks as if it is red.

One more variety of dragon tree plant has a spikier leave and resembles more to the original variety of dragon tree plant. Its stem produces groups of wide and tough leaves that are quite different from other trees. These groups of leaves grow in sphere shape and are much denser.

So, if you are interested in adding a valuable indoor plant to your home decoration, go for a variety of dragon tree plant. In this article, we are giving you some useful tips on its growth and maintenance so that you may know how to look after a dragon tree plant.

Choose A Variety

As mentioned above, there are many different types of dragon tree plants that can be grown in your home garden or indoors for decoration purpose. If you visit your nearest garden shop or plant nursery you may come across various types of dragon tree plants. All are beautiful and need almost the same level of care and maintenance.

So, don’t hesitate and pick up the one you would like to have in your room. You may also select more than one varieties of dragon tree plants to give an artistic look to your home. Imagine a room having two or three different types of dragon tree plant, having different color patterns!

Where To Plant? – Pot Size

Being a tall growing plant, it needs a large sized container or pot for its normal growth. However, keep in mind that you have to place it in your room or any other place for decoration purpose, so the pot or container must be of an appropriate size and shape that should not damage the ambiance of your home.

Ideally, the pot or container should be double the size of the root ball of your dragon tree plant.

Where To Place Dragon Tree Plant? – Light

Dragon tree plant does not need direct sunlight. So, it is easy to select a site for its placement in your room. In fact, its leaves are vulnerable to direct sunlight and may burn if exposed to too much of it.

At the same time, it needs quite a reasonable indirect sunshine. Therefore select a place in your room which is near to windows but in such a direction that does not receive direct sunlight.

You may also use curtains or drapes to protect it from direct sunlight during the day. But make sure it receives ample of indirect sunlight. If you observe that color of the leaves is fading, it is an indication that the plant is not receiving light as per its requirement. Immediately change its position so that it gets indirect sunshine, as required by this plant.

Soil And Watering

Dragon tree plant needs the good amount of moisture but over watering may result in root rot. Therefore use a well-drained soil to fill the pot or container, so that water may not damage its roots. The pot must have holes in the bottom for better drainage. It is highly recommended to use distilled water for this plant.

If the plant you bought from the nursery or garden shop came with a pot or container, you may keep the plant in the same pot for some time, till you need to re-pot the plant.

Avoid too much of watering. Water only, when the soil is dried out. To check the dryness of the soil, put your finger on the surface of the soil and press it in the soil. You will feel the moistness of the soil on your fingertip. If the soil feels dry, give water to your plant.

Falling leaves or yellowing of leaves is an indication that your plant needs next watering. However, you should not bother about the falling leaves which are on the bottom of the stem. It’s just a normal phenomenon.

Temperature

Normally dragon tree plant grows well in the temperature around 24 degrees centigrade but can do well even if it rises up to 27 degrees. However, when the winter sets in and the temperature start dropping, you must reduce the indoor temperature of your house; reduce the heating of your room.

But be careful not to drop the temperature below 18 degrees centigrade, as it will have a negative impact on your dragon tree plant.

Pest Infestation

Dragon tree plant is prone to attack by various insects, such as thrips, scale insect and glasshouse red spider mite. The best remedy to avoid the attack of any of these infestations is to keep the air moist around the tree. Misting the leaves once or twice a week will also work fine.

Mottled leaves or yellow bumps on the back side of the leaves is an indication that your plant is infested. Best option at this stage is to consult a professional to get rid of any such attack by the insects, or alternately, you may try to control it through the spray of any reliable pesticides.

Important

• You must give fertilizer to your dragon tree plant at least once in a month during winter and double to that in summer.
• Liquid fertilizer is a good option if diluted with plain water.
• Pruning may be done during the summer and spring season. Avoid this action during winter or fall.
• Pruned shoots and branches can be utilized to grow more plants, so don’t throw them away.
• When the roots become too dense, it is time to replace the pot. Replace it with a bigger pot to accommodate roots. An extra care with roots is required while pulling out the plant from existing pot.
• Add fertilizer to new pot after around one month; don’t give fertilizer immediately after repotting.

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There are so many different types of plants and flowers that people often like to have in their home garden. Lemon Balm is one of those. It is known for its medicinal benefits as well as for its unique scent.

Additionally, like many other plants, it gives a pleasant feeling when placed indoors. Some people also believe lemon balm plant works as an insect repellent. People often use it in that sense, in and around their homes.

Lemon balm is also called, balm mint or common balm in some areas. Lemon Balm is the herbaceous perennial plant, native to the Mediterranean Basin, Central Asia, Iran and Central Europe. Over the years, it has now been naturalized in almost all parts of the world. Now it is grown almost everywhere.

Being a native of Mediterranean region, it, however, needs a consistent temperature and does not respond positively to drastic changes in temperatures. It cannot resist freezing temperatures but given a protection during the cold season, it can then grow just normal after the winter has passed.

Its scientific name is Melissa officinalis. It belongs to the genus Melissa, under the family Lamiaceae. It is often confused with the bee balm, but it is altogether a different plant.

Bee Balm belongs to the genus Monarda, although little white flowers of lemon balm do attract honey bees because these white flowers are full of nectar. That’s why it has been given the name Melissa, which is a Greek word, meaning, the honey bee.

Lemon balm plant can grow tall up to a maximum of five feet. Its leaves have a nice scent of mint. Its white flower appears in summer. Flowers are full of nectar; hence attract honey bees; hence used for the production of honey. Its leaves are frequently used as herbs for making tea and for flavoring different foods and drinks such as ice cream, herbal tea and peppermint tea.

It is also used in various fruit dishes and fish dishes. Its oil and extracts are widely used in various medicines and perfumes. It is also grown as an ornamental plant for the decoration of homes and offices.

So, with all that benefits and usefulness, you may like to have lemon balm in your home garden. But to do that you must have at least a basic knowledge about this herbaceous plant. In this article, we will let you know how to care for a lemon balm plant.

Uses

On the commercial basis, its primary utility is in the honey making industry. As said earlier, its little white flowers, which blossom in the summer season, have plenty of nectar. Honey bees are therefore attracted by these flowers to take that nectar. Hence the bee production is the main usage of lemon balm.

Apart from honey industry, it is also used in medicines. In Austria, its leaves were used as a tea for internal use and its oil for external use. Its main medicinal use is for the cure of different diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. It is also used as a treatment of nervous system, bile and liver.

It has been used as a remedy against insomnia, as it is known as a sleep aid. It is also used as digestive medicine. Essential oil of lemon balm is also used in aromatherapy.

Additionally, it also has a wide usage in cooking and food. It is used as a flavor in different ice creams. It is also used for herbal tea, either it is hot or iced. It is also used in fruit dishes and candies and can also be used in some fish dishes. Its unique flavor comprises 24% citronellal, 16% geranial and 12% each of linalyl acetate and caryophyllene.

Cultivation

Lemon balm can be cultivated through seeds. Its seeds require mild light and a temperature of around twenty degrees centigrade. It does not require direct sunlight. It grows in clumps and its leaves spread all around.

In winter, its stem may die but it can regrow in spring. Since it spreads vigorously, it is highly recommended that it should be planted at a place which should be sufficiently away from other plants, so as to give lemon balm a free space to grow.

Caring Your Lemon Balm

Lemon balm plant needs mild watering. Too much of water is good for its health. It hates waterlogged conditions, so make sure that it receives just a minimal amount of watering and soil should also be well-drained. It grows well in sandy soils.

Being basically a Mediterranean plant, it needs a consistent temperature. That’s why it is recommended to protect it from frost if you are growing it in a cold region. To protect them from freezing temperatures, it is advisable to place them under shelter during the winter season. You may also use some sort of covering during very cold nights to protect this plant from frost.

Lemon Balm also needs fertilizer, preferably the organic fertilizer or compost. During the flowering season, it needs an extra dose of compost. However, during this season unwanted weed growth may create a problem, so make sure to remove any such growth around this plant, especially during the summer season.

So, the lemon balm plant is of much utility and can be handled and maintained quite easily at home. You may plant them add a useful herbaceous plant in your home garden. Its pleasant odor will leave an impact on your home and garden.

Lemon balm can also be planted in pots and containers to place them indoors, such as terraces, porches and even in rooms. However, due to its excessive growth of leaves, it is not a good option to keep it in your rooms.

But if you have a free space and can manage it, lemon balm can be a nice and pleasant addition in your room decoration. So, try growing lemon balm in your home garden to give a decorative touch to your home. Take a good care of your lemon balm and enjoy its unique scent and get additional benefits from its seeds and leaves.

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