Meet the Leather Leaf Fern

Meet the Leather Leaf Fern

The leather leaf fern is an ornamental plant used primarily in making green decorative floral arrangements. In English is called 'Leather Leaf Fern', its scientific name is Rumohra adiantiformis and belongs to the family of Polipodiáceas.

Leather leaf fern (Rumohra adiantiformis) originates in the subtropics of South America and South Africa. Therefore, producers must cultivate nurseries under subtropical conditions in shaded greenhouses. In Spain, Andalusia is one of the most important in their production.


As a plant for this purpose is not easy to find for purchase separately, except wholesalers within the 'professional trade channels. " Therefore, the final consumer level, only to be found in bunches and bouquets, and finished with accompanying flowers.

Leather leaf fern (Rumohra adiantiformis) going to complement other ornamental flowers, no maintenance should concern us in a vase in particular and which brings him used to the whole. Will suffice to change the water every 2 or 3 days and cut the base of their stems with a sharp tool taking advantage of every water change. If the process is adding a flower preservative, its durability will be higher.

The stems of leather leaf fern (Rumohra adiantiformis) are not very large. On the other hand, are very elegant and as a result, at times, although a plant matters, in the case of bouquets come to play an essential role in the final ornamental aspect.

Elegant, durable ... the leather leaf fern (Rumohra adiantiformis) is available on the market throughout the year and has a long duration in the vase. As a result, after finishing the life of the sector in which you are, can be redeemed for the following could be added to a floral bouquet.

The Chrysanthemum flower

The Chrysanthemum flower

The Chrysanthemum as such, Spain is closely associated with the feast of All Saints' Day. However, this flower is consumed throughout the year under the name of a flower margaritas happy, beautiful and economical.



Botanically, the genus Chrysanthemum belongs to the family Asteraceae and comprises one of the type of the oldest cultivated flowers, both cut flowers (cut flowers) as a potted ornamental plant. Its main attraction is its ornamental flowers and these really are an inflorescence chapter. There are different types of sections (flower) grown commercially, but in general, this inflorescence is composed of two types of flowers: the female located in the radial area of the chapter and which correspond to the outer row on the flowers, and hermaphroditic located the concentric zone ... which obviously correspond to the plants. The floral receptacle or chapter is flat or convex shape and is surrounded by its attractive bracts surround, popularly mistaken as petals.

The chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum), is a flower full of symbolism in many countries. So, Japan is considered the national flower and is still used in ceremonies and the flower is the symbol of long life (contrary to what many people think, the sphere in the Japanese flag does not represent the rising sun but the heart of one stripped of its petals chrysanthemum), China is a symbol of wisdom, as in many others such as honesty and the United States is usually perceived as positive and meaning of good feeling.
According to documentation, the Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum) was introduced in Europe through France in the late eighteenth century and the first crop of this plant in Spain coincides with the beginning in the nineteenth century. Currently, professional florists grow complex hybrids of this plant and most species that have created modern cultivars originate in China: Chrysanthemum indicum, Chrysanthemum morifolium and Chrysanthemum x hortorum. Note that potted chrysanthemum is technically called Dedranthema.
Cut flowers (cut flowers) are marketed both in bottles or forming only the Chrysanthemum flower arrangements with other flowers and ornamental green and in the form of potted plant, its most popular size of 11-15 cm in diameter throughout the year and 14-20 inch models are cultivated on time ahead of the feast of All Saints' Day.
Cut flowers (cut flowers) is distributed primarily by physical or online florists and instead, the form of potted plant, do it for garden centers and supermarkets.
As to the chrysanthemum growing, both as a potted plant and for cut flowers, there are two clearly defined types:

* The cultivation of the Chrysanthemum traditional natural flowering from October to November.
* The cultivation of flowering chrysanthemum caused directed and programmed by photoperiod techniques throughout the year.

Know the Bird of Paradise Flower

Know the Bird of Paradise Flower

Among the more exotic flowers we can see the gardens, especially in warm climates, is the bird of paradise flower. This is the Strelitzia reginae, also popularly known by other names like 'Estrelicia', 'Flower of bird', 'Flower of bird', etc.



Its flower stalks held between 5-8 flowers composed of three sepals orange or intense yellow and three brilliant bright blue petals. These plants can bloom several times a year.



The bird of paradise flower (Strelitzia reginae) is used for flower arrangements, bringing elegance and exotic touch to the set. Underlines its long-lasting in the vase and that its robustness helps significantly to the structural architecture of floral composition.




The Almond Blossom

The Almond Blossom

Of all the fruit of the garden the first to bloom is the almond tree. With it, the feeling that starts at the end of the winter is a reality and it's always nice to see these flowers on a sunny day in the countryside.



The Almond originating in the mountainous regions of Central Asia and is cultivated in Spain for over 2,000 years. Its botanical name is Prunus amygdalus and belongs to the family of lasRosáceas.



Their roots make it up a few more in diameter, that develop in breadth and depth and the subsequent ramifications emerging root system forming a high-volume and length. Regarding its trunk is smooth in youth, becoming cracked with time. When the tree is young the bark is green ... turning brown and gray as the tree becomes an adult.



Technically, the almond has different fruiting bodies that are called with names like 'mixed bouquets', 'the chiffon' and 'May bouquets', these are the most important since they have buds solitary.



Almond leaves are bright green, lanceolate shaped, long, narrow and pointed. And the flowers have five sepals and five petals, these colors varying from white and pink. As the fruit is technically a drupe with a single hard-shelled seed normally, which is edible and which has two integuments surround.

Anecdotally, the almond is a self-incompatible species, and therefore requires cross-pollination. So, first must be placed pollinators for greater fruit set and the other ... the work of the bees is essential.

Medicinal Properties of aconitine

Medicinal Properties of aconitine

Herbaceous, up to 1.5 m. Only grows in high mountain pastures. In cool, shaded, often rocky, and banks of streams or springs, also in mountain meadows. In Spain in the Pyrenees, Cantabrian Mountains and Sierra Nevada.


Greek mythology tells that it was brought from the underworld by Cerberus. Theophrastus commented that the tyrants had made much use of aconite "to dispatch as many as they pleased." Common use was bathing the tips of the arrows to make them more deadly.

The principle underlying asset, the aconitine, gives as an analgesic properties, the influence by changes in nerve endings. It is antipyretic, antitussive and decongestant (vasoconstrictor).

Poison powerful and fast action, so that practically not used internally, except in homeopathic doses. His oral prescription is exclusively reserved for faculty, drawn preparations assessment of its alkaloid content. Was used topically for the treatment of neuralgia, especially trigeminal and sciatic.


Contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, children, combined with alcohol, sedatives, antihistamines, hypnotics, antidepressants, or spasmolytic.


Application is not recommended for internal road: very toxic plant for its alkaloids, in particular by aconitine. The lethal dose is 1-3 mg of aconitine (equivalent to 2-4 g of fresh root). Poisoning initially determines a state of general excitement, with numbness in the lips, tongue and throat block the trigeminal nerve. Later gastrointestinal disturbances occur: diarrhea, vomiting and drooling. In a second phase occurs hypothermia and paralysis of respiratory muscles and blocking of cardiorespiratory nerve centers, which can lead to death by suffocation within hours.

A. kusnezoffii is used in Chinese medicine to treat rheumatic pain, sciatica, hemiplegia, and as an anesthetic.

What is a Wall of culture?

What is a Wall of culture?

A wall is a vertical garden cultivation. The plants are rooted in compartments between two sheets of fibrous material anchored to the wall. The water supply is provided between the plates and grown many species of plants. Bacteria metabolize plant roots air impurities such as volatile organic compounds.




The 'active walls' are attached to the air circulation system of the building. Fans blow air through the wall and then is recirculated through the building. Some active walls are glass surfaces for the effects of air flows more predictable. The 'walls inactive' or 'passive' no mechanized air circulation. Instead, they are open to promote, as far as possible the free circulation of air.



The walls are a growing form of urban agriculture or urban gardening. Often undertaken as a work of art for its beauty. Sometimes used to help cure sick building syndrome, and in any case, increasing oxygen levels in recirculated air.



It is also a means of water reuse, at least the water utility. Plants can purify the contaminated water (greywater) by digesting the dissolved nutrients. The bacteria mineralize organic compounds to make them available to plants.

The walls are growing very practical for cities, especially in vertical areas. Also for arid areas, because water movement in the vertical wall is less than horizontal gardens evaporable. In arid and hot, these walls can be part of the outer walls of a building, and to cool them

Know what the green roof?

Know what the green roof?

A green roof, green roof or roof garden is the roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation, whether on land or in a suitable culture medium. It does not address green roofs, such as the color tiles to roof nor garden in pots. It refers instead to technologies used on ceilings to improve habitat or conserve energy, ie technologies that fulfill an ecological function.




The term green roof is also used to indicate other green technologies such as photovoltaic solar panels or photovoltaic nodules. Other names for living green roofs are roofs and green roofs.



Green roofs can be used to:

* Growing fruits, vegetables and flowers
* Improving the climate of the building
* Extend roof life
* Reduce the risk of flooding
* Filter air pollution and CO2, see also crop Paredes
* To act as an acoustic barrier, soil blocks low-frequency sounds and plants high frequencies.
* Filter pollutants and heavy metals in rainwater
* Protecting biodiversity in urban areas




A green roof is a key component of an autonomous building.
A 2005 study by Brad Bass of the University of Toronto showed that green roofs can also reduce heat loss and reduce energy consumption in winter.
In a recent study on the impact of green structures in the area of Manchester researchers found that green roofs help to lower temperatures especially in urban areas, "adding green roofs to all structures can have dramatic effects on surface temperature , keeping the temperature below the average of the years 1961-1990 ... Green roofs have the greatest impact ... where the proportion of buildings is high and the rate of evaporation is low. So the biggest difference occurs at the center of the stocks.



Green roofs can be classified as intensive, semi-intensive "or extensive, depending on the depth of the culture medium and the degree of maintenance required. The traditional roof gardens require a considerable thickness of soil to grow large plants and traditional lawn, they are considered "intensive" because they require a lot of work, irrigation, fertilizer and other care. Intensive roofs are of a park with easy access and can include anything from spices to the kitchen to shrubs and even small trees. The roofs "extensive", however are designed to require minimal attention, perhaps once a year weeding or application of slow-acting fertilizer to stimulate growth. In general, extensive roofs are visited only for maintenance. They can grow in a very thin layer of soil, most use a special formulation of compost or even "rock wool" directly above a waterproof membrane. This may provide a substrate for mosses and species such as Sedum.




Mint Features

Mint Features

The properties of mint are multiple and many known. The genus Mentha belongs to the family of Lamiaceae and in it are a large number of species such as, for example, Mentha piperita, Mentha spicata aromatic and culinary ... so popular in so many gardens.



Mint leaves
Mint is an edible herb prized for its refreshing aroma. It is rather used as a condiment in the kitchen and in the industry, their extracts are included in various lines of mouth and food products. Direct consumption or its derivatives gives us a sense of freshness in the mouth and airways. Also, its aroma is an appetite stimulant.
Distillation of mint essential oil is extracted rich in menthol (alcohol which has a cooling effect on the mucous membranes and has antipruritic and antiseptic properties.) This ingredient is highly valued and widely used commercially in areas of industrial food production such as candy, lotion, oral products, perfumes etc.
A gastronomic level, mint leaves are used in both dry and green. And of course in drinks like mojitos, mint tea, etc.
Another property of the mint is part of aromatherapy and is used as a stimulant for allegedly energizing effect on the emotional side.

Cultivation of Hybrid Petunia

Cultivation of Hybrid Petunia

One of the flowering plants in the garden more popular during the spring is the petunia. Its wide assortment of colors, added to the hardiness of your plant, can bring color and joy in large and spectacular flower patches.

Popularly known as Petunia, its scientific name is Petunia hybrid and belongs to the family Solanaceae.




The Petunia is a perennial grown as an annual. This usually tends to grow very 'close to the ground' with heights from 25 to just over 40 centimeters tall. Its beauty lies mainly in its flowers may be single or double, straight or wavy edges, a combination of pure colors and overall ... color options for all tastes.
In Spain, the Petunia flowers from early spring until late summer, although each year reinforces a tendency to keep them in the garden for longer, until the end of poderlas found in warm climates throughout the year.
Its hardiness of crops, combined with the wide range of colorful flowers, make the plant be used in season now. Its use is based on distributed and flower borders in the group.
The petunias require direct sunlight and in terms of soil, vegetate best in fertile, well fertilized, well drained.
For the property of their foliage, we recommend watering daily if necessary during its period of greatest growth, provided the early hours of the morning, avoiding the middle of the day when the sun shines strongly.

Geranium, an aromatic plant

Geranium, an aromatic plant

The geranium is one of the most popular plants in Spain. Among its peculiarities, its color, its striking appearance and ease of cultivation make it a favorite for decorating gardens and interior decoration. Think of a geranium is seeing a bright red or pink very happy, but are most of the varieties we imagine that this issue offers us, not only for its appearance but also in its aromas.



They belong to the family and within the geranicéas differ geranium and pelargonium, which are the most commonly grown in gardens. Pelargonium Among over 250 species divided into four families: the cells who are traditionally are placed in pots, the ivy leaf, representing a thicker foliage, the real parts of which are more wrinkled green and grown in greenhouses, and fragrant type, characterized by a strong smell, which makes also for decoration, are well known among manufacturers of aromatic oils and soaps.

African Fragrances
The geraniums from South Africa and its cultivation is spreading throughout temperate and tropical, with temperatures below 0 º C. This feature makes it very commonly found in areas of Andalusia and the Mediterranean, but its use also extends to the whole of Spain and many European countries. Depending on the type they are, the leaves are of different size and flower color vary. Among the fragrant geraniums can make a classification by type of scent that exhale from touching the leaves:
- Pelargonium capitatum: its flowers are a pink tone and the fragrance they give off is assimilated to the roses.
- Pelargonium crispum: lemon geranium commonly known by its similarity with the smell of this fruit, is characterized by its curly leaves and violet flowers, for its ease of culture and its importance in the perfume industry.
- Pelargonium fragrans: with small white flowers with red nerves and soft leaves that give off different scents, is known as geranium nutmeg.
- Graveloens Pelargonium or geranium rose: is the most common as an indoor plant, with foliage and flowers balsamic soft pink or purple.
- Pelargonium radens: their leaves also smell like roses, but the flowers tend to pale purple.
- Pelargonium tomentosum: with an essence of peppermint, has soft leaves and small white flowers.
His care at your fingertips
Although careful cultivation and great efforts will not we, it is important to some basics. For proper development, we provide our geraniums slightly acidic soils with a pH between 5 and 7 and having a good drainage to avoid standing water, although you can use compost if the soil does not meet these requirements. The use of fertilizers is also indicated if they suffer from lack of nitrogen, if they lack this component is very likely that our present one geranium leaves become yellow and it looks unhealthy.

The frequency of watering will depend on what stage is the plant. If you are in bloom, usually in spring or summer, we will provide enough water twice a week. The rest of the year is hardly necessary, indeed it is appropriate to allow the soil to dry before re-wetting. For watering, it is important to avoid wetting the leaves, because if they get wet may develop fungus. The best solution is to help with a shower nozzle and delve into the land of the pot.
Geraniums are flowers that need lots of light and is ideally placed to grow them in gardens or pots on a balcony or exterior window. However, if they are grown indoors is important that they be exposed to the sun and store them in a ventilated environment. When plants from temperate zones, we should try that temperatures are not too extreme, since they can not stand frost, but do not hold out environments well above 30 ° C. If we live in places where it is hot in summer, we'll reserve is recommended during this time, the coolest places in the house.

Dangers they are exposed
Although delicate care of our plants, it is sometimes impossible to avoid getting sick, so it is important to understand the main risks to make a quick diagnosis and to act.
Fungi are the main enemies for geraniums live in humid areas. We will know from his appearance because the leaves will stain. It is best to place the pot in an airy and provide a fungicide. The humidity combined with high temperatures, is causing rust, a disease that attacks the leaves of the geranium making these die. The first symptom is white spots or yellow. If we find this kind of colors, we prune the infected leaves and provide a fungicide before it spreads too much.
When the stem or root geranium yellow tones present, probably the black man had attacked foot, a condition also caused by fungi and can be treated with a fungicide. We will not get results if the disease is well advanced, inevitably, our plant will die.
The pests are to blame for many plants to die helplessly, and geranium is not without risk. The most serious is a butterfly from Africa and acts from inside the geranium cuttings, as a small caterpillar. The disease is called geraniums and drill bit can do if our dog is concerned.
It is best to resign and get rid of geranium before it can damage other non-infected geraniums. Other insects that can attack are white flies that bite the leaves causing them to lose color, and red spider, invertebrate that can cause death of the plant. Looking to appear yellowish points it is best to spray with an insecticide as soon as possible.

Healing Aromas
geranium
We can find geraniums and colorful gardens balconies of many fronts, but the fragrant type, besides decorating our rooms and brighten our eyes, with its pleasant aroma, they can serve as natural air fresheners. Stir sufficient foliage to surprise us with a smell of roses, lemon or mint depending on the variety we have. Besides domestic use, the perfume industry also takes advantage of these embraguiadoras essences. By the distillation of geranium leaves, yields a highly aromatic oil which provides a floral perfume. The most used is the pelargonium capitatum, whose smell like the roses has nothing to envy the popular fragrance of these flowers.
But the most spectacular is its use as a base ingredient in aromatherapy, a discipline that is increasingly attracting more adherents, to treat mood problems. Many natural medicine experts say will stimulate the use and safety of people, and their oils, massage applied through skin, act as perfect relaxing nervous. Other healing properties related to its antibacterial function, being the base of creams to treat skin conditions.

Tips to eliminate weeds in the garden

Tips to eliminate weeds in the garden

Weeds are plants with great ability to adapt so that they appear in all terrains and other have a greater ability to "own" water, space and nutrients, harming other plants and in many cases coming to kill them.
Therefore, weeds that appear in our gardens, not only the eyesore but can finish with it.
But the positive is that we can prevent its occurrence and each time they occur if we eliminate those, they will weaken, so that progressively cease to appear.



The methods may be physical, such as a show of hands, hoe or edger, or chemical herbicides.

A hand or hoe
It is the traditional method and therefore the most used.
The best spade for this task, is the tiny, narrow, often referred to hoe. With this tool you can work among the flowers or plants from the garden in comfort. The best are those long-handled rather not have to lean so much and hurt his back.
It is advisable to water the day before so the soil is more moist, so make the grass more easily.
Try to remove the weeds with roots as much as possible, although this has to dig a lot, this will avoid an appearance soon.
This is done mainly in flowering plants, garden or small areas where herbicides can not be used since it also would damage the plants.



Debrozadora or edger.
This method is carried out using a machine called, trimmer or edger. It has a thread and also allow us to remove the weeds, we are also very useful wing shaping of the edges of the lawn
The drawback is that cuts the grass at ground level, ie, leaving the entire root in the earth, so they grow back soon.
With this machine, you must be careful not to damage the child co nylon trunks of trees or shrubs, as these wounds can kill the plant over time.


Herbicides
Herbicides are chemicals that pollute and can affect other plants, animals and even people, so only used in cases in which the only effective method. It is used mainly in large areas where almost no other than weed plant or weed, thus the problem is attacked once. Herbicides are applied to the leaves, and then are absorbed through the sap is moving the poison to the roots and so the plant dies and does not re-sprout.

Lighting in the Garden

Lighting in the Garden

The garden in summer, is one of the most beautiful areas of our home. Allows us to relax, refresh after strenuous days of work and work, and gives us the ability to disconnect from all the problems, just appreciating the colors and elements. And we can not only enjoy it during daylight hours: an adequate lighting system, we also enjoy it during the night, with great pleasure and enjoyment.



A proper garden lighting also allows you to configure a more secure and protected. Sure, perhaps his greatest advantage is the relaxation that provides the single display of flowers and plants at any time of day, which gives us the feeling of freshness and openness throughout the home.

Optimal lighting of the gardens should be adjustable, ie should not be absolute. You can determine a provision of lighting points to allow for the enjoyment soft lighting and a brighter light, for example, outdoor dining or for security reasons



Therefore, we can determine some reflectors or illuminating targeted or directed, pointing to large plants, sculptures and fountains. These lights should always be suitable for outdoor use, as they must be able to withstand rain, dew, wind and other types of moisture. Their placement should be performed by experienced hands, especially with regard to the wiring, which is preferable to keep out of reach of children, animals and, especially, the mowing machine. Through special pipes, these cables can be buried, for full protection. Also it must be dim lights, not too
bright, and preferably do not emit heat, as this would ultimately harm our plants.

One way favored by landscape to illuminate the external technique is uplighting, or light up. This format indicates that the direction of the beam of light will be from the floor, wrapped in protective boxes into the floor, or just sticking out and upwards, and highlighting certain dramatic forms of illuminated elements. In case of trees, plants, or sculptures, we can use the technique of backlighting, that is, a point light placed behind the object, which does not lead directly to the audience, but gives a contrast of light and shade rather subtle.



The lighting of roads and paths of the garden is relatively simple, and has an infinite number of possible variables. In the market we can find light sticks are stuck into the ground, looking at the desired positions, that mark the trail. There are also competitively priced light poles that run through a solar cell, and can be programmed to turn on automatically.

Trailing plant with flowers, Serpol

Trailing plant with flowers, Serpol

It is a perennial plant belonging to the family of Laminaceae, has the scientific name Thymus serpyllum, but is better known as Wild thyme, Thyme from San Juan, grass moon, pastor sauce, thyme bush, thyme or thymus in Catalan.



Size is small with small green leaves, ovate, opposite and linear, is lying or creeping stems, round, fuzzy, can measure 10 to 25 cm tall. Its flowers are small pinkish or purple, rarely white, sometimes grouped in clusters.

It blooms between May and late summer, this plant is very fragrant, some species give off soft aromas reminiscent of lemon or lemon balm. Its essence is used in aromatic baths to ease rheumatism, it is also antiseptic, expectorant and tonic airway.

The plant is tonic, stimulant and antispasmodic, useful in diseases of the nervous, stomach and digestive tract disinfectant. Also prepared as a tea, powder, essence, tincture or drops and given orally in the form of baths, rinses.

The Scindapsus aureus, a plant that purifies the air

The Scindapsus aureus, a plant that purifies the air

The benefits of plants in our environment are unquestionable, both from an attractive view, decorator ... and for our health. These give us moisture to the air, oxygen through photosynthesis function, we encourage positive feelings ... and even purify the air in their leaves retain volatile particles that are suspended in the air.



According to a study by the EPA (Environmental Agency of the United States) demonstrates that "the air indoors can be up to 10 times more polluted than outdoor air." The causes of this depletion in the interior of households are linked to a lack of ventilation, the impact of certain materials used in construction, the very products used in household cleaners, air fresheners, insecticides, pesticides (for flies, cockroaches , mosquitoes), the same appliances, the consumption of snuff, some common household items like carpets, areas whose characteristics cause the creation of mold, etc.

Among the purification plants mentioned in this report is the Scindapsus aureus, also known as Potos and Epipremnum aureum. The Scindapsus aureus sp Epipremnum belongs to the genus within the family of Araceae and is of tropical origin, in exactly the Solomon Islands. This is a classic as an indoor plant for its decorative leaves, which grow on stems in the variants of hanging or climbing, in addition to their enormous power to adapt.



This plant can be found in the market with different presentations. As is commonly marketed hanging plant in tubs with hooks ready to hang with ease. And plant tutor, is presented in a columnar in pots of different sizes according to the heights of the tutor. It is also easy to find them in small pots as a format ideal for enthusiasts who want to start with the development of Scindapsus aureus from the beginning.
Among the cultivated varieties highlights the "Willcoxii" yellow variegation. The "Marble Queen" whiter variegation is not as popular, although it is not uncommon to find in the market. In both cases, when grown with tutor as climbing plants tend to increase the size of its leaves, the opposite occurs when they are left hanging.
Value of some air-purifying plants:

* Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum 'Mauna Loa')
* Chinese evergreen plant (Aglaonema modestum)
* Ficus benjamina
* Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea sefritzii)
* Sword (Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii')
* Heart Philodendron (Philodendron oxycardium, syn. Philodendron cordatum)
* Selloum Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum, syn. Philodendron selloum)
* Elephant ear philodendron (Philodendron domesticum)
* Red-edge Dracaena (Dracaena marginata)
* Corn plant (Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana')
* Dracaena Janet Craig (Dracaena deremensis 'Janet Craig')
* Warneck Dracaena (Dracaena deremensis 'Warneckii')
* Margarita gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii)
* Chrysanthemum (Chrysantheium morifolium)
* Rubber Ficus (Ficus elastica) ...

Some pests for the petunia

Some pests for the petunia

The hybrid Petunias are very hardy once in the garden. But its lush foliage and tender leaves are an 'invitation' to certain pests and diseases.



Petunia hybrid leaves eaten by caterpillars
As for pests, the most common are:

* .- The aphids develop on the tender shoots and flower buds before opening. They are controlled by treatment with systemic insecticides.
* The red spider .- Favored by high temperatures and low relative humidity, from late spring to late summer, are potentially active. They are located on the underside of the leaves and are controlled by treatment with acaricides.
* Caterpillars .- They are actually a large group of species of insects that gnaw at the larval stage leaves much to weaken plants petunias. They are controlled by treatment with systemic or contact insecticides.
* Leafminer .- This is an insect in its larval stages live inside the leaves between the two parenchyma, creating galleries white appearance by devouring the leaf tissue. They are controlled only by treatment with systemic insecticides.
* Snails and slugs .- Mostly active in rainy seasons or over-watering continued. Are controlled by specific insecticide treatments in the form of baits.

As for the diseases, the most common are:

* Botrytis .- may occur at low temperatures and high relative humidity. Podedumbre is a soft and there is a villi following the fruiting of the fungus. Are controlled by specific foliar fungicide treatments.
* Podedumbres stem .- Here you can group together a few diseases such as Sclerotinia, Fusarium or Rhizoctonia. A neck level, the stem turns black and rots. Are controlled by specific fungicide treatments applied in irrigation.
* Podedumbres roots .- It is usually more common in young plants and its main cause is the Phytophthora. Are controlled by specific fungicide treatments applied in irrigation and proactively avoid excess water in irrigation.

Sunflower Learn more

Sunflower Learn more

The sunflower (Helianthus annuus), also called Caloma, halter, marigold, sunflower, tlapololote, corn tile is a herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family, cultivated as an oilseed and ornamental plants worldwide. It owes its common name from the fact that its inflorescence turns throughout the day looking at the sun. The inflorescences grow after a stem that can reach several meters in height and has few leaves. The petals can be yellow, brown, orange and other colors.

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The sunflower is native to the Americas and its cultivation dates back to 1000 BC The earliest evidence indicate that the sunflower was first domesticated in Mexico at least 2600 BC In many Native American cultures, the sunflower was used as a symbol representing the deity of the sun, mainly Aztec and Otomi in Mexico and the Incas in Peru.
Francisco Pizarro found it on Tahuantinsuyo (Peru), where the natives worshiped an image of sunflower as a symbol of their sun god. Gold figures of this flower, and seeds, were taken to Europe in the early sixteenth century.
Helianthus, as it is known scientifically, means "flower that rotates with the sun" in Greek, because of its ability heliotropic.



In Greek mythology there is a water nymph named Clytie, a daughter of the god of the ocean and sea goddess Thetis (titánide). Clytie fell in love with Apollo and watched him daily since he left his palace for the MAN
ana until it reached the west in the afternoon. According to legend, after a few days became a sunflower Clytie and still do not forget the object of his love and follow the sun in its daily journey. Anyway, the word "sunflower" and its cognates existed long before they bring the Helianthus annuus to Europe. Some scholars think that the myth of Clytie, which refers to Ovid's Metamorphoses, actually refers to Heliotropium or Calendula.



The name refers to the flower rotates according to the position of the sun and their training. Plant hormones are those that give positive phototropism of sunflower allow further growth of tissue in one direction, which facilitates the rotation of the plant. Plant hormones control all functions of the plant: growth, fruit ripening, flowering, phototropism, etc.., The best known are the family of auxins (growth and geotropism), gibberellins (cell proliferation), cytokinins (germination and flowering), abscisic acid (lethargy) and ethylene (ripening and flowering). Control of plant hormones is due to the interaction of different factors like the sun, direct light, gravity, heat, the amount of UV rays, or other chemicals related to hormonal or non hormonal.

Pipes or sunflower seeds are usually consumed after a light roast and sometimes slightly salty, are considered very healthy because, as sunflower oil are very rich in dextro α-tocopherol (natural vitamin E) and minerals but you should avoid its intake by young children and can cause choking in them, for their part virgin sunflower oil, but does not possess the qualities of olive oil does have an amount four times more natural vitamin E that olive oil.



The time of sowing for rainfed crop varies with latitude, but it lasts about a month after the start of summer. Planting should be done in rows at 0.70 m, with a density of four plants per linear meter.
It is an undemanding crop in soil type, but prefers sandy clay and rich in organic matter, but it is essential that the soil has good drainage and water table is shallow.
Germination of sunflower seeds depends on the temperature and soil moisture, with the average temperature of 5 ° C for 24 hours.
The depth of sowing is done in function of temperature, humidity and soil type.

* In humid with warm summers and wet with heavy soils, the planting depth is 5-6 cm.
* In areas with dry summers with low humidity and light soils, the planting depth is 7-9 cm.
* If the soil is light and fluffy planting depth is greater, the opposite happens if the soil is heavy

The plants from the planting surface germinate and flower earlier than those from deep sowing.



Some recently developed varieties have heads sagging. These varieties are less attractive to gardeners who raise flowers as decoration, but attractive to farmers because they can reduce damage by birds and plant disease losses.
The sunflower is processed to extract the oil. The flour is left as residue from the extraction of oil serves as food for livestock.

As we must water the plants

As we must water the plants

Watering plants properly is a good way to have them always in good condition. The water we use is very important because through it can absorb the nutrients needed to live and stay healthy.



The ideal water for our plants rainwater, so it is advisable to put it together in Fuentona or buckets and stored in sealed containers for a few days while the plants we used to (if not live in highly polluted areas where usually very acidic rain).

But if you are unable to collect rain water you can use tap water or tap water, but usually much chlorine, the ideal is to fill a pitcher or bucket and leave for a day so the chlorine evaporates .

Insert your fingers into the earth at least an inch, if the wet notes, is not yet time to water the plant.
Believe it or not, the water where you cooked boiled eggs is full of minerals and is an energy drink for your plants.

Another water with great power is that of fertilizer and water tanks in which fish has been thawed.

Plants that have bulbs should be watered from below. This will need to fill a plate, Fuentona or the sink and place the pot in there.
If the area you live in snow, pick up some of that fresh snow and let it melt. After the plants watered with it, the snow water, a large number of minerals.

The water we use to water should always be at room temperature. If we do it with very cold water, could harm our plants.

Like planting a palm tree inside the house

Like planting a palm tree inside the house

The palm trees are in pots, inside the home, need more care than those that are planted directly in soil. We must pay more attention to watering, the fertilizer, the growth (to change the pot), in the light it receives, and so on.



Humidity. As in most households is generally low humidity, the palm can begin to dry (its leaves wither, lose luster and dry on top). In that case we recommend spray the plant with water.

Luz. As in most households the internal light is not much, the plant can suffer the lack of lighting, so it will stop growing and the leaves lose their normal brightness. For that reason it is advised that the palm is always near a window, if this is not possible, can be placed near the same place it near fluorescent lights and white walls.

Irrigation. In the case of palm trees is better to fall short with the water going over. Ideally, watering one or two times in the summer and every 10 or 12 days in the winter. The soil should allow for proper drainage so that water does not accumulate at the bottom of the pot.

Fertilizer. As the palm trees that grow indoors are low, the amount of fertilizer needed is small. This plant prefers slow-acting fertilizer, so not recommended for liquid fertilizers. Should be applied twice a year, once in autumn and the other in spring.


Clean. When leaves containing dust should be cleaned with a damp sponge or hose.

Transplant. To grow faster, the palms should be transplanted into a larger pot every 2 years or so.

Fresh air. Where possible, we recommend removing the palm to the outside (when the tempo is good) and always place them in a sheltered, shaded area.

Medicinal properties of Pie de Leon

Medicinal properties of Pie de Leon

Herbaceous 10-40 cm. Prefers damp, mountain. Alchemia the term as used in various alchemical preparations.

The tannins produce an astringent (antidiarrheal, hemostatic, healing-reepitelizante) and bactericidal salicylic acid, antipyretic and analgesic. It is also diuretic and scar. Flavonoids a regulatory effect of circulation (venotonic, vasoprotective): improves elasticity of the veins and increases capillary resistance, reducing its permeability. It has been shown that flavonoids have an anti-elastase action, which protects the elastic and connective tissues of the action of proteolytic enzymes. Antiatherosclerotic: Alchemilla extracts show experimentally a protective action on LDL fraction to oxidation in a very superior to that produced by alpha-tocopherol.




Indicated for diarrhea, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, phlebitis, metrorrhagia. Flu, colds. States in which requires an increase of diuresis: urinary disorders (cystitis, ureteritis urethritis, oliguria, urolithiasis), hyper, hyperuricemia, gout, hypertension, edema, overweight accompanied by fluid retention. Dysmenorrhea. In topical use: wounds, Periodontal disease, sore throat, wounds, skin and corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, dermatitis, rashes, stretch marks, itching, vulvovaginitis, bleeding postafeitado (lotion).

Contraindicated with gastritis, peptic ulcer disease.
Tannins can be irritating to the digestive mucosa. To alleviate it can be prescribed in the form of capsules or tablets or drug-related enteric demulcent such as marshmallow.
Its use as a diuretic in hypertension, heart disease or moderate or severe renal insufficiency, should be done only by prescription and under medical supervision, with the potential danger of uncontrolled fluid intake, the possibility that there is a tension imbalance.

Type of Ficus, Ficus Robusta

Type of Ficus, Ficus Robusta

The Ficus robusta is the second most popular houseplant after Ficus benjamina. It belongs to the Moraceae family and is native to tropical Asia ... native to northeastern India (Asthma), southern Indonesia (Sumatra and Java). Was introduced in Europe as an indoor plant in 1815. Its scientific name is Ficus elastic, citing his term 'resilient' to the rubber, because it was obtained rubber.



It is popularly known as Ficus robusta, the variety name threw popularly marketed as indoor ornamental plant. Other popular names are "rubber tree ',' gum ',' big-leaf ficus', 'Rubber tree', 'decorative ficus',' Gum Tree ',' fig tree rubber ', etc.



In its adult stage, the Ficus robusta is a large canopy tree, evergreen and reaches a great height, exceeding the 15 meters with ease and in relative short time (known heights of up to 40 meters). Its trunk is very thick and highly branched from near the base. This contrasts with the robustness of weakness in the wood as it can easily break during the days of strong wind if their branches are less protected.



Ficus robusta leaves are alternate, elliptic, leathery, dark green or almost red depending on variety (green, bronze and variegated) in the beam and slightly lighter color on the underside. Its size can be up to 30 inches long, attached to the branch with a petiole about 5 cm. Include developing buds, because their young leaves, before opening, are involved in a long stipule reddish or pink color.



The fruits have no ornamental value and appear only after several years of age. These are spherical with a diameter of just over an inch and a smooth, greenish dots.

As indoor ornamental Ficus robusta, only commercialized in its youngest state, either as a single individual plant or branched stem and a set of various plants is also a single stem or branching each. Everything depends on the size and the exemplary desired.

The Lotus Flower

The Lotus Flower

The Lotus is a very unique plant, although it should very well know what species it is, because under the word 'Lotus', there are several species which have nothing to do flowers and appearance of the plant.




Similarly, it is very common to confuse the concept of 'Lotus' and 'Lotus' ... and as a direct result ... what plant we mean when we use them. Lotus flower When we say we are talking about a flower garden plant used a lot in rock gardens, whereas when we speak of 'lotus', we refer to an aquatic plant such as water lilies ....



In this case, we refer specifically to the Lotus flower. And within them there are several species such as berthelotii Lotus, Lotus maculatus, and Lotus tetragonolobus Lotus corniculata for example. Of these, the Lotus and Lotus maculatus berthelotii are commonly used in gardens, mostly in the Mediterranean and in the form of seed beads.



In full bloom, when it is abundant, the forms and the appearance of Lotus flowers convey a visual spectacle as if the plant was in flames.

The Almond Blossom

The Almond Blossom

Of all the fruit of the garden the first to bloom is the almond tree. With it, the feeling that starts at the end of the winter is a reality and it's always nice to see these flowers on a sunny day in the countryside.



The Almond originating in the mountainous regions of Central Asia and is cultivated in Spain for over 2,000 years. Its botanical name is Prunus amygdalus and belongs to the family of lasRosáceas.



Their roots make it up a few more in diameter, that develop in breadth and depth and the subsequent ramifications emerging root system forming a high-volume and length. As for the trunk is smooth in youth, becoming cracked with time. When the tree is young the bark is green ... turning brown and gray as the tree becomes an adult.



Technically, the almond has different fruiting bodies that are called with names like 'mixed bouquets', 'the chiffon' and 'May bouquets', these are the most important since they have buds solitary.



Almond leaves are bright green, lanceolate shaped, long, narrow and pointed. And the flowers have five sepals and five petals, these colors varying from white and pink. As the fruit is technically a drupe hard shell usually with a single seed, which is edible and which has two integuments surround.
Anecdotally, the almond is a self-incompatible species, and therefore requires cross-pollination. So, first be placed pollinators for greater fruit set and the other ... the work of the bees is essential.