crops http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for crops Copyright 2008 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 03:18:38 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/crops Agricultural Jobs - Changing Opportunities http://www.artwoo.com/article/agricultural-jobs-changing-opportunities http://www.artwoo.com/article/agricultural-jobs-changing-opportunities#comments Mon, 11 Dec 2006 14:27:03 +0000 cropsleaps and boundsglobal positioning systemsnew jobshelped farmersbiotechnology fieldagricultural jobs http://www.artwoo.com/article/agricultural-jobs-changing-opportunities leaps and bounds since that time, and now the agricultural job market can be very rewarding. Many of the new available these days deal with the new types of technology that are required to produce the that America demands. The days of a family working their land by hand and producing a small amount of crops is over. Now many large plantations are run by huge corporations that capitalize on many of the new emerging technologies to harvest a larger amount of crops in a shorter period of time. If you would like to get one of these new types of jobs in the agricultural industry, then you will need to make sure that you stay on top of the new technologies available.

Many of these in the agricultural field have embraced these new technologies. Two of the new technologies that have created many new jobs in the agricultural industry are (GPS), and biotechnology. The GPS systems have really enhanced the ability for farmers to seed and harvest their crops in the best way possible. They can make sure that they position all of their crops exactly where they want them to be for them to be the most productive. The has really helped the agricultural industry, because many new innovations have allowed better and safer fertilizers to be used on crops. Biotechnology has also to better understand what helps to make their crops better. Both of these new technologies are very interesting and offer many new opportunities. The agricultural industry still requires quite a bit of hard work to bring in a good crop, but now many people can take advantage of these improvements to make the industry a much better experience. Find Agriculture Jobs at http://www.land-force.com/ ]]> Money Management Is Like Farming http://www.artwoo.com/article/money-management-is-like-farming http://www.artwoo.com/article/money-management-is-like-farming#comments Fri, 01 Dec 2006 04:27:22 +0000 thom hartmanncropsmoney managersmoney managementfarmersscarecrowsadhd http://www.artwoo.com/article/money-management-is-like-farming Thom Hartmann's books about he compares people with ADHD to hunters and people who do not have ADHD to . While many adults with ADD would not make good farmers or , it is still important to know how to grow your own food and to grow your own money. If you have other people who are helping you to grow your money you still need to understand if they are doing it properly. There are four basic areas that you need to understand before you can properly farm or properly manage money.

1. CAN I GROW IT?, HOW DO I GROW IT?, WHAT DO I NEED TO GROW IT? Before a farmer decides to grow a crop he needs to understand what everything about the crop (How much sunlight does the crop need? What type of climate does the crop need? How much water does the crop need? How deep do you plant the seeds? What kind of soil does the crop grow best in? What do I need in order to harvest it efficiently? etc.) If you do not understand and properly answer these questions you will not be able to grow a crop. If you do not have a basic understanding of you will not be able to increase your wealth.

2. CAN I SURVIVE THE WINTER AND PLANT NEXT YEARS CROP? In order to be able to survive and plant next year's crop you need to properly save a portion of this year's crop. If you don't save money you will not have money when you need it, nor will you be able to grow your money in the future.

3. CAN I GROW MORE NEXT YEAR? If you survive the winter and properly prepare for next year, you should be able to grow more crops than last year. In order to grow your money you need to be able to save if and invest it properly.

4. CAN I PROTECT MY CROPS FROM OUTSIDE ELEMENTS? While it is impossible to figure out when outside elements will destroy your crops, farmers use different methods to protect their crops. Farmers use fences, heaters, greenhouses, and pesticides to help protect their crops from outside elements. In order to protect our finances we use insurance. If you do not have the proper insurance you will not be protected from outside elements. For example a scarecrow might scare away the birds from eating at your crops but they will do nothing against the insects that are eating your crops. John MacKenzie is the Assistant Director of http://www.addclasses.com, he also writes a blog titled http://www.adultaddandmoney.com. ]]> Harvesting and Drying Sunflowers http://www.artwoo.com/article/harvesting-and-drying-sunflowers http://www.artwoo.com/article/harvesting-and-drying-sunflowers#comments Sun, 02 Nov 2008 02:36:28 +0000 mildew moldsunflower cropsprofessional growersearly harvesthigh temperaturesenergy expensessunflowers http://www.artwoo.com/article/harvesting-and-drying-sunflowers sunflowers than many realize. How soon you decide to harvest them will depend largely on energy costs, temperatures, and whether you prefer them to dry naturally. Ideally, your sunflowers won't be exposed to insects and diseases, and the temperature will be warm enough to allow them to dry on the stem. However, those circumstances are rare. In reality, most crops will be vulnerable to some level of pests and diseases. And depending upon where you live, the temperature can cause your sunflowers to freeze.

In this article, I'll explain some of the benefits of harvesting your sunflowers early. I'll also describe how they're dried and why the moisture in the air can affect your crops.

Benefits Of Harvesting Early

With escalating, you might think that allowing your sunflowers to dry naturally is a good idea. But, there are plenty of reasons why you should consider harvesting them early. First, if the temperature is close to freezing during the evenings, your are not actually drying. The moisture is being sealed inside. But, even if you're not growing your sunflowers in freezing temperatures, there are still many advantages to an .

For example, the weather can often be harsh for sunflowers. Rain and strong winds can pummel your crops and prevent them from drying properly. Also, keep in mind that the longer you allow your crops to stay outside, the more vulnerable they'll be to insects, birds, and other pests. What's more, they're more susceptible to mildew, mold, and diseases.

Sunflowers also have to cope with weeds, which can become a problem if they're not managed. You can use chemicals to control them, but their effectiveness is often limited, depending upon the weather and soil. If you own a high-power dryer that can output , consider an early harvest to dry them yourself.

Temperature And Moisture

There are many places where the air has increased capacity to hold moisture during the harvest season (for example, South and North Dakota). When this is the case, your crops will dry more quickly. Sunflowers, because of their ability to take advantage of past crops' residual fertility, can be especially resilient in this type of weather. And the higher the temperature, the more capacity for moisture the air has. In that case, you might be able to allow your sunflowers to dry on the stem a little longer. Of course, you'll still need to be vigilant about protecting them from critters, insects, and weeds.

Harvesting Your Sunflowers

Years ago, growers harvested their sunflowers when the backs of the heads began to turn brown. However, many crops today come from hybrids and should actually be harvested when the heads are still yellow.

When your crops have a seed moisture of about 35%, you should consider harvesting them. You can actually wait until the moisture level is approximately 12%, but you'll run the risk of a fire in your combine. This is another benefit of an early harvest. The damper the seeds, the less likely a combine fire will occur. Plus, damp seeds are less likely to break apart while threshing. When the seed moisture is around 10%, there's far more breakage.

Even though letting your sunflowers dry naturally tends to cost less and be lower maintenance, it's no longer always the best choice. Today, the combines and high-temperature dryers we use allow us to harvest early and thereby further protect our crops from insects, disease and bad weather.This sunflower information is brought to you by The Sunflower Guy, the best way to send a bouquet of sunflowers anywhere.]]> Planting A Vegetable Garden http://www.artwoo.com/article/planting-a-vegetable-garden http://www.artwoo.com/article/planting-a-vegetable-garden#comments Mon, 21 Aug 2006 22:27:15 +0000 planting a vegetable gardensoilvegetable gardeningplanting seedsplantslocaltrellises http://www.artwoo.com/article/planting-a-vegetable-garden Planting a vegetable garden at home can be fun, economical, and educational, but it can also be quite frustrating if you don't do some planning and preparation. Here are some ideas to get you started, check with your Cooperative Extension for more tips.

First you should plan out your garden. One thing you will want to consider for a home vegetable garden is sunlight. Vegetable crops need a lot of sun, about six hours of full sunlight a day. For convenience, placing your garden near your water source, and near your house are good ideas as well, if possible. Draw a chart of your garden and plan out what crops will go where. If this is your first try at , it is a good idea to start small so you can see how much time and work it will require. Plant crops that your family really likes in quantities that will be manageable to grow and use.

If you want good crops, you need good . Preparing your garden bed is the next step to a successful garden. Some preparation in the fall, like tilling, or loosening up the soil, will make it easier to get ready in the spring and will allow you to start some out earlier. For optimal results, have your soil tested to see if it is acidic, what nutrients it has, etc. This will help you decide how and how much to fertilize your garden. If you don't want to have your soil tested, ask the local gardening or seed store about local conditions. They should be able to give you a good idea of what is typical in your area. When you fertilize, pay close attention to recommended amounts and ratios of fertilizer to soil or size of your garden bed. Too much fertilizer will burn and kill your plants.

Now you can lay out your garden. Use stakes and string to create straight rows so you will know where your seeds are before they come up. Put up wire hoops or for tomatoes, beans, and other plants that climb. Make soil mounds for tender vine crops like cucumbers and pumpkins. Whether you are or plants that you have purchased or started indoors, make sure that you leave enough space between plants so they can get adequate sunlight, and not be competing with their neighbors for water and soil nutrients.

With a little forethought, you can end up with an enjoyable hobby that feeds your family, too! Jena Luthowski writes about http://www.HomeGardenCoupons.com/, http://www.homegardencoupons.com/Categories/Apple%20Trees.html and http://www.SimplyBestCoupons.com ]]> Risk Reduction For Crop Protection http://www.artwoo.com/article/risk-reduction-for-crop-protection http://www.artwoo.com/article/risk-reduction-for-crop-protection#comments Tue, 13 Jun 2006 03:32:03 +0000 chemical fertilizersweather conditionsfarm bureau insurancehorse insurancefarm insurancecrop diseasesprice http://www.artwoo.com/article/risk-reduction-for-crop-protection farm bureau insurance, , farm auto insurance, or , there are risks you must be sure to protect your property against. It is likely that most farm insurance companies cover these risks but it could never hurt anybody to be sure and know how losses posed by these risks are determined and prevented.

In choosing farm bureau insurance, farm insurance, farm auto insurance, or horse insurance, keep in mind these risks and how to prevent them. Production risks are generally considered as risks stemming from , pests, , technology malfunction, genetics, and the kind of the seeds, pesticides, and fertilizers used. To prevent losses due to production risks, crop variation is recommended. This could mean planting different crops in one season or raising livestock and crops together. This is an expensive risk reducing method because this would require greater capital and investment. However, in the long run, greater savings can be had from opting for this risk prevention method. An economical method is to use technology to your advantage. Use genetically altered crop seeds for a bigger crop yield. In addition, this method controls the growth of weeds and improves the crops' resistance to pests and diseases. Pesticides and are to be used only as directed because they could strip your land off its nutrients. Crop insurance is also a good option though it is offered only at private insurance companies. Marketing risks are also to be thought of considering the increasingly competitive market. To develop an effective marketing plan, it is important to assess the demand and the supply of your crops. Research crop s and price your crops competitively. This does not mean that you lower your price but to include production and transportation costs, and market price in placing value on your crops. An efficient marketing plan can ensure a consumer base for your crop, thereby reducing risks of crop rot and low income returns.

Traditionally, agriculture insurance is multi-peril, which means that it covers marketing and production risks. Multi-peril insurance basically involves compensation to the farmer for shortcomings like a lower yield than what the policy requires. In some cases, this spawned improper insurance use which led to unnecessary risk taking like planting crops in inappropriate locations. This increases the growers' risk of incurring losses. Farm bureau insurance, farm insurance, farm auto insurance, and crop insurance can save you from losses but no agency would offer you insurance if you are extremely high-risk. It is therefore important to undertake risk reduction methods such as those mentioned above to prevent losses in the future. For more valuable information on farm bureau insurance, please visit http://www.farminsurances.com ]]> Fall Vegetable Gardening http://www.artwoo.com/article/fall-vegetable-gardening http://www.artwoo.com/article/fall-vegetable-gardening#comments Wed, 20 Aug 2008 03:08:23 +0000 brussels sproutsorganic mulchcompost pilechinese cabbagepeak flavorvictory gardensworld war ii http://www.artwoo.com/article/fall-vegetable-gardening victory gardens of provided 40% of the country's food supply, proving that we can make a difference.

It is hard to think about planting more vegetables at a time when fresh produce is so abundant in our garden, but late July and early September are good times to plant cool weather crops. Fall plants such as broccoli and cauliflower usually taste better when grown in the cooler weather, while others such as kale and Swiss chard reach their after the first frost.

Fall planting requires less work because the soil was worked up in the spring, so a light cultivation is usually all that is needed after removing all the previous crop waste. Place the debris into your after being sure to remove any diseased vegetation, Top dress the garden with some compost or and work it into your soil. Then you can proceed to plant according to recommended methods.

Examples of good fall plants are: broccoli, , , endive, kale, lettuce, parsnips, peas, potatoes, radishes, mustard and spinach. Do not plant the same crops back in the exact same place, but rotate your crops to reduce potential disease problems.

It is a good idea to consult with your local garden center or your local county extension service for advice on correct planting times for your growing zone.

As the fall season nears, protection for these crops has to be considered. One method is to cover the crops with sheets, plastic sheeting, or mulch which will trap the radiated heat from the ground and raise the temperature enough to protect them from a light frost.

Some crops such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kohlrabi, potatoes, Swiss chard, Chinese cabbage and kale are not affected by frost or even moderate freezes and can be left in the garden until the hard freezes set in. Root crops such as beets, carrots, parsnips and turnips can be re-mulched, left in the garden and dug up as needed.

If a hard freeze is predicted, pick the green mature tomatoes or pull the entire plants.

Store them in a dry cool (65 degree) place where they will ripen in about two weeks. Delicate plants such as squash, peppers and eggplant should be harvested and stored in a comparable location as the tomatoes.

After harvesting and while the weather is still pleasant, many chores can be accomplished in anticipation of spring and next year's garden. Cleaning up garden refuse, adding soil amendments to your plot and making a planting plan of your garden to decide how you want to rotate your crops while this year's garden is still fresh in your mind, are just three jobs to get out of the way.

Now you can kick back in your easy chair, read the seed catalogs and dream of those prize winning vegetables you are going to raise.Dick Murray loves to write about growing fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables and has created an information packed web site web site dedicated to gardening basics and designed for families who care about their food supply..]]> Ethanol As An Alternative http://www.artwoo.com/article/ethanol-as-an-alternative http://www.artwoo.com/article/ethanol-as-an-alternative#comments Mon, 19 Jun 2006 18:32:10 +0000 ethanol fuelfuel ethanolfossil fuelscorn farmsunited statesgas pricesregular fuel http://www.artwoo.com/article/ethanol-as-an-alternative Ethanol fuel is changing our lives and changing the economy in ways no one anticipated before, with energy costs rising every day, there has been an increased interest in ethanol fuel. Ethanol is a variety of alcohol that can be produced in a natural fashion, similar to the way in which alcoholic beverages are produced. Ethanol can be used by itself in some specially designed vehicles, but it can also be used as a fuel additive, stretching traditional fuels in times of economic or environmental hardship. Ethanol is used today by more people ever before, simply because of the cheap alternative to the soaring .

Using ethanol fuel as an alternative to gas does require motorists to get a special ethanol kit and install it in their cars, but since gas prices have been unstable in the last years many people feel that making that kind of investment will prove financially profitable in the future.

Ethanol fuel that is derived from crops has advantages over traditional . The ethanol fuel is obtained from the sugars and starches in crops like corn and grains. It also burns cleaner than petroleum based fuels due to its chemical composition, alleviating some of the strain placed on the environment by exhaust emissions. The increased consumption of corn for ethanol use has already started to affect the projections of yearly crops.

Blended ethanol fuel has proven to be an effective source of energy for several parts of the country, as well as other parts of the globe. E10 is a typical mixture. It is common in the Midwestern . Many other countries around the world start to consider using ethanol instead of , Denmark for example, has also begun using this type of ethanol fuel. It appears to be doing well, though its use is not as extensive as many of its proponents had hoped it would be. There is still a long way for ethanol to become a natural option for fuel, the United States had used ethanol fuel for less than one percent of its gasoline needs in the year 2002.

The other big issue surrounding ethanol is the environmental issue, it is still not absolutely clear that ethanol is in fact environment friendly, and whether the environmental aspects of ethanol fuel are as good as they have been previously described by the supporters of ethanol fuel use. The growing concern is that while the use of ethanol by itself may be good for the environment, the resources and work done to provide the production of the ethanol could be potentially dangerous for the forests, rainforests and areas where the corn and other ethanol producing resources are being grown. While it is true that the fuel can be made from renewable resources there is evidence that some rainforests are actually being cleared to make space for crops that are used in the production of ethanol. As the controversy regarding the production of ethanol and its dangers, it is very clear that this alternative source of energy is becoming more and more popular. Simon Oldmann is an avid writer and a green activist, he has been writing about Ethanol use since the growing popularity of Ethanol these last years, Simon writes for http://ethanol.zupatips.com ]]> Your Vegetables May Be Laced With Antibiotics http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-vegetables-may-be-laced-with-antibiotics http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-vegetables-may-be-laced-with-antibiotics#comments Mon, 05 Nov 2007 19:15:00 +0000 antibioticsanimals and plantsanimal manuresoilfeeding animalshuman consumptioncrops http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-vegetables-may-be-laced-with-antibiotics antibiotics. Recent studies have shown that some vegetables absorb the antibiotic chemicals from the they are grown in. Why? .

In our vast food chain, it seems that we have come across the ultimate irony. Humans are now being punished by their own attempts to optimize the animal and plant food industries. Instead of people being superior to in the food chain, we're now being "kicked in the pants," so to speak.

Here's the explanation: Animals raised for are often fed antibiotics in order to make them stronger and larger, making them more marketable animals, according to the Journal of Environmental Quality's report on antibiotic infused . In raising these animals, their manure is also collected to be used for soil in raising crops. This manure, used as soil, has now been found to transfer the antibiotics put in the animal feed to the very plants that grow in this soil. In other words, by antibiotics to capitalize on the market, we are actual introducing a potential danger in human consumption.

Devastated reactions have come from slow food movements, driving home the point that it is important to know where your food comes from. If you have an allergy to certain antibiotics, it could be very dangerous to consume a potato laced with antibiotics. But, with the way America sells its food in grocery stores, it would be hard to know, wouldn't it? Not only is it hard to figure out which crops have these problems, but it is known that animal manure is very commonly used as soil across the world.

So far, the animal antibiotics have been found in such foods as corn, lettuce, and potatoes. Potatoes have been found to have the highest amounts of these antibiotics because its actual food closely encounters the soil. Actual dangerous effects of this problem have not yet been fully analyzed. In the meantime, it has been advised by study conductors that those with allergies to any sort of antibiotics should be careful.

For more information, visit: Journal of Environmental Quality Slashfood Environment News Service Hillary Marshak is a writer and editor for http://Recipe4Living.com, an up and coming recipe sharing Website. For more articles like this, or for a large collection of recipes, visit the site at http://www.Recipe4Living.com. ]]> Planting, Fertilizing, And Protecting Sunflowers http://www.artwoo.com/article/planting-fertilizing-and-protecting-sunflowers http://www.artwoo.com/article/planting-fertilizing-and-protecting-sunflowers#comments Sun, 02 Nov 2008 02:29:28 +0000 planting sunflowerscrop acreagenecessary nutrientssunflower headsseed rateprofessional growersrule of thumb http://www.artwoo.com/article/planting-fertilizing-and-protecting-sunflowers professional growers are still discovering new methods for increasing output and improving the overall quality of the crop. Plus, as new uses for the byproducts of sunflowers (seeds, oil, etc.) are developed, the has increased. Today, nearly 3 million acres are cultivated annually in the U.S. alone.

Below, I'll describe how to plant sunflowers to ensure your crop, large or small, maintains its quality. I'll also provide a few tips for fertilizing and protecting your crop while it grows.

Planting Your Sunflowers

Sunflower crops can usually be planted as early as April, though many farmers wait for May when the weather is warmer. The higher temperatures allows for quicker drying and an earlier harvest. When you're , keep in mind that the crop output (in seeds) is often inversely correlated to (or, plants per acre). In other words, tend to produce larger quantities of seeds when the crop is thin. As a , plan to have approximately 20,000 seeds per acre. Also, the wider the rows, the more easily you can manage the weeds.

The sunflowers should be planted approximately 1 1/2 inches deep once the soil is warm enough (at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit). In some locations, this can require waiting until May, when higher temperatures are prevalent. One quick note: sunflowers are more vulnerable to birds later in the season. The earlier they're planted, the earlier they can be harvested, limiting the damage potential.

Fertilizing Your Crop

Sunflowers are normally resilient crops as long as they have a source of . These include potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. If these nutrients are not plentiful in the soil, you'll need to use a fertilizer to supply them. Your crops will respond best to the fertilizers when the soil is lacking in sufficient nutrients and the weeds are actively managed.

Most fertilizers will have a series of ratings on the packaging (for example, 20-20-10). These ratings are referred to as the "analysis" of the fertilizer. They represent the percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium that are found within it. A solution with a 10-15-10 analysis should be sufficient for small crops planted in late April or early May.

Protecting Your Sunflowers

There are a number of things that can impact your crop and cause damage, including weeds, insects, and disease. Weeds are an issue and should be controlled, but the size and aggressiveness of sunflowers make weeds less of a problem than insects and disease. In many locations, the crop may attract large numbers of cutworms and grasshoppers in its earliest stages of growth. But, the real problem occurs when the sunflowers' heads begin to grow. Insects often attack the portion of the stem located directly below the heads. Fortunately, you can use one of several types of effective insecticides to protect the stems and heads.

There are a few dozen diseases that can impact your sunflowers, though your crops are most susceptible to fungi (during the early stages), sclerotinia, and bacteria. One of the best ways to prevent the spread of disease through your sunflowers is to follow proper rotation methods and limit cultivating the crops in the same soil to once every 3 years.

It's likely that sunflower acreage will continue to increase as the world pursues further development of the crop as a multi-use natural resource. To maintain optimum crop output while preventing damage from insects and disease, follow the advice provided above. Over time, planting, fertilizing, and protection methods will probably change. As they do, professional sunflower growers will need to adapt.This sunflower information is brought to you by The Sunflower Guy, the best way to send a bouquet of sunflowers anywhere.]]> Grow Your Own Organic Vegetable Garden http://www.artwoo.com/article/grow-your-own-organic-vegetable-garden http://www.artwoo.com/article/grow-your-own-organic-vegetable-garden#comments Fri, 02 Jun 2006 09:32:03 +0000 chemical fertilizersorganic vegetable gardengm cropsvitamins and mineralsmanurepesticidespots http://www.artwoo.com/article/grow-your-own-organic-vegetable-garden
Here are some of the main features of organic growing:

- Organic growing severely restricts the use of artificial and . - Instead, organic growers rely on developing a healthy, fertile soil and growing a mixture of crops. - Genetically modified (GM) crops and ingredients are not allowed under organic standards.

Going organic may mean that you have to make a trade-off between glossy, same same supermarket looks with better tasting crops that aren't perfect in shape or size, but many gardeners think this is a price worth paying. You'll be able to grow different crops that are always relatively expensive to buy in supermarkets and at farmers markets and, growing your own vegetables is both fun and rewarding.

Among the many things an may offer towards a satisfying experience are fresh air, exercise, sunshine, knowledge, supplemental income, mental therapy, and fresh food, rich in , harvested at the best stage of maturity.

You can easily make compost from garden and kitchen waste, although this is a bit more time consuming, you will also make cost savings, because you do not need to buy costly chemical fertilizers and pesticides with organic gardening.

Where animal s are available, they are probably the best source of fertilizer and organic matter for the organic gardener. Use manure which has been aged for at least 30 days if possible, or composted. I am often out in the road if any horses have gone past gathering the manure for the garden. Its looks a bit odd to the teenagers on the street but the dung is worth it!

If you have space for a few , or a small space in the garden or even an allotment, it is a wise decision to grow your own organic vegetable garden. To better care for your health, grow your own organic vegetables -and a few pots is all you need at a minimum.

If you have a surplus you can sell these and you will be contributing to the 'go local' food movement which is flourishing -- over 15% of people buy organic food locally and this number continues to rise as the number of farmer's markets, box schemes, cafes and restaurants serving organic food increase. GuideMeGreen helps you to find locally produced foods which are fresher, healthier and more economical. It cuts down on transport costs and 'food miles' where an average shopping basket can include fruit and vegetables transported from all over the world. Even in the UK or USA food is transported from the farm, to the packing centre, then to distribution centre before arriving at the supermarket to be bought which is then transported by car home! David Oglaza is the founder of the Green and Ethical business http://www.guidemegreen.com This growing green resource lists 100s of Organic, Fairtrade, Eco and Ethical companies. We even have Green jobs and a Green Forum! ]]> Organic Baby Clothing for the Safest Clothing Line http://www.artwoo.com/article/organic-baby-clothing-for-the-safest-clothing-line http://www.artwoo.com/article/organic-baby-clothing-for-the-safest-clothing-line#comments Tue, 25 Nov 2008 22:23:10 +0000 organic baby clothesorganic baby clothingartificial fertilizersharmful pestsharmful pesticidesorganic fiberssynthetic fertilizers http://www.artwoo.com/article/organic-baby-clothing-for-the-safest-clothing-line Organic baby clothing is the best option for parents who wants only the best for their babies. It is the popular choice of clothing line for babies nowadays. are products that are usually associated with being environmental friendly. The baby clothes are guaranteed to come from that are grown from natural control only and definitely without chemicals or artificial pesticides.

Naturally Grown Crops

Although most of us are already conscious of the benefits and advantages of choosing organic food, only a few are aware that what we wear, especially what our babies wear, consumes the highest amount of pesticides. The fibers grown from crops that are used in making our clothes and other household materials are developed using fertilizers and pesticides. With one third of a pound of these chemicals, it is believed to grow cotton more than enough for one shirt. Just imagine if you make your babies wear clothes other than organic baby clothing, it is like you are making them absorb all the chemicals used during the growth of the crop.



Letting your baby wear organic baby clothing is the best thing to do. The fibers used in organic baby clothes are 100 percent free from harmful pesticides. Artificial pesticides are used on crops to drive away . Using pesticides does not only affect the consumers of the crops but also the nearby non-farming communities. People are poisoned with the invisible and odorless poison these pesticides emit. that are drifting though the ocean environments are the reason for its dead zone area. With the continuous use of and pesticides, more farmland and farm workers and oceans are being polluted.

The Safest Alternative

We see the environment today as the environment newborn babies are going to live in. And as parents and adults, we only want these children to have the best that life can ever give. One of the basic essentials of human is the clothing. And even if it is the common needs of each individual, it is only right to get clothes that are safest and finest like organic baby clothing. But let us not focus on babies alone, using organic baby clothes should not only be for babies and kids. Even adults and especially mothers are encouraged to go organic. When the mother starts to nurse their babies, the risk of getting pesticide poisoning also begins. There have been various studies showing that infants are exposed to harmful chemicals even before being born. Pesticides and other harmful chemicals are believed to be the primary cause of increase in cancer risk and decrease in fertility and can also affect adversely the nervous system.

With the obvious risk of artificially grown fibers, there is no reason why you should not choose organic baby clothing. Get them at Pure and Honest Kids and protect your children from all the risks these pesticides can give them. Browse from their various selection and be content knowing that you are making the right move.Organic Baby Clothing is the safest possible clothing you could put against your child's skin. Recommended by mothers at Pure and Honest Kids - http://www.pureandhonestkids.com - Organic Baby Clothes are the way to go.]]> Rainwater Harvests And Rain Containers Save You Money While You Conserve Resources http://www.artwoo.com/article/rainwater-harvests-and-rain-containers-save-you-money-while-you-conserve-resources http://www.artwoo.com/article/rainwater-harvests-and-rain-containers-save-you-money-while-you-conserve-resources#comments Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:24:59 +0000 rainwater catchment systemrainwater harvestingwater cropsrain harvestinganimal consumptionsources of potable waterhuman population http://www.artwoo.com/article/rainwater-harvests-and-rain-containers-save-you-money-while-you-conserve-resources Rainwater harvesting put simply means collecting and storing rain for future use. Uses depends on how far you go in purifying and cleaning the water, but could range from turning it into fully drinkable water to using it for cleaning and bathing to using it to in a drought. The most common form of is a rooftop system, where runoff is directed into rainwater containers or tanks.

A close cousin of rainwater harvesting is called "groundwater recycling". These systems also recycle rainwater but usually in order to concentrate it in a single area, like where crops are to be grown. This is also referred to as "groundwater recycling" and is common where wells provide enough water for the people and animals, but are strained to meet the needs of crops or other vegetation. The term for changing groundwater into a drinkable form is called "groundwater recharging", and it is particularly common in areas that have rainy seasons.

Rainwater harvesting can provide water for human and while at the same time reducing water bills, decreasing the costs of distribution, providing valuable reserves during times of drought, and saving some land that would otherwise have to be used for reservoirs. This can be vitally important in parts of the world where rain is scarce or the population is high, but in almost any area rainwater harvests can reduce costs and the strain on natural resources.

Rainwater harvests got their start in dessert or at least semi-arid locations. People in these areas often had limited, expensive, or strained access to regular sources of "potable" water. In these areas, provided drinking water, water for bathing and cleaning, water for livestock and pets, and of course irrigation and groundwater for crops and plants. The technology was developed and perfected out of need, but can now be more generally used. In fact, rainwater harvesting has now become more and more common in areas where the has outstripped natural resources.

Rainwater harvested from roofs can contain impurities picked up from the roof itself. In addition, some natural rain contains pesticides and other contaminants. Therefore, sometimes the water in rainwater tanks or containers has to be purified before it is to be used as drinking water, and this can be done through boiling, filtering, or through the use of additives like chlorine. Rainwater purification can also be done earlier in the process, quite simply by having filters in the tubing that directs the water into the storage tanks.

Rain collection systems are inexpensive, and can be built into structures so they are barely visible. Rainwater tanks or containers can be buried in the ground or located in a basement, again, invisible but highly useful. Rooftop systems can be made virtually invisible from ground level though sometimes they can be made to be aesthetically pleasing by choice. Look into rainwater harvests =96 it could save you money, help you reduce your impact on our environment, and bring you a stream of fresh water each day. For more information about rainwater harvests or rain harvesting, please go to http://www.rainwaterharvests.com. For information about rainwater tanks and containers, please go to http://www.rainwatercontainers.com ]]> Why Our Fruit and Vegetables Are Running On Empty http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-our-fruit-vegetables-are-running-on-empty http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-our-fruit-vegetables-are-running-on-empty#comments Mon, 07 May 2007 10:19:59 +0000 nutritional supplementsapple a dayfruit and vegetablesnutrientssoil organismsfarmlandnutritional goodness http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-our-fruit-vegetables-are-running-on-empty nutritional supplements. Although an may keep the doctor away, this truism depends on the we're sold being packed full of minerals, vitamins and fiber. Years ago this would have been true, but no longer. The last 50 years has seen a decline in the vitamin and nutrient content of freshly farmed food, meaning many people may need nutritional supplements to top up. It is certainly true that the storage methods and transportation techniques knock a lot of the goodness out of America's "fresh" produce, meaning what we buy in the store has less vitamin content than when it was harvested. However, research shows that even freshly picked fruit is vitamin deficient compared to those eaten by our grandparents. What's going on? Where is the nation's vitamin, mineral and going? And what impact does this have on our health?

Poisoned Ground

"Healthy soil produces healthy food, which in turn makes healthy people." For fruit and vegetables to produce the vitamins, minerals and needed for our good health, they must take most of them from the ground. However modern farming techniques are, for a number of reasons, reducing vitamin content, reducing our health, and increasing the need for nutritional supplements.

One thing is certain, the amount of nutrients in US has not increased over the years, but the number of crops per square mile has. Therefore each fruit and vegetable grown is getting less of its fair share of nutrients, and is less able to produce the vitamins we need for optimum health. If this weren't bad enough, the amount of nutrients in US farmland has actually decreased over the years. Crops rely on to pre-digest minerals for them - a kind of natural nutritional supplement for the plant world. These helpful microbes are often absent in modern farmland, due to the condition of the soil and the destructive chemicals used in farming. Pesticides, insecticides, nematicides, biocides and other nasty sounding chemicals are used by farmers to kill animal pests that destroy crops. However, what is poisonous for pests is often also poisonous for the soil's helpful microbes. The plant's nutritional supplements are destroyed, meaning you have to take them instead.

According to a research there is a drastic reduction in vitamin and mineral content of fruits and vegetables grown using chemical farming methods when compared to organic (no pesticides, non-intensive) farming methods. Figures showed a 30% reduction of calcium content, 32% reduction in iron content, 21% reduction in magnesium, 11% for phosphorus, and 6% for potassium in crops grown using modern farming methods compared to organic ways. That's a 30% shortfall of calcium that needs replacing with nutritional supplements - or by buying organic produce. Yet organic produce is not as widely available, and certainly not as cheap as nutritional supplements, so for the moment this remains the preferred option to dealing with vitamin deficient fruit and vegetables.

"Healthy soil produces healthy food, which in turn makes healthy people." If this is true, then modern farming methods produce unhealthy soil, which produces unhealthy food, and in turn makes unhealthy people. Without replacing the vitamins our fresh crops lose with nutritional supplements, there is no way we can ever enjoy optimal health. Mitamins team bd@mitamins.net Convenient: All Your Vitamins in 1 Bottle; Choice: 680 Health Concerns Covered; Safety: Avoid Overdose and Drug Interactions; Quality: Made Fresh with Brand Ingredients. Vitamin health and Customized supplements(http://www.mitamins.com) ]]> Exploring the History of Sunflowers http://www.artwoo.com/article/exploring-the-history-of-sunflowers http://www.artwoo.com/article/exploring-the-history-of-sunflowers#comments Thu, 21 Aug 2008 18:01:25 +0000 european explorersbountiful cropstrange plantindian tribessunflowershistorical contextstews http://www.artwoo.com/article/exploring-the-history-of-sunflowers Sunflowers have been cultivated and harvested by many cultures for at least 4,500 years. They've been used for a variety of purposes that range from culinary to medicinal. While most people can immediately envision a crop of sunflowers, few realize the important role they've played in history. In this article, we'll provide a brief overview of sunflowers in an . We'll explain their origin and describe how they've been used for generations. You'll also learn how the sunflower was discovered by those who traveled from other countries.

The Origin Of The Sunflower

The sunflower is considered native to the United States. Many enthusiasts claim that it was first cultivated by Native Americans over 8,000 years ago (though others contend that the plant wasn't cultivated until 2,600 BC). As early as 2,000 BC, sunflowers were being grown using methods that encouraged bigger seeds and a more . It had already become a major staple in the diet of Native Americans by the time first visited America.

When explorers from Europe arrived, they were surprised to find that many were cultivating and harvesting crops of the . The Europeans had never seen a sunflower before. The tall, brightly-colored crops were a spectacle to them. They sent the seeds back to Europe where they were considered with curiosity. Oddly, the Europeans didn't consume the sunflowers until the seeds were transported to Russia, Spain and China years later.

As other countries were introduced to sunflowers, the plant quickly became a popular source of food. The seeds were planted and crops were grown and harvested, yielding a rich supply of seeds for snacking and cooking.

The Many Uses Of Sunflowers

During its long history, sunflowers have been used for several purposes. The early Native Americans were resourceful with the plant. They harvested their sunflowers and used them for food and medicine. The seeds were used for baking and also to add thickness to various . Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that suggests Native Americans also used sunflowers to remove warts and to treat those who suffered from sunstroke.

In the 18th century, after having been introduced to Russia, the sunflower became a popular source of cooking oil throughout Europe. Today, sunflower crops are grown in many countries throughout the world. Some cultures ground the sunflower seeds for use while making bread. Others harvest the seeds to be eaten as a nutritious snack. The seeds are also used as an ingredient in meals to add flavor and texture. And, of course, millions of people take great delight in planting sunflowers in their gardens.

The Future Of The Sunflower

Sunflowers have enjoyed immense popularity for generations. This is due, in part, to their inherent usability as food and medicine. Their popularity is also due to their ease of cultivation. Sunflowers can grow easily in many types of soil as long as they have direct sunlight and a constant source of water.

Today, sunflowers are used for purposes that were likely unimaginable a generation ago. For example, they're added to certain varnishes and paints due to their quick-drying quality. Sunflower oil is also added to detergents and soaps. In addition, the oil from sunflowers is being tested for use in plastics, lubricants and even pesticides. While sunflowers have enjoyed a long history of resourceful use, new applications continue to be discovered.This sunflower information is brought to you by The Sunflower Guy, the best way to send sunflowers.]]> Fertilizer and Understanding It's Use http://www.artwoo.com/article/fertilizer-understanding-its-use http://www.artwoo.com/article/fertilizer-understanding-its-use#comments Mon, 08 May 2006 21:32:05 +0000 chemical fertilizernatural fertilizerfertilizer productsgarden fertilizercommercial fertilizerweatherplants http://www.artwoo.com/article/fertilizer-understanding-its-use plants, fertlizer is applied to the soil after being obtained naturally or through a chemical process. Due to the fact that natural products are generally more healthy than those that are manufactured, is often the best type to use. Fertilizer, alone, is designed to provide three major plant nutrients in various proportions. Humans need nutrition in order to grow and thrive as do plants and it is important to make sure that crops receive the proper care and nutrition during their growth process.

may lead to surface runoff if over applied, which is easier to do than with natural products. This can often lead to problems with growing and may even be dangerous to wildlife. While it is also possible to over apply natural fertilizer, their release rates are generally much less than with chemical products.

Depending on the fertilizer, various storage requirements must be met. If purchased commercially, it is best to carefully study the ingredients and storage instructions on the fertilizer packaging. Knowledge of the nutrient content and requirements will help to maintain a healthy crop, usable fertilizer and less pollution to the garden.

Fertilizer is commonly used in gardening, but it also used for growing flowers and plants. is available at most home improvement stores or in the gardening department at most retailers. Because plants and gardens are not abundant during the winter months, most are sold just before spring as planting becomes seasonal. If planting is done too early, a late frost may eliminate the crops and will ultimately be a waste of planting and fertilizer. When the is ideal for planting, typically in the early spring, fertilizer will be widely available in stores.

Various climates and geographical locations will provide for different crop planting seasons. Some areas may have success with gardening during most of the year while other parts of the world are restricted to mainly spring and summer months. Extreme cold and inclement weather will reek havoc on crops, which is why it is important to know the optimal growing season for each individual location.

When purchasing fertilizer, it is recommended that individuals thoroughly read the care and usage instructions. In addition, any caution and/or warning labels should be read carefully before proceeding with use. These products should be kept out of children's reach and may also prove harmful for animals. For more information about fertilizer, click the link to visit our website at http://www.fertilizerreview.info . We have some great free articles and resources about fertilizer. ]]> Cell Phone Radiation Kills Bees http://www.artwoo.com/article/cell-phone-radiation-kills-bees http://www.artwoo.com/article/cell-phone-radiation-kills-bees#comments Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:43:25 +0000 cell phone radiationradio frequency radiationmobile radiationdamage tissuesbrain tumorsbee populationelectromagnetic radiation http://www.artwoo.com/article/cell-phone-radiation-kills-bees Cell Phone Radiation

While we are dependent on our cell phones and love them, there is some evidence that cell phone radiation can be dangerous for people, as well as a helpful insect to crops - bees. Studies have found that the radio-frequency radiation, a form of , can heat and , as well as possibly cause other diseases in the long term, including cancer, , Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and more. People are not the only beings that are affected by cell phones, however. Some evidence has found that the radiation that comes from cell phones can also kill bees, which can cause all kinds of problems environmentally. Honeybees pollinate crops and other plants, which helps vegetables and fruit to grow and it allows the plants to do their job replenishing the oxygen in the air. What are the effects on the bees?

How Does Cell Phone Radiation Affect Bees?

Studies have suggested that the electromagnetic radiation affects the internal navigation system of the bee, causing it to not be able to return to the hive. The bees then die off, because they are not able to do their normal activities. This premature dying off of the bees causes the fruits and vegetables to not grow as normal, simply because pollination does not occur. This affects the harvest, which can have a significant impact upon the world's food stores now and in the future. This effect has been seen all over the world from North America to Asia and this can have significant repercussions for people all over the world. Mobile radiation effects can include loss of food crops and can decrease the food for animals that are used for meat, including cows, chickens, and more. This is not a study that is widely accepted, however, simply because many people believe that the decrease in the can be attributed to other issues.

A Contested Theory

Radiation hazards are one issue that is largely contested regarding both bees and humans. The fact that the bee population is dwindling can be attributed to many other things as well, including weather, disease, parasites, etc. The change in weather patterns due to the ozone layer being depleted are thought to cause the bees to die off, which could explain the affect on crops all over the world and the many empty beehives that are found in all parts of the world, also known as Colony Collapse Disorder.

Scientists all over the world are struggling to find and reverse the process of the Colony Collapse Disorder. So far a few theories has been tested but no solid evidence of what is causing this threat was found.
As bees are accountable for 75% of the world seeds distribution of all plants - this is an alarming global threat that needs a solution and fast. If we can't find and change whatever that is causing bees to die we might face one of the biggest challenges of man-kind.

In the 40's and 50's we didn't know about the link between cigarettes and lung cancer. Are we about to find out about the dark side effects of cellular radiation our mobile device emits?Bob Shobi writes on cell phone radiation and general radiation issues for RadiationTalk.com Learn more: Read and learn more about radiation dangers to bees Find out more about cell phone radiation protection and cell phone radiation shields.]]> Organic Baby Clothing: The Best Alternative http://www.artwoo.com/article/organic-baby-clothing-the-best-alternative http://www.artwoo.com/article/organic-baby-clothing-the-best-alternative#comments Fri, 28 Nov 2008 23:36:28 +0000 organic baby clothingorganic baby clothessoil structurecrop wastesfertile soilsoil surfaceanimal manures http://www.artwoo.com/article/organic-baby-clothing-the-best-alternative Organic baby clothing is now getting popular. These are product lines that make use of crops that are grown free from artificial pesticides and fertilizers. Mothers prefer and are especially conscious in choosing them by looking at the labels and brands of the clothes. There are known company brands that are promoting "green" products.

The Awareness

With the increase in awareness of consumers on global warming problems, more and more of them are supporting and purchasing products that are produced by green companies. Before human dominated the world, changes of the climate were directly attributed by natural forces. But with the Industrial Revolution, the environment and global climate began to change because of the new agricultural and industrial activities. As years passed by and as the population grew, more unwanted gases were being emitted. Adding to the problem is the continuous deforestation doings and factory farming. All of these factors contributed to global warming and because of this, there are green companies that are pioneering the production of product lines that are concerned with environmental problems. These are producers of environmental friendly brand like the organic baby clothing.

A Healthy Soil

Organic baby clothing are organic products that are produced from natural process of farming. Organic farming is believed to be nature friendly since the technique involved makes the growth of crops without giving harm to the environment and even to the people who are working and living in it. The natural way of farming can be achieved with:

1.A good and fertile . You can have this through:

and#61607; The use of and composted and recycled .
and#61607; Cultivating the soil at the right time.
and#61607; Crop rotation.
and#61607; Legumes and green manures.
and#61607; Placing a protective covering on the with the use of mulch.

2.Controlled pests, weeds, and diseases, by:

and#61607; Careful planning and choosing of crop to be produced.
and#61607; Using resistant crops.
and#61607; The right cultivation practice.
and#61607; Encouraging pest-eating predators.
and#61607; The use of natural pesticides.

An Organic Farm

Clothes are important for everyone. Making organic baby clothing reduces environmental harm given by chemical toxins. Just think of the effects of organic baby clothing in your children. Think of it as coming from an organic farm complete with different soothing activities of animals and insects. Chirping birds, buzzing insect and animals, these are healthy sounds, and they have a great effect in organic baby clothes. An organic farm producing organic crops is the best remedy for reforestation. Using all natural techniques and remedies saves the earth and saves the children too.

For a wide array of the best organic baby clothing, browse through the Internet and visit Pure and Honest Kids. The site is well known for its organic clothing and is guaranteed to give your baby the softest and purest organic baby clothes you can think of. They do not only satisfy the baby's needs but the parents' as well.Organic Baby Clothes are the best alternative for women interested in fittng their babies with comfy and safe clothing. With Organic Kids Clothing, you can't go wrong.]]> Herbicide Use Threatens Sustainable Gardening Trend http://www.artwoo.com/article/herbicide-use-threatens-sustainable-gardening-trend http://www.artwoo.com/article/herbicide-use-threatens-sustainable-gardening-trend#comments Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:15:34 +0000 royal horticultural societymanmade chemicalsvegetable patchesvegetable cropsdow agrosciencesfood cropssoil tests http://www.artwoo.com/article/herbicide-use-threatens-sustainable-gardening-trend manmade chemicals has been highlighted once again by the calamity over Aminopyralid.

The chemical, a herbicide popular with many farmers, is able to destroy weeds and nettles without destroying the crops or grass around them. However, the Aminopyralid, which is used to in the manufacture of many different Dow AgroSceinces products, has managed to outwit the brains that knew enough about its potential to warn against using it on or on material that will be directly turned into compost.

However, despite these best intentions and precautions, Aminopyralid had slid into the food chain, and it is now being blamed for deformed and vacant plots and allotments up and down the country.

Scientists think that the contaminations originated in grass sprayed with the herbicide a year ago. Whilst materials themselves treated with the herbicide could not be sold as compost, nobody thought to concern themselves about the fact that Aminopyralid-treated silage, the cattle feed used over winter, might result in manure that was itself contaminated. That manure was then sold, to private gardens, to allotments and so on, and is now ruining harvests and -- with those affected being told to not even think about planting in the same soil for at least twelve months -- leaving allotments and forlorn and vacant.

And those twelve months, it is feared, could be just the beginning of a long road toward seeing our allotments and gardens fully Aminopyralid free.

The current suspension on Aminopyralid related products is not yet permanent, but even if it becomes so and farmers do not use the herbicides that they have already purchased then it is estimated that the problem of the contaminated manure will still be around for at least four more years.

The is conducting for people worried that they may have inadvertently contaminated their plot by using manure containing the echoes of Aminopyralid. However, a good test that any concerned person can do for free right now is to transplant a tomato plant into a 50% manure 50% compost mixture and then just wait and see for any signs, such as withered leaves and distorted shapes, that has been associated with the herbicide.

There has been a growing trend of people now turning toward growing their own food on allotments. The security of being able to check what, if any, pesticides or herbicides are on our food is often cited as a reason for this. So too s the growing concern over the effect that foods imported over long distances -- often so that produce that is out of its growing season can still be stacked onto supermarket shelves -- is having on the environment. The notion of food miles, and the acceptance of how they fit into expanding or reducing an individuals carbon footprint, means that more and more people find the prospect of growing their vegetables locally extremely appealing. Many councils have had to quarter the size of the allotments that they offer because demand is now so great. Let's hope that the fear over Aminopyralid doesn't affect this eco-friendly trend.Matt Gammie is a writer for Ecoswitch]]> Understanding All About Loans http://www.artwoo.com/article/understanding-all-about-loans http://www.artwoo.com/article/understanding-all-about-loans#comments Sat, 02 Aug 2008 16:22:24 +0000 equity of redemptionfruits of the landmortgage loansstartling changenew mortgagelegal arrangementnecessary conditions http://www.artwoo.com/article/understanding-all-about-loans
In the 17th century in France, the birth of the , a mortgage meant a conveyance on a piece of land. This loan was absolute on its face and seemed a fee simple estate. In reality, however, it was condition and would not be enforceable or existing were not the met.

These conditions were generally the repayment of the loans or loan to the originating landowner - the debtor. Mortgage loans differed from what were then referred to as live gage, in that the mortgage was not dependent of repayment by way of the sale of livestock or crops, or the delivery of the - the crops and livestock - to the original landowner. The mortgage loans, then, were still in effect even if the land was not successful in producing crops or livestock that sufficiently brought the income required to repay the debt. These loans were, in contrast to those who came before them, were due no matter the financial situation and ability to pay of the debtor.

What is commonplace today - the repayment of loans with local currency - was a devastating and in centuries past. The lender then was the property owner and was free to sell it or refuse to sign it over to the borrower. As time went by however, equity courts started to step in to protect the interest of the borrowers of these loans, and to insist that they have the right to property they paid for. This right from that time was named the .

This , which made the lender the owner while she or he had few practical ownership rights was determined by several court systems to be awkward and constrainingly artificial. Another statute was passed that said that when the mortgage loans were made the borrower would retain ownership of the mortgaged property, but the lender would have the right of foreclosure, the power to take possession of it and to sell it if the loans were not paid as instructed.

Now, in the U.S. every state that handles mortgage loans this way is referred to as a lien state. This law was first passed in Wales and England by legislation entitled Property Act of 1925. This abolished mortgage loans by fee simple.

Before you set out on any quest for loans, mortgage or otherwise, there are some terms with which you should be familiar.

The first term is called advance. Unlike the employment advance where money is given to you prior to your having earned it, a loan advance refers to the total money that you borrow plus the fees for doing so.

The term base rate, which you'll hear often when referring to loans, means similar things in both the U.S. and the UK. UK base rate is the rate of interest set by the Bank of England, while in the United States, it is the discount rate that is dictated by the Federal Reserve.James Copper is a writer for http://www.any-loans.co.uk/self-certification-secured-loans.shtml where you can find out about self cert loans]]> Tissue Culture Applications To Improve Crops Of Strawberries, Raspberries, And Blackberries http://www.artwoo.com/article/tissue-culture-applications-to-improve-crops-of-strawberries-raspberries-and-blackberries http://www.artwoo.com/article/tissue-culture-applications-to-improve-crops-of-strawberries-raspberries-and-blackberries#comments Wed, 16 Aug 2006 08:27:16 +0000 strawberry plantsseed plantsbanana treesstrawberry growersblackberry bushesdiseases caused by virusplant vigor http://www.artwoo.com/article/tissue-culture-applications-to-improve-crops-of-strawberries-raspberries-and-blackberries
have demonstrated this clonal decline (running out) for many years. After growing strawberry plants for five or more years, gardeners became accustomed to dividing a clump of plants that contained the mother plant (oldest plant) in the center and replanting the smaller daughter plants to be used as the following season. Certain genetic, undesirable changes (mutations) were brought to the surface, as seen in daughter plants; as more and more plants were continuously grown, generation after generation. Some of these corrupting mutations may be visually observed as the decelerates (declines); the yield of strawberries is less, and sometimes the berries are misshapen; and finally, the plants become extremely susceptible to , bacteria, fungi, insect susceptibility, and nematode victimization. Agricultural researchers advised to discontinue old variety lines and clones and were told to buy new, certified plants that restore the vigor needed to increase yields of future strawberry gardens.

This phenomenon of strawberry decline has been experienced with other agricultural crops such as sweet potato vines, raspberry bushes, or vines, and . The problem with banana trees has emerged as the greatest possible catastrophe facing modern agriculture today, since bananas, produced only by plant division and not seed, are the most popular fruit in the world and may face extremely serious setbacks, unless the efforts of scientists from Israel to "clean up" the evolved, accumulated defects by using tissue culture that could cause the commercial banana production to rebound.

Old "run out" clones of agricultural crops have in the last decade been rejuvenated to produce unprecedented yields and to restore confidence in a high quality product. Growers of agricultural, commercial, crop plants can avoid clone decline, "run out," by buying certified plants that have been grown under strict governmental watchdog supervision, under a technique called, "tissue culture." To "clean up" problems in weakened, flawed clones of raspberry plants, a clump of cells is taken from the growing tip of the plant called the apical meristem. These cells grow rapidly and rarely contain virus or other harmful defects and are placed within a sterile growing medium, where they grow into a clump that develops roots and a growing shoot. This micro-plant is grown into many other mother plants called "nuclear stock mother plants." These mother plants are sent out to be multiplied over and over into certified plants by nursery propagators with a regained vigor, disease-free status and desirable qualities that were once present in the original profitable varieties.

One eclectic segment of agriculture that has been negatively impacted by clonal decline, "run out," is the pick-your-own operation, where berry plants are not replaced often by operators with certified plants. Diseases and pests appear as a greater threat every year. This same phenomenon of disease and pest buildup is well known in home gardens where tomatoes, pepper plants, and many other vegetable plants are abandoned after a few years in favor of new soil locations. The decline of strawberry plants, raspberry plants, and blackberry plants in pick-your-own operations can not always be reversed by simply replanting the site with certified plants, unless the soil is first fumigated and sterilized. Very little attention has been paid to certify muscadine and scuppernong grape vines to be free of virus, bacteria and fungal infestations in pick-your-own operations. Those grapevines are normally multiplied by various methods other than seed planting.

Recent improvements in offering agricultural plants for certification will ultimately insure the survival of valuable berry crops like blackberry plants, raspberry plants, and strawberry plants. Crops such as banana trees that are grown in tissue culture in Israel for planting in Central America can offer hope that commercial interruption of banana fruit will be avoided. Recent tissue culture advancements have given commercial growers the security of continued profits and quality, sweet potato products to enjoy by growers and consumers.

The application of tissue culture propagation to the future of canna bulb, (rhizome), and commercial production could save growers who are floundering in complaints and indecision to restore a once important agricultural crop with a promise of future profits and a satisfied wholesale and retail customer. This application of tissue culture to future crops of every type that are grown by plant division will determine whether or not those crops will survive and not "run out." Patrick A. Malcolm, owner of TyTy Nursery, has an M.S. degree in Biochemistry and has cultivated berry plants for over three decades. http://www.tytyga.com ]]>