I just moved to Jacksonville, florida and i have a screened in porch. The porch faces a wooded area so it causes alot of shade. i would really like to get some flowers to liven the area up a bit.

try impatients they have beauitful pink flowers and bloom all yearlong if brought in when winter comes around, and also Colous are colorful plants that like shade

I’ve searched local Gwinnett florists but no luck. Please help!

Try calling a nearby florist and they most likely answer your questions. I found a nice list of Georgia local florists. http://www.localfloristsonline.com/Georgia-Florists.html I suggest phoneing one near where you live.

I have koi, a catfish and some other pond gold fish, but what else?? Help me please!

How big is your pond? How many Goldfish are we talking and what kind of Catfish? You could consider Garra pingi pingi (basically a coldwater algae eater) as well as a very large group of Minnows (White Cloud, Rosy Red, etc.), or even some native fish, but again, this will totally depend on the size of your pond… A gallon estimate? dimensions? Anything would help…

one of my fish ponds contains mollies and sword tails and lots of baby fishes, but it also serves as breeding grounds for frogs and I think they are eating the baby fishes. More and more frogs are laying their eggs in there, sometimes I throw the frog eggs or feed the tadpoles to my bigger fishes but is there a way I could get rid of them without killing them?

well get something like a mosquito fish. they love mosquito larva and are just like mollies and swordtails
just without color so i’d get some of those and they should eat eggs and tadpoles small enough to fit in their mouth. :]] hoped i helped even though it wasn’t alot of infomation

I have a glass water feature that is a rectangular shape. It is hollow and the water pumps up from the bottom and cascades from a slit at the top of the glass. Green stuff (can’t remember the nam!) has started to grow inside the glass. The glass is sealed so I cannot get inside to clean it or put anything inside it. I have tried some pond clear but this just clears a patch where the water is pumped through.

Does anybody have any idea what I can use to clean this, as I am getting fed up with it now!!

The green stuff is Algae. What you can do is first remove any plants or fish that you may around the glass feature. Next mix a solution of one cup bleach to one gallon of water. Next drain as much of the old water from the fountain. Then add the bleach solution. turn the pump on and let it run through the lines. Then let it sit for about a half an hour. Then drain out the bleach water and then add clean fresh water. Drain again. Then add a mixture of half white vinegar to half water. Again run it through the fountain and let sit. Next rinse out two more times and then add fresh water. To keep the algae from returning make sure that the fountain stays running. Any time that water sets for a period of time leaves room for algae to grow and the water becomes stagnant.

Instant tranquility. Just position your chaise lounge near the serene sounds of an outdoor wall fountain. Stress levels decline, bliss readings rise.

Outdoor wall fountain tips for apartment dwellers
Flowing water brings sound and movement to even the tiniest of balcony gardens, creating an aura of spirit-lifting tranquility. In recent years, the choice of balcony-sized water features has grown to include everything from budget-priced kits to superb artist’s pieces. Outdoor Wall fountains make the most of vertical space, while small bowls or pools can splash, spill, bubble or spray according to the music you like best. Water plants, such as water lilies and iris, are optional. Good ideas and practical advice can be found in by reading your favorite Website for Small Gardens.
 
Wall fountains are versatile-indoors or outdoors
The beauty of purchasing an outdoor wall fountain is that many of the kits can also be used inside as well. When selecting an outdoor water fountain, you want to think ahead and make sure the outdoor water fountain will age well over the years. They can be made from a variety of materials and for extra drama, can be illuminated. 
 
Most outdoor wall fountains are not so hard to install
The sound of water in the back yard garden adds a lovely touch of serenity and a feeling that all is right with the world. The tinkling sound of gently running water from an outdoor wall fountain just has a peaceful effect to the heart and soul. An outdoor wall fountain relaxes, calms and takes us far away from the pressure cooker stresses of modern life.  Many psychiatrists incorporate water fountains in the gardens of treatment facilities. Outdoor water fountains are featured on rooftops of metropolitan skyscrapers so that business executives can unwind and distress. 
 
City dwellers with the small courtyard or compact backyard can create a haven of paradise by adding a variety of plants, goldfish, tasteful statues and an outdoor wall fountain. Just about all outdoor wall fountains are very surprisingly tasteful in design. Many even come in a lightweight resin, which has the added benefit of being easily attached to the common privacy wooden fence without additional hardware being necessary.
 
Tips for Apartment Dwellers:
Flowing water brings sound and movement to even the tiniest of balcony gardens, creating an aura of spirit-lifting tranquillity. In recent years, the choice of balcony-sized water features has grown to include everything from budget-priced kits to superb artist’s pieces. Wall fountains make the most of vertical space, while small bowls or pools can splash, spill, bubble or spray according to the music you like best. Water plants, such as waterlilies and
iris, are optional.

Amber Liddell
http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/outdoor-wall-fountains-are-good-for-the-soul-746133.html

With all the different drinking water treatment systems to choose from, I understand why people have such a hard time deciding. I just don’t want to see you become frustrated with the decision and buy the first drinking water purification system you see.

You have to be sure that whichever drinking water treatment systems you choose offers you adequate protection. Not all of the systems on the market offer you the same kind of performance. If you rush your purchase, then you may find out later that you are not giving your family the protection they deserve.
 
Many a product out there is touted as a drinking water purification system, but what they really are is a chlorine filter. These systems feature an activated granular carbon filter that will block chlorine and quite a few other chemical agents. While blocking this group of chemicals is important, more filtering is needed if you want to be successful at removing everything from your water.
 
Drinking water treatment systems should be able to remove any of the possible 80,000 industrial chemicals that find their way into our water supply. It is not good enough for you to block some of them, because 2100 of these chemicals in our water supply have been identified as carcinogens. That is why you must remove them all.
 
To thoroughly protect your family from these chemical agents, you have to find a drinking water purification system that features not only an activated granular carbon filter, but also a multi media block. With these two features working together you can remove 99% of all chemicals in your water.
 
You also need to look for features in drinking water treatment systems that will remove parasites and cysts that stubbornly remain in our water supply despite the use of chlorine disinfection. These parasites can make loved ones extremely ill. In the case of small children, elderly people, and those that are suffering from immune system deficiencies, illnesses caused by parasites and cysts can prove to be fatal.
 
To remove these microbial contaminants from your drinking water, you need a drinking water purification system that, in addition to the filters that were mentioned earlier, also contains a sub micron filter. This filter will eliminate all microscopic parasites, fully shielding you and your family from any danger.
 
It really is worth your time to carefully select the model that fits all of your water purification needs. There are a lot to look over. But don’t put off deciding, because each passing day your family is drinking unfiltered tap water.

Zach Zimmerman
http://www.articlesbase.com/wellness-articles/drinking-water-treatment-systems-how-to-make-a-smart-purchase-730303.html

I have read in many places about the use of Plaster of Paris as a calcium source for both ponds and freshwater aquariums (I too have used this many years back when old timers in the hobby suggested its use for ponds to me), however with the exception of a calcium emergency (or possibly to absorb pollutants in a pond in bulk, which I have used Plaster of Paris for); Plaster of Paris is not the same as products such as Wonder Shells or Sealab blocks. My own years of use have shown me the vast difference in fish health and vitality.

In this article I will hopefully explain this a little more scientifically.

PLASTER OF PARIS:

Plaster of Paris is manufactured by heating gypsum at 120o – 160oC. When Plaster of Paris is mixed in water it dehydrates and form dense matrix of gypsum crystal.

Here is a list of ingredients of Plaster of Paris:

*CaSO4 , 1/2H2O: 97.97%

* SiO: 0.94%

* Al2O3: 0.69%

* Fe2O3: 0.28%

* MgO : 00.12%

What I see here is some Magnesium, Iron, Sulfur, Aluminum, Silicone and mostly Calcium.

Where is the Strontium, the Sodium, Potassium and more? These ratios are also NO WHERE near correct for proper assimilation.

This is not to say that products such as Wonder Shells or Kalkwasser are also spot on in these ratios, however they are much closer than this (or at least Wonder shells are). This also why Marine Buffer by Sea Chem is better for KH control as the proper ratios are applied in this product.

Plaster of Paris is a poor choice for GH or Calcium as Calcium needs to be in the proper ratios with other elements such as Magnesium to be utilized by aquatic life (such as osmotic function).

PROPER OCEAN CHEMICAL ANALYSIS:

By contrast here is the chemical composition of the ocean as a percentage:

Chloride- 55.03%

Sodium- 30.59%

Sulfate- 7.68%

Magnesium- 3.68%

Calcium- 1.18%

Potassium- 1.11%

Bicarbonate- 0.42%

Bromide- 0.19%

Borate- 0.08%

Strontium- 0.04%

Fluoride- 0.003%

Other- less than 0.001%

As you can see, calcium is actually less than magnesium, so even the Wonder Shells that I promote are out of balance here. The Calcium in Wonder Shells is used as a carrier and will raise your GH, at least the other proportions (with the obvious exceptions of Chloride and Sodium) are in basic proportion to this other than the Calcium.

For more about Calcium, Electrolytes in aquariums, please read this article:

CALCIUM, KH, AND MAGNESIUM IN AQUARIUMS; How to maintain a Proper KH, why calcium and electrolytes are important.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OCEAN WATER AND INTERNAL CHEMISTY OF ANIMALS:

I brought up ocean water chemical analysis to make a point that is the plasma and internal chemistry of all animals and fish is similar in composition to the ocean. This is why many electrolytes (elements) are important in the chemistry of aquarium environment (even fish food!)

Rene Quinton is a scientist who died in 1925.

“He postulated that from the mineral point of view, human and marine plasmas are environments of the same nature. In other words, there is physical and physiological identity between seawater and the internal environment of the organism. Not only do they exhibit very similar mineral compositions, but the particular form, organization and synergy of trace elements and mineral salts that make up the saline matrix of seawater closely resemble those of the internal environment constituents.”

For more about proper Osmotic Function in fish, pleas see this article:

PROPER OSMOTIC FUNCTION

SUMMARY;

Basically my point is that all you add to your aquarium (freshwater or saltwater) should emulate this ocean ratio as close as possible, so why would you want to throw a product in your aquarium manufactured by heating gypsum?

For my full article, please visit this URL:

The Difference between Plaster of Paris and Aquarium Products such as Wonder Shells

Carl Strohmeyer
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/plaster-of-paris-can-this-be-used-in-aquariums-and-will-this-help-with-proper-electrolyte-gh-and-calcium-balances-111221.html

Flowers, also called blooms or blossoms, is the reproductive organs of the stand. The chief affair of a flower is too precipitate the merger of the gentleman sperm with female ovum to construct seeds and breed the species. The basic managed starts with pollination, which in favor causes fertilization, and the leads to the formation of the seeds. There are different habits that the lodge causes diffusion of it’s seeds. It can range it’s seeds by breeze or like the blackberry hide and increase it’s seeds by use of birds and animals.

Seeds are the next generations, or offspring, and are the initial means by which the species ensures it’s continuation. The production of the tiny flora on a song deposit is called inflorescence. Besides being the reproductive organs of peak plants, plants have been used by humans all across the world to revamp their surroundings and as a fund of food.

Every flower has a point which helps the convey of it’s pollen in the most competent way potential. Some types of plants are self pollinated, such as many types of sativas, while others expect pollination by insects. Plants, such as many types of mints or clover, interest and use bees, bats, birds, etc. to removal pollen from one flower to another. Most plants have glands called nectaries on countless parts that fascinate insects such as bees. Some flora had patterns termed nectar guides, that help insects like butterflies where to look for the pleasing nectar. Flowers can also draw pollinators to them by using detect and shade. And some plants use an astute mimicry to draw pollinators to them. Many types of orchids construct plants that look like a female bee in their coloration, cologne, and their identity to draw the chap bees to them.

A giant arrayed of flower species are also specialized in their particular nature to have an arrangement of the stamens to make convinced that the pollen grains are transferred to the bodies of the insect when it domain looking for what attracted it in the first place. By the insect’s faithful pursuit of the pollen, nectar, etc. from many different plants of the same species, the insect transfers pollen to the assorted stigmas of each flower with that solitary minded precision to all the plants it parkland on.

There are many plants that expand pollen from one flower to the next by using breeze. Many of the examples that use this mode embrace Birch foliage, Ragweed, Dandelions, Milkweed, etc. These plants have no very basic to draw insects or other creatures to pollinate them and then cultivate to not have sharp and glitzy flowers.

The male and female flowers are on the same stand with the male flowers having some long filaments finish in the stamens, and the female flowers having the long light stigmas. The pollen of entomophilous flowers, (flowers that should pollinators), have the movement to be large-grained, pretty sticky, and rich in vital proteins, the anemophilous flower, (flowers that needed no pollinators), pollen has tiny grains, is very light, non-sticky, and has little or no nutritional meaning to insects or other creatures.

Flowers are a gorgeous and necessary part of our world. They can calm our minds and sooth our souls in an increasingly excited age. Plant a plot and have the inherent beauty of flowers!

Jules Sims
http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/the-life-cycle-of-flowers-754801.html

Furnishing and accessorizing a deck can easily be a pleasant experience. A wide variety of different products are vailable to a homeowner. It is very important to avoid going to the extreme by placing too much on the deck.

This can easily turn the outdoor living space into an obstacle rather than a structure that enhances its aesthetic and functional qualities in relation to the home and yard.

In situations where the deck is to be used year round or during the evening, outdoor lights, fire pits and patio heaters merit consideration. Plan extra space around grills and fire pits. Take the steps required to ensure that passageways that are frequently used are a minimum of 4 feet wide and are clear of any kinds of obstruction.

Hot tubs and water features should only be considered if there is sufficient space available. Features such as these demand careful planning, substantial amounts of space, weight supports and their own electrical circuits.

Decorative lighting is a great way to establish the mood on a deck. The possibilities are almost limitless. Low voltage commercial light strings can be woven along railing systems or in nearby overhanging branches. Low voltage light fixtures can also be hidden in hanging planters to create a feeling of ambiance.

The addition of lights to the surrounding yard greatly enhances the view from the deck at night creating drama as well as a sense of security. Utilize spotlights or floodlights to accent trees, shrubs and sculpture. Add spread lights to throw light horizontally across a garden or flower bed. In addition, position wash lights to reveal texture on a surface such as a chimney or masonry wall.

Decorative lighting fixtures for the outdoors are available in both line and low voltage types. Often they are available with a choice of lamps that include halogen, incandescent and compact flourescent. The latter lamp type is energy efficient and lasts the longest.

Avoid solar powered lights because the light output they generate is quite low. LED lighting fixtures are the wave of the future for low voltage deck and landscape lighting. These lights work well on stairs, in railing systems and when mounted on railing posts.

LED bulbs have an incredible lifespan and virtually never need changing. Although LED light fixtures cost more initially than their traditional counterparts, they are cheaper in the long run. They also conserve energy and are cooler thus reducing any danger related to finger burns.

A hot tub can be a great deck addition for relaxation but it requires a good deal of planning. Details must be worked out well in advance for its size, the number and placement of water jets, the location on the deck and support. All this must be done before any concrete is poured and any framework is built.

Hot tubs come in a variety of materials that include acrylic, stainless steel and ceramic tile. They also vary greatly in size with capacities up to 8 people.

The hot tub should be located in a space that maintains privacy. A separate open air or screened gazebo can work extremely well while providing a handy place to store towels, robes, shoes and even books.

Where the hot tub is part of the main deck structure, consider the installation of built-in seating around it. Think about placing planters in such a way as to separate the hot tub from other activity areas. Hot tubs can be installed flush with the deck surface or they can sit on the deck’s surface.

Flush type hot tubs need a concrete slab for support. Hot tubs on the deck surface require extra footings and additional framing.

Any hot tub will need a water source, an electrical source, housing for the pump, valves and filter. A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a must to prevent possible electrocution. A wise decision would be to involve a licensed electrician and plumber in the addition process of a hot tub to the deck.

Ornamental water features, either freestanding or wall mounted, can buffer unwanted noise and provide a measure of relaxation. They require a power source to operate the pump motor. Water can be added occasionally to replenish the system and help to keep the pump functioning efficiently.

In cases where the foutain has a large water basin, a direct water source and a float valve can be used to maintain the water level automatically.

Reflecting pools and small ponds are wonderful possible deck accessories. Most often they are permanent structures with poured concrete or brick bases. A pump is a necessity to keep the water aerated and prevent the growth of algae. Again, a GFCI is an absolute necessity.

The pond or pool can be lined with either a rigid or flexible liner to keep water from draining away. Stones can be place around the edges to keep the liner in place and add a natural look. A wide array of aquatic plants such as water lilies can provide many decorative opportunities for the home gardener.

The number one activity on a deck is the burning of meat. Portable grills include larger grilling areas, side tables for resting serving plates, wheels so that the grill can be moved out of the way when necessary, rotisseries and side burners.

Built-in grills are a recent popular option. The advantages of these include permanent gas hookups, large grilling areas and roasting capactitiy, optional burners and rotisseries as well as durable weatherproof construction.

Portable or permanent food preparation and staging counters are becoming more popular. The space below the counter can become a cabinet for the storage of basic cooking and serving supplies. Cabinets on locking casters can add a great deal of portability to the food preparation and serving area.

Construction of such items will require the use of exterior grade plywood, water resistant finishes and polished stone, stainless steel or pocelain tile countertop materials.

The choice of whether or not to have a fire pit on a deck hinges upon how often it will be used and whether or not local bylaws allow it. In addition fire pits take up much space, pose safety issues and can be an eyesore at times. An alternative to a fire pit might be a chimnea or a portable fireplace.

The second choice, often called a fire bowl, is generally ringed with a stone ledge which can double as a place to set down a drink or plate.

More and more homeowners are opting to extend the outdoor entertaining season on the deck by using parasol shaped patio heaters. They are movable and burn kerosene, butane, propane or natural gas. Patio heaters come in many styles, sizes and price ranges.

Safety features can include emergency cutoff valves, flame controls, electronic ignition and infrared heating technology. The best placement is in a wind sheltered area.

The final option would be a built-in masonry fireplace located near the perimeter of the deck. It can be constructed with stone or brick which can complement materials already in existence around the house and yard.

Successful deck planning should take into account furnishing and accessorizing a deck so that homeowners, family members and guests will have every opportunity to enjoy their time on this new outdoor living space.

Richard Vande Sompel
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/how-to-accessorize-a-deck-237334.html