genus (caladium)

genus (caladium)

 

Description

The plant genus (caladium) is not short of varieties, which consists of over 1000. Most are hybrids from the C. bicolor and sold with by the name of C. x hortulanum (hybrids). Many other common names are used for these hybrids including the rosebud, frieda hemple, lord derby and a fair few others.

These are low growing foliage plants that only grow up to 25in (60cm) tall, with large leaves growing up to 18 inches (45 cm) long.

How it looks: The arrow or heart shaped decorative leaves are very thin and have a papery texture. These leaves grow up from the tuber buried in the soil on quite thin stems. Some of the eye catching color mixtures are impressive, such as the lord derby that displays green and pink leaves with green veins and the candidum with white leaves displaying prominent green veins.

Growing caladium indoors: The caladium is a tuber plant so the foliage only lasts from late spring until the beginning of fall, but they are well worth having around for the summer displaying their attractive colors.

Tubers can be placed in moist potting soil (about 2 -3 inches deep) at the beginning of spring with temperatures of no lower than 75ºF (23ºC). Once shoots appear begin taking care of the plant as advised below.

Growing Tip! If you would like to encourage tubers to begin growing quicker then place the pots on a heating mat.

After the growing period: After the yellowing leaves have started to wilt; remove the tubers from the pots and allow the tuber to dry out "anywhere in the house that's warm enough". Remove any excess stem; they're now ready for planting in potting soil and stored away until next spring returns.

Displaying: The heart of Jesus plant is best placed in a window box or container and they make a great plant for growing around garden borders. They look much better in a row than one single plant, although it's up to what the individual grower prefers and wants to do. These also make great balcony and patio plants, if the temperature is warm enough.

Facts

Origin:	South America.
Names:	Heart of Jesus, angel wings, elephant ear, fancy leafed caladium (common). Caladium bicolor or Caladium hortulanum and others. (botanical/scientific).
Max Growth (approx):	Height 25in (60cm).
Poisonous for pets:	Toxic to cats and dogs.

Caladium Care

 

Temperature:	Above 70ºF (21ºC) is the best temperature to provide, and no lower than 60ºF (15ºC).
Light:	In their natural habitat the heart of Jesus plant grows in shaded areas. Indoors that can be artificially provided with a fairly bright room, without direct sun light. Direct sun will scorch and damage the leaves.
Watering:	After the tubers show signs of growth (small shoots) water frequently - and keep the soil moist.
Soil:	A nutrient rich and well draining potting soil is required.
Fertilizer:	I would feed every week with a diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Re-Potting:	These are taken out of the pot when the foliage dies down during fall and then re-potted (as mentioned above).
Humidity:	In it's natural habitat this plant is likely to grow with higher humidity levels than we have in our homes, but the average levels within a home should be fine.
Propagation:	Tubers can be divided before planting in spring. When dividing a tuber make sure at least one growing eye is available, so a stem can begin to grow.

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Barberton, Gerbera, Transvaal Daisy (common). -- Gebera Jamesonii

 

Barberton Daisy

Barberton daisy is the common name for the Gebera Jamesonii, also known as the Transvaal or Gerbera daisy. 

 The large range of striking flower colors has enabled this flowering pot plant to become a popular house plant choice for a number of years. 

Facts

Origin:	South Africa.
Names:	Barberton, Gerbera, Transvaal Daisy (common). -- Gebera Jamesonii (botanical/scientific)
Max Growth (approx):	24in tall.
Poisonous for pets:	Non toxic for cats, dogs and horses.

 

Barberton Daisy Care Instructions

Temperature:	Average temperatures of 55 - 75°F (13 - 24°C) are suitable.
Light:	A lover of direct sunlight and bright windowsills. Place close to a south, east or west facing window to provide enough sunlight.
Watering:	It's best to keep the soil moist at all times. Once the soil becomes slightly dry to the touch provide water straight away or the plant will begin to wilt very quickly.
Soil:	A peat based potting mix with 2 parts peat and 1 part perlite is suggested.
Fertilizer:	While flowering, feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks.
Humidity:	Gerbera's quite like above average humidity levels, although average is absolutely fine.
Propagation:	These are mostly propagated with seeds although the parent plant can also be divided or root cuttings can be used.

Native to South Africa this species is a perennial in warmer climates but in cooler countries (temperate regions) it's grown as an annual and flowering pot plant. There are many varieties and hybrids sold that are more compact in growth than the basic type. The basic type has stalks which grow up to 2ft tall that can become quite lanky and unattractive.

The attractive bright colored flowers has made Gebera daisies an excellent bridal bouquet choice. For those that prefer to have them closer to their skin - they are also a popular floral tattoo choice.

Flowering: The Barberton daisy is available in many colors from white through to bright red and different shades as well. The hybrids sold in garden centers produce two or more single stemmed stalks with a single flower sitting at the top. The capitula (flower head) is approximately 3 - 4 inches wide and displays multiple soft petals from a centrepiece of stamens, anthers, and carpels that look outstanding close up.

Grown indoors they can flower at any time of the year and each flower lasts up to about 4 - 6 weeks. Growers deadhead flowers that are spent to encourage new flowers. Once all flowers have died down you are likely to throw your Gerbera away or place it inside the greenhouse for it's leaves and in the hope the following year it might produce blooms (not likely though).

 

Foliage: These daises have quite attractive rhomboid (diamond) shaped leaves with jagged or wavy edges. Keep in mind these leaves are papery thin and easily damaged. When leaves become damaged they need to be removed and then the plant can become unattractive.

Level of care: Gerbera jamesonii daises are easy to care for, whether grown indoors or outdoors. They're tender plants that will not tolerate frost. Indoors they require some sunlight, moist soil and average temperatures, then nature takes care of the rest.

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Zebra plant

The Zebra plant is a fairly popular plant which is grown for its flower bracts and dark green leaves with prominent white colored veins. So if your looking for a flowering or a foliage plant then this is a plant for either or both.

Flowers: The flowers look similar to other bract type flower heads and grow cone shaped at the tips of a stem with small flowers that grow out of the bract. The amount of flower heads produced depends on the amount of stems, which is more often than not, two - four. The flower bract will last for up to about 6 weeks and the small yellow flowers that grow from the bract last for about a week. The bract is the real attraction rather than the small flowers. A grower can expect flowers after summer.

Foliage: As mentioned above the aphelandra squarrosa displays lovely dark glossy green leaves with prominent whitish colored veins. These leaves grow to about 9 inches long and a few inches wide within the center of the leaf, and they have pointed tips.

Where to display: I thought I would mention where it may be best for you to place and display your Zebra plant because the conditions it needs are quite strict once it has flowered. The best place for them to grow well is within a conservatory or any other glass room because they usually offer more bright light and the ability to control humidity better, which is what this plant likes. However, growing in any well lit room with fairly high humidity and plenty of warmth is worth a go at growing this fussy species.

Facts

Origin:	Brazil.
Names:	Zebra plant (common). Aphelandra squarrosa (botanical/scientific).
Max Growth (approx):	Height 2ft.
Poisonous for pets:	Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Zebra Plant Care

Temperature:	Temperatures from 60-75 ºF (15-23 ºC) are ideal and no lower than 55 ºF (13 ºC).
Light:	Bright light without direct sunlight during summer time is preferred.
Watering:	It's important to keep the soil moist to the touch, and not water logged or too dry. It's advisable to use luke warm soft water (not hard water).
Soil:	Most multi-purpose or peat based potting soil mixes are fine to use.
Re-Potting:	Re-pot in spring each year. Only use a pot one size bigger if the plant has become pot bound (too much).
Fertilizer:	Feed with a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during spring and summer.
Humidity:	Zebra plants like slightly higher humidity than many other plants of 60% - 70%. You may need to raise the humidity levels in a room artificially by placing the plant in a humidity tray with pebbles or use a humidifier appliance. Low humidity levels within an artificially heated room during winter is not going make a Zebra plant very happy.
Propagation:	These are propagated through taking a couple of inches long stem tip cuttings and using rooting hormone to help them grow roots. The ideal room temperature is about 70 ºF (21 ºC) and fairly high humidity improves the chance of successfully propagate the cuttings. Applying heat to the bottom of the pot (using a temperature mat) can speed up the growth process.
Pruning	When the flowers begin to die remove them. Also prune the stem and leaves down so there is only two rows of leaves in height left – once the bract begins to die off. This can help prevent the plant getting leggy and losing leaves (which most do) whilst giving the plant an opportunity to grow the following year. Don’t forget to take your cutting for propagation now!

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Dracaena marginata

 

The Dracaena marginata is a species from a large plant genus (Dracaena) that has many variations in leaf sizes, leaf colors and different trunk types. The marginata is one of the most popular seen indoors which can grow into an attractive plant that becomes a great focal point of a room, once it has matured enough.
How it looks and grows: The leaves are quite slim compared to other Dracaena's that arch over. There are three types, one has a dark red outer edge leaves with a green center, another is green in the center with red and yellowish stripes and the other the colorama has thick red edges. The leaves are produced when the trunk grows stems (cane) from the side that often needs to be trained (keeps them growing upwards). These stems have a grayish brown bark (the trunk) that can also produce smaller ones, so the Dragon tree really needs to be pruned to avoid the plant from growing in all directions.
These are slow grower's that can take about 10 years to reach over 5ft tall but look lush once they reach about a foot high. They have a very similar look like palm tree plants.
Level of care: The Madagascar dragon tree is one of the easiest house plants to grow and takes neglect on the chin - then recovers quickly once the correct conditions and care is provided. The one I gave to my sister (about 5ft in height) over 10 years ago was neglected more than cared for and is now looking great.
Leaves falling: If leaves start dying and coming away at the bottom of the plant - do not worry. This is natural and similar to how a yucca tree sheds it's bottom leaves for new growth. You can remove them once you see them deteriorating in look.
Poisonous: This plant is toxic to both cats and dogs. The problem with cats is they love chewing the leaves, as I found out with my parents cats. My parents cats were fine, although they only nibbled a small amount. Because the leaves are very slim I'm sure they think its a type of grass. See more about pets and the effect toxins have here at the ASPCA.
Improving air quality: The Dracaena marginata is one of the plants on NASA's air filtering plants list (part of the NASA clean air study) that reduces benzene, formaldehyde, xylene and toluene, within the air.

Facts

Origin:	Madagascar.
Names:	Dragon Tree (common). -- Dracaena Marginata (botanical/scientific).
Max Growth (approx):	Height 8ft.
Poisonous for pets:	Toxic to cats and dogs.

Temperature:	Average room temperatures are ideal between 65°- 75°F (18°- 24 °C) or more. They will live through much colder temperatures during winter (as I have observed), but keeping them in optimal health requires the room to be no less than 50°F (10°C).
Light:	Bright conditions with shade is suitable for the dragon plant. Direct sunlight will damage the leaves.
Watering:	Keeping the soil slightly moist is the best indicator of correct watering. During the winter, like most plants they need much less.
Soil:	I have always used an all purpose potting mix that works fine.
Re-Potting:	These can be re-potted every two years during spring or later if needed.
Humidity:	Normal household humidity is fine and misting the leaves is advised. They do like fresh air during the summer from a window open, and do not like stuffy hot rooms from central heating systems.
Propagation:	Cutting and re-planting stem cuttings a couple of inches long is an easy method used. Apply root hormones and give it a few weeks for them to begin rooting.
Pruning:	You can remove old leaves that are ready to fall from the bottom of the trunk which will make it look more attractive. And, cut back stems to keep the plant to the size you want.

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Top 14 Energy Drink Dangers

 

1. Cardiac Arrest: While our Caffeine Calculator can show people how many energy drinks at one time would be lethal, this formula doesn’t apply to everyone. Those with underlying heart conditions have gone into cardiac arrest after just a few energy drinks. Before drinking energy drinks or caffeine, be sure to know your heart’s health.-A new study showed that energy drinks cause more forceful heart contractions, which could be harmful to some with certain heart conditions.- One study showed that between 2009 and 2011 there were 4854 calls to poison control centers regarding energy drinks. 51% of these calls were involving children. src– Another study shows the link between energy drinks and cardiac events among teens. This study recommends that teens consume no more than one 250 ml energy drink per day and not before or during sports or exercise. Study link. A 2016 study showed that 18-40-year-olds who drank energy drinks had a significant increase in their QTc interval, which is a marker of abnormal heart rhythm risk. 
2. Headaches and Migraines: Too many energy drinks can lead to severe headaches from the caffeine withdrawal symptoms. Changing the amount of caffeine you ingest daily can cause more frequent headaches.
3. Increased Anxiety: Those with 2 different genetic variations in their adenosine receptors are prone to feeling increased anxiety when consuming caffeinated beverages such as energy drinks. Larger doses of caffeine can even spur on full blown panic attacks. 
4. Insomnia: Energy drinks do a good job of keeping people awake, but when abused, they can cause some people to miss sleep altogether. This lack of sleep causes impaired functioning and can be dangerous to drive or perform other concentration heavy tasks.
5. Type 2 Diabetes: Because many energy drinks are also very high in sugar, they can eventually wear out the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas, which leads to type 2 diabetes.
6. Drug Interaction: Some of the ingredients in energy drinks can interact with prescription medications especially medications taken for depression.
7. Addiction: People can become addicted to caffeine and energy drinks. This can lead to lack of functioning when unable to have the energy drink or a financial stress from having to buy several energy drinks daily.
8. Risky behavior: There was a study published in The Journal of American College Health which showed that teens are more likely to take dangerous risks when high on caffeine. This could result in injury or legal trouble.
9. Jitters and Nervousness: Too much caffeine from energy drinks causes some people to shake and be anxious. This can interfere with performing needed tasks or cause emotional issues. A study out of Perth, Australia found that even just one 250ml energy drink can increase anxiety in young men.
10. Vomiting: Too many energy drinks can lead to vomiting. This causes dehydration and acid erosion of teeth and esophagus if frequent.
11. Allergic Reactions: Because of the many ingredients in energy drinks reactions could occur, from minor itching to airway constriction.
12. High Blood Pressure: Caffeinated products like energy drinks can elevate a person’s blood pressure. For those with normal blood pressure, this isn’t concerning, but those with already elevated blood pressure could be placing themselves at risk of stroke and other health problems related to hypertension if they consume too many energy drinks in a short period of time. The research. A more recent study conducted by The Mayo Clinic found that Rockstar Energy Drink (240 mg version) significantly raised the blood pressure of study participants compared to the placebo drink. Overall, there was a 6.4% increase in average blood pressure.
13. Niacin Overdose: Niacin (Vitamin B3) is placed in most energy drinks at levels that cause no harm and can even be therapeutic. However, if a person is taking additional supplements containing Niacin, overdosing on the vitamin is possible when consuming energy drinks in addition to those supplements. Symptoms include; Skin flushing, dizziness, rapid heart rate, vomiting, itching, gout, and diarrhea.
14. Stress Hormone Release: A study conducted by The Mayo Clinic found that a 240 mg version of Rockstar Energy Drink caused an increase in stress hormone release. The average norepinephrine level of the participants increased by 74% while the placebo only caused a 31% increase.

 

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breakfast "important meal "

"breakfast is the most important meal of the day"

Why???

Simple because it's true. But you might be in the same position I was in a few years ago. So what I want to accomplish with this post is to get you to experience yourself the importance of breakfast. Trust me, it will be worth it. Let's get going!

What Do You Get?

First, let me just say that this is not just about whether you should, or should not, eat breakfast. No. What I write about is why you should make sure you eat a totally awesome first meal that fulfills two main things:

• It gives you loads of energy for the entire day
• It's healthy and great for your body to eat every day

By fulfilling these two simple requirements, the quality of my life has spiked. Both my mind and body are ready for new challenges every day and I always have the energy to go for what I truly want.

Actually, if I hadn't realized the importance of breakfast, this entire website wouldn't even exist - I simply didn't have the energy before.

So let me break down these a little and explain how I managed to get so much more energy into my life. By eating a great breakfast, I nowadays:

• Get my body going in order to have a great morning
• Avoid that 2 p.m. energy dip at the office
• Have an easier time being fit
• Have developed a sharper and more focused mind
• Have much more energy throughout the entire day

But why is it so? How does it really work?

Why Does It Work?

To me, the reason behind why a great breakfast gives you energy is threefold:

• You Need It: You need fuel to run a car, right? Same goes for your body. If the last meal you had was dinner, then your body has been without anything to eat for around 12 hours(!) so it's as simple as that - your body needs food to produce energy.

• You Are Proactive: Many of us tend to focus our food intake around dinner. According to me, that's just completely wrong. Why eat so much when the day is almost over and we just have few hours of sitting in the sofa in front of us? Instead, be proactive, and eat before you need the energy. By eating in the morning, you'll have all that energy to use when you need it the most - mid day.

• You Eat Right: You have huge power when choosing what to eat in the morning. What you eat determines the result you will get. If you eat to get as much out of your body and mind as possible, then you’re on the right track. If you just eat to get full, then you might end up draining your energy level instead.

I believe bullet point number 2 is the most crucial here. The importance of breakfast is in essence all about being one step ahead. If you know you're gonna need lots of energy in the upcoming day, then why not charge your batteries accordingly?

How To Start?

So now we know what you can get by eating a great breakfast and we also know why it works that way. The third and final step of this post is to get you moving forward. Here's a list of 10 of my absolute best food tips on what to include in your breakfast:

My Top 10 Power Breakfast Foods 

• Water - Your body is dehydrated after a long night so refill it quick.

• Berries - Contains essential vitamins and antioxidants. Plus they're easy to take on-the-go.

• Peanut Butter - An immense source of protein. 

• Honey - Gives amazing benefits such as high energy, lots of minerals and increased metabolism helping you to lose weight as well.

• Banana - Chop a banana into your fruit or cereal and you get a big meal of carbohydrates instantly.

• Nuts - Depending on the type, you can find one containing almost anything you need. A personal favorite of mine is the almond with its richness in fiber and protein.

• Yogurt - If you go for one without sugar, you should be able to find some really high-quality stuff that will release it's energy throughout the day.

• Eggs - Fantastic protein source and you have a great variety of options  for how to eat them.

• Porridge or Muesli - Packed with complex carbohydrates making you last for many many hours of high energy. Plus you can put a lot of additional things in there.

• Smoothie - Easy to make, taste fantastic and there are endless of possibilities. You can try different kinds until you find a personal favorite to get a handful of energy in a single cup.

So in order to really experience the difference in energy level I suggest a small test.

Keep going with your normal routine for a week (meanwhile you can learn more about what to eat in the morning) and write down these things each and every day:

• The time you first feel hungry after eating breakfast
• The time of any sensation of drowsiness during the day
• At the end of the day, write a few paragraphs summarizing your energy throughout the day - Where you alert in the morning? How did you feel all day? When could you have needed more energy?

That's it. That's not too hard, is it? Then do the same after you switch to having power breakfasts instead :-) And in the end, compare your results for a final evaluation.

I bet that you will be blown away by the difference you will be able to see after eating a healthy and energetic breakfast each morning - That is the importance of breakfast.

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