Category: Kitchen Renovation

Pruning roses can be a tricky thing to do. If you don’t know what you’re doing, your plants could end up looking worse than before. One of the things that make pruning roses difficult is that there are so many different types of roses and it’s hard to know which ones need to be pruned, when, and how much they should be cut back. But if you know how to plant roses then you should also know how to prune them.

Fortunately, we provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to prune roses properly. It’s easy enough for beginners but also has some good tips even if you’ve been working with rose bushes all your life. Let’s get started!

When to Prune Roses

Pruning roses is not something you should do too often. The best time to prune these plants is at the end of winter, i.e., after they have completed their blooming cycle and right before the new one begins in spring. Dead flowers can be cut back anytime in the summer. During the flowering season, deadheading spent blooms will encourage more blooms and maintain an attractive shrub. 

Pruning is also determined by the class of the rose plant and the hardiness zones in which it grows. Also, trim longer stems after a first-killing frost to keep your roses from snapping in winter storms.

Where to Prune Roses

The most obvious areas to prune on rose bushes are those with dead or diseased plants, absolutely out of control, and those that show no signs of life. These dead canes may result from disease, pests, or just a general lack of attention.

You should only remove branches from healthy plants as much as you need to allow airflow. In addition, these plants will also need a little trim back now, and then so they don’t take over the entire garden.

To keep the rose garden looking neat, you’ll also need to trim it periodically throughout spring and summer until autumn arrives. You can even use hedge trimmers to add a finished look. The ultimate goal is to maintain a V formation or an open vase shape.

Tools and Materials

Gardening glovesHeavy long sleevesBypass pruning shearsWhite glue

Pruning Steps

Remove all Remaining Leaves

Wear gloves and pull on heavy long sleeves as you’ll be removing leaves that can cause sap to splatter. For this task, you’ll need a pair of pruning shears. Start at the bottom of the plant and work your way up, making cuts where branches grow out from the main stem. Keep in mind these cuts will stop the growth of rose flowers, which is the desired result.

Prune from the Ground Up

As you take the inventory of your rose bush, note down its overall health and shape. Then go slow while pruning the dead canes at the base and opening up the interior to light and air circulation.

Image credit: https://www.gardendesign.com/

Remove any Broken, Dead, and Diseased Material

How do you know that the wood is dead or diseased? You have to cut it, and if it is brown, it’s dead, but if it’s green, it’s living. Cut away any diseased branches. Cut them flush with the bush’s base or at a 45-degree angle, exposing their white insides. If the flesh is not white, cut until you reach the living canes.

Image credit: https://hips.hearstapps.com/

Open Up the Center of the Plant

Start pruning the center of your rose bush by removing any canes crossing or rubbing against each other. Cut them at 45-degree angles, exposing the inner flesh. Also, cut off any unneeded growth shoots growing between your rose plant’s main stems and branches.

Remove Thin, Weak Growth

Remove those twiggy canes that are thinner than a pencil. If left, these thin canes can grow gangly and produce weak growth. If they are allowed to grow, the plant will become top-heavy and fall over the next season.

Remove Sucker Growth from the Base of Grafted Roses

Suckers appear at the base of a grafted rose bush. These vary from soft, thin shoots to stronger ones that resemble a small tree trunk. Left on its own, a sucker will turn into another plant entirely and take away needed nutrients from the mother plant.

Image credit: https://www.thespruce.com/

When pruning bushes after flowering is finished, stop pruning at least 2 inches above a five-leaflet leaf. When your rose bush has finished flowering, cut off weak growth and remove suckers from the base.

Prune the New Growth

Prune the remaining canes by cutting them at a 45-degree angle and about a 1/4 inch above a five-leaflet leaf. Remove the strongest cane when pruning, leaving three to five of the most vigorous canes for this season’s growth. New stems should grow in the direction of the bud, and they should grow outward and not inward.

Seal Freshly Cuts with White Glue

Cut off dead or dying wood and spindly growth with hand pruners or a knife. Cut at a 45-degree angle where it meets a new stem. Seal fresh cuts with white glue to prevent rot and cane borers from entering the plant. After you have finished pruning, fertilize your bush with rose food for new roses.

Follow with Clean Up

After pruning, make sure you get rid of the debris around your rose bush. Throw it away, burn it, or compost it so that you don’t get pests and diseases in your garden roses, such as black spots and powdery mildew. These can take over quickly if left untreated.

Rose Pruning Tips

For diseased branches, major pruning should be done in early spring. Dead branches can be red, yellow, or splotchy colored. If you don’t know the type of rose bush, then watch it throughout the growing season. If it blooms on the new growth, trim it next year while the plant is breaking dormancy.

If it blooms early on last year’s canes, then it’s an old-time type rose. So, don’t prune it until after flowering is complete. For maintenance during the blooming season, the deadhead blooms to a strong node and removes fallen leaves from the ground.

It’s best to trim roses as soon as they finish blooming because flower buds for the next season form as the current flowers fade. In bloom time, these flower shoots should be removed during deadheading, or they will go to seed and not produce any more flowers this year.

Roses that Bloom Once on New Growth

Modern roses like hybrid teas, grandiflora, and floribunda bloom best on the current season’s growth. Species roses, old roses, and once-blooming shrub roses are also more primitive types that bloom first on dead wood during mid-summer. 

All these types should be pruned in late winter or very early spring before greening up and branching. Create an open vase shape by removing the center stems and any crossing branches.

 These roses bloom more than once per season and they bloom on new wood. Leave a healthy cane evenly spaced around the plant, then cut it at various lengths to encourage blooming.

Roses that Bloom Once on Old Wood

To keep roses like ramblers in check, you have to prune them to remove dead, broken branches, and dead wood after blooming. Rams continue to bloom on old wood, so cut these roses back severely once the flowers fade by about one-third.

Everbloomers

Shrub rose bushes like the knock-out varieties, and the fairy is repeat bloomers, and they flower on maturity. Leave them unpruned the first two years to increase vigor. Then, remove 1/3 of the oldest canes, plus any dead, diseased, and dying canes. Knock-outs are ready for their first pruning in their second or third season.

Climbers like climbing roses and William Baffin Rose may also repeat bloom. So, trim it early to remove dead canes. Avoid annual pruning until summer after the peak of the bloom. Note that climbing roses have two types of roses which include main and lateral.

Image credit: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/

Main canes come from the base while lateral canes produce flowers. Lateral canes also encourage blooming. However, you shouldn’t fuss about pruning to the outward-facing bud because shaping climbing roses this way isn’t necessary.

Rose hips should also be left in the warmer climates through the fall and winter just like other roses. Do not trim the last blooms of the season; instead, remove petals. However, in colder climates, you should remove the rose hips before winter.

FAQs on How to Prune Roses

What is the best time to prune roses?

Late summer and early winter is the best time to prune roses because that’s the time new growth begins.

Which type of pruner to use when pruning roses?

Always use a good quality pair of bypass pruners or secateurs when cutting canes, young or old stems, and small branches.

Final Thought on How to Prune Roses

As you can see, pruning is vital to the health of your rose bush. It helps promote new growth and encourages flowering. It’s the type of rose bush pruning that will keep your rose garden healthy for years to come. Pruning stimulates growth and leads to more blooms and a healthier plant overall.

 

The post How to Prune Roses appeared first on Kitchen Infinity.

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When it comes to studio apartments, there are some challenges that come with the territory. One of those challenges is finding ways to maximize your space and keep things as organized as possible without sacrificing too much comfort.

Fortunately, we’ve put together some tips for making life easier when it comes to studio apartment living so that you can enjoy all the benefits of having such a small home while also keeping everything looking neat and tidy.  Here are some tips for maximizing your small apartment to give it a more spacious look and feel:

Define Each Functional Area

One of the biggest obstacles in a studio apartment is how to define each functional area.  This includes areas such as the living room, bedroom, kitchenette, and bathroom. When defining these areas, it can be helpful to use visual barriers to enclose certain areas while also giving them their own space.

Consider Double-Duty Furniture

Maximizing your studio apartment with furniture that plays the role of double duty can save you a lot of space. For example, a dining table combo, a chest that serves as both a coffee table and storage, or even a bookshelf can play the role of double duty depending on what your specific needs are. If you choose wisely, these pieces add function to your space and add extra storage solutions that you can use.

This strategy makes the most out of every square inch of your living space, allowing you to save money. With this, you can stay within your budget without compromising on either function or style. The double-duty furniture also leaves you with plenty of surface space that you can use for your decor, allowing you to create a more inviting look. But this can only work well for you if you also know how to arrange furniture in your house

dd Built-In Structural Furniture

Create more space and efficiency in your small apartment by maximizing the structural part of your furniture. Built-in furniture offers more storage space and frees up floor space that you can use for other things.

Built-in storage works best in large open areas where extra space is needed, such as an entryway or a living room area. You can maximize wall space by adding structural furniture. With the floating shelves and structural furniture, you’ll have more space to roam without worrying about the clutter taking up your counter space and floor space.

Utilize Your Entryway  

You need to focus on your entryway since this can take up a lot of room. Display furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as open shelving and bench. You’ll be able to store shoes, coats, jackets, and other accessories in an orderly fashion.

Image caption: https://www.lifestorage.com/

For the bench, you can build one that’s long enough to act as an extra table. It can be used to sit while putting on your shoes, take off your jacket, or hang up coats and jackets. Double up your side table as a bookshelf.

Make Your Room Feel Taller

Bring high curtains to your room to give it a sense of grandeur. Even if your square footage is on the smaller side, making your room feel taller will enhance the space’s visual appeal.

Opt for a bright white bed that doesn’t take up too much of your floor. You can get away with a twin or full-sized bed, which you won’t need if you sleep alone. A smaller room is well-suited to store boxes underneath your bed for additional storage.

Keep Your Room Clean and Organized

Clean lines, smooth surfaces, and space between your items give your apartment a more airy, open vibe. Learn how to declutter your room, especially in your kitchen area, because it feels cramped when dirty dishes and pans are left in your sink. Choose furniture with clean, smooth lines to avoid adding to the clutter in your room.

Ensure there’s enough space between your pieces to allow for airflow so you won’t get stuffy while spending time inside. Opt for semi-open furniture to bring in natural light. Avoid dense, bulky furniture that can block natural light and movement. Bookshelf, nightstand, and other partially open objects can create expansiveness in your studio apartment by leaving room for white space. 

Also, opt for transparent, clear furniture. This won’t only make your room feel larger, but it’s also a fun and trendy way that will bring versatility to your favorite color scheme.

Create Visual Height

Studio apartments with low ceilings can still create a sense of height by using tall pieces of furniture. In an apartment rather than a loft, you can maximize the vertical space with chairs or couches that have legs. If this isn’t possible, opt for chairs or sofas with high backs and legs to create a more expansive look.

Image caption: https://blog.common.com/

You can also hang your curtain high above a short window to create a feeling of height. You can also draw attention upward by adding hanging home decor on the walls and ceilings. If you can’t fit a bed in your apartment, raise it. By doing so, you can have a space for a small coffee table, while thin shelves can create extra surface space for storage without extending into your room.

Go for a Smaller Bed Size

If you can’t fit a twin, queen-sized bed, or king bed into your studio apartment, consider going for the next best thing — a full. A full-size mattress is smaller than both the twin and queen-sized bed, but by making this simple change, it’ll take up less space in your room without compromising on comfort.

Pair your full mattress with furniture like a small nightstand, a dresser, or an armoire to maximize your bedroom’s storage space. This will help you save space in your small bedroom and make the room feel bigger.

If you have more than one person living in the apartment, buying bunk beds for children is another way to save up some space. If you are not using this option just yet, consider throwing a bed skirt over the top bunk, so it doesn’t look like you have a bed on top of your bed.

Consider Your Closet Space

Your closet space has the full potential to reinvent your small bedroom. Homeowners have managed to create walk-in closets by adding a second closet door, so this will give you some room to breathe. If the front of your closet is not being utilized well enough, think about getting mirrored sliding doors which will reflect light and make the room feel bigger.

Move your worn-out and wrinkle-free clothes to storage containers under your bed to reinvent your closet. Add a small desk inside your closet with a few shelves. If you use a corner of your room for a desk, consider repurposing the door to make room for a wardrobe or dresser instead.

Maximize Your Light

Natural light makes a small studio apartment look bigger. So, change your blinds for curtains to give yourself some extra room. Instead of hanging them from the ceiling, hold up a large piece of fabric on your window with clothespins.

If you have no natural light in your studio apartment, consider using lamps or wall sconces for lighting instead of overhead lights. They will make the room feel warmer and bigger. Brighten up your small space by adding lighting in the dark corners of your apartment.

Maximize Space with Large Mirrors

Putting up mirrors in your small studio apartment will make it look bigger by tricking the eye into believing the room goes on. You can put one behind your bed to expand the space or hang them on different walls of your home. Hang large pieces of fabric over each mirror for an added effect. Placing your mirrors in areas with no windows will also create the illusion of a larger space.

Image caption: https://i.pinimg.com/

Reflective surfaces also create the illusion of a taller and wider room. Whether you’re looking to expand or open a cramped studio apartment, mirrors will do just that. 

Consider the Hanger Light Together with Sofa Bed

The hanger light is a kind of lighting that hangs from the ceiling. You can find these lights in most hardware or homecare stores. They are good for small rooms because they will not take up floor space, and you can suspend them anywhere you need an extra glow.

After installing the hanger light, bring in the sofa bed so that you have that extra space for your coffee table and TV stand. With a hanger light together with a sofa bed, you’ll get most of your space without feeling cramped.

Invest in Day Bed

If your studio lacks the square footage for a bed and a sofa, consider designing your bed as a day bed. Day beds are smaller than standard twin-sized mattresses, and they don’t have to be a permanent fixture in the room. You can keep them under your sofa during the daytime and then bring them out at night when you’re going to sleep.

A day bed can help you save floor space for a dining table for your meals and a working table for your office space at home. Finally, make your bedroom stand out in your studio apartment by creating the appearance of separate rooms by adding levels.

FAQs on How to Maximize Your Space in a Studio Apartment

Where do you place a TV in a studio apartment?

You can use the TV as a room divider or hang it on the wall for a cleaner, more modern look. Just be sure to measure your space. TV stands are good options if you need room for DVDs or other entertainment appliances.

Where do you put bookshelves in a studio apartment?

Beside the bed is one of the best places to put a bookcase in the studio apartment because it’s the most spacious area and will give you easy access to your books. If there isn’t space, put them beside the TV for more decorative purposes.

Final Thought on How to Maximize Your Space in a Studio Apartment

As you can see, maximizing space in your studio apartment is possible. It just takes a little creativity and patience. So, embrace your small living area as an opportunity to develop a new lifestyle with a fresh perspective on life.

 

 

The post How to Maximize Your Space in a Studio Apartment appeared first on Kitchen Infinity.

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A rocking chair is not just a piece of furniture with four legs and a backrest; it can soothe your baby to sleep anytime, anywhere. When the kids were busy with their activities during the daytime, tired mothers used to rock them in a rocking chair before putting them to sleep at night.

It is one of the essential pieces of furniture that every home should have, especially when they are expecting babies or toddlers. You will never regret buying this product because it has been tested by many users already, and they all agree that it works. Here are some of the favorite rocking chair options available:

1. Soto Rocking Chair

If you’re looking for the best rocking chair, you have to start with the Soto Rocking Chair. This is one of the best value rocking chairs you can find, so it’s great for people on a tight budget yet still want nothing but the best quality. Soto Rocking Chair has a curvaceous design that will add elegance to your home.

Image credit: https://cgmood.com/

The rocker is made of wood, and it comes with a firm, comfortable cushion free of charge. It also has a strong and sturdy rope that easily lets you move around your seat smoothly. You can use the rocker indoors or outdoors, which makes it one of the best rocking chairs out there, too.

2. Babyletto Kiwi Power Recliner and Swivel Glider

This type of rocking chair offers both the traditional rocking motion and swivel mechanism. Its control panel is hidden in the armrest to maintain a streamlined look. The swivel allows for 270-degrees rotation while the gliding motion moves the chair forward and back. 

The control panel also comes with an in-built USB port for added convenience. It’s a linen and polyester blend and is a free chemical retardant. A lumbar cushion also adds to its comfort. This is among the best nursery gliders and rocking chairs available.

3. CB2 Saic Quantam Rocking Chair

This was a creation by a student from the School of Art Institute of Chicago. It’s an elegant, eye-catching rocking chair that was designed to deliver peak comfort. Its frame is made from larch plywood, while the rocking base is made from catalpa wood. 

The form seat is made from a fabric and wool blend. It’s available in different colors and textures making it perfect for you if you’re looking for ways to decorate your room. You’ll find that this rocking chair is incredibly comfortable and cozy while still offering a stunning design.

4. Angel Line Windsor Glider and Ottoman

If you’re looking to soothe your baby to go to sleep, then a Window glider together with a spacious Ottoman is the best choice. If you’re also looking for comfort and generous padding that extends from the seat to the arms, don’t let go of the gliding ottoman. It lulls babies to sleep with its smooth rocking motion while the ottoman gives mothers a place to rest their feet.

Image credit: https://i5.walmartimages.com/

5. Storkcraft Chevron Hoop Glider and Ottoman

This chair has a smooth gliding and rocking motion plus a matching ottoman that features a pull-out nursing stool. You can choose a range of modern upholstery options that’ll fit right with your baby’s bedroom decor. It’s one of the best nursing chairs out there.

6. Monte Luca Glider with Walnut Frame

This is one of the best nursery glider chairs available. It’s super-comfortable, thanks to its ergonomic arm height, high back, and built-in headrest. This chair offers serious comfort and support and has removable seat cushions that are machine washable. It’s certainly not cheap, but the smart design and exceptionally smooth gliding motion make it totally worth it.

7. Mack and Milo Aisley Reclining Glider

This is a multifunction glider with a rotating swivel function, a smooth gliding motion, and a reclining mechanism. It offers a soft spring core interior for a cushioned surface. The square silhouette suits both modern and traditional spaces. When using the reclining feature, it automatically locks for safety. Its sturdy frame has a maximum weight capacity of 250 pounds.

8. Baby Relax Mikayla Swivel Gliding Recliner

This is the best glider out there. As you know, a glider chair glides back and forth on its track. Baby relax Mikayla does more than gliding. This rocker swivels reclines and comes with leg rest. It’s a comfortable chair for everyone, especially the taller people who will appreciate this design that accommodates their height.

9. Upholstered Rocker with Ottoman in Cream

If you’re looking for a chair high enough for you and your partner to lean your head back on, this one’s for you. A pair of these chairs in front of a fireplace or with its conversation pit is just what you need to relax and enjoy your life with the people you love most. 

This upholstered chair features a smooth 360 swivel and comes with a bonus lumbar pillow. It is comfortable and neutral enough to find space in your home even after your kids have grown up. It’s also Greenguard Certified and comes with an Ottoman matching to enable you to rest your feet.

10. Cinthia Rocking Chair

If you have limited space at home, this rocker is the best option for you. Its compact shape will easily fit into any environment, especially in bedrooms or nurseries. Cinthia has a sturdy wooden frame and durable polyester fabric that will last for years to come. Its clean lines make it suitable for eclectic or modern style decorating schemes.

Image credit: https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/

11. Braiden Studio Saulsberry Fabric Rocking Chair

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly rocking chair, then here you go!  You can find cheap rockers, but be careful not to fall for the lower-priced ones because they won’t interest you. Saulsberry rocker offers a modern style at a cheaper price. 

If you want a rocker with less outdoorsy and slightly more sophisticated, then this is the right choice. It’s made from birch wood and uses polyester for the cushions and fabric armrests. It’s a greater choice for people on the shorter side but not comfortable with taller people.

12. Arcadia Grey Wood Outdoor Rocking Chair

Bring your relaxation outside to your deck and porch with this relaxation rocking chair. It is made from acacia which is not only durable but also sustainable. This piece has a classic, elegant design and is available in different finishes. It’s not complete; therefore, you’ll have to assemble it to put it together.

13. Yashiya Retro Rocking Chair

Don’t be afraid to use this chair if you have an aching back. It has a modern design that harkens back to the original design. Its plush fabric provides updated comfort that looks great in your home. With its solid wooden base, it delivers a steady rocking motion that can make you fall asleep within a short time. It’s also a great place where you can relax while watching your favorite movie.

14. Loon Peak Greenwood Rocking Chair

This is the best bet for those who are seeking the antique and cottage look with modern craftsmanship. It’s made from rubberwood, a medium-density tropical hardwood. The chair also features a rich brown color with an oak finish. Its traditional arched legs allow for a gentle rocking motion.  This chair can rock adults and their infants indoors and on a covered porch.

15. Gracie Oaks Rajesh Rocking Chair

This wooden rocking chair is made with mahogany and has a weather-resistant finish. Therefore, you can use it outdoors despite being elegant and comfortable indoors. This comfortable rocking chair is also available in several colors.

16. Delta Children Blair Nursery Rocker Chair

Kids’ furniture has improved, and that’s something that many adults should acknowledge. For example, delta children have fashioned a comfortable and trendy glider chair with amazing features. Such features include 360 degrees swivel, padded arms, and non-toxic material easy to clean with mild soap and water. It’s one of the best pieces of furniture you can add to your home.

17. Pottery Barn Kids Minna Small Spaces Rocker and Ottoman

One of the best rocker chairs comes from a company called Pottery Barn Kids. This chair has all the features to make it one of the top rocking chairs for kids and adults, especially if you have a small home or room. Its excellent features include wood legs, satin walnut veneer, a wide seat base, and a comfortable cushioned seat and fabric easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.

This chair is perfect for nursery and Greenguard gold certification, so it meets chemical emissions standards. Once the kids get old, this chic rocker can work in the living room and an adult bedroom.

18. Nursery Works Sleepytime Rocker

This is for people who love the benefits of a baby rocking chair but don’t love the look. At first, you might think that this is just a sleek, chic armchair. That’s not the case. This rocking chair is available in nine upholstery options.

Image credit: https://cdn.shopify.com/

The only problem you can have with it is whether to put it in the nursery or living room. But it’s one of the best rocking chairs for a nursery, although it’s made in limited quantities.

19. Crate&Kids Bakersfield Rocking Chair

Rockers are not old-fashioned and uncomfortable as portrayed. And this is one of the best baby rocking chairs for the nursery. The sleek design, striped fabric, and leather piping give it a modern feel. It’s a good choice if you don’t have to assemble the nursery chair. The padded seat and reversible lumbar pillow make this chair more comfortable.

FAQs About Your Best Rocking Chair

How does a rocking chair work?

Traditional rocking chairs work by allowing you to use your legs and feet to rhythmically move back and forth while gliders move back and forth on a straight plane for a forward and backward motion. 

What is a rocking chair used for?

A rocking chair’s soothing motion makes it suitable for relaxation both outdoors and indoors. It makes one of the top things to buy for your new house

Final Thought on Best Rocking Chairs

There you have it! There are so many varieties of rocking chairs in the market. Whether you’re expecting a kid or want to relax outside, these nursery seating will ensure that you get what you’ve paid for and go for the one with durable materials.

 

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A bathtub is one of the most important fixtures in your bathroom. It’s where you relax and unwind at the end of a long day, so it’s natural that you want to keep your tub looking its best. Unfortunately, a bathtub can become chipped and scratched or even corroded by hard water stains over time. This can make it look old and unattractive.

Refinishing your tub is an easy way to restore it to its original condition without having to spend thousands on replacing it with a new one. The process can be done relatively quickly depending on how large your tub is and won’t cost too much either. Most importantly, when you’re finished refinishing, your tub will look new again. 

There are several ways to refinish an old or damaged tub, including painting the surface with acrylic paint or applying the vinyl film directly over the existing surface. Here we go!

Tools and Materials

Painter’s tapePutty knifeRoller traySpongeTack clothDrop clothBreathing protectionAbrasive padRubber glovesBleachChemical caulk removerTub and tile caulkPaint rollersPaintbrushesEpoxy puttyPaper towelsAbrasive cleanersBathtub refinishing kitSafety goggles

Remove Old Caulk and Tub’s Hardware

Use a putty knife to remove old caulk and tub hardware. Remove anything that may block your work. Cover the faucets with paper towels and mask them off using painter’s tape. Scrape off soap scum with a razor blade and make sure you clean any dirt from your bathtub openings.

Clean Your Tub Thoroughly with Diluted Bleach and Water

Pour a pail of diluted bleach and warm water into your bathtub and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, scrub the inner and outer surfaces with a sponge or an old rag to remove dirt and stains. Rinse the tub thoroughly afterward using clean water. Allow it to dry completely before you continue with your work.

Sanding

Use a coarse 36-grit paper to sand the bathtub—sand in the direction of the grain to avoid gouging or scratching your bathtub surface. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust particles as you sand. After that, fill any marks in the dried fiberglass with putty and sand it. 

Image caption: https://www.topkote.com/

Mask off the areas around your bathtub with paper or plastic before you proceed to the next step. You can rough up sanding by brushing the tub’s surface with a stainless steel brush. Make sure you neutralize the acid before applying the paint.

Wipe and Prime

Wipe the surface with a tack cloth and prime it with an acrylic urethane enamel primer. Give it enough time to dry before you apply your top coat. Follow the instructions on the can as to how much drying time is needed after priming. After wiping with a tack cloth, clean it with a rag to enable your acrylic urethane enamel to adhere to the surface of the porcelain.

Depending on room temperature and humidity conditions, you can apply several coats per day. Make sure you apply a bonding agent over the tub’s surface to ensure your new finish won’t peel off the old porcelain.

Mask off the Tub and any Remaining Fixtures

You’ll want to mask off the remaining fixtures, including the drain stopper and any faucets. Mask off floors and walls using drop cloths and painter’s tape. Remember that epoxy paint will be hard to remove, so make sure to guard your tub against drops and spills. Protect the tile at tub level and any fixture or faucet hardware with painter’s tape or paper.

Ventilate Your Working Space

The whole project of etching, sanding, and coating will create dust and fumes. In addition to the epoxy paint fumes, sanding can create fiberglass dust that can irritate your lungs and sinuses. Always work in a well-ventilated space, preferably outside or near an open window. Also, wear breathing protection or any respiratory equipment as recommended by the manufacturer.

Then, prep your paint included in the refinishing kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Many DIY refinishing kits use a two-part epoxy paint that needs to be mixed before use, so read the label carefully. 

Mixing faces is very important, so don’t play fast and loose with the directions. Then, transfer half of that mixture to a second container to save the second coat and cover it to keep it from drying out.

Etch the Tub Surfaces

If the refinishing kit includes etching powder, apply it to your tub’s surface with water and scrub the surface with an abrasive pad. The etching will help the refinishing sealer adhere to the surface, which will prolong the life of your newly refinished tub. Then, rinse the tub thoroughly with clear water.

Image caption: https://bathrenovationhq.com/

Sand and Wipe Down the Bathtub

Skip this step if you’re refinishing an acrylic or fiberglass tub with no substantial grout lines. But you can learn how to clean fiberglass showers here and keep the material in good shape. An older bathtub with built-up gunk is likely to have crevices and ridges that need to be sanded down to provide a smooth surface for the sealer. Use a power sander if it’s available. Ensure you roughen up the corners and edges of your tub.

Sanding is very important because it ensures the epoxy coating adheres to the surface area properly without showing any crack or peel. After that, wipe the tub with paper towels to ensure it’s completely dry. Then, remove any excess dust or paper residue using a tack cloth.

Mix the Epoxy Coating

The key to success is in how you mix your epoxy coating. Make sure it’s well blended before applying it to your tub. You’ll have 30 minutes to work with the product, so following the manufacturer’s instructions is important. 

Paint the Tub

If you know how to paint bathrooms and other surfaces like tile and drywall, then you’ll have no problem with this step. The epoxy forms an ultra-thick, high gloss finish that’s completely waterproof. Finish the edges as required with the sponge brush, then apply a second coat of coatings as directed by the manufacturer. Before applying the second coating, you may recoat immediately or wait for one to two hours of drying time.

Image caption: https://www.sunrisespecialty.com/

Let the Coating Dry Completely

This could take 3 to 6 hours depending on climate conditions – warmer climates mean shorter drying times. You can speed up the process by using an exhaust fan. Let the tub dry and cure as indicated on the label. Make sure your working site is well ventilated to prevent inhalation of vapors.

pply the Second Coat

Sponge on another coat as required by the manufacturer’s instructions. You can do this after 3 to 6 hours, depending on climate conditions. If you wait too long, it could affect adhesion, so consider the drying time before applying your second coating. Let this dry completely and apply a third coating if required by the label.

Caulk and Reinstall the Hardware

Seal your tub’s joints with fresh silicone caulk and let it cure overnight. Then, reinstall your faucet hardware. Your refinished tub is now ready to use, so run yourself a nice, warm bath.

After bathtub refinishing, it’s best to avoid abrasive cleaners to protect your surface. Instead, go for non-abrasive and bleach-free cleaners such as cast iron and porcelain cleaners. 

Call Professional Bathtub Refinishing Company

If you want to avoid the trouble of doing this job yourself, consider professional refinishing since their years of experience in bathtub reglazing can help get your old tub looking new. Professional tub refinishers market their process as reglazing. Their standard will look similar to DIY refinishing kits, but they’ll spend more time and money repairing chips and cracks.

FAQs on How to Refinish the Tub

How long does bathtub reglazing take?

Professional refinishers will complete the job within a day and can seal your tub before you head to bed.

When is the best time to reglaze your bathtub?

You can reglaze your bathtub anytime, but if you’re looking for the least messy option, do it on or before the winter months because it’s usually cold outside, and tile grout dries quickly.

Final Thought on How to Refinish the Tub

As you can see, refinishing the tub is a great option for anyone looking to update their bathroom’s refurbishing. Just ensure that you are aware of the steps involved, so you have enough time to prepare for it.

The post How To Refinish The Tub appeared first on Kitchen Infinity.

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Pipe vine plant is a great addition to any garden. They add texture and color, but they can also be hard to grow if you don’t know what you’re doing. Pipe vines should be planted in early summer because they bloom in early spring.The plant type is generally vine.

This article will teach you everything you need to know about growing pipe vines in your backyard or on your balcony. You’ll learn the best ways of growing and caring for them so that they thrive and produce beautiful flowers every year.

How to Care for Dutchman’s Pipe Vine

Pipe vine, Dutchman’s pipe or formerly Aristolochia durior, is a perennial plant that has big heart-shaped leaves and resembles wild ginger. It is in the birthwort family, and the scientific name is Aristolochia macrophylla. It’s also known as green pipe vine or green Dutchman’s pipe.

Image credit: https://www.thespruce.com/

It has large leaves with smooth texture and heart-shaped. The leaf color includes dark green, deep green and pale silver while flower color is green, purple and yellow.

Pipe vine is a hardy plant that produces interesting flowers that resemble Dutch smoking pipes. The structure flower also resembles the human fetus. While the dense foliage often hides their flowers, they’re truly a unique feature. This easy to grow plant requires few elements such as sunlight and well-draining soil to grow with their vibrant green foliage and full vines.

Follow these other care tips to keep your pipe vine healthy and happy.

Light

Pipe vines prefer partial shade and direct sunlight only part of the day. If the plant doesn’t get enough sun, it will be weak and may not flower. Dutchman’s pipe vine needs four to six hours of full or partial sunlight every day to thrive. If you can provide it with full sun, it will achieve the best growth and flowering potential.

However, this Dutchman’s pipe is a hardy outdoor plant that can tolerate varieties of climate, including areas experiencing harsh winters. While you can plant it in the shade, full sun helps to bring out the beauty of its large leaves into the heart-shaped.

Soil and Transplanting

The Dutchman’s pipe vine doesn’t require any particular soil to thrive. All it needs is moist and well-drained soil, which is why it grows well near woodlands, creeks, or swamps.It also needs space to grow and not disrupt other plants, so plant it 1 to 2.5 meters away from other plants.

If you want to grow the plant in your garden, mix organic composts to loosen up the soil and help drain any water that accumulates during heavy rains. Or else, the stems will rot because of too much standing water where its roots are planted. Testing soil pH is not important to pipe vines because it can thrive in neutral and acidic mixtures.

If you’re looking for large, robust leaves, then rich, nutrient-filled soil is what you need. It’s best to use a blend of cow and horse manure to enrich the soil and add in some clay for drainage purposes. There’s no need for transplanting because Dutchman’s pipe vine is a large climbing vine that you should grow next to a structure where the foliage can start climbing.

Watering and Feeding Pipe Vine

This plant doesn’t need watering more often. But in dry regions and locations experiencing a dry spell, make sure to water the plant at least once a week and for best results. You can also fertilize this plant with a standard liquid fertilizer to help the plant grow faster.

Use the fertilizer two to three times during the spring and summer periods. When watering, aim at the hose of the base and not directly at the dense foliage because this can cause fungal problems.

Size and Growth Rate

Dutchman’s pipe vine plant can grow up to 20 feet in height and be readily available at your local nursery. In good conditions, its heart-shaped leaves can reach up to 12 inches a year. It’s recommended for USDA zones 4 to 8. Its clinging vines grow quickly to produce broad leaves that create a dense cover.

The leaves are shed in the winter and come back in the early spring. By the early summer, you should be able to see a dense, lush wall of leaves.

Temperature and Humidity

If the temperature starts dropping, it’s important to add mulch around its roots to insulate them against cold weather. If you want to plant pipe vine outdoors, remember that it’s not frost hardy, so it must be brought indoors during the winter months. 

The plant prefers high humidity and moderate water conditions throughout the year and with good drainage as well. It needs less watering if you live in a warmer climate. Pipe vines will not grow well without humidity, so you might have to mist them now and then if the room is very dry. If the leaves start to turn brown or yellow at the tips, then it’s getting too much water.

Pruning

Pipe vines are not very picky about pruning. You can trim them back anytime to keep them healthy and growing fast or keep them in a vase shape for decoration. Prune them to keep them tidy all the time. Regular pruning also promotes more flowers.

Image credit: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/

Make sure you look for the weakest branches and any branches that are getting out of hand, then prune them off. Pruning should always be done in late winter or early spring.

How to Propagate Aristolochia Vine

Leaf cuttings, which are from large leaves from healthy plants, can be used as propagation material. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring when the vine is thriving. When taking stem cuttings, make sure your cutting has some leaves to have the energy to grow new roots.

Dutchman’s pipe is one of the easiest plants to propagate from seed. Using this method will ensure that you have a different variety than that which you started with. You can also maintain the desired size of this plant by cutting back excessively long stems.

ristolochia Macrophylla Common Pests and Diseases

Dutchman’s pipe plant doesn’t have any major disease problems and pests. It can quickly outgrow any small infestation of insects or diseases. Because this is a climbing vine, it does need to be treated for any major spider mite infestations in the summer months.

It can grow quickly and reach 40 feet because it can be an invasive species in some regions. So, make sure you check with the local nursery to determine if the plant is off-limits. The plant is also a host to pipevine swallowtail butterfly larvae. The genus of this plant contains a toxin called aristolochic acid which is poisonous. But Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly is immune to this poison.

Uses of Aristolochia Macrophylla

Aristolochia macrophylla is used for ornamental purposes. It is grown in gardens and indoors as well. You can also plant Dutchman’s pipe near a trellis, fences, and any other outdoor structure. Pipe vine can also be used to cover old, dead trees.

Image credit: https://prairiegardens.org/

Dutchman’s pipe around the dead tree allows the climbing vine to climb up the dead tree and cover it. This will eventually help a new tree grow from a seed in the dead trunk.

FAQs on How to Grow Pipe Vines

Is the Dutchman’s pipe a perennial?

Yes, it’s a perennial vine with heart-shaped leaves and blossom leaves. It has flowers that look like small pipes and produce seeds that you can use to grow new plants.

How long does it take to grow a Dutchman’s pipe?

It will take about two weeks for the vine to grow and cover the fence, tree, or trellis. The flowers might not make seeds in less than 100 days of cold weather. It requires an environment with cold temperatures.

Final Thought on How to Grow Aristolochia Vine

As you can see, growing and caring for pipe vines is not very difficult. Once it starts to grow, this perennial will cover the surface of whatever structure or trellis you put it on. There are so many uses for pipe vines, but they are best used as chain link fence.

 

The post How to Grow Pipe Vines appeared first on Kitchen Infinity.

Topiary plants are easier to grow than any other ornamental tree or shrub. The best topiaries among trees, herbs, and shrubs bear small leaves. They also grow quickly and have a dense branching pattern.

If you want to add interesting shapes and forms into your garden without having to spend too much effort on them, topiaries are something worth considering. Here’s a list of several popular choices that we’ve picked out so you can decide which ones would work best for your gardening needs.

1. Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens)

Buxus spp, or box, is a versatile plant for topiary projects since it can tolerate almost any type of soil and exposure. This makes it ideal for growing indoors as well as outdoors. It’s an old-time favorite to craft a refined look by using its natural features.

Image credit: https://i5.walmartimages.com/

The only problem is the high maintenance requirements when you try a complex design. They can be shaped however you like because they provide a dense style with insignificant flowers. You can use boxwood topiaries to balance your entryway and other simple applications like creating a basic hedge.

For its optimal growth, it requires consistent moisture and proper mulching. It’s also important to provide it with well-drained soil, and it prefers full sun to partial shade.

2. Yew Bush

Yews are conifers that require very minimal care effort. They have a needle structure and dense leaves. Yews are considered an evergreen shrub but don’t need a lot of sunlight. It’s suggested you place them under partial shade. However, it’s important to provide them with well-draining soil and water during the blooming season. 

Taxus bushes are available in many different varieties. Some of them can be used as foundation plants, while others can be used for landscaping needs. If you have a cylindrical topiary in mind, then go for Anglo-Japanese yew. They are the common yew because they grow in a cylindrical shape.

Image credit: https://www.igardenplanting.com/

The only drawback is that they’re toxic to animals and humans, so avoid growing them where dogs roam, or kids play. If you want to achieve the topiary shape, then Taxus baccata is the most popular choice.

3. Privet Shrubs

Some hedge plants can double as excellent choices for topiaries, and Ligustrum spp is one of them. Its timeless aesthetic makes it perfect for privacy. This topiary plant grows and requires less effort to shape than other topiaries. You’ll also appreciate its superior tolerance to salt and urban pollution.

When it comes to growing conditions, this plant is very versatile. It’s hardy within USDA zones 5 through 9. It’s also resistant to drought, disease, and pests. Once planted, the shrubs need an acidic soil with pH levels of 6.2 to 7.0 so you must test the soil pH to ensure it’s the correct one for your plants.

They grow well in full sun to partial shade conditions with at least six hours of sunlight daily. However, too much sun can cause some bleaching on leaves, so keep that in mind. It produces large leaves and has dense foliage. The larger leaves make it suitable for large-scale topiary.

4. Japanese Holly Shrub

The name of this plant comes from the evergreen leaves. The leaves are a dark, solid green color with a toothed edge. They have an attractive appearance and grow in clusters. They’re 2 to four inches long and 1 ½ to three inches wide, making them ideal for topiary projects.

Its rounded form makes this shrub ideal for topiary projects that involve geometrical shapes. The ilex spp is an evergreen with broad leaves instead of needles. It has dense foliage and a bushy appearance with many glossy leaves. Hollies with traditional holly leaves can be trimmed to the shape that you desire.

It grows upright at a moderate rate and requires occasional pruning to prevent it from growing large. It’s appreciated by landscape designers, thanks to its remarkable qualities of blossoms. Growing hardy USDA zones of Ilex crenata are 5 to 8, full sun and part shade.

5. Rosemary Herb

Who doesn’t know this excellent herb? Rosemary, with the Latin name of Rosmarinus spp, is an evergreen with needle-like leaves. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 15 inches wide at full-grown, but it needs little pruning to be used for topiary projects. It’s also known for its white flowers and pleasant scent. 

Rosemary has a strong and fragrant scent and is tolerant to heat and drought. Rosemary can also be used in herbal tea, meats, and fish. Thrives best in USDA growing zones 8 to 10, full sun exposure.

6. Lavender

Lavandula angustifolia or lavender for short can be used as a topiary if not for its beautiful and fragrant flowers. It has a greyish hue and is drought tolerant, thriving in USDA zones 4 to 9, full sun exposure. Lavender can be used in soaps and lotions, but this plant is also known as an insect repellent.

A good choice of companion plant since lavender can protect other plants from insects. Other benefits of Lavandula spp include the ability to draw butterflies and repel deer. You can also take advantage of its evergreen leaves if you’re living in a warmer climate. Lavender can also be grown as a small topiary plant.

7. Thyme

When it comes to small-scale topiaries, herbs like thymus spp or thyme should be your choice. Thyme isn’t only a culinary favorite, but it’s also a suitable plant for topiaries because of its compact nature and tidy appearance.

It has small green leaves and can grow between 6 inches (15 cm) and 2 feet (60 cm). Thyme has deep purple, white flowers, and an earthy scent. This makes it a great choice for a fragrant topiary that can also add color to your garden.

8. Vines

Ivies or Hedera spp are great for this purpose, although some are considered invasive. Therefore, choose non-invasive varieties like Lady Frances, Gold Child, or Duckfoot. It is not very difficult, and it is fun making one in your garden or yard.

Image credit: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/

You can grow any variety in a container, but make sure that the plant is not invasive. Dwarf forms of English ivy (Hedera helix “Hahn’s”) can be grown in a pot because they are non-invasive. The same thing can be said about creeping fig (Ficus pumila) and Persian ivy (Ternstroemia gymnanthera).

As for the plants that you might want to avoid, think about English ivy varieties like Pagoda, Imperial Gold, or Queen Emmarentia because these are the ones that might invade other parts of your garden. Working with ivy is incredibly easy and provides flexibility for any topiary artist.

9. Sphagnum Moss

Sphagnum moss is a small flowerless plant that grows in dense green clumps. It’s mostly found in shady and damp locations. When you want to make this topiary plant, you need to find a proper frame then fill it with moss. Once it’s full, it can stand alone and you can use it as a base to plant trailing vines, herbs, and flowers.

10. Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees

This is another slow grower plant, but it6 makes up for it with dense and fragrant foliage. This dwarf tree is very important if you’re looking for a topiary with pyramidal and conical shapes.

FAQs on Best Topiary Plants to Grow

Which plants make the best topiaries?

Such plants as holly, laurel, boxwood, and privet are excellent choices for topiary. But boxwood, especially morris dwarf, is the best topiary plant choice because of its compact shape, even if it’s trimmed.

Which Buxus is best for topiary?

The best buxus for topiary include English box, Dutch box, and Japanese box.

Final Thought on Best Topiary Plants to Grow

As you can see, there are so many topiary plants to grow and so many different types of topiary styles. Even though there are so many choices, you can always find something that will work for your landscaping project.

 

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