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Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Dealing with Employees' Personal Problems | Leila's House of Corrections
Employees are only human and sometimes their personal problems can creep into the workplace. Whether it's marriage, drug or health problems, learn how you should handle such delicate issues as a trusted manager
Performance Reviews |Leila's House of Corrections
Are you daunted by the prospect of performance reviews? Giving negative feedback can create anxiety, especially for first time managers. By preparing in advance, controlling the setting and following up, your employees will know you are dedicated to their success.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
The Wide Range Of Alternatives In Bonsai Shaping
Growing bonsai is not just a hobby, it truly is a form of art, and this is demonstrated by the way in which you decide to guide and shape your bonsai plant. Without a doubt, one of the most important attributes of a bonsai plant is its shape. Bonsai trees can be coaxed into practically any form that you favor. Yet there are a number of shapes that are more prevalent than others. Following is an overview of some of the most popular styles.
Cascade Style: This is among the most striking shapes in bonsai trees. The cascade shape is reminiscent of the appearance of trees growing on mountain tops or over the water, and is exceptionally attractive. The top of the tree gently flows to the side and extends to the bottom of the pot or a little lower.
Forest Style: This is a more highly developed method of growing bonsai trees. It entails the artistic arrangement of several bonsai plants in just one pot. The trees differ in height, with the end result being that of a forest. In general, there are at least three trees that make up the forest, and it’s generally an odd number of plants.
Formal and Informal Upright Styles: Upright styles, both formal and informal, are also a familiar technique for shaping bonsai plants. Trees in either of these forms are trained into an upright position with a tapered trunk. The informal style comprises the popular bends and curves that differentiate it from the formal style.
Literati Style: The most common shape of bonsai plant could be the literati style, and this is what most people picture when they think of a bonsai. The literati shape comprises a smooth trunk with very few branches. The branches of this design are all located near the top. The bottom part of the trunk is typically stylishly twisted.
Slanting Style: You will find similarities between the slanting style and the formal upright with regard to the straight trunk. The distinction lies in the way that the trunk is slanted away from the base, either to the left or the right.
Even though those are the most commonly seen styles for shaping a bonsai tree, you could find a different shape which you like. But it is always advised to start with a standard style as you first attempt to shape a bonsai. When you have mastered one of those, then it is possible to insert some special touches to impart uniqueness to the plant. The fact is, bonsai is a form of art, not just a plant.
Cascade Style: This is among the most striking shapes in bonsai trees. The cascade shape is reminiscent of the appearance of trees growing on mountain tops or over the water, and is exceptionally attractive. The top of the tree gently flows to the side and extends to the bottom of the pot or a little lower.
Forest Style: This is a more highly developed method of growing bonsai trees. It entails the artistic arrangement of several bonsai plants in just one pot. The trees differ in height, with the end result being that of a forest. In general, there are at least three trees that make up the forest, and it’s generally an odd number of plants.
Formal and Informal Upright Styles: Upright styles, both formal and informal, are also a familiar technique for shaping bonsai plants. Trees in either of these forms are trained into an upright position with a tapered trunk. The informal style comprises the popular bends and curves that differentiate it from the formal style.
Literati Style: The most common shape of bonsai plant could be the literati style, and this is what most people picture when they think of a bonsai. The literati shape comprises a smooth trunk with very few branches. The branches of this design are all located near the top. The bottom part of the trunk is typically stylishly twisted.
Slanting Style: You will find similarities between the slanting style and the formal upright with regard to the straight trunk. The distinction lies in the way that the trunk is slanted away from the base, either to the left or the right.
Even though those are the most commonly seen styles for shaping a bonsai tree, you could find a different shape which you like. But it is always advised to start with a standard style as you first attempt to shape a bonsai. When you have mastered one of those, then it is possible to insert some special touches to impart uniqueness to the plant. The fact is, bonsai is a form of art, not just a plant.
Things Beginners Need To Know About Bonsai Soil
Do I require specially prepared soil so that I can develop bonsai trees and plants?
More and more people are growing bonsai trees and plants. This has led to many more bonsai specialty shops and websites talking about bonsai supplies. If you are just starting to grow bonsai, you may have the urge to buy everything you ever find to grow your bonsai. However, you may not need all the things you see advertised. This is particularly true with bonsai soil.
You can buy bonsai soil at really great costs. If you’re a bonsai purist or know one, you may think purchasing bonsai soil cheating.
But as a beginner you wish to make your very first bonsai grow perfectly, or at least as well as possible. Considering how long it takes to develop bonsai, this isn’t just a quickie point to do. Growing a successful bonsai plant or tree means developing a normal schedule of watering, transplanting annually, with regular care and attention. That may be the only way you’ll have a stunning bonsai for years of satisfaction and pride.
But Is Bonsai Soil Costly? The price of bonsai soil shouldn’t be much a lot more than purchasing regular potting soil used for home plants. Now ingredients for bonsai soil are various than those of regular house plants. Your bonsai will need the ’special recipe’ to grow and thrive.
Either way if you decide to buy bags of bonsai soil or make your own, you need to prepare the pot or container before you add the soil and your bonsai. You want to have superior drainage so the roots are able to get nutrients without sitting in water. Roots that sit in water, drown and eventually rot. That is why it is important for good bonsai soil to have excellent drainage so the water and nutrients can flow past the roots. Excess water can then leave through the drainage holes in the bottom of your pot or container. One way of making sure the drainage is good in the soil is to mix two soils together-one finer than the other. This increases the percolation or drainage of the soil.
More and more people are growing bonsai trees and plants. This has led to many more bonsai specialty shops and websites talking about bonsai supplies. If you are just starting to grow bonsai, you may have the urge to buy everything you ever find to grow your bonsai. However, you may not need all the things you see advertised. This is particularly true with bonsai soil.
You can buy bonsai soil at really great costs. If you’re a bonsai purist or know one, you may think purchasing bonsai soil cheating.
But as a beginner you wish to make your very first bonsai grow perfectly, or at least as well as possible. Considering how long it takes to develop bonsai, this isn’t just a quickie point to do. Growing a successful bonsai plant or tree means developing a normal schedule of watering, transplanting annually, with regular care and attention. That may be the only way you’ll have a stunning bonsai for years of satisfaction and pride.
But Is Bonsai Soil Costly? The price of bonsai soil shouldn’t be much a lot more than purchasing regular potting soil used for home plants. Now ingredients for bonsai soil are various than those of regular house plants. Your bonsai will need the ’special recipe’ to grow and thrive.
Either way if you decide to buy bags of bonsai soil or make your own, you need to prepare the pot or container before you add the soil and your bonsai. You want to have superior drainage so the roots are able to get nutrients without sitting in water. Roots that sit in water, drown and eventually rot. That is why it is important for good bonsai soil to have excellent drainage so the water and nutrients can flow past the roots. Excess water can then leave through the drainage holes in the bottom of your pot or container. One way of making sure the drainage is good in the soil is to mix two soils together-one finer than the other. This increases the percolation or drainage of the soil.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Which Are The Vital Steps Of Bonsai Care?
Nurturing your Bonsai tree involves a lot of the same activities affiliated with caring for a regular pot plant or indoor plant. Well developed and healthy fibrous roots are essential for the continued well being of your Bonsai plant and repotting is a key way to supervise this process. Usually a young or fast growing Bonsai will need to be re-potted approximately once each year; for less fertile growers or older trees this can be done actually as once every five years. It is recommended to always try to re-pot during late winter or the start of spring when the buds start to swell.
Bonsai tree repotting steps The procedure for repotting a Bonsai tree is one which you should take seriously and follow these effortless instructions:
Initially, you should tidy the tree by carefully pruning off any unwanted, long branches. Moreover, ensure the tree was placed under cover for two to three weeks if it is an outdoor Bonsai plant, this way the soil becomes relatively dry. Once you take out the tree from its pot you will be able to determine if it in actuality necessitates repotting. If it is root bound then it is suggested that you re-pot it, nevertheless, if your see that there are another few inches of room so the roots can expand a little longer then you can cautiously replace the tree in its original pot and carry on as usual.
You ought to get rid of surface soil from the roots either by hand or else using a nylon scrubbing brush. Brush away from the trunk taking care not to hurt any of the roots. Taking away the loose soil gives the Bonsai tree a improved look and also feel. As soon as you’ve removed most of the soil in this way, you can use a little, fine bristled paintbrush to remove the soil caught in the roots or that has collected in the roots.
Use a Bonsai fork, comb out the roots. Do this by disentangling out the roots from beneath and then utilize scissors to prune up to about a third of the roots and then cut out petite wedges around the root base to let fresh soil to gather and maintain your Bonsai healthy. Add on a layer of grit to the base of the pot and next add the Bonsai compost of your choice.
Take the time to position your Bonsai tree in the pot and then press on a little extra soil into awkward places. Complete this as repeatedly as needed to as described in this write up.
Bonsai tree repotting steps The procedure for repotting a Bonsai tree is one which you should take seriously and follow these effortless instructions:
Initially, you should tidy the tree by carefully pruning off any unwanted, long branches. Moreover, ensure the tree was placed under cover for two to three weeks if it is an outdoor Bonsai plant, this way the soil becomes relatively dry. Once you take out the tree from its pot you will be able to determine if it in actuality necessitates repotting. If it is root bound then it is suggested that you re-pot it, nevertheless, if your see that there are another few inches of room so the roots can expand a little longer then you can cautiously replace the tree in its original pot and carry on as usual.
You ought to get rid of surface soil from the roots either by hand or else using a nylon scrubbing brush. Brush away from the trunk taking care not to hurt any of the roots. Taking away the loose soil gives the Bonsai tree a improved look and also feel. As soon as you’ve removed most of the soil in this way, you can use a little, fine bristled paintbrush to remove the soil caught in the roots or that has collected in the roots.
Use a Bonsai fork, comb out the roots. Do this by disentangling out the roots from beneath and then utilize scissors to prune up to about a third of the roots and then cut out petite wedges around the root base to let fresh soil to gather and maintain your Bonsai healthy. Add on a layer of grit to the base of the pot and next add the Bonsai compost of your choice.
Take the time to position your Bonsai tree in the pot and then press on a little extra soil into awkward places. Complete this as repeatedly as needed to as described in this write up.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
How to Grow Bonsai Trees the Easy Way
Bonsai growth can occur naturally if a seed grows in a very small packet of soil. This restricts the root growth and thus caused dwarfing of the plant.
Many think that bonsai growing is difficult but this is not so if you follow some general principles. Most bonsai trees are very hardy and can live for hundreds of years if care is taken. In fact, some bonsai trees last longer as a bonsai plant than in nature.
The general principle of bonsai is to restrict growth of the bonsai tree to a minimum by root pruning and top and tip pruning. Another aspect is to use a small container and this restricts root growth. The main principle is to do root pruning and tip pruning every few years for an advanced plant. This avoids the bonsai plant becoming root bound and dying.
One can also achieve a advanced bonsai plant by some tricks. One can select advanced pants that can be reduced to the bonsai form with small proportions. The best time to do this is in late winter and spring and to wait before new growth occurs.
There are several classical forms of bonsai. The first is formal upright. This has an trunk which is erect and has evening spaces branches. The truck is in the middle of the pot. The second form is informal upright with gentle twists to the trunk. Slanting is where the trunk slants over to one side. Another form is cascading where the branches go deeper than the container. One needs the plant on a stand for this form.
To achieve these forms, after root pruning one uses copper wire or some soft similar wire to hold the branches in the correct form. One wraps the wire around the trunk and then out the branches in question. One needs to take care not to make excessive bends as this can break the branch. One can also hold the wire down by fishing line and one can also use stakes to hold the branches up to the correct placement.
Bonsai ned a very good light or sunlight and are best grown outdoors to keep the plants healthy. Some plants need protection from the hot summer sun in a tropical area. Water the pots when the soil drys out on the surface.
Bonsai tree growing is very rewarding and easy so why not give it a try. There are many bonsai nurseries that sell advanced trees as well as the growing pots, wire and other supplies. All bonsai nurseries offer good advice and tips for free.
Many think that bonsai growing is difficult but this is not so if you follow some general principles. Most bonsai trees are very hardy and can live for hundreds of years if care is taken. In fact, some bonsai trees last longer as a bonsai plant than in nature.
The general principle of bonsai is to restrict growth of the bonsai tree to a minimum by root pruning and top and tip pruning. Another aspect is to use a small container and this restricts root growth. The main principle is to do root pruning and tip pruning every few years for an advanced plant. This avoids the bonsai plant becoming root bound and dying.
One can also achieve a advanced bonsai plant by some tricks. One can select advanced pants that can be reduced to the bonsai form with small proportions. The best time to do this is in late winter and spring and to wait before new growth occurs.
There are several classical forms of bonsai. The first is formal upright. This has an trunk which is erect and has evening spaces branches. The truck is in the middle of the pot. The second form is informal upright with gentle twists to the trunk. Slanting is where the trunk slants over to one side. Another form is cascading where the branches go deeper than the container. One needs the plant on a stand for this form.
To achieve these forms, after root pruning one uses copper wire or some soft similar wire to hold the branches in the correct form. One wraps the wire around the trunk and then out the branches in question. One needs to take care not to make excessive bends as this can break the branch. One can also hold the wire down by fishing line and one can also use stakes to hold the branches up to the correct placement.
Bonsai ned a very good light or sunlight and are best grown outdoors to keep the plants healthy. Some plants need protection from the hot summer sun in a tropical area. Water the pots when the soil drys out on the surface.
Bonsai tree growing is very rewarding and easy so why not give it a try. There are many bonsai nurseries that sell advanced trees as well as the growing pots, wire and other supplies. All bonsai nurseries offer good advice and tips for free.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Bonsai Wiring Basics
Wrapping aluminum or copper wires around the trunk or branches of bonsai trees in order to give them the intended profile is known as wiring. In order to produce basic bonsai styles, you will need to wrap the trunk and branches with the correct thickness and length of wire. The formal upright style involves no wrapping, but the cascade shape involves a few months of careful wiring.
You should be very careful when you’re applying wire to the trunk or branches of a bonsai tree due to the stress it causes. Doing it the wrong way can mean, if worse comes to worst, a dead tree, or more often a cracked branch. Another mistake is to wrap in too constricting a fashion or in the wrong season. This can cause lasting damage to the tree, or might even kill it outright.
Prior to actually wiring your bonsai, use a stick or pole to practice. This will help you in getting a feel for the wire and will help you develop the suppleness necessary to wrap a branch while holding it. When you feel like you’ve gotten the entire process mastered through your practice sessions, and you aren’t moving anything that you shouldn’t be, then you can try the same thing with the bonsai tree.
Step one is picking the most appropriate wire for the project. Copper and aluminum are the two favorite choices, although copper is thought to be more attractive throughout the extended training period. When wrapping a bonsai, use annealed copper only, as steel wire is toxic to a few species. Aluminum is a lot more flexible, so it’s easier to use for someone who is new at this kind of project. Although copper is stiffer, it might scar the tree if it is not applied properly. Using wire that’s one third as thick as the branch it’s going to wrap is a basic rule with which to begin.
Well placed little stresses along the tree trunk or branch are what allows the wire to change the shape of the tree. So, in order for the tree to change its shape and not the wire, the wire needs to be stronger than the branch or trunk.
Try wrapping branches from comparable trees to improve your skill and dexterity. Test different thicknesses of wire on branches of a similar species and size before using it on the bonsai. A variety of widths will be needed in order to wire the entire tree so try working with all of them in advance.
To master the delicate skill of bonsai wiring, patience is required. Do not be discouraged, though, because if you’re prepared to take the time you can learn how to do this, and you’ll be so happy with the results.
You should be very careful when you’re applying wire to the trunk or branches of a bonsai tree due to the stress it causes. Doing it the wrong way can mean, if worse comes to worst, a dead tree, or more often a cracked branch. Another mistake is to wrap in too constricting a fashion or in the wrong season. This can cause lasting damage to the tree, or might even kill it outright.
Prior to actually wiring your bonsai, use a stick or pole to practice. This will help you in getting a feel for the wire and will help you develop the suppleness necessary to wrap a branch while holding it. When you feel like you’ve gotten the entire process mastered through your practice sessions, and you aren’t moving anything that you shouldn’t be, then you can try the same thing with the bonsai tree.
Step one is picking the most appropriate wire for the project. Copper and aluminum are the two favorite choices, although copper is thought to be more attractive throughout the extended training period. When wrapping a bonsai, use annealed copper only, as steel wire is toxic to a few species. Aluminum is a lot more flexible, so it’s easier to use for someone who is new at this kind of project. Although copper is stiffer, it might scar the tree if it is not applied properly. Using wire that’s one third as thick as the branch it’s going to wrap is a basic rule with which to begin.
Well placed little stresses along the tree trunk or branch are what allows the wire to change the shape of the tree. So, in order for the tree to change its shape and not the wire, the wire needs to be stronger than the branch or trunk.
Try wrapping branches from comparable trees to improve your skill and dexterity. Test different thicknesses of wire on branches of a similar species and size before using it on the bonsai. A variety of widths will be needed in order to wire the entire tree so try working with all of them in advance.
To master the delicate skill of bonsai wiring, patience is required. Do not be discouraged, though, because if you’re prepared to take the time you can learn how to do this, and you’ll be so happy with the results.
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