permafrog, Author at Shakadoo

Spy-Cam Birdhouse

As the holdiay season approaches the search for that perfect gift gets underway, If there is a bird watcher on your list then this may be the ideal present.

The spy-cam birdhouse is perfect for discovering the secret nesting life of birds, this unique
birdhouse comes with a built-in infrared camera that works day or night
without disturbing avian occupants.

View the action in real time on a
television monitor, or record for later viewing. The birdhouse comes
with the camera installed and focused; simply unroll the 100′ cable
(included) and attach to your computer or television screen and you’re
set to unveil the mysteries of avian behavior.

12-1/2″x8-1/2″x6″
natural pine with slate predator guard.
Additional cables available.

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Rubber Plant

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The Rubber Plant, (Fiscus elastica) has shiny dark green leaves which are oval in shape and have a pronounced
point at their end. The growth point is covered in a pink sheath for protection.
Rubber plants, because of their strong shape, make great specimen plants.

photo courtesy; flickr: drawings of light-Paul

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Monstera deliciosa

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Monstera deliciosa is an indoor evergreen vine, except in the warmest
climates. They are related to Philodendrons, and have similar glossy,
leathery evergreen leaves that are divided. They need rich soil, good draining containers, occasional fertilization and require leaves free of dust. They prefer good light and high humidity.

We had one in our previous living room, it flowered twice over ten years and had reached the ceiling by the time we moved. Finding this plant a new home was a challenge.

photo courtesy; flickr/ewan and donabel

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Poinsettia

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The poinsettia is probably the most common holiday season plant. I have had one every year for at least the past 15 years.

The Poinsettia- a few facts:

Poinsettias are native to Mexico.
The Aztecs called the poinsettia Cuetlaxochitl. They made a reddish purple dye from the bracts.
Chile and Peru called the poinsettia the "Crown of the Andes."
Poinsettias are part of the Euphorbiaceae family. Many plants in this family ooze a milky sap.
Some people may have skin irritation from the milky sap
In nature, poinsettias are perennial flowering shrubs that can grow to ten feet tall.
The showy colored parts of poinsettias that most people think are the flowers are actually colored bracts (modified leaves).
Poinsettias are priced according to the number of blooms. The more blooms, the more expensive the plant.

If you want to keep your plant past the holidays here is what you need to do.

photo courtesy of jjackowski/flickr

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wordless: special effects

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Humidiguide

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Humidity plays an important role in the health of your houseplants. Now keep an accurate check on he humidity near your plants with this guide from Canadian Tire.

Accutemp Humidiguide

$2.99

Features

Registers humidity readings from 1- 99%
Economic and convenient
Magnetic back and easel stand for ease of use

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Dieffenbachia

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The Dieffenbachia is also know as Dumb Cane and is one of the most common
houseplant. It is easy to care for and, most importantly, poisonous. Some
foliage may be all green, cream with green borders or a mix between the two.

Dieffenbachia requires moist soil, so needs to be watered frequently. You
may also place a tray under the pot with water in it to help in keeping the
plants soil moist at all times. Daily misting will help to provide the high
humidity levels that this plant demands.

Ideally place between5 to 8 feet of a window, but will
survive lower light levels. Avoid drafts.

The Dieffenbachia contains a toxic sap thus giving the name
Dumb Cane, so please keep out of reach of children or animals that may try and
eat the plant.

courtesy: bingregory-flickr

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Pinch That Plant

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We sing and talk to our plants or play them music, but if you really want to do that houseplant a favour, pinch it.

At least, that is the advice from Playing in the dirt.

Pinch them back. At first you won’t want to. It’ll seem unthinkable.
You’ll almost hear their screams as you pinch those stems off. Then, if
you listen even closer, you’ll hear the roots thanking you, and to show
you their gratitude, they’ll send new branches up through the soil.

photo courtesy gailf548/flickr

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Poisonous Houseplants

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Houseplants can add to your indoor decor but not all houseplants are people, especially chidlren, or pet friendly. There is a good list of plants that can be posionous at Blankees.

If you plan to add a plant or plants to your indoor collection and have pets or children then check this list before buying. Do some research before you add a plant to your garden, indoor or out.

Dieffenbachia sp.

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wordless: last bloom

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