Rural Living Today - Page 3 of 16

10 Home Maintenance Tips that Will Save You Tons of Money

Last Updated on May 10th, 2019

Home Maintenance Tips – Just like your car, your home requires proper maintenance, or you’ll end up paying a big price with it coming back to bite you in the end.

A house is the biggest purchase most people ever make, and regular maintenance helps to ensure that you protect that asset, avoiding expensive repairs later.

One of the primary reasons a home doesn’t sell when it’s put on the market is that it’s been poorly maintained, resulting in many repairs that the buyer will need to make – or forcing the seller to make them before the sale can close, which may prove too costly.

For example, as Kiplinger reports, replacing a roof in Florida runs around $6,000 for a 1,500-square-foot home, or $25,000 for one that’s 4,000-square-feet.

Buyers, particularly first-time home buyers, are likely to be scared off by that.

The good news is that home maintenance doesn’t always have to be costly. Essential DIY Skills for Every Homesteader

Home Maintenance Tips that Will Save You Money

There are ways to do-it-yourself that can save you money now, and in the future, keeping your home in good working order for many years to come.

Keep Your Roof in Shape

As mentioned, it’s important to keep your roof in tip-top shape.

By periodically checking it for damage and quickly replacing any worn or discovered shingles can prevent the need to replace it.

Pay special attention to shingles around the chimney, vents, and skylights as they tend to be most prone to leaks.

Protect Hardwood Floors with Area Rugs

Area rugs can help your hardwood floors stay in good condition as well as provide cushioning on the hard surface.

While there are plenty of pricey rugs you can buy, there are cheap giant rugs that can be purchased to suit every budget.

Taking Care of a Wooden Floor

Replace Weather Stripping

Most doors and windows come with weather stripping, the lengths of mental or rubber that seal gaps while allowing the door or window to open and shut properly.

It tends to wear out after time, so you’ll want to be sure that it’s redone on a regular basis.

Caulking on Windows and Doors

Sometimes it’s better to use caulk than weather stripping to keep doors and windows insulated.

It’s cheap and can be used indoors and out to help seal any cracks.

Change HVAC Filters Regularly

Filters for cooling and heating systems should be changed once every month or every two months, depending on how heavily they’re used.

You may need to change them even more often, every two weeks, if your a/c is running all the time during the summer, or if you live in a northern climate subject to harsh winters and use the heat continuously through the season.

Always Clean Out Your Dryer Vent

Allowing lint to build up in your dryer’s vent not only means clothes will take longer to dry, reducing its efficiency and requiring more energy, it could possibly lead to damage.

Replace Worn Out Washers in Faucets

The primary cause of a leaky faucet is worn out washers as they’re made up of rubber.

They’re easy to replace, just turn off the main water supply by unscrewing the handle that controls the flow of water to the spout, remove the washer and drop in a new one.

Touch Up Interior Paint

While you can transform the look for your home by repainting the entire interior, it can be rather costly and take quite a bit of time.

Instead, be sure to save paint from the current paint job, and then you can use that to do simple touch ups, rolling it over dirty spots on the wall. When it dries, it will look as though it was freshly painted.

Prevent Hair Clogs in Bathtub Drains

Strainers for your bathtub drains are extremely cheap and can prevent clogged drains. Guide to Composting Toilets

It will allow you to easily remove any hair that accumulates after a shower to reduce the amount that gets into the plumbing.

Keep Gutters Clear

Be sure to clear out your gutters on a regular basis.

If you don’t and they end up clogged, it can lead to wood rot, bug problems, roof leaks and even a cracked foundation.

Best Home Maintenance Tools

I shop for tools primarily online at ToolBarn.com and Amazon.com.

Ways to Save Energy this Winter

It can seem easier to save energy in the warmer months, but it’s just as important (and even more economical) in colder weather.

To get advice on ways to save energy in the winter, I asked the eco-friendly home performance experts at Air Heating and Cooling for their advice on reducing our carbon footprint in our homes from December to June.

Their best tips, as well as our our advice for work, school, and travel, are included in our 10 easy ways to save energy this winter:

Here are easy ways to save energy

Turn your thermostat down just a few degrees

This will give you an excuse to break out the hot cocoa or that favorite fuzzy bathrobe, and will save you hundreds over the course of one winter.

It’s surprising how quickly you can get used to a new ‘baseline’ temperature in your home.

Have your heating and cooling system maintained and cleaned yearly

A thin layer of dirt on the inside coil of your system can reduce efficiency by 10% or more.

Few people think about this hidden efficiency issue, but almost all local heating and cooling industry professionals will offer this service.

Replace your most used lighting with CFL or LED lightbulbs

LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs.

Get over the initial sticker price and change out your bulbs this winter!

Ride your bike to work

Yes, you can still commute to work by bike in winter!

Wear rain gear over work clothes to make the transition into the office easy, and make sure you have a quality safety light if your commute will be in the dark.

When going on extended vacation, turn down your hot water heater to “vacation mode”

Or “low”, unplug unused/un-needed appliances or electronics to combat “vampire” usage, set your thermostat to 60-65, and turn your thermostat down on your pool or spa.

Have your home “performance tested”

Determine any duct leakage, under-insulation, or excessive air leakage in the house.

In our area of the northwest, for instance, duct leakage is 25-40% on average.

This can cause efficiency concerns obviously, but also health, safety, and comfort issues in the home.

Make sure the air you breathe the most–the air in your home–is not making you sick this winter!

Carpool to school or work

My family is involved in no less than four different car pools to accommodate my kids’ school and activity schedules.

While sometimes difficult to keep track of, carpooling saves us hundreds of dollars in fuel costs and reduces our carbon footprint.

Don’t block registers, radiators, return air, or baseboard heaters

Be sure to check the vents under beds and in closets, which can easily become blocked by blankets, clothes, or boxes.

Buy (and prepare) seasonal produce

Instead of having your fresh fruit shipped from abroad, find out what’s seasonal locally.

Look up recipes using seasonal ingredients, and find inspiration at your local farmer’s markets.

Light candles instead of switching on lights

I’m not suggesting you do everything by candlelight, but winter candles can add a nice touch to the dining room during meals or the living room while you’re only needing low light.

Only do this when there are adults present, not when children will be around and especially not around toddlers.

Accidents happen in just a second.

These are very simple and easy ways to save energy that you can implement immediately.

What ideas do you have for reducing energy use during the winter months?

Saving Money with an Outdoor Wood Furnace

Last Updated on May 1st, 2019

An outdoor wood furnace is an investment that many people are turning to these days in order to save money on heating their home.

It can save you thousands of dollars each year, not only on fuel, but even with your home insurance.

This is what started me on my quest to find the perfect unit for my home.

But a word to the wise, it’s important to do your research because not every outdoor furnace is manufactured to the same quality, standards, or efficiencies.

Saving Money with an Outdoor Wood Furnace

After a year of researching I chose Crown Royal Stoves RS7300E Pristine Series Outdoor Wood Furnace, and I have to say, I couldn’t have made a better choice.

This outdoor furnace is definitely built to last, and simple enough to operate that my neighbor’s kid could operate it if I was away for the weekend.

The best part, aside from all the money I’m saving, is how extremely efficient it is, in the amount of wood it consumes.

The Crown Royal Stoves RS7300E is a sleek looking, modern furnace with flush mounted doors with an integrated silicone rope gasket and a roller bear latch system, giving it one of the tightest seals I’ve ever seen.

Not only is this unit going to provide my home with heat for the next decade, but it will look good doing it at the same time.

The control panel is conveniently located to the left of the loading door and features a basic aquastat with simple setting.

pristine series secondary combustion chamber

My favorite feature on the control panel is the Load Switch which turns the blower fan on for about 90 seconds, forcing all the smoke through the chimney when I go to load more wood.

No need to worry about getting a cloud of smoke in the face anymore.

A water level indicator is located at the top of the furnace, which I can easily see from looking out my back door.

It even includes a Stainless Steel chimney that allows for additional lengths to be attached, or a chimney cap, to stop the rain from getting inside.

The firebox and water jacket are both constructed from 409 Titanium Enhanced Stainless Steel making it highly durable.

Something included in this wood furnace, that I haven’t seen in others, is something they call “Air Panels”.

These individual panels are hung from a single hook and are meant to help destitute the air flow around the fire and take the brunt force of the heat without damaging the water jacket or poured refectory.

pristine series roller bearing door latch

Plus if anything happens to them, they can be easily replaced.

Gasification Outdoor Wood Furnaces

When they say they have the “most advanced Gasification process” in any Outdoor Wood Furnaces they weren’t joking.

Their poured refectory is literally a ‘gasification manifold’ injected hot air directed into the combustion zone, igniting even more gases, creating a hotter flame in the second combustion chamber.

Included in the Crown Royal Stoves RS7300E are Heat Exchanger Cleaners which have a dual purpose.

Not only do they self-clean the Heat Exchanger Tubes with a simple pull of the cleaner handler at the front, but they force the hot air to slow down by spinning through the Heat Exchanger Tubes, increasing the amount of heat transfer.

I’ve had my Crown Royal Stoves RS7300E Pristine Series Outdoor Wood Furnace installed for nearly two months now and I can already tell this coming winter is going to be one of cheapest I’ve had in years.

If you decide an outdoor furnace is how you want to heat your home, just make sure you do your homework.

This is one investment you don’t want to cheap out on.

How to Survive Blackouts In Rural Areas

Last Updated on May 1st, 2019

Hacks to Survive Blackouts In Rural Areas – Have you ever been to the rural areas when there is a power outage?

There is no light at night, the food going bad in the fridge, the livestock-especially the chicken suffering from the effects of cold temperatures and such dire consequences.

The worst power outages are the ones that occur in winter.

The extremely low temperatures can predispose you and your loved ones to various medical conditions.

Therefore, it is always imperative to be prepared.

Silver Heavy Duty Grizzly Tarps

Hacks to Survive Blackouts In Rural Areas

Various causes of power outages:

Extreme Weather conditions
Interference of the power lines by animals such as birds
The planned blackout during maintenance

In 2017, Hurricane Maria left millions of people in the dark.

Most of the people stayed for weeks and months without power.

This incidence goes to show that it is essential to be prepared for such eventualities.

During a blackout, it is necessary to have a power back-up.

Having a generator is the best way to ensure that you are prepared.

There are different types of generators: some generators are big enough to provide power to the all the power requirements at home.

The large standby generators can be very useful in lighting the house, controlling the temperature inside the house and even for the livestock and pets.

You can get either the gas-powered generators or the solar powered ones.

The standby generators are usually quieter than the portable ones.

Also, they are automatic and are connected to the gas or propane lines.

You can also check out smaller and portable generators that can be moved to power specific equipment.

They can be used to power equipment such as the fridge, freezer and so on.

This helps to make sure that despite the blackout, you can still feed your family.

Not having food to eat during an outage is usually one of the significant causes of panic and it only worsens the situation.

You can also have batteries for backup power.

Batteries have a few advantages over the auto-start generators in some regard.

Firstly, do not produce any noise.

They also do not use any fuel and therefore are friendly to the environment.

The batteries just store power.

Usually, they are connected to a solar power grid.

The primary disadvantage of the solar power batteries is that they are not as useful on a sunless day.

Also, they do not last as long as the generators.

Top three solar-powered generators:

Goal Zero Yeti 1400

Nature PowerPak 1800W Powered Generator Outback Radian

inverter generators vs conventional generator - Goal Zero Yeti Solar Generator Inverter — inverter generators vs conventional generator – Goal Zero Yeti Solar Generator Inverter

Preparing meals is also quite a challenge during blackouts.

Therefore, always ensure that your gas tanks are refilled.

It provides backup gas supply in case of blackouts.

With adequate gas supply, you can use the Barbecue Gas Grills.

You can also use the charcoal grill to get the authentic flavor of Barbecue.

Therefore, always ensure that you have enough charcoal reserves.

The Smokey Joe is one of the best charcoal grills, and it is also portable.

So you can carry it to your friend’s barbecue party.

Other survival hacks during a blackout are:

Avoid opening the refrigerators

Ensure that you have food that does not require refrigeration

Inspect all electrical appliances and unplug them from the power sockets.

All appliances that produce carbon monoxide should be used outdoors where there is plenty of air.

These include the charcoal grill, generators and stoves.

Most people claim that they would want to purchase items to help them prepare for such emergencies.

You may not have enough funds to buy and may opt for a quick loan, and due to your credit score, you access it at insanely high-interest rates.

Today, poor credit shouldn’t hold you back from preparing and getting the items you need.

Creditrepaircompanies.com is one of the best companies that can help you to repair your credit rating.

You have no reason not to prepare adequately.

In conclusion, in the rural areas, there is a communal lifestyle.

Therefore, ensure to check on your neighbors.

You should also see the local medical supply to plan on how you can get any medicines and how to store your medications that require refrigeration.

Yamaha EF3000iSE vs Honda EU3000iS Generator Review

Last Updated on May 1st, 2019

Yamaha 3,000 watt vs Honda 3,000 watt inverter generators – When you’re looking to buy a 3000 watt generator the two names that spring to mind are Yamaha and Honda.

Both Honda and Yamaha manufacture 3000 watt generators but which one should you choose?

The gas powered Yamaha 3000 watt features inverter technology to stabilize the power that’s delivered.

The generator has a 13 liter fuel tank, fuel gauge, electric starter.

You can use it to charge 12v batteries.

The Yamaha generator is very quiet when it’s running with noise levels of 48 – 52 decibels.

The Honda 3000 watt also uses inverter technology and it runs on unleaded gas.

Like the Yahama, the Honda unit has the same 13 liter fuel tank as well as a fuel gauge, electric start and a charging point.

The Honda generator is also very quiet when it’s being used with noise levels of 48 – 58 decibels.

Both of these portable generators are designed to be used to power various electrical items.

The units are particularly useful to power appliances when camping or as a backup power supply for your property.

Honda Generator vs Champion Generator vs Yamaha Generator

What is a Portable Generator?

A portable generator is a mobile unit that’s powered by a gas engine to provide electricity.

When the engine is running, it turns an alternator that provides the power.

You are then able to plug appliances directly into the generator or you can hook the unit up to a motor-home or trailer.

Who needs a Portable Generator?

You may need to use a portable generator when you’re travelling in a motor home or when on a camping trip.

Portable generators can also be used as a backup if the power to your property fails.

Generators are also useful for providing power on construction sites or when you’re refurbishing a property.

You can also run a portable air conditioner with a portable generator.

What to look for in a Portable Generator

Before you buy a generator it’s handy to know some details about each model so you can make an informed decision.

Here is an at a glance list of things to look for when choosing a portable generator:

Price
Output
Efficiency
Reliability
Weight
Portability

Yamaha EF3000iSE vs Honda EU3000iS Generators

When it comes to choosing a portable generator, the two brands that stand out are Yamaha and Honda.

Both are established brands known for their quality products.

Of course, this is a major factor in choosing any product, having a brand you feel you can put your trust in to ensure a certain level of quality and durability is an important point to consider.

Both offer their own options that inch above the rest in the market – but how do you choose which one is right for you?

Let’s look in detail at both generators to get the real facts to help you choose a suitable power plant.

Yamaha EF3000iSE Generator

The Yamaha EF3000iSE is currently available on Amazon and the price is subject to change.

You can search for the generator on Amazon and check the price when you plan to buy.

Yamaha EF3000iSE Generator Efficiency and Output

Running at ¼ load, the Yamaha will run for 20.5 hours on a full tank of unleaded fuel.

The generator has a built-in smart throttle that adjusts the engine to maximize fuel efficiency.

The 2800 watt output provides enough power to run air conditioners, washing machines and other appliances.

Yamaha Generator EF3000iSE Reliability

The Yamaha generator is very reliable and looking at customer reviews there have been no problems with reliability.

The generator is sturdy and well made to Yamaha’s high standards.

Yamaha back their generator with a 4 year warranty which is always useful.

Yamaha 3000 Generator Weight and Portability

The Yamaha EF3000iSE generator weighs 67 kg with an empty fuel tank. Two people can typically lift it.

The generator has a built-in set of wheels which are useful and make the generator more portable.

Benefits of Owning the Super Quiet Honda EU2000i Generator
Honda EU1000i Watt Generator
Honda 7000 Watt Generator
Best Features of the Honda EM6500S Generator
10 Factors to Consider When Buying Honda Generator
Honda Generator vs Champion Generator vs Yamaha Generator
Honda Inverter Generator vs Generac Inverter Generator

Honda EU3000iS Generator

You can find the Honda EU3000iS on Amazon.

You’ll need to search the site and check the price at the time of buying.

Generator Efficiency and Output Honda EU3000iS

The Honda is a little more expensive to run and will operate for 20 hours at ¼ load on a full tank of gas.

Honda generator also has a smart throttle to match energy load which helps with fuel efficiency.

The 2800 watt output is adequate for powering appliances in motor-homes, trailers or for emergency backup power.

Honda Generator EU3000iS Reliability

The Honda generator EU3000is is also reliable and no customers have reported an major problems.

The unit is sturdy and built well, just as you would expect with any Honda product. Honda also offers a 48 month warranty to cover mechanical or electrical failures.

Honda Generator Weight and Portability

The Honda EU3000iS generator weighs 60kg when the fuel tank is empty.

Two people can lift this generator. You can purchase aftermarket wheels to make the unit more portable.

When to choose the Yamaha EF3000iSE Generator

If you need a generator that’s easy to move around the Yamaha EF3000iSE generator is the one to go for.

The wheels make it easy to move and takes away the need for lifting.

This generator is a good choice when you travel in a motor-home or parked at a campsite.

The Yamaha is also slightly more fuel efficient than the Honda but the difference is minimal. When you’re running generators on more than ¼ load they’re both going to use a similar amount of fuel to provide power.

Pros: Built-in wheels, Sturdy, Smart Throttle

Cons: Expensive, Heavy

When to choose the Honda EU3000iS Generator

If you need a reasonably priced generator that’s well made the Honda EU3000iS generator is a good choice.

If you’re not looking for a generator that needs to be moved a lot the lack of wheels is not a big issue.

The Honda is suitable for use on the road but it can be difficult for one person to move.

The Honda EU3000iS also has parallel connection capability which the Yamaha doesn’t. This parallel connector allows you to connect the generator to another one when you need more power.

Having this option makes this generator versatile and more useful for powering larger motor-homes or properties.

Pros: Compact, Well built, Parallel connectivity capability

Cons: No wheels…but you can purchase a Honda 3000 Wheel Kit

Final thoughts on Yamaha EF3000iSE vs Honda EU3000iS Generators Review

The Honda and Yamaha generators are very similar in design and the way they work.

These are established manufacturers who make reliable, solid, sturdy, durable and dependable generators.

We’d have to say that after weighing up all of the options, the Yamaha EF3000iSE is the best choice for portability due to the built-in wheels.

On the other hand if you want a generator that’s versatile then the Honda EU3000iS generator offers one extra feature.

The fact that you can hook it up to another unit for more power makes it better value for money.

Putting Up Fencing 5 Installation Hacks

Last Updated on May 18th, 2019

Putting Up Fencing – Have you been looking around your yard feeling that it’s got a real lack of privacy, and you just don’t feel as though the space is your own?

If you don’t have a fence, then that could be your problem right there.

Installing a fence around your property, specifically your backyard, creates a designated area that offers privacy and the ability to really make the space unique and your own.

If you have pets or small children, then a fence also acts as a safety measure making sure everyone and everything is kept safely within the backyard.

Essential DIY Skills for Every Homesteader

5 Hacks for Putting Up Fencing

So, before you jump right in and tackle the job yourself, there are some tips that you may want to consider.

Putting Up Fencing Installation Hacks — Putting Up Fencing

Know Where Your Property Line Is Before Starting

Here’s a tip that seems too simple to mention, but all too often people just assume they know their property line only to install the fence in the wrong location.

You may also be required to get zoning and building permits before you start building.

Because you will need to dig in the ground for the posts, you will also need to locate where the underground utility lines are.

Your local utility company can come out and mark those areas for you.

Rent a Post Hole Digger

If you have plans on digging the holes for the posts by hand, then it’s time to think again.

The holes required will be quite wide and deep, which means a whole lot of grunt work on your part.

It is much easier and faster to rent a post hole digger.

Talk to Your Neighbors in Advance

It’s also a good idea to speak to your neighbors and let them know about your plans before the job actually begins.

Putting up a fence will affect them too, so it’s just common courtesy to at least let them know.

Give Thought to the Kind of Fence That Would Be Best

You will also want to give thought as to the kind of fence you want to install. Best Fencing

There are different materials, designs, and heights, all of which accomplish different things.

If you want a fence for privacy, then it’s best to look into privacy fencing.

If you’re just looking for a basic fence to keep the kids in the yard, then maybe a chain link fence is all you need.

The Right Fencing for your Property

Hire a Professional Even If It’s Just for Part of the Job

It’s no secret that installing a fence is very tedious, time-consuming, and very labor-intensive.

With that said there is also knowledge that is needed in order to install it properly and securely.

What this means is that a professional such as those at Northland Fence can really come in handy.

The professionals will be able to install not just the traditional wooden style fences but also chain link, vinyl, and ornamental fencing.

These can require specific tools that you may not even have on-hand, never mind how helpful it will be to use someone with experience.

Each of these tips will help to ensure your fence is exactly as you envisioned.

5 Gardening Mistakes that Could be Costly

Last Updated on May 21st, 2019

There are several gardening mistakes that could be costly. However, if you do your research and come up with a good plan, gardening is pretty straightforward.

Know that by neglecting even a single part of the initial garden planning research, you could end up wasting your money instead of ending up with the garden of your dreams.

Great pruning shears is a must to take care of your garden.

Gardening Mistakes that Could be Costly

Planting Plants in the Wrong Zone

Everyone lives in a specific garden zone.

Just about every plant and seed from a reputable company will include this information on their website or packaging, indicating where a plant grows best.

These USDA gardening zones are as good as gardening law.

Plants used in the gardens near condos for sale in CT will not be the same as those planted in your backyard in FL.

Plant for your zone and any perennials are virtually guaranteed to survive the freezing winter or the scorching heat of summer.

Choosing Plants that Are Illegal or Invasive

Some plants are illegal.

It varies from state to state, but even a few “attractive varieties” are considered “noxious weeds.”

Never plant these.

Though you may not be reported for doing so, they are not suitable for the local environment, and many times they make your garden and the surrounding area incredibly unpleasant for allergy sufferers.

Then there are invasive plants.

These spread more quickly than they can typically be controlled, like crabgrass.

They grow well, but your neighbors will not thank you.

You’ll also spend much more time cutting them back and weeding them from your flowerbeds and lawn than you may want to.

Once an invasive plant is established, however, they take time, effort, and money to get rid of.

Not Taking Care of Your Investment

Once you’ve planted all of your plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs, you need to have a plan in place to maintain them.

The first few weeks are critical to their establishment and long-term health.

In most cases, no matter what you do, you will lose a plant or two, especially if you’ve overhauled an entire garden.

Keep your records, plant tags, and receipts.

Most garden centers and plant nurseries know this fact and will replace your plant at no charge if it dies within a year.

For some, that pledge extends up to two years.

Root cellars can help store for year round access.

Natural Lawn Care Tips and Hacks

Not Being Aware of the Pests in Your Area

If you’re wondering if a specific plant would work well in your area, ask your neighbors first.

Or look online or ring up a local master gardener or gardening society.

Some areas are more prone to specific types of pests, namely insects.

These will attack any plant of a particular kind on site, never giving it the chance to grow or establish.

If you would like to avoid taking those risks, think twice before importing a plant not offered by a local nursery.

If you’re dead set on having something, gather information.

If things still don’t look right, see if any companion plants might ward off the pests.

Not Paying Attention to Sun Requirements

Never plant hostas or columbines in direct sun.

Don’t expect peppers to thrive in dark areas with damp soil.

On nearly every plant’s tag or given planting instructions, you will see sun requirements.

These can be somewhat flexible, most plants work reasonably well in “part sun” and “part shade” but for the few that say “full sun” or “shade” exclusively, follow that rule.

Best Ways to Get Rid of Possums and Other Pests

Last Updated on May 18th, 2019

Depending on where you live, pests are inevitable. When they are attacking your crops, you need to act fast.

Below are some of the best ways to get rid of possums and other menaces.

It’s important to be self-sufficient. Cultivating crops makes you less dependent on others.

One of the most important factors of a stable economy is that how much it is dependent on importing the necessary goods from outside.

You want to be sure possums and other animals aren’t undermining your efforts.

Best Ways to Get Rid of Possums

Possums leave urine and feces behind. They also have a strong scent.

They can do serious damage to a garden.

You will need to assess whether the damage has been done by possums or whether something else is after the crops.

One way to make sure that the culprit are possums is by measuring the hole they created as they need at least 3 inches to squeeze into it.

If it is a raccoon, the gap will be around 4 inches wide.

It is much harder to protect something as open as fields and it is as important as protecting your house from possums.

How to protect crops from possums

Possums need to be controlled because they can eat over 65 types of plants. They can completely destroy a farm full of crops in a matter of a few days.

They don’t need much to survive; a nesting place is enough as long as they have access to food.

You will find their nests in hollow logs, under masses of vegetation, or in trees.

Best Ways to Get Rid of Possums Trap Possum

Some people have tried installing a two-strand electric fence that has wires at 4 inches and at 12 inches.

This would help to not only protect the crop against possum but it would also protect the crops from damage caused by other pests.

Poly tape also works well for this purpose.

An electrical fence usually activates at dusk and remains on until dawn.

The Right Fencing for your Property
Wood or Vinyl Fencing – Which is the Best Choice

Trapping Possums

Sometimes you have to resort to catching possums and relocating them. This is the most economically friendly way and the most effective method as well.

However, it requires daily commitment as you will have to put food in the traps and check in often.

The minimum sized box for catching a possum should be 10 x 10 x 32 for traps that have single doors.

You could place the trap away from direct sunlight so that the possums do not suffer as much after being caught.

After catching them, you can release them off your property.

Killing the pests should be the last resort. However, it is another option.

Shooting Possums and Pest

Landowners can shoot possums if they are causing a significant damage to the crops or other things present on their property.

However, you can only shoot if it is in accordance with the laws and the regulations of your town.

After trapping them, you could kill them by applying one or two sharp blows to their heads right behind their ears.

Poison Possums

Since the damage done from possums can be severe, some places like New Zealand doesn’t allow them to be released and instead they have to be killed humanely.

The poison regulations differ depending on where you live.

A common and cost-efficient way is to use phosphorous as a poison. However, check with your area. This won’t be an option if you have pets or raise animals.

Call a professional

To find a safe and humane way to get rid of possums, raccoons, and other critters, you can call a professional. Professionals will be able to treat the nuisance safely and easily.

These are some of the ways on how to control possum that could really help you out.

Pest control for crops

There are over 6,000 types of species that can cause pest damage to gardens and crops.

However, the insects cannot travel very far and are limited to the accessible areas that take care of their biological and physical needs.

Some insects are pests only in some seasons, others cause crop damage throughout the year.

Natural methods to keep the pests away

Pests are a nuisance and can destroy your entire crop. This will cost you money but also the time you have put into it.

You could always go for professional help if you are worried that the pests would damage your crops. However, there are some things that you could do yourself that would keep the pests at bay and keep your plants safe.

Since these methods only keep the pest away and do not hurt them, it is the most humane way.

1.) Burn the crops that are diseased so that it doesn’t spread to other healthy plants.

2.) Mulch your crops regularly.

3.) Grow some plants around the crops to repel the pests.

How to use pesticides

Pesticides are poisonous. You should only use them if there is no other option left to protect your plants from the pests.

You should read the guidelines and only spray till the allowed limit.

Overusing pesticides could not only damage the plants but also could make the plants unsuitable for human consumption.

You also have to take care of other factors like not spraying into the soil or elsewhere.

Use the pesticides only on those plants on which the pesticide is intended to use.

These are the best ways to get rid of possums, raccoons and other critters.

Pests can be a real problem for farmers and landowners as they can destroy the hard work done over months in merely just a few days.

While trying to get rid of them, it is important that we adopt humane ways because the pests are just looking for ways to survive.

You could use different pieces of equipment and ways to capture possums and raccoons to get rid of them so they don’t damage your plants further.

Killing the pests or rodents should be the last resort when there is no other way to stop them.

But, if you plan beforehand, there should always be a way to avoid having to kill pests in order to save the crop.

DUE DILIGENCE WORKSHEET for Farm or Ranch Purchase

Last Updated on May 1st, 2019

Due Diligence Worksheet is so important When you are considering the purchase of a ranch, farm or rural land, it is important to have answers to some very important questions before you actually close the deal.

This list can save you a lot of headaches and also help you prioritize what you will need to do to make your new “slice of heaven” livable!

I would encourage you to examine and answer to the best of your ability each issue contained here plus others that might be applicable to the land parcel.

If you don’t have an answer, give it your best shot and then note it as a “potential risk” item.

When you have completed with your due diligence process, you should have two results.

One is a very clear understanding of the potential risks associated with the property purchase.

The other is an idea of the added costs required–in addition to the purchase price–to make the parcel livable or ready for construction.

Download Our FREE Due Diligence Worksheet

DUE DILIGENCE WORKSHEET GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

DUE DILIGENCE WORKSHEET for Farm or Ranch Purchase

Does the proposed parcel meet your personal requirements and allow you to do what you want to do?

If not, what would be required to adapt it to your needs?

This question is site-specific as well as an individual-specific.

Make a list of your wants and needs, and then check it off.

Examples to Consider When Purchasing Farm or Ranch :

If you want to farm, and a majority of property is forested, what will it cost to make the forest into pasture?

If you intend to use a pasture for haying purposes, will you have to renovate the field?

Is there enough water to irrigate or is it a sub-irrigated pasture that needs no irrigation?

What is the slope of the parcel?

What kind of sunlight does it get?

Is it on a hill, or behind a hill so it gets significantly less daylight?

North slopes tend to be cooler and can lose up to four weeks of a growing season compared to comparable parcels with full sun access.

Are there trees on the parcel?

If so, are they marketable timber?

Some stands are worth a lot of money.

Are any existing structures usable?

If not, what is your estimate to get them usable?

What kind of soil is on the property?

Is it fertile and deep, or hard pan?

What can you typically grow in it?

Neighbors can help here.

You can also get a soil map of the area from NRCS (Natural Resources and Conservation Service).

Look at the one including your parcel.

If there is a question, take soil samples and have them analyzed.

This is not a costly procedure.

PLANNING – city, county and state issues

Some parcels may appear to have no issues until you apply for a permit or pursue a development project, and then all sorts of things might pop up.

Before your purchase, go to the county planning office and meet with a planner.

Ask the planner to take a look at the parcel(s) you are considering and ask if there are any concerns about the properties.

Are there any apparent issues that would prevent you from using the land the way you intend?

Most of this deals with zoning.

Find out what is required for development and building.

This may involve some form of master planning or site planning.

This is actually a good thing, as it causes you to objectively think out what you plan to ultimately do.

Find out about the process for obtaining a building permit (if buying land only and you intend to build).

Review that with a person knowledgeable in construction who can point out anything unusual.

If there are any issues, get an understanding of what it might cost you. Also, find out how long it usually takes for the county to issue required permits or perform inspections.

Are there any red flags that should be investigated?

If so, find out what they are and who you need to contact to get specific resolutions.

Are there any designated wetlands on the property?

If there are, you will have some specific building setback requirements for anything you want to do.

Are taxes paid up to date?

LEGAL ISSUES When Purchasing Rural Land, Farm or Ranch

This is a very important yet often overlooked area of due diligence, as it can be hard to understand.

Because it might require professional help at a cost prior to the actual purchase, many people fail to do this part of due diligence.

Sometimes it is a judgment call as to what is really important.

The following items should be examined legally.

Water rights:

This issue isn’t about whether there is water in the well, but rather, whether or not you have the legal right to drill a well or use water on the property for activities above and beyond personal use.

What rights do you have for irrigation?

Livestock watering?

Water for personal consumption is not usually an issue, but make sure you can irrigate a field if you intend to do that.

Property boundaries:

Is there a recorded survey?

If so, get a copy from the county and verify it with boundary markers that you see.

Talk to adjacent neighbors with existing fences and ask them if the fence lines match their understanding of the true property lines.

Walk the property and see if there are any other fences that might infringe on future use.

If they have been there a while, they could pose a legal boundary issue in the future.

If there are any potential issues or critical boundaries to be verified, have a property survey done and put in the property corners.

This is another step often omitted by prospective buyers.

Evaluate your level of comfort and security vs. the cost of the survey, which will run many $1000’s.

Take a look at an aerial map by Google Earth.

This can really be an eye opener.

The county assessor maps also can be a great resource.

The point is for you to have a clear sense of the property lines.

One note here: Rural property lines, while very important, are not exact.

Obviously, a small discrepancy on a 20 acre parcel is not nearly as important as one on a standard city lot.

Easements on the property:

Are there any recorded easements on the property?

There could be an easement for the electrical company to put a future 25,000 volt power line through the center of your property.

Or it could be access for a new natural gas line or any other kind of utility.

It could be one for a power line leading to a neighbor’s property or an access road for a neighbor to reach his property.

If there is an easement, is there a maintenance agreement in place?

You don’t need to contest easements; you just need to determine if there is something planned that YOU ARE NOT AWARE OF.

Again, know this before you buy.

Legal Access to Your Property:

If directly from a county public road, you have clear access.

If from a private access road or if it crosses over a private parcel you must:

Determine that the access use is recorded.

Determine that the county recognizes this as the legal access for the parcel.

Determine whether additional work is needed to upgrade the road to required county standards.

Talk to the owner of the property the road crosses and see what the owner’s understanding is.

If it is a road used by multiple parcels, determine if there is a ROAD MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT.

This will determine responsibility for routine and special maintenance of the road.

More gravel is needed– who pays?

Winter plowing is required–who does it?

Rural Property UTILITIES

Power:

What power is onsite or nearby?

What is the power company’s estimate to bring power to where you potentially want to put your structures?

One big question you need to answer–and it is a cost issue–should the power be buried or run overhead on poles?

Remember that buried power is less likely to be affected by wind, snow, and ice.

Determine if you need or want three-phase power.

Some utility companies provide it and some don’t.

It is really needed only for heavy duty shop applications such as welding equipment.

Telephone:

Sometimes this can be run with the power line but is a different utility from the power company.

How close is telephone to the parcel?

Again, relatively accurate costs should be quoted by the telephone utility.

Rural Internet:

Is DSL or broadband internet available?

If not, your only potential is satellite internet.

Cable:

This usually is not an issue, as it isn’t usually available for rural properties.

Water:

Is there a public water connection?

If not, what water is available onsite?

A strategy for obtaining water is vital prior to your closing.

This may be one of your biggest risks.

Wells:

If you are buying a developed property, test and inspect any existing well(s).

There are many companies that can quickly and inexpensively test well capacity and water quality.

This will give you a clear understanding of existing water sources.

If there is no acceptable source of water, a well must be drilled or dug.

Drilled wells are very common.

Neighbors or a local well drilling company can give you an idea of what /where/how much/ water might be obtained by drilling.

There is no guarantee though.

Some sites CLEARLY will have water and some CLEARLY will not (stay away from these).

Many will fall in-between.

Costs of wells/pumps could be from $3000 to over @$25,000.

Surface wells are also called dug wells.

If there is water near the surface this could be one of your options.

Sewer/Septic :

Is public sewer available?

Is there an existing system of septic tank and drain field?

If so, these should be tested and inspected so you know their condition.

If none exist, a new septic system must be installed.

The local health department can most likely help you with designers or installers.

A couple of phone calls can probably provide you some initial answers.

However, the design is fully based on the kind of soil that is used for the drain field.

Beware of wet ground!!

This could cause significant added costs for the system.

DUE DILIGENCE of EXISTING HOME AND STRUCTURES

Have inspections completed on a home and any other usable structures so that you will have a clear understanding of the condition of each one.

This will provide you the basis to estimate any additional work you may have to do to make it livable for your purposes.

Examine any abandoned structures on the property.

If they are condemned, the county may require you to either repair or remove them.

One example of this is a mobile home that stood on a piece of property.

Inside the mobile home was extremely bad mold and mildew that rendered the mobile home useless for any form of habitation.

In a case like this, you may decide to have the seller remove it from the site prior to closing on the property so you are not responsible for it.

After taking care of due diligence, you will be able to sleep better knowing that you have examined this major purchase reasonably and you are now ready for the next steps!

Download Due Diligence Worksheet

Best Pruning Shears For Roses & Orchids (With Hacks!)

Last Updated on May 21st, 2019

Best Pruning Shears – Many gardening enthusiasts find that roses and orchids are some of the most difficult flowering plants to cultivate.

But when you’re armed with the correct gardening arsenal and top growing tips, you too can have a garden full of blooms.

When it comes to tending your precious roses and orchids, only the right tools will cut it.

To get the best growth and the most beautiful flowers, you need gardening tools you can trust.

Whether you’re investing in tools for your own garden, or looking to sell gardening tools on to gardening enthusiasts, you should buy the best quality you can afford.

One of the most important tools in your collection is a pair of quality pruning shears.

If you take pride in your garden and want to work those green fingers, keep reading to learn how to choose the best pruners for roses and orchids.

I shop for gardening pruning shears and other gardening tools primarily online at ToolBarn.com and Amazon.com.

5 Tips for Pretty Roses

Find a Sunny Spot

Roses need lots of sunshine to grow well, so make sure they get at least 6 hours of sun a day.

Plant Them in Soil That Drains Well

Once you’ve put your rose bush in the soil, add organic material like manure, compost or tree bark to your displaced soil, before backfilling.

Water Them Liberally During Growth Season

The soil around your roses needs to be damp throughout the spring months.

They’ll need around an inch of water each week – feel the soil with your fingertips.

It needs to be damp, but not waterlogged.

Mulch Your Roses

Add 2-3 layers of organic matter like cedar mulch, chopped banana peels, grass or even wood chippings around your roses.

This’ll help keep the water in and deter weed growth.

Prune Your Rose Bush

Using pruning shears, carefully prune your roses to achieve the shape of bush you want, beautiful flowers and a healthy plant.

Your roses need to be pruned to promote growth and channel essential nutrients to the blooms.

How to Prune Roses

Your roses should be pruned while they’re still growing slowly – the cold weather before springtime is best.

With high-quality pruning shears, make diagonal cuts around 1/4 inch above a new bud.

You can shape your roses by placing the cut in the direction you want the new growth to form.

If you see any branches that look woody or dead, prune those out, too.

The more you prune, you’ll get larger roses and fewer of them.

Prune less, and the opposite will be true – smaller flowers but in greater abundance.

Best Pruning Shears For Roses & Orchids (With Hacks!) — gardener pruning trees with pruning shears on nature background.

5 Tips for Exotic Orchids

Choose the Right Spot

Your orchid’s parents started life in the tropics, so only a warm environment will do.

Choose a spot that’s indoors, out of direct sunlight but still with a lot of sun exposure.

Control the Temperature

As in tip #1, your orchid will need a warmer environment to survive and thrive.

Make sure you maintain an indoor temperature of between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit to give them the warmth they need.

Allow Air Flow to the Roots

In their natural habitat, orchids are more likely to be found clinging to trees and other plants, rather than being planted in soil.

Mix a liberal amount of organic matter, like tree bark, into the soil around your orchid.

Don’t be shy.

This will allow air to get to the roots of the plant and promote healthy growth.

Give Them Monsoon Rains

Because of their tropical roots, orchids benefit from a shower of water, the way they would in the wild.

Saturate the soil around your orchid, and then leave it to dry.

This could take days.

Once the soil is beginning to dry out, repeat the process – your orchids will feel right at home.

Prune Your Orchids

For your orchid to bloom, you need to drive the essential nutrients from water and sunlight to the young buds of your plant.

To do that, pruning is essential.

It’ll remove any greedy old branches and ensure your flowers are getting the nourishment and energy they need.

How to Prune Orchids

When a new nodule forms on an orchid, that signifies a possible new branch that could sprout with several flowers.

The potential is locked inside the nodule, and you’ll need to prune it to release this potential.

On a green stem, look for a nodule beneath your lowest growing flower.

Now, with good quality pruning shears, trim 1 inch above it.

Brown or yellow stems are sucking nutrients from the plant, and you’ll need to trim these off at the base.

Natural Lawn Care Tips and Hacks

Best Pruning Shears for Roses and Orchids

Aside from their perceived delicate constitutions, roses and orchids have something else in common.

Both of these flowering plants are best-pruned with bypass pruning shears.

Unlike other types of pruners, bypass pruners have a curved blade.

This curvature allows for closer and more precise cuts.

Bypass pruners also avoid the unpleasant issue that comes with flat-blade shears, which is potentially mashing up the stem when cutting.

Pruning shears are perfect for stems that are 3/4 inch thick, or less.

For more mature plants with thicker stems, you’ll need to use different tools, like loppers or a pruning saw.

Pruning shears will be ineffective at that stage.

Adapt According to Preference

When it comes to choosing your ideal shears, it isn’t a matter of ‘one size fits all’.

Rather, there is a range of options to choose from, according to your individual needs.

For example, if you’re left- rather than right-handed, there are shears with specially formed grips to fit comfortably in your hand.

For those with weak wrists, there are shears that rotate.

And if you have a weak grip, there are pruners with a ratcheting mechanism that do a lot of the work for you.

If you’re thinking of selling pruners to fellow gardeners via eBay auctions, you’ll want to showcase a variety of pruners that cater to the various needs of today’s gardener.

9 Best Pruners for Roses and Orchids

Without further ado, let’s get down to our recommendations.

Fiskars All Steel Bypass Pruners

These pruners from Fiskars are a good basic model for those on a budget.

They’re great for young plants and can cut to a diameter of 5/8 inch.

They have a low-friction coating to protect your orchids and roses during the pruning process, and a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.

Doolini Nature Professional Shears

These stunning professional pruners from Doolini have been made with the pro gardener in mind.

They have precision-sharpened blades and a cushioned comfort grip for prolonged use, so you can prune with heightened efficiency and care.

Pexio Premium Titanium Bypass Shears

These pruners from Pexio feature an ergonomic handle and grip and are both comfortable to hold, and powerful in execution.

These Pexio shears have an added sap groove feature, which channels sap away from the blades to avoid them gumming up.

Garden Elite Bypass Shears

These razor sharp shears from Garden Elite are not only elegant to behold, but they’re crafted from Japanese steel – the hardest steel on the market.

With this technology in place, these pruners are strong and sharp and have a lifetime warranty, too.

Gardena 8905 Vario Bypass Shears

These shears by Gardenia have a strong blade that can cut thicker than normal branches.

The blade has a non-slip coating, for both safety and precision.

They include stoppers so the stress on your wrist is reduced while pruning, and feature a sturdy reinforced fiberglass handle.

The Jaw Bypass Pruning Shears

With the Jaw’s high-carbon-coated steel blade, there are no more fears about your blade bending or snapping.

The shears have been designed to stay sharp for longer than standard pruners.

The grip is designed to be kinder on joints and minimize injury.

PrecisionPRO Titanium Pruners

These heavy-duty shears from PrecisionPRO have an inclined titanium-coated Japanese steel cutting blade for faster and quicker pruning.

The pruners have an ergonomic grip to suit larger and smaller hands, so are great for male and female gardeners alike.

Corona ClassicCUT Forged Bypass Pruner

The Corona ClassicCut pruners will cut through branches up to 1 inch in diameter – perfect for maturing bushes and plants.

With safety in mind, the manufacturer has also built in a notching tool when the pruner isn’t being used, to avoid accidents and injury to the user.

Garrett Wade Bypass Pruner

We’ll end with the most stylish pruner on our list – a stylish pair of shears from Garrett Wade.

The pruner is made from finely forged steel, and its powerful blades can prune and trim in an instant.

This set of shears comes with its own leather holster, too, for that dapper touch.

The Takeaway on Pruners for Roses and Orchids

Roses and orchids require care when it comes to pruning, and to do that you need the right set of pruners for the job.

Bypass pruners are the best shears for roses and orchids because of their capacity for precise and clean cuts, leading to healthy growth.

Are you looking to share your knowledge and sell the best pruning shears?

Then check out our FAQ section and see how we can help.

Best LED Grow Lights Review – How To Choose

Last Updated on May 1st, 2019

Best LED Grow Lights Review – Over the past five years, revenue for the Hydroponic Crop Farming industry has maintained positive growth.

These indoor, soil-less, climate-controlled farms regulate crop inputs of light, heat, ventilation, water, and nutrition for a superior product.

The current annual revenue is expected to grow 3-4% yearly as vegetable and fruit buyers increasingly turn to greenhouse crops to avoid weather extremes in supply.

The light supply is one of the inputs for healthy and productive plants.

Many plants have an optimum light cycle for growth, blossoming and fruiting.

Correctly programmed grow lights maximize yield with a minimum of waste.

There are many types grow lights available, but LED grow lights are some of the most energy-efficient and easy to use lights on the market today.

You can view options in-stores, online or even at auction.

Buying and selling LED Grow Lights has never been so easy!
Best LED Grow Lights Review - How To Choose

Best LED Grow Lights Review – How To Choose so read on to learn more

Advantages of LED Grow Lights

LED lights have come a long way from the tiny amber or green glowing indicators on your Casio calculator.

Some of the benefits of changing your greenhouse technology from older halogen or fluorescent light systems are as follows:

LED Grow Lights Power Efficiency

Older forms of lighting your indoor greenhouse can be very powerful but are very wasteful.

Much heat is generated along with the light.

In fact, some halogen lights get to 400-500 degrees F.

LED lights don’t waste energy generating heat.

LED Grow Lights Have Long Lifespan

Incandescent lights might last a few thousand hours, halogen and fluorescent lamps somewhere around 20,000 hours of service.

Most LED lights are rated at somewhere between 50,000 and 100,000 hours of use.

LED Grow Lights with Small Footprint

LED lights do not require bulky ballasts or heavy, reinforced hanging apparatus.

Since they don’t often need supplementary cooling, there is more room to grow plants instead of equipment.

LED Grow Light Wavelengths

In the natural world, sunshine provides the entire range of light wavelengths.

When simulating this in a greenhouse, different portions of the spectrum will be important at different times in the plant life cycle.

You will be able to control this input entirely.

Full spectrum LED grow lights provide a wide range of blue, red, white, and ultraviolet light.

LED Grow Light Cycles and Plant Growth

In nature, plants need a great many hours of light to stimulate leaf growth at the beginning of the growing season.

The plants mature as the days grow shorter, with longer periods of darkness.

The plants shift from growing leaves to reproducing.

When growing your plants indoors you optimize this cycle artificially.

More time in the beginning stage of the growing season results in larger overall plants.

Which is how giant cabbages are grown in the midnight sun of Alaska.

In theory, plants can be left in the vegetative (leaf-growing) stage forever, without fruiting and regenerating.

This will allow you to use a successful plant to create a parent plant.

These can be cloned over and over again, without taking chances on spouting unknown seed hybrids or sports.

Growing Great Row Crops using LED Grow Lights

For growing single harvest row crops, it is important to have the right amount of light and dark each day in order to stimulate the right amount of growth in both vegetative and flowering stages.

In addition to ensuring proper flavor and nutrition.

LED Grow Lights and Vegetative Growth

The vegetative (leaf growth) growth cycle is where LED grow lights are extremely efficient.

Plants need a steady, color-coordinated, lower-intensity light for long periods of time.

During the vegetative stage of growth, leafy crops need to have 16-18 hours of light each day.

With this much light, they build strong roots and a solid main stem to support the mature foliage.

This strong main stem will also support the fruiting buds if you allow the plant to mature.

Healthy leaves and stems convert light and carbon dioxide to food.

In this stage, the blue wavelength 400 – 500 nm range, the plants will activate photosynthesis.

A full-spectrum LED light is ideal to provide the necessary number of hours to achieve this.

As plants become more mature, their light needs shift to the red spectrum and they seek evenly spaced “day” and “night” cycles.

Flowering and Fruiting using LED Grow Lights

Optimum flowering stage involves simulating 12 hours of light followed by 12 hours of darkness.

Shifting the wavelengths to the red side of the spectrum speeds this process.

The Best LED Light Colors

In order to provide your plants with everything they need, you will need full spectrum LED grow lights.

LEDs only glow at one certain wavelength.

LED panels are manufactured with a mixture of certain kinds of LEDs to provide specific colors.

Choose the best combination for your greenhouse operation.

LED Blue light

In the mid-400 nm range, is ideal for vegetative growth that creates tall, leafy plants

LED Red light

In the 600-640 nm range encourages budding and flowering.

LED White light

Is a mixed light that is visible to humans.

It allows people to see inside the growing area.

It also balances the red and blue lights signal to plants.

LED Ultraviolet light

Is not visible to humans, but allows plants to signal to beneficial insects.

If your crop requires insect pollination when grown outdoors, short bursts of UV will increase scent and potency.

The right blend of light ensures proper plant growth and health.

A sample optimum ratio of different colors for a flowering crop like brussels sprouts is below:

55% Red LEDs rated at 660 nm
20% Red LEDs rated at 630 nm
15% Blue LEDs rated at 470 nm
10% Blue LEDs rated at 425 nm

During the vegetative growth cycle, look for wide, cabbage-leaves and a strong, tall stalk.

By manipulating light and nutrition, it is possible to grow Christmas tree-size sprouting stalks for decor or edible use.

LED Grow Lights to Look For

There are hundreds of LED grow lights available on the market right now, but a few have made some advances in 2018 (in alphabetical order):

Advanced LED

Advanced LED is proven to be one of the best LED grow lights manufacturers on the market.

Their products perform far above most of the other grow lights you may stumble upon while searching the internet.

They spent many years working in grow lights industry and have been perfecting their products every year.

California LEDs

California LED has affordable industrial strength options.

With 14 years of building experience in the US, they focus on automation, efficiency, and power.

G8LED

G8LED lamps are distributed by DormGrow in the U.S.

These are less expensive, well-known LED lights.

The company is known for helpful customer service, liberal return and warranty practices and some of the best entry-level products in the business.

Hydro Grow Lights

Hydro Grow takes pride in some of the most advanced LED light conversions in the business.

They have a long list of established growers who have made the switch from fluorescent and halogen to Hydro Grow LEDs.

Kind LED Grow Lights

Kind LED lights are perfected by long-time growers.

Kind LED has created a one-of-a-kind heatsink that dramatically reduces the temperature, making them even cooler than standard LED panels.

These are well-researched products that save energy and still provide full-spectrum light.

Mars Hydro LED Grow Lights

Since 2009, Mars Hydro LED Grow Lights has operated their own research and testing laboratories.

Their ongoing innovation and fine-tuning of their products make them listed among the top LED grow light manufacturers.

Spectrum King Grow Lights

Spectrum King LED grow lights claim to increase harvests by 25%, save 50% in electricity bills, and to have the smallest footprint of all LEDs.

The cost-benefit calculation certainly balances the extra expense of these lights with the good yields.

TotalGrow LED Lights

TotalGrow lights trademarked a specially researched plant growth system they call Solid State Volumetric Lighting Technology.

TotalGrow lights produce a Broad Grow Spectrum in the wavelengths plants need most for healthy and quick growth.

TaoTronics LED Grow Lights

TaoTronics produces a number of lighting products.

In operation since 2008, they deliver millions of LED grow lights all over the world.

Final Thoughts on LED Grow Lights

Indoor farming is one of the fastest growing and exciting advances in crop technology today.

Many companies have built solid reputations for service and the quality of LED light panels in less than a decade.

The market is crowded and buyers have many shopping options.

Whether your customers are replacing less efficient halogen and fluorescent lights in their grow rooms or starting from scratch.

They want a full-spectrum light to simulate the optimum natural sunlight and seasonal changes.

Manipulating seasonal light patterns encourages leaf growth or flowering as wanted.

It is possible to indefinitely continue vegetative leaf growth with the right nutrition and light conditions.

This is ideal for cloned crops or leaf crops like salad greens.

Shifting the light spectrum to favor red wavelengths and equal day and night cycles encourage flowering and fruiting.

Again, with the correct light wavelengths and nutrition can prolong this phase of plant life and increase harvests.

Your knowledge and professional presentation can set your business apart from an otherwise cluttered marketplace.

If you would like to learn more about LED grow lights and growing your auction business, keep reading or contact us today!