How to Care for Succulents and Cacti

August 5, 2014 2:09 pm

Scroll through any design blog or flip through the pages of any magazine, and you're likely to come across images of succulents and cacti. These trendy, easy-to-care-for plants require minimal attention, but still deliver maximum impact when it comes to perking up a windowsill or shelf. Bonus: They're easily found at any home and garden store. Before you clear a spot in your apartment, here are two growing tips to consider.

· Water sparingly.
To check if your plant could use a drink, stick your finger into the soil. If it feels cold or damp, your plant doesn't need water yet. If the soil feels dry, soak the soil thoroughly, ensuring that excess water has a place in the pot through which to drain. Note that cacti and succulents prefer to dry out between waterings, and they won't tolerate wet feet. In general, these plants require more water during the spring and summer and less water in the fall and winter, when the plant goes dormant.

· Let the sunshine in.
Keep your plant in a spot that receives four to six hours of sunlight a day. However, be advised that most succulents and cacti prefer indirect light to direct light, as exposure to direct sun can cause scorch marks. Another sign that your plant is receiving too much sun is a yellowed, bleached appearance. Also note that your succulents and cacti will most likely need more water if they're placed in a very sunny spot.

Do you keep cacti and succulents in your apartment home? Share your growing tips below!

How To Care For Your Cacti & Succulents [California Cactus Center]
Care for Succulents and Cactus [Southeast Succulents]
Cactus and Succulent Care for Beginners [Southeast Succulents]

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How to Plant Your Own Terrarium

August 1, 2014 12:02 pm

If you pay attention to interior design blogs, you’ve likely seen colorful terrariums popping up all over the place. These intricate indoor gardens may seem difficult to make, but with the right supplies and a few slow-growing plants, you can create your own terrarium to make your home look just like the pros’.

  1. Find the right structure. Terrariums should be built inside of a clear glass or plastic container so that you can see what’s going on inside. Something like a fish bowl, mason jar, or even a store-bought terrarium will work best. Do your best to choose the size based on how large you plants are.
  2. Form the garden bed. The success of your terrarium depends on the base. Start by lining the container with a one-inch layer of pebbles for drainage, and then add a ½-inch layer of activated charcoal. A 1 ½-inch layer of pre-moistened sphagnum moss goes over that to prevent the soil from slipping in between the pebbles.
  3. Plant your plants. Whether you choose succulents or herbs, they need to go on top of this well-draining garden bed. Remove your plants from their pots and cut away pot-bound roots. Place a layer of soil in your terrarium that’s just taller than your plants' roots, and plant the plants inside where the leaves won’t touch the glass.
  4. Decorate. Now that your terrarium is complete, it’s time to make it look pretty. Add some decorative rocks inside, and then place it in front of a well-lit window where your guests can easily see it.

How to Make Your Own Terrarium [HGTV]
How to Make Terrariums [About Home]
Terrariums: A Guide to Plants and Care [BHG]

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Roaring Fork: Taste the Wood-Fired Flavor of Classic America

July 29, 2014 2:26 pm

The Roaring Fork was created with the idea of old-fashioned American cuisine in mind, cooked over an open fire and bursting with bold, smoky flavor. Each dish is cooked over a wood fire rotisserie to capture this essence, and you’ll even find it in the restaurant’s aesthetic. From the hardwood floors and cozy booths to the sleek, modern light fixtures, every part of the Roaring Fork’s dining room combines elegance and rustic charm.

Regulars rave about meat creations like the stacked-high burgers, roasted chicken, and bacon wrapped tenderloin, while sides like fried avocado are the perfect accompaniments. The handcrafted cocktails and happy hour specials are a delight to of-age guests, and the Roaring Fork also boasts a hearty Sunday brunch that’s been touted as one of the best in the area.

The Roaring Fork is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Happy hour starts at 4 p.m.

Roaring Fork
10850 Stonelake Boulevard
Austin, TX 78759
(512) 342-2700
www.roaringfork.com
www.yelp.com/biz/roaring-fork-austin-3

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