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colorfulfishbreeds · 1 year ago

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Delving into the Enigmatic Realm of Dumbo Guppies: A Comprehensive Guide to the Grace and Beauty of These Remarkable Fish

Welcome to the enchanting world of Dumbo Guppies! Imagine a ballet of aquatic beauty, where graceful fins flutter through the water like delicate silk. These mesmerizing fish combine elegance with a touch of whimsy. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the captivating universe of Dumbo Guppies. From their unique appearance and fascinating characteristics to their habitat requirements, feeding preferences, breeding behaviors, health considerations, and more, let's uncover the secrets of these enchanting aquatic companions.

Discovering Dumbo Guppies

Visualize a fish with fins that resemble the ears of Dumbo the elephant—charming and utterly delightful. The Dumbo Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a distinct and captivating freshwater fish breed renowned for its oversized, distinctively shaped pectoral fins. These fins, reminiscent of Dumbo's ears, add a touch of whimsical beauty to any aquarium. Imagine the "Dumbo Red Dragon," with its vivid red body and elegant pectoral fins, or the "Dumbo Blue Moscow," featuring striking blue hues and those iconic fins.

Essential Information

Origins: Dumbo Guppies hail from the warm waters of Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia.

Size: On average, Dumbo Guppies reach lengths of around 1.5 to 2.5 inches (3.8 to 6.4 cm), making them suitable for various tank sizes.

Lifespan: With proper care, Dumbo Guppies can live for approximately 2 to 3 years, though attentive fish keepers can extend their lifespans.

Temperament: Dumbo Guppies are known for their peaceful and sociable nature, making them excellent choices for community aquariums.

Appearance: The most striking feature of Dumbo Guppies is their oversized pectoral fins, which give them a distinctive and endearing appearance.

Varieties: Beyond the Dumbo Red Dragon and Dumbo Blue Moscow, other examples of Dumbo Guppy varieties include the Dumbo Yellow Sunset, Dumbo Platinum, and Dumbo Black Orchid.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: In their native Southeast Asian habitats, Dumbo Guppies thrive in slow-moving waters with lush vegetation.

Tank Size: For a small group of Dumbo Guppies, a tank with a capacity of 10 to 20 gallons is suitable. Larger tanks allow for a more dynamic environment and house more individuals.

Water Parameters: Maintain a water temperature of 72 to 82°F (22 to 28°C) and a pH level between 6.8 and 7.8. Clean water and proper filtration are essential.

Tank Setup: Recreate a habitat that mimics their natural environment by incorporating live plants, driftwood, and hiding spots. A fine gravel or sand substrate complements their graceful presence.

Feeding

Diet: Dumbo Guppies are omnivores, requiring a diverse diet that includes high-quality flakes, pellets, live or frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and vegetable matter.

Feeding Habits: They are enthusiastic eaters, so offer small meals multiple times a day to ensure they receive adequate nutrition and prevent overfeeding.

Breeding

Reproduction: Dumbo Guppies are livebearers, giving birth to live fry rather than laying eggs. Males display elaborate courtship behaviors to attract females.

Breeding Requirements: Provide hiding spots for pregnant females to give birth safely, such as dense plants or breeding boxes.

Spawning Process: The mating process involves courtship, internal fertilization, and later, the birth of fry. The fry require proper care to thrive.

Common Health Issues and Preventive Measures

Health Issues: Dumbo Guppies can be prone to common fish health issues such as fin rot, ich, and swim bladder disorders due to poor water quality, stress, or inadequate diet.

Preventive Measures: Maintain clean water conditions, offer a balanced diet, and ensure proper tank hygiene to minimize health concerns.

Compatibility and Special Care

Compatibility: Dumbo Guppies are generally peaceful and can coexist with other peaceful fish species, such as tetras, platies, and other guppy varieties.

Special Care Instructions: Pay attention to water quality, temperature, and feeding schedules to support the well-being and vibrancy of your Dumbo Guppy.

Dumbo Guppy Varieties That Can Be Kept Together

Some suitable tankmates for Dumbo Guppies include:

Neon Tetras

Panda Corydoras

Harlequin Rasboras

Kuhli Loaches

Honey Gouramis

Swordtails

Cherry Shrimp

In conclusion, Dumbo Guppies are the epitome of aquatic elegance, combining charm and grace in their unique appearance. By creating an appropriate environment and offering attentive care, you can experience the sheer delight of watching these whimsical fish thrive. Whether you're a seasoned hobbyist or just beginning your journey, the enchanting world of Dumbo Guppies promises a captivating aquatic experience that will leave you spellbound.

#freshwater fish

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fishbreedsblog · 1 year ago

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Exploring the Fascinating World of Dumbo Guppies: A Comprehensive Guide to the Grace and Beauty of These Extraordinary Fish

Welcome to the enchanting world of Dumbo Guppies! Imagine a ballet of aquatic beauty, where graceful fins flutter through the water like delicate silk. These mesmerizing fish combine elegance with a touch of whimsy. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the captivating universe of Dumbo Guppies. From their unique appearance and fascinating characteristics to their habitat requirements, feeding preferences, breeding behaviors, health considerations, and more, let's unravel the secrets of these enchanting aquatic companions.

Introducing Dumbo Guppies

Imagine a fish with fins that resemble the ears of Dumbo the elephant—charming and utterly delightful. The Dumbo Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a distinct and captivating freshwater fish breed renowned for its oversized, distinctively shaped pectoral fins. These fins, reminiscent of Dumbo's ears, add a touch of whimsical beauty to any aquarium. Picture the "Dumbo Red Dragon," with its vivid red body and elegant pectoral fins, or the "Dumbo Blue Moscow," featuring striking blue hues and those iconic fins.

General Information

Origin: Dumbo Guppies originate from the warm waters of Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia.

Size: On average, Dumbo Guppies grow to be around 1.5 to 2.5 inches (3.8 to 6.4 cm) in length, making them suitable for a variety of tank sizes.

Lifespan: With proper care, Dumbo Guppies can live for approximately 2 to 3 years, though attentive fish keepers can extend their lifespans.

Temperament: Dumbo Guppies are known for their peaceful and sociable nature, making them excellent choices for community aquariums.

Appearance: The most striking feature of Dumbo Guppies is their oversized pectoral fins, which give them a distinctive and endearing appearance.

Varieties: Beyond the Dumbo Red Dragon and Dumbo Blue Moscow, other examples of Dumbo Guppy varieties include the Dumbo Yellow Sunset, Dumbo Platinum, and Dumbo Black Orchid.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: In their native Southeast Asian habitats, Dumbo Guppies inhabit slow-moving waters with lush vegetation.

Tank Size: For a small group of Dumbo Guppies, a tank with a capacity of 10 to 20 gallons is suitable. Larger tanks allow for a more dynamic environment and more individuals.

Water Parameters: Maintain a water temperature of 72 to 82°F (22 to 28°C) and a pH level between 6.8 and 7.8. Clean water and proper filtration are essential.

Tank Setup: Create a habitat that mimics their natural environment by incorporating live plants, driftwood, and hiding spots. A fine gravel or sand substrate complements their graceful presence.

Feeding

Diet: Dumbo Guppies are omnivores, requiring a diverse diet that includes high-quality flakes, pellets, live or frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and vegetable matter.

Feeding Habits: They are enthusiastic eaters, so offer small meals multiple times a day to ensure they receive adequate nutrition and prevent overfeeding.

Breeding

Reproduction: Dumbo Guppies are livebearers, giving birth to live fry rather than laying eggs. Males display elaborate courtship behaviors to attract females.

Breeding Requirements: Provide hiding spots for pregnant females to give birth safely, such as dense plants or breeding boxes.

Spawning Process: The mating process involves courtship, internal fertilization, and later, the birth of fry. The fry require proper care to thrive.

Common Health Issues and Preventive Methods

Health Issues: Dumbo Guppies can be prone to common fish health issues such as fin rot, ich, and swim bladder disorders due to poor water quality, stress, or inadequate diet.

Preventive Methods: Maintain clean water conditions, offer a balanced diet, and ensure proper tank hygiene to minimize health concerns.

Compatibility and Special Care

Compatibility: Dumbo Guppies are generally peaceful and can coexist with other peaceful fish species, such as tetras, platies, and other guppy varieties.

Special Care Instructions: Pay attention to water quality, temperature, and feeding schedules to support the well-being and vibrancy of your Dumbo Guppy.

Dumbo Guppy Varieties That Can Be Kept Together

Some suitable tankmates for Dumbo Guppies include:

Neon Tetras

Panda Corydoras

Harlequin Rasboras

Kuhli Loaches

Honey Gouramis

Swordtails

Cherry Shrimp

#freshwater fish

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blueorchidhotels · 1 year ago

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Must-See London Events in July 2023: A Summer Extravaganza

List of July 2023 Events in London

· Pride London — July 1 2023 — Hyde Park Corner

· Black pink Concert — 2 July Hyde Park

· Maroon 5 Concert — 3 July — The O2 Arena

· Wimbledon Championship July 3–16 2023 — Wimbledon

· National Landlord Investment Show — July 4 2023 — Old Billingsgate

· Be inspired at A World in Common: Contemporary African Photography — July 6 2023 -Jan 14 2024 — Tate Modern

· Bruce Springsteen Concert — July 6 to 8 2023 — Hyde Park

· City Beerfest — July 6 2023 — Guildhall Yard

· The Weeknd Concert — July 7–8 2023 — London Stadium

· BBC Proms — July 14 -Sept 9 2023 — Royal Albert Hall

· Buckingham Palace Summer Opening — July 14 — Sept 24 2023 — Buckingham palace London

· National Give Something Away Day July 15 2023

· The City of London- Until 30 July -The Guildhall Art Gallery

· RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival — July 4–9 2023

· Wireless Music Festival 7–9 July — finsbury Park

· National Ice Cream day — 16 July

· Hyper Japan Festival — July 21–23 2023 — Kensington

· Wing Fest London — July 28–30 2023 Stratford

· Festival14 July 26–30 — Canary Wharf

· London E-Prix July 29–30 2023 — Excel London

· National Lipstick Day — 29July

· International Friendship Day — 30 July

Where to Stay in Central London?

Accommodation Packages by Blue Orchid Hotel — Blue Orchid Hotel, a luxurious and centrally located hotel in London, offers exclusive accommodation packages for visitors during July 2023.

Offers & Packages:

ROYAL TIME AT THE TOWER

RELAX AND UNWIND

FAMILY PACKAGE

SUITE SUNDAY

And many more. Visit Blue Orchid London Hotel deals

Guests can choose from these tailored packages to enhance their visit to London, benefiting from the exceptional amenities and prime location provided by Blue Orchid Hotel.

Whether you’re in search of luxury central London hotel suites, independent living apartments or elegant residences, Blue Orchid can satisfy the most discerning guests in search of the very best central London accommodation.

Events and conference spaces offer a diverse range of opportunities to suite a wide variety of requirements; from London’s latest roof top venue boasting stunning panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline to a charming chapel in leafy Westminster.

Blue Orchid Hotels in Central London

Conclusion

July 2023 in London promises an array of events, shows, and activities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you are a film enthusiast, a sports fan, a music lover, or someone seeking cultural experiences, London’s July calendar has something special in store for you. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere, immerse yourself in the city’s offerings, and create unforgettable memories during this exciting month. Blue Orchid Hotel’s accommodation Packages, Wellness & Dining Experiences provide the perfect complement to your London adventures, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

#hotels in london uk #london hotel booking #5 star hotels in central london #conference venues in london #london hotels deals #central london hotels

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edupunkn00b · 4 years ago

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Perennials: Orchid (Elegance)

Word count: 1748 - G - [ AO3 ] - Canon(ish), Post-POF - Overture May Flowers Event Day 28: Orchid for Elegance Note: A seven-year old spoiler for Doctor Who is narrowly avoided below.

"Elegance is elimination." - Cristóbal Balenciaga ---

Thomas was standing in front of the refrigerator, propping the door open with his hip, reaching deep inside, searching. "What about this? I think it's that garlic-infused butter from -" he popped off the lid and sniffed, then gagged. "Nope! Nope, nope, that's not gonna work. Here, Virge," he said, stretching his arm over the top of the refrigerator door to where Virgil sat on the counter. Thomas handed him the rancid butter concoction. "Can you toss this?"

Virgil wrinkled his nose and gingerly accepted the plastic container, toeing open the cabinet that held Thomas' garbage can and threw it in the bin. Roman looked up from where he was chopping tomatoes and grinned. "Nice shot, Emo!" Virgil blushed and slouched a bit, hiding his face.

Thomas didn't notice, too busy hunting for something to substitute for garlic. He'd promised Nico homemade spaghetti when he'd convinced him to come over for dinner tonight instead of going out. But he was completely out of garlic. "Roman, I think we're outta luck. I'm gonna need you to get ... creative." Virgil groaned but smiled.

"Patton's not here so you've decided to cover the dad jokes, huh, Sanders?," he drawled. Roman chuckled, laying the knife on the cutting board and rooting through Thomas' cabinets, looking for anything besides salt to add some flavor to the dish.

"Ah, I think even Patton would have groaned at that one," Roman said, looking over his shoulder at Thomas.

"Hey!," Thomas protested, laughing, "It wasn't that bad!"

Suddenly his phone started playing Nico's ringtone, Sunday Morning. Virgil's eyes grew wide. "He's cancelling. I knew it. Either that or he's early and already on his way and there's no way we'll be ready in time. He's gonna find out you're a disaster and break up with you! God, I hope he's not driving and calling at the same time. What if he got in an accident when he was on the phone with us? Get him off the phone! Remember Dark Water, he wouldn't have -"

"Virgil, it's ok," Thomas placed one hand on the Anxious Side's shoulder. "Let me see what Nico is calling about first, alright?," Despite Virgil's - and, therefore, his own - nervousness about why Nico might be calling just a few hours before their date was set to start, Thomas smiled when he saw Nico's contact picture pop up on his phone screen. He swiped up to answer the call, "Well, hello there, Neek ..."

Roman scraped the diced tomatoes into a bowl and then brought the dirty knife and cutting board to the sink. He would need it again in a moment to chop up the basil, but he was pretty sure that Thomas didn't know that. This gave the Princely Side an opportunity to get a little closer to Virgil and give him a reassuring bump against his knees. "Hey, you ok there, Hot Topic?," he whispered. Virgil's eyes were on Thomas, focused on the conversation. He nodded, giving Roman a quick glance and a smile as thanks.

"Oh ... sure, Neek," Thomas said into the phone, looking down at his feet, "That's no problem, we can totally move this to another day."

"Are you sure? I hope you haven't gone to a lot of trouble ...," Nico sounded distracted on the phone. Yes, he was almost definitely driving. Virgil's warning dancing through his head, Thomas thought he should probably try to get him off the phone as quickly as possible.

"No, no, no, it's totally fine. No trouble at all ... it - it was going to be a simple dinner ... I've hardly even started ... Yes, yes, it's fine. No, ... no of course I'm not mad. I understand you have to get your story in."

Thomas flashed a look to Roman and Virgil, shaking his head. Roman hung his head, leaning against the sink. Virgil gave his shoulder a little squeeze.

Thomas' doorbell rang and he swore under his breath. "No, no, that wasn't because of you, Nico. Sorry. It's probably my new neighbor. I must have breathed too loudly and now he's coming over to complain about the noise. Just a second." Thomas left the kitchen, heading to the front door. Roman suddenly grinned, lifting his head and peering through the kitchen window.

Virgil nudged him, "Hey, Princey, what are you looking for?," he whispered.

"It's the classic rom com move, my Dark Knight," Virgil blushed at the nickname, but Roman was too preoccupied with looking for Nico or his car outside to catch it. "You call your date, say you have to cancel," Roman whispered back quickly, bouncing with excitement. "But then you show up on his doorstep, a big bouquet or a box of chocolates or an engagement ring in hand ...,"

"Oh, Ro, I don't think that's - "

Thomas took a deep breath and opened the door, "Oh, hi. Hailey, is it?," Thomas was a little fuzzy on some of his neighbors' names. "Can help you?" Roman and Virgil met each other's eyes in the kitchen.

"Sorry, Princey," Virgil whispered. Roman just sighed and resumed wrapping up the chopped tomatoes. They were already cooked, so if Thomas used them tomorrow, they'd still be good.

"Yeah, it's Hailey. Hey, Mr. Sanders," she frowned and twisted her fingers together, looking up and down the row of apartments. "Have you, um, seen my cat?"

"No, honey, I'm afraid not, I haven't. What does your cat look like?"

"She's black and white and has a white collar. Her name's Minty."

"I'll keep my eyes out for her. You're two doors down, right?" She nodded. "I'll let you know if I see her, ok?" Thomas glanced down at the phone in his hand, checking that his call with Nico was still active.

"Thanks, Mr. Sanders!" Hailey started to back away from the door, smiling brightly. Thomas shook his head, a rueful smile painting his face. To have the emotional resilience of a kid again. "Oh, yeah," she turned back, "I'll come back and let you know if I find her, too!"

"Ok, thanks, Hailey. I hope you find her soon!" Thomas waved and closed the door. "Hi, Neek, sorry. That was the kid a couple doors down."

Nico laughed gently, "So I heard ... You were so sweet with her." Thomas blushed.

“Hey, you’re no slouch in the charming department, yourself there Mister." Thomas heard Nico chuckle over the line. “Hailey's the same little girl whose mom you helped out last time you came by.”

“Oh, right ... Nice family.” Thomas shook his head in quiet amazement. Nico was so effortlessly friendly and helpful. The last time Nico had come over, just as he’d parked, he noticed Thomas’ neighbor struggling to unload some packages from Sam's Club. Nico had leapt right in, carrying boxes and chatting about the traffic, the neighborhood, his writing. People just gravitated to him. Thomas supposed that was a big part of how they had ended up together, too. Nico was kind and unafraid to help a stranger, easily turning strangers into friends and, well ...

“What’s Hailey’s mom’s name again?,” Thomas asked, feeling a little bad that he couldn’t remember, but confident that Nico would know.

“Kate.” Nico laughed gently, “I’m glad I could help you get to know your neighbors … ,”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, every couple needs a charming one to make friends with the neighbors.” As soon as the words left his mouth, Virgil’s eyes grew wide at the implication hiding in his flirting and he stared at Thomas. The actor turned around, wincing. Virgil just shook his head, mouthing “Shut up shut up shut up shut up shut up shut up shut up,”, then he raised his hoodie, pulling the strings down to completely hide his face. Roman rubbed his back and whispered in his ear.

“It might not be that bad, let’s see what he says …”

“And every couple needs a hopelessly hot one, so I guess we’ve got that all worked out, don’t we, Tommy?,” Nico murmured back. Thomas’ blush was iridescent.

"You know you're the only one who's allowed to call me that, right?," Thomas turned to face the Sides again, grinning, not noticing how Roman quickly stepped away from Virgil, lowering his hand.

Nico laughed, "Darn right, I know I'm the only one!" Thomas pressed the phone against his ear, again soaking in the sweet sound of his boyfriend's laughter. "Listen, I need to go. Can I call you later?"

"Sure, Neek. Talk to you later, bye." Thomas stared at the screen for a moment before pocketing his phone and turning to the Sides watching him. He shrugged, "Nico's got a deadline." He sighed and started to help Roman clean up. "I don't love it, but I get it."

Virgil fiddled with the strings on his hoodie, pressing his lips together. They hadn't been dating for that long, but they knew each other well enough to know that Nico wasn't the type to procrastinate or to forget a due date. He wouldn't have agreed on a date night when he on deadline, either. Virgil didn't want to say anything, he really didn't, but he was sure there was something else going on. He pulled his hood back up and shoved his hands in his pockets. That, Thomas noticed.

"Virge, what's going on, Bud?" Roman looked up at Thomas' words. Virgil just shook his head. As Roman and Thomas both moved closer to the Anxious Side, the doorbell rang again.

"Oh, maybe that's Hailey with her cat. Hopefully somebody's having some luck tonight." Thomas sighed again.

"We'll make ourselves scarce, Thomas, but maybe not leave altogether?" Roman tilted his head toward Virgil. If Virgil went back to the Mindscape in this state, he would likely just send Thomas into a panic attack. It would be better to stay close but out of sight until the feeling passed.

Thomas nodded and approached the door again. "Hey, Hailey, did you find Minty?," he called, opening the door without looking and craning his neck, checking that Virgil and Roman couldn't be seen from where they sat on the stairs. When she didn't respond, Thomas frowned, "No luck?" He finally turned toward the now-open door, and his jaw dropped as he faced Nico standing on his doorstep, a huge, beautiful potted orchid in his hands.

Nico grinned, leaning in to kiss a shocked Thomas. "I wouldn't say that, Tommy. I'd say it's pretty lucky our little ploy to surprise you actually worked." Thomas looked over Nico's shoulder to see Hailey and her mom, grinning and waving. Thomas waved at both of them, feeling a flush growing on his face. "Not bad acting for a ten-year-old, huh?," he laughed, pulling Thomas closer for another hello kiss.

@tsshipmonth2020 @psychedelicships

#mayflowersevent #day 28: orchid for elegance #sanders sides fanfic #ts roman #ts virgil #ts c!thomas #ts nico #blooming platonic ? prinxiety #nicomas #pintroverts #put spaghetti in it #perennials #overture #❤️🧡💛💚💙💙💜💗

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jillraggett · 3 years ago

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Plant of the Day

Tuesday 28 December 2021

This elegant and smaller-growing species orchid Cymbidium erythraeum (Indian orchid, red-spotted lip Cymbidium) is found in Assam India, eastern Himalayas, Nepal, Bhutan, western Himalayas, Myanmar, China and Vietnam. It grows on steep banks in open mossy evergreen forests at elevations of 1000 to 2400 meters.

Jill Raggett

#cymbidium #orchid #Indianorchid #red-spottedlipCymbidium #warmglasshouse #glasshouse #plants #containerdisplay #container #writtledesign #horticulture #cambridgebotanicgarden #cambridge #botanic #botanicgarden

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knitcrate · 5 years ago

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February 2020 Full Reveal

Any fairy tale can come true with the right yarn!!

We’re drifting off with this month’s theme, Once upon a yarn—a candy-coated world where deadlines don’t exist and there’s always more time to cast on for something new.

This year, each of our crates has been made in collaboration with some of your favorite Knit and Crochet influencers!

For February we partnered up with one of our favorite influencers, Glenda, of Creative Grandma.

Glenda launched Creative grandma in 2018 with her daughter. The brand’s goal has always been to connect members of the crochet community through endless inspiration, ideas, and the love of making. The designs and projects that Glenda has created as a professional crochet designer for over 40 years have been long loved by both beginners and experienced crocheters alike.

When planning this month’s Membership offerings, Glenda asked us for something special—something with speckles and a little shine. Together we created some dreamy crates for you all to enjoy, click the video below to watch the full reveal or scroll to check out what’s coming to your stash this month!

youtube

KnitCrate Membership Crates:

Audine Wools Shine Sport

This new base is a Sport weight with 80% Superwash Merino, 20% Tencel (350 yd / 320 m, 100 g), $26 USD each. You’ll receive two of the same color in your crate. (pictured from left to right)

Chill Out: Sky

Airy and light, this colorway features cobalt, purple, and sky blue on a natural cream background.

All Natural: Sprout

Like seedlings through snow, this yarn features sage, khaki and brown on a snowy cream base.

Energize Me: Flirt

We’re in love with this cream-based yarn with speckles in orchid, pink and orange.

Patterns:

The Knitting pattern is the Sand Dunes Hat & Handwarmers by Pipa Yarns & Knits. It is pictured here in our All Natural color vibe Sprout. The stretchy texture is created using a cable needle, but there are no stitches crossed. Thanks to the stretchiness of the pattern, the hat and hand warmers will fit a wide range of sizes.

The crochet pattern for this month is the Nora Toque & Fingerless Gloves by Carolyn Carleton. She wanted to create a pattern that would add dimension by including a beautifully textured piece. The alpine stitch is fun and, combined with the linen stitch, accent each other very well. Here we have it in our Chill Out color vibe, Sky.

We also have a very special bonus pattern this month designed by Glenda of Creative Grandma. She loved this yarn so much she created a beautiful crochet scarf in our Energize Me color vibe Flirt. The Dreamscape scarf is an excellent scarf with simple elegance for both men and women. This design uses beautifully textured stitches for a unique style. And don’t get us started on that fun fringe!

Sock Membership Crates:

Audine Wools’ Luxury Sock

With 75% Superwash Merino, 15% Nylon, 10% Cashmere, (400 yd / 365 m, 100 g), this base makes a comeback in one of our softest Sock Crates this year, $28 USD each. You’ll receive a single color of one of these beautifully dyed skeins in your crate. (From left to right)

Chill Out: Dew

The softest, whispering green, a promise of winter thaw.

All Natural: Peat

An earthy brown that reminds us that spring is ahead!

Energize Me: Peony

A bright, rosy pink, like cheeks in chilly weather.

Patterns:

The Knit pattern for this month was created by Vanessa Ewing with the Cloudchaser Socks shown here in Peat, our All Natural color vibe. Fluffy clouds of lace puff in-between structured arches of twisted stitches. A billowy textural assortment of delightful stitches will keep your toes cozy into the spring!

For the Crochet pattern, we have the Melon Sorbet Socks by Liz Salazar. They are shown here in the Chill Out color vibe, Dew. The perfect combination of puff and post stitches are intermingled with sturdy single crochet to create these soft and fluffy socks that are both beautiful and functional.

Malabrigo Partner Crate:

Who can resist the buttery softness of Malabrigo’s original yarn, Merino Worsted? This 100% Merino Wool comes from South America ready to be made into the most decadent accessories. With 210 yds / 192 m per 100 g skein, we’ve stuffed three into your crate so you‘ll have hours of Malabrigo enjoyment ahead. This month’s colorway is dreamy and soft, inspired by our mood board, and is called Rosalinda.

Patterns:

First up we have the Chimera Scarf by our very own Joanna Rankin! Is it a scarfed hat, or a behatted scarf? Any way you look at it, this combo is soft, warm, and dreamily cozy—perfect for the coldest of days that winter might throw your way.

For the Crochet pattern, we have the Perihelion Shawl by Karen Whooly Designs. This shawl is a one-weekend project! Using worsted weight yarn and a simple-to-learn pattern repeat, this shawl will be a go-to pattern for gifts and yourself. Pair it with jeans for a day of shopping or glam it up to keep those shoulders warm on a chilly night on the town. You will want to make this one over and over again!

This month is extra special and features an extra bonus crochet pattern with the Butterfly Shell Infinity Scarf by Claire Golden. This infinity scarf is long enough to wrap twice around your neck, and wide enough to keep you cozy in the cold. The stitch pattern features a column of eyelets and a column of shells with a shell edging that completes it. The sections of the double crochet allow the color of the yarn to shine.

Starting this month, we will be keeping all of our extras a surprise! The surprise element of our crates was always our favorite part. Now that we show a sneak peek of the color vibes to give you the opportunity to choose your favorite, we lost that fun for a bit but wanted to bring a part of it back! Once you receive your crate, you’ll be able to enjoy your extra and you can see what others received on our Social Media outlets once the crates start to ship before the middle of the month.

Let’s chat in the comments! Let us know which crate you’ll be receiving and which project you’re most excited to start up. We hope you love our crates this month as much as we do! <3

#knitcrate #knitcrate membership #knitcratesocks #KnitCrateFebruary2020 #Yarn #malabrigo #malabrigo yarn #audine wools #Fiber #yarn subscription #knitting subscription #crochet subscription #Knit #crochet #knitting #crocheting #socks

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talesofmuses · 5 years ago

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Tagged by : @protectheweak

Go to this candle site, put in your character’s birthday, and tell their scent and basic description!

~Minerva Primrose~

The Day of the Restless Elegance- Achievement is a given for the children of May 28, but it may come slowly, after they have developed their unique way of being in the world.

Scent Notes: Orchid, Sandalwood, Lemon

This lively, many-sided scent is perfect for the energetic, dynamic souls born on May 28. An underlying warm and woodsy sandalwood sets the stage for a middle note of water orchid, and a top notes emerge of lemon and sun-soaked amber.

~Lumina~

The Day of The Inventive Chronicler- The children of December 14 can make intimidating colleagues and friends, but on the whole they inspire others to step forward with them.

Scent Notes: Rose, Neroli, Water Lily

An enlivening scent, with a floral base of rose + narcissus that gives way to a stirring blend of neroli, tea tree, and water lily. Perfect for the energetic, ambitious, freedom-loving optimists born on December 14.

~Luke Durkhankes~

The Day of Tenacious Progressive - March 31 people are calm and steady individuals who keep firm control over their professionals and personal environments.

Scent Notes: Mint, Geranium, Cedarwood

A thrilling scent to stir the spirits of the energetic, passionate, and dynamic souls born on March 31. Bottom notes of cedarwood, myrrh, and rosemary give way to a crisp middle note of mint and a top note of geranium flower.

~Dei~

The Day of Innate Appeal - The children of May 13 carry themselves with naturalness and composure, often prosperous and distinguished without having to work on it.

Scent Notes: Cedar, Sandalwood, Eucalyptus

An earthy, woods-inspired fragrance for the tenacious, perseverant, and tactile souls born on May 13. A bottom floor of sandalwood and musk, middle notes of cedar and eucalyptus, and top notes of beach lily and lime round out this captivating blend.

~Kohaku Otomugi~

The Day of The Fine Scrutinizer - The children of August 24 leave no stone unturned in their hunt for the truth.

Scent Notes: Sage, Jasmine, Palo Santo

A truly special, ethereal scent with mystical bottom notes of smoked clove and washed oud, middle notes of jasmine, palo santo, and lavender, and a top note of sage. This fragrance will transport the practical, industrious, perfectionist souls born on August 24 to a mystical place.

~Madeline Sullivan~

The Day of Intelligent Heart - The children of July 16 are brilliant and reliable.

Scent Notes: Rose, Chamomile, Ylang Ylang

An enchanting fragrance — a foundation of ylang ylang and magnolia creating a base, with a middle note of white rose, and chamomile + lemon scent wafting from the top. A calming, spirit-building scent for the receptive, sensitive, imaginative souls born on July 16.

#[ most of them are accurate haha ]#muses

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broadlane24-blog · 5 years ago

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What is Large Artificial Tree and What are The Best Indoor Planting Trees?

If you have ever visited any sprout or art store, you may have seen some large trees are there for decorating; yes they are large artificial trees. They are generally handmade and used for painting, but it will be expensive to buy a large artificial tree for your home.

Living in apartments with no greenery can hurt our state of mind. Indoor plants are recognized to bring several psychological, scientific, social, and ecological advantages to them. Studies have shown that when humans are in contact with plants, they feel less stressed and are more productive. Additionally, plants bring with them many health benefits as they absorb and diffract background noises, reduce the indoor pollutants, and keep the air temperature down. If you are looking for indoor flowering trees, here are the best indoor flowering plants.

Peace Lily Plant

Peace Lily is a trendy indoor plant. They glare gorgeous with their hooded flowers – which is also the explanation they are recognized as the cobra plant. These indoor plants require little to no sunlight. They grow well in shades and require minimal watering. The NASA Clean Air Study also found that they clean the indoor air of specific environmental contaminants, including benzene and formaldehyde.

Anthurium Plant

Anthurium is a different glancing indoor plant that blooms all year round. They are also recognized as the flamingo flower or tail flower. Anthurium is organized to grow well in climates of about 25-28 degrees Celsius. The plant needs indirect sunlight and moderate but regular watering. Anthurium is a bowl plant that has an air-purifying impact. They help withstand formaldehyde, ammonia, and volatile organic gases. If you keep several anthuriums in a room, it can reduce the harmful gases (VOCs) in buildings by more than 50% in 24 hours.

Lavender Plant

A flowering plant, an insect repellent, and a gorgeous scent – this indoor blooming plant gives you all. Lavenders are decently kept in a position with plenties of sunshine – like near windows confronting the sun. It does require a lot of watering in summers, but one needs to be careful not to waterlog the lavender plant. Lavender petals are dried and sealed in pouches for a pleasant scent, and sometimes put inside clothes to prevent moths. They can also be used in cake decorating, flavoring baked goods and chocolate desserts, and or make very delicious “lavender sugar”. These flowers are also used in making a tea that helps you relax before bedtime. They also have proven to be helpful when applied to an insect bite.

Jasmine Plant

Jasmine is a prominent indoor blooming plant and can make your house look elegant. It is a fragrant flower that grows pretty white and rosy petals. They need high humidity, filtered sunlight and minimal water, therefore planting them in the washroom is an ideal choice. They can grow as tall as 6 ft. and the soil should be well-moist. When blooming, they look gorgeous and provide a soothing scent. These flowers are used as hair jewels and also in rituals like marriages, religious ceremonies and festivals.

Geranium Pelargonium Plant

Potted geraniums (Pelargonium species) are beautiful indoor plants. Their lobed formed smooth bouquets are mainly developed for sweet scents. They accumulate in blushes throughout the year and require regular sunshine. Water levels should be good enough to make them sustain, but not too much. Geranium is widely employed as a flavoring agent in many major food categories, alcoholic and soft drinks. Traditionally Geranium is used to staunch bleeding, healing of wounds, ulcers and skin disorders and also in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, and colic. The oil has antibacterial and insecticidal properties and is profusely used in Aromatherapy.

Rhododendron simsii Plant

hey require high humidity to grow. The colors of the flowers are white, magenta or any pink shade and sometimes they are attractively bicolored. Protect these plants in a frigid area, willingly ~20° C. The flowers last longer if they are kept cool. Apart from making your home look beautiful, it also helps protect against formaldehyde released from plywood and foam insulation.

African Violet Plant

These are lovely violet flowers and also available as rosy and white bouquets. They can grow quite quickly in hot and humid climatic conditions and are well adapted to the indoor culture. They need indirect, filtered sunlight and moist soil. The plants are small and easy to care for. They thrive exceptionally well in the unnatural lamp, so they are perfect for those who do not have access to direct sunlight. African violet (Saintpaulia) is one of those rare indoor plants that will flower continuously all year long and add color and cheer to your homes. Their purple color is a health benefit in itself. Gazing at the plant can help stimulate adrenaline release and can increase the flow of oxygen to the brain, which can help you to relax.

Hibiscus Plant

The hibiscus is generally recognized in Asia as the shoe flower because it is utilized to polish shoes. Some other phrases of this flower are red, rose mallow, and China rose. Because of their ability to remain evergreen for most of the year, the Hibiscus plants thrive in warm, tropical climates where there is plenty of sunshine and high levels of humidity created by tropical rains. They require a few hours of day-to-day sunlight susceptibility. Flowers of the hibiscus plant are big and impressive and ideal as an indoor houseplant. According to Ayurveda, hibiscus tea brings relief from high blood pressure and cholesterol. It also assists in the digestive system, immune system, and inflammatory problems. It helps cure liver disease, reduces the risk of cancer, speeds up the metabolism and helps in healthy, gradual weight loss.

Phalaenopsis Orchid Plant

Phalaenopsis are among the most popular orchids. They are easy to grow as houseplants.

This plant can often flower, sometimes with a few flowers throughout the year. In Kerala, the season begins with the monsoon and lasts till December. They need indirect sunlight and high humidity. They can adjust themselves to the average home environment that we live in. They thrive when they get more than 50% humidity — orchids assistance to develop medicines that assist in relief and to get a restful night’s sleep. Cleaned orchids are believed to help accumulate the resistant system, which makes the body resistant to infection. They could also help improve libido and fight fatigue. Sometimes, they are used as alternative treatments for cancer. They are even thought to benefit the vision. They can also be consumed in the form of teas. Certain orchid species are used for making an herbal tea that helps treat insomnia and improve blood pressure levels naturally.

About Author

All driftwood furniture, driftwood coffee table and driftwood dining table art is a natural wonder! Welcome to our nautical furniture gallery. A driftwood mirror brings seaside nostalgia into the home. A driftwood lamp conveys seaside fantasy and a driftwood sculpture is a phenomenon in itself in driftwood design. Visit our driftwood sculpture gallery art.

It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making it look like readable English. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors now use Lorem Ipsum as their default model text, and a search for ‘lorem ipsum’ will uncover many web sites still in their infancy. Various versions have evolved over the years, sometimes by accident, sometimes on purpose (injected humour and the like).

#large artificial tree

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tipsycad147 · 5 years ago

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A Witches Beauty Altar

Ah, the bewitching power of makeup.

As little girls, we remember the feeling of watching our mothers apply their makeup up at their vanities, covered with various lotions and potions to enhance their natural beauty.

The image of a woman at her vanity evokes a very powerful sense of elegance, beauty and sensuality. I conjure up visions of Jean Harlow in her silk robe or Dita Von Teese applying her signature red lipstick.

Most women apply their cosmetics in very a ritualistic manner without even realising it. Makeup brushes transform into wands and the vanity becomes an Altar of Beauty where we gaze at our reflection with the intention of transformation, self-confidence and of course- self love.

The energy built at this Altar of Beauty sets the tone for the entire day. We’re able connect with our Divine Femininity, creating shimmery pink energy swirls, spinning and twirling around us as we delicately prim & polish.

Ancient Egyptians understood the alchemy of makeup. Black kohl and other cosmetic minerals were used around the eyes to not only protect themselves from the sun’s glare, eye diseases and insects- but to also ward off evil spirits.

Prehistoric cosmetic palettes, not that far off from those you’d see in Sephora, date as far back as 5000 BC. Hathor, the golden Goddess of Beauty, ruled the world of cosmetics- an art Ancient Egyptians regarded as a sign of holiness.

My Beauty Altar is set up every morning in front of my bedroom window complete with my trusty Rose Quartz, a tealight which sits inside my pink Himalayan salt candle holder and seashells to represent Aphrodite, whom reminds us that every woman is beautiful and worthy of self-love.

I also have an Aphrodite Altar on a large bookshelf in the Feng Shui Relationship Corner of my bedroom, adorned with her various images, rose petals, pink candles, and turtle doves to represent faithful love.

We are in the second week of my 28 Days of Love project and I’m proud to report a deeper appreciation for all the love in my life. It’s helped me keep my head up through some shadow work, which has become quite dark.

I haven’t had to deal with my negative body image issues for years, because well- for years my body was super thin due to anxiety-related gastrointestinal issues. Now that I’m healthy again, I’ve gained weight in areas I’m not used to.

I’m by no means over-weight but I’ve come to feel incredibly uncomfortable in my own skin. So with my Aphrodite Meditations and Rose Quartz Healing, I’m hoping to change that mindset & appreciate my more womanly hips and thighs, repeating Maya Angelou’s Phenomenal Woman over and over in my head.

Are you participating in 28 Days of Love? If so, what have you been doing to love yourself more? Have you discovered something new about yourself or had to face any shadows along the way?

Leave a reply and let me know!

Blessed Be, lovelies!

xoxo

The Snow Orchid Witch

https://snoworchidmagick.com/tag/28-days-of-self-love/

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trilliumfloristcanada-blog · 5 years ago

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How to Celebrate Parents Day with Best Flower Shops Toronto

A family is a fundamental unit of society, with parents and children being pillars of the same. From the time a child is born, parents are ideal to him/her. Parents are the first school of the child and have a direct as well as an indirect influence on the child’s growth and development.

Parents do a lot for their children and at least we can do a Flowers Delivery Whitby hence Canada take upon the responsibility of dedicating a day to honor them by The Best Flower Shops Toronto. 28 July is they especially for Parents, who sacrifice many things at every point for their Child.

You got a chance to make there and all parents feel special for a movement. That's why this day shouldn’t be restricted to just one day but should be celebrated every day. The way our parents make us feel when we were young, it is also our duty to make them feel special in whichever way we can because we know we can never pay that love.

There are many ways to celebrate Parents Day and make your parents feel special. But the best way is to surprise them and spend some family quality time by flower arrangement by the Best Florist in Toronto. Activities that you can take up to shower some love to your parents.

Bon Vivant Gourmet Basket

Life really can be a picnic for whoever is lucky enough to receive this tasteful basket. Overflowing with deliciousness, it's perfect for a party or a delightful day at the park!

Red and green apples, bananas, pears, oranges, a pineapple, green grapes, pretzels, cheeses and crackers, gourmet chocolates and cookies and Earl Grey tea. This feast comes delivered in a handled wicker basket complete with red organza ribbon. Bon appétit! Click Here To Buy

Violets And Butterflies

Velvety violets, beautiful butterflies, a radiant ribbon and a basketful of delight. This gift delivers so much and it's perfect for so many occasions. Think birthdays, baby showers, showering someone with love. When it comes to this basket, it's all good!

Two pretty African violet plants are nestled into a ribbon-wrapped handled basket. Lovely purple butterflies top off this wonderful gift. Click Here To Buy

Cotton Candy

What a sweet way to celebrate the arrival of sugar and spice and everything nice! This pretty arrangement will delight any new mom or mom-to-be, that's for sure! Feminine flowers fill a charming ribbon-wrapped vase. It's a beautiful thing!

Pretty pink roses, spray roses and miniature carnations, white button spray chrysanthemums, lavender limonium and green pittosporum fill a spring glass vase that's wrapped with a pink satin ribbon. It's confection perfection! Click Here To Buy

Zensational

When this tall, green and handsome arrangement arrives at someone's home or office, it is destined to create a Zensation! It's so dramatic, so different, and so delightful.

Gorgeous green cymbium orchids and ti leaves stand tall in a striking 19" glass cylinder vase. Click Here To Buy

These flowers keep your family in a close connected bond. A family cannot function without parents, which states the importance of having parents in one’s life. Parents work hard to hold the family together and also shapes up their child’s life in amazing ways, which is why the efforts of parents must be appreciated not just one day in a year but every day for the rest of our lives. Let us take some time out and honour our parents with handpicked flowers by The Best Florist in Toronto from this day onwards and continue this tradition for the rest of our lives.

Contact - Trillium Florist, Inc

Ordering Flowers Online; we are an exquisite online destination for purchasing exotic and ageless floral bouquets that will express your heartfelt emotions in an elegant manner.

Address: 1794 Liverpool Road,

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[email protected]

#Best florist in toronto #Best Flower shops toronto #parents day #gift ideas #Flowers Delivery Whitby

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toldnews-blog · 6 years ago

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New Post has been published on https://toldnews.com/travel/chasing-rembrandts-tulips-on-two-wheels/

Chasing Rembrandt’s Tulips on Two Wheels

While primarily a painter of people, the Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn immortalized at least one tulip. In 1634 he painted his wife, Saskia van Uylenburgh, as Flora, goddess of spring and flowers, crowned with a wreath of blooms, of which the largest is a tulip. Its petals are unmistakably striped, with white and red running in flame-like lines. Flowers like it became known as Rembrandt tulips, named by bulb traders in homage to his chiaroscuro painting style and to tap cachet from a famous name.

Saskia in her finery crowned with the most expensive type of tulip is in the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. But tulipmania, which lifted the Dutch economy to dizzying heights followed by a cataclysmic crash, began in the Hortus botanicus, the botanical garden in Leiden, the city of Rembrandt’s birth. Tulips first arrived in the Netherlands in 1562. Mistaken for a Turkish onion, they were tasted, found underwhelming and dumped as rubbish, then rescued by someone who spotted flowers emerging from the rubbish heap in spring.

Today, flying into Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport in spring, you see a quilt of colors spread across the land; bulb fields in bloom. While the glimpse from a plane is fleeting, taking time to cycle around the fields provides a better view and immersion in the scent of millions of flowers. Leiden, which is marking the 350th anniversary of Rembrandt’s death, remains the center of this world of blooms. Both literally — because of the nearby flower fields — and intellectually, as a consortium of horticulturalists and scientists based in Leiden’s Bioscience Park decoded the tulip genome and are applying understanding its DNA to innovation in tulip breeding and production.

Leiden is a city that showcases its past. This year the Lakenhal Museum is bringing together an exhibition of Rembrandt’s early works, painted in Leiden. Leiden has the second biggest old town center in the Netherlands, where 17th-century merchant houses line the canals. Huys van Leyden is a 400-year-old house converted into a hotel. Its rooms are cozily opulent, and at the back, a small courtyard garden offers a secluded spot for fresh air. It is an ideal pit stop before heading off on a pedal-powered journey.

I rented a bicycle for €10 per day (about $11.30) from EasyFiets, a rental agency that offers the convenience of online advance booking. It is only a 15 minute walk from Leiden Centraal station. I asked for a bicycle with handbrakes instead of a back brake. I find the slow motion halt caused by the gap between wanting to brake and remembering the back brake induces more adrenaline than I need on a bike ride. EasyFiets also provided cycling maps for the bulb fields and panniers on request. My carry on luggage was easy to stuff into bicycle panniers.

Dutch bicycles are sturdy beasts, which take more effort to move than sylphlike road-bikes. When I mentioned that to my Dutch friend Hugo, he laughed and said, “Bicycles have to be heavy to resist falling over in wind.” Leiden has more bicycles than places to chain them, so they are often left propped on their foot stands exposed to winds rushing inland from the North Sea.

In a living ode to tulips and other spring flowering bulbs the Keukenhof garden, on the grounds of Keukenhof castle, which was built in 1641 by Adriaen Maertensz Block, an administrator for the Dutch East India Company, grows 7 million a year. Not just a show of new bulb varieties supplied by Dutch floriculturalists, the annual exhibition is an institution that shares innovation like ‘lasagna technique’ — planting bulbs in layers above each other to fit more flowers in the same space. Almost 1.5 million people visited the Keukenhof in 2018. It is certainly the place to start a spring flower odyssey.

Cycling northwest out of Leiden to Rijnsburg then northeast past Noordwijkerhout, then east to the Keukenhof was a scenic but indirect route. My time along the route’s flat paths and small roads was not determined by its distance. Rather, this journey’s length was dictated by how often I stopped to look at fields of flowers.

With a ticket booked in advance I didn’t need to queue to get into the Keukenhof. Despite visitors being deposited by coach loads, it is a garden with space for all who arrive. Although getting there when it opens at 8 a.m. will give you a moment of relatively unpopulated vistas of flowers. Blossoms, lawns and other bulbs are a foil to tulips. They are woven into streams of color under trees and fill flower beds in contrasting and complementary colors — there is space for all combinations to be tried.

It is gardening on a distorted scale where size is immense but time is short — the Keukenhof is only open for two flower-packed months from the 21st of March until the 19th of May.

Fields of beautiful industry

In contrast to arrays of flowers selected for visual appeal in the Keukenhof, bulb fields are industry that is incidentally beautiful. Catching fields of tulips in peak bloom is not an exact science; it tends to be the last two weeks of April. As bulbs are the desired product, flowers are not left in the field for long; they are cut to prevent energy being directed into seed setting.

For my ride to dinner I took a meandering route along flowery fields going from the Keukenhof to Kaag Lakes at the western edge of the ‘Bollenstreek,’ the bulb zone. I started out by trying to follow the Dutch system of navigating cycling paths by ��knooppunten’ — numbered intersections or nodes. In theory, my route went 40-49-29-91-30-38-57-55-54-25, but in practice it included a couple of diversions down side roads next to flowery fields, through Lisse.

Rembrandt tulips did not feature in art or in dried botanical specimens before the end of the 16th century. In cultivation in Europe a virus had evolved. It suppresses primary pigment made in petals, leaving areas where the white or yellow underlying color shows. It also weakens the plants and is highly infectious.

In 1624 one tulip bulb sold for 8 times a worker’s annual salary. Prices spiraled upward for more than a decade as people speculated on flowers that might emerge from tulip bulbs. Akin to having a phoenix hatch from a chicken egg, a Rembrandt tulip, with its streaked petals, was an ephemeral capricious beauty; they were short lived and people were not sure what caused them to be different from standard blooms.

Today, virus-tainted tulips are never deliberately planted in bulb fields because they are considered a liability. Striped petals in tulips sold today have stripes caused by genetic variation, not by tulip breaking virus.

Cycling small roads that run alongside bulb-filled fields makes it easy to stop on a whim for a closer look. I never spotted a rogue virus-caused Rembrandt tulip in a bulb field, though very rarely they are sighted and promptly removed so that they don’t damage the bulb crop with their infection. In gaps showing between leaves the soil is pale, it flows through your fingers like sand. These fields are only a step away from the sea. Occasionally you can see tiny shells left in the soil from a previous era when it lay underwater. This soil is a connection between the original wild tulips of Central Asia and the immense agricultural production of bulbs in the Netherlands. Free-draining soil suits plants with fleshy bulbs like tulips as they can store water and nutrients to survive seasons of relative drought, but fail to thrive in sodden ground.

At Kaag lakes I took a ferry 40 meters from Buitenkaag to Kagereiland, an island, landing me and my bicycle nearly on the doorstep of Tante Kee restaurant. As the restaurant was not full on a weekday evening I scored a lake view seat without having made a booking. Early evening sunset spilling over my table made a serving of mussels, langoustines and vegetables scaled by pea tendrils look like a still life by a Dutch Master. A sheet of annotated paper between cheese and platter made the cheese course resemble a whisky tasting.

Since the 12th century people have been draining submerged land and converting it to agriculture in the Netherlands. Windmills were used to pump water into drainage channels to reach rivers and the sea. Now pumps are run by diesel, not wind, but the polder landscape of small rectangles of land surrounded by drainage channels remains. I took the ferry off the island back to Buitenkaag. Cycling to Leiderdorp, a village at the edge of Leiden, I skirted Kaag lakes by heading east then south then west through the polders, following nodes 8-9-28-40-86-49-48-38-41. Hares dotted the grass. Later I found a postcard of a hare leaping across a drainage channel and sent it to my niece. At the Lindenhof bed-and-breakfast, on the outskirts of Leiderdorp, one bedroom has a skylight under a tree. When you open the window and reach out to touch the leaves it is like being perched in a treetop.

The science of tulips

Carolus Clusius, a physician and botanist who was a professor of botany at University of Leiden, established Leiden’s Hortus botanicus, its famous botanical garden, and it is where he planted and propagated his collection of tulips from Constantinople. Clusius first wrote about tulips in his book on “most strange and elegant plants from Thrace.”

As you walk into the Hortus botanicus a tabby cat is often sprawled in a pot basking in the sun. I frequently visit this garden. Like Clusius I am a botanist, but I focus on trade in plants collected from the wild. My research on edible orchids is based in the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, an institution that holds natural history collections, runs research laboratories and education programs, and has a natural-history museum that is reopening this year in its new building.

Some of my experimental samples of orchids are grown at the Hortus. Not in the tropical lushness of the main glasshouse, but outdoors in unheated frames. When flowering they join bulbs in the specially constructed display glasshouse. Its glass walls and roof allow in plenty of light while keeping out dampness from mists and rain, creating a climate more akin to tulips’ and orchids’ native lands. It also makes it more difficult for people to steal them. Clusius planted his tulips in 1593, in 1596 and 1598 some of them were taken. Those stolen bulbs were the beginning of both short-lived tulipmania, and the long-lasting bulb trade that now sees about 2 billion tulip bulbs grown each year in the Netherlands.

We think of tulips as ornamental but within living memory they were famine food. In the Hunger Winter of 1944-1945, more than 20,000 people died of starvation. Rations distributed by the Dutch government had to incorporate unconventional foods. In the Dutch Resistance Museum in Amsterdam there is a recipe for tulip soup and a photo of women with sacks of tulips, peeling them for a soup kitchen.

Leiden is a leafy city, but sometimes I crave a little more wilderness. After checking my plants at the Hortus I headed out to the dunes at the edge of the North Sea. Most of the cyclists I met were on upright bicycles and treated helmets as superfluous on the car-free bicycle paths. But on the pavement through the Klein Berkheide nature reserve, the closest patch of untamed nature near Leiden, a gang of Lycra-clad and helmeted sports cyclists whizzed past making use of hills and valleys in the dunes all the way along the coast from Katwijk an Zee to Den Hague. It is a contrast to most cycling in the area which is flat.

When the sun is shining a picnic between grass-tufted dunes by Katwijk an Zee is a glorious way to catch a sunset and watch paragliders. De Fransoos in Leiden is good for picking up sandwiches and cheese. On overcast days when the idea of sitting in the winds with cold food seems chilly, you can stop at Kees Hartevelt on the boulevard at Katwijk an Zee for fried fish.

As flowers cultivated in the bulb fields start to pass peak flowering, wildflowers in the dunes begin to bloom in abundance. Sprawling rugosa roses, from Japan, have moved in and create heaps of bold pink flowers by the path. Viper’s-bugloss punctuates them with blue spikes.

This area was the only place I was stopped by a bicycle traffic jam. Rounding a corner I felt annoyed to see the path blocked by people and cyclists, until I saw what they were looking at. Sitting by a bench next to an old man offering morsels of his sandwich was a fox. After a few minutes of sharing the man’s snack, the fox strolled away, quickly blending into the dunes.

One night after a late dinner with friends in Leiden I reached the Fletcher Boutique Hotel Duinoord at the edge of Klein Berkheide just after the front door was locked. Opening the door and greeting me by name, the receptionist gave me an envelope he was about to stick on the door before he went home. It had my name on it and room key inside. The hotel is cradled within the dunes, and once hotel restaurant and bar are shut, there is nothing but the sound of nature. In springtime when tulips are at peak flowering, nights here are dominated by chattering natterjack toads. A densely populated and extensively farmed land is transformed into the aural equivalent of a remote rain forest by singing amphibians.

Susanne Masters is a botanist who writes about plants as well as conducting research on their uses and conservation.

Follow NY Times Travel on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Get weekly updates from our Travel Dispatch newsletter, with tips on traveling smarter, destination coverage and photos from all over the world.

#m1 travel news southbound #radio 2 travel news today #the news travel fast #travel news a 74 #travel news a6 #travel news bradford #travel news europe #travel news m4/5 #travel news on m6 #travel news yorkshire and humberside

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wendyimmiller · 5 years ago

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Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind

I visited the beautiful 15-acre Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, Florida, last month. The Living Museum was tricked out like an Easter egg hunt. There were eggs, for sure, and other oft-repeated motifs from Salvador Dali’s paintings. The conservatory and gardens were overrun with eggs, lips, eyes, pianos, butterflies and mustaches. Orchids, bromeliads, tropical pitcher plants, cacti and strangler figs were backdrop features of this quirky mash-up. The planting schemes were well designed, the maintenance superb.

Mustachioed air plant. Tillandsia x ‘Wonga’ Photo by Charles Murray.

I’d barely walked 25 feet into the conservatory before I wondered: Who’s taking care of this magnificence? I asked a friendly docent. She gave glowing credit to Mike McLaughlin and Angel Lara for the skillful upkeep. McLaughlin and Lara are, respectively, director of horticulture and greenhouse manager. I emailed McLaughlin last week and he responded: “The Dalí exhibit is pretty unusual, eh? Angel and I are deeply involved in developing our exhibits and maintaining our collections. Of course, managing all of this is a team sport, overlapping several departments here and involving many volunteers. For this exhibit, we worked with Dr. Carol Ockman. I always shy away from attributing our success to specific individuals, because the honest truth is that it takes the hard work, dedication, and creativity of a ‘village’ to maintain Selby Gardens!”

I found the right village.

Lys (Lilium musicum) (Lily) Floridali (Flor Dalinae)Salvador Dali 1968. Photo Lithography with drypoint etching Collection of The Dalí Museum, St Petersburg, FL (USA) 2019; © Salvador Dalí, Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí, (ARS), 2019.

The Dalí-inspired piano planter and koi pond.

Dr. Carol Ockman, curator of Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind, and Robert Sterling Professor of Art History Emerita at Williams College, wrote the foreword for the botanical garden’s show pamphlet. She described Dali’s mind as a “geological landscape which psychology and Surrealism could excavate.”

I excavated a 45-year old surreal memory.

I stumbled across my first Dalí painting, by chance, in a London hotel room, in the late fall of 1975. The small oil painting, I saw—or believe I saw— was a work-in-progress.

My father, never one for museums, cathedrals, concert halls or gardens, slipped away one afternoon and made an acquaintance with Englishman Brian Mercer in the American Bar in the Savoy Hotel.

Paphiopedilum hybrids and the birds nest, Anthurium hookeri.

The well-dressed Englishman sat at the far end of the bar. He ordered a glass of champagne and a swizzle stick. The champagne was placed on the bar. The Englishman took off his Homburg hat and Chesterfield overcoat. He took the swizzle stick and furiously stirred the champagne. Dad was nursing his first gin and soda at the opposite end of the bar. He asked politely what the fellow was doing with his glass of champagne. The Englishman turned slowly toward Dad and said dryly, “I hate the French. They go to so much trouble to put the bubbles in, and I love to take the bubbles out.”

My father and Brian Mercer spent the rest of the afternoon drinking and laughing.

This led to a close-up encounter with a Dalí painting later that evening.

Neoreglia ‘Ardie’ and Sedum teractinum.

Mercer invited Dad, my mother, my sister Nancy and me to join him and his young wife for a proper, and fancy, English dinner of roast beef and potatoes at Simpson’s-in-the-Strand. We returned to the Mercers’ elegant suite, overlooking the Thames, to close out our hours of drinking. Mindlessly (drunkenly), we tossed a frisbee around the high-ceilinged living room. The yellow disk (or was it one of Dalí ‘s fried eggs, masquerading as a frisbee?) kept bouncing dangerously close to a Dalí portrait-in-progress, sitting on the fireplace mantle. The painting was of Mrs. Mercer.

The retelling of this story seems eerily surreal. Did I really see a portrait-in-progress of Mrs. Mercer? I can find no record of her portrait. However, there is a 1973 Dalí portrait of Brian Mercer.

The elephant, butterfly and the Florida strangler fig (Ficus area).

I am clear-minded now, on good days, but my view of what’s going on—all around me—seems especially sobering on days when I can’t escape into nature, a park or garden.

The pandemic threat, political polarization, digital overload, apathy and global warming are frighteningly real. I can forego gin and tonics, but I struggle, at times, for a pleasant dream.

My two hours at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, absorbing Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind, was a turn-off your-screen breather for soul-enriching escapism. I was able to forget briefly about current-day life.

Give me two hours a day of activity, and I’ll take the other twenty-two in dreams. –Salvador Dalí

Heather Spencer on February 23rd.

My garden adventure with friends Heather Spencer and Charles Murray concluded spectacularly at a showing of Flordalí, 1968, in the garden’s Payne Mansion. The exhibit is described by Dr.Ockman as a “little known series of fanciful color (floral) lithographs from the Dalí Museum in neighboring St Petersburg… the plants in Flordalí are something else.“

Smiling daytrippers, zigzagging around the gardens, provided me with hopeful clues. Everyone—young and the old—appeared to be joyful over Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Minds.

Cracked up. Heather Spencer photo.

At every turn, I heard variations on an animated garden theme: “Wow. Look at this!”

What a wonderful dream and escape from reality.

Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Minds will be open through June 28th.

Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind originally appeared on GardenRant on March 11, 2020.

The post Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind appeared first on GardenRant.

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turfandlawncare · 5 years ago

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Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind

Mustachioed air plant. Tillandsia x ‘Wonga’ Photo by Charles Murray.

I found the right village.

The Dalí-inspired piano planter and koi pond.

I excavated a 45-year old surreal memory.

I stumbled across my first Dalí painting, by chance, in a London hotel room, in the late fall of 1975. The small oil painting, I saw—or believe I saw— was a work-in-progress.

My father, never one for museums, cathedrals, concert halls or gardens, slipped away one afternoon and made an acquaintance with Englishman Brian Mercer in the American Bar in the Savoy Hotel.

Paphiopedilum hybrids and the birds nest, Anthurium hookeri.

My father and Brian Mercer spent the rest of the afternoon drinking and laughing.

This led to a close-up encounter with a Dalí painting later that evening.

Neoreglia ‘Ardie’ and Sedum teractinum.

The elephant, butterfly and the Florida strangler fig (Ficus area).

I am clear-minded now, on good days, but my view of what’s going on—all around me—seems especially sobering on days when I can’t escape into nature, a park or garden.

The pandemic threat, political polarization, digital overload, apathy and global warming are frighteningly real. I can forego gin and tonics, but I struggle, at times, for a pleasant dream.

Give me two hours a day of activity, and I’ll take the other twenty-two in dreams. –Salvador Dalí

Heather Spencer on February 23rd.

Smiling daytrippers, zigzagging around the gardens, provided me with hopeful clues. Everyone—young and the old—appeared to be joyful over Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Minds.

Cracked up. Heather Spencer photo.

At every turn, I heard variations on an animated garden theme: “Wow. Look at this!”

What a wonderful dream and escape from reality.

Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Minds will be open through June 28th.

Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind originally appeared on GardenRant on March 11, 2020.

The post Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind appeared first on GardenRant.

from GardenRant https://ift.tt/2xlXNcv

#GardenRant

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sitewidecoupon-blog · 6 years ago

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For our wardrobe style guide, we look up to our favorite celebrities fashion choices and try to follow them as much as we can. Some stars fascinate us by their make-believe acting skills, some through their enticing charm and few by their exquisite style sense. The perfumes have dominated Hollywood stars wardrobe since the beginning, thus many celebrities were identified with their iconic scents. With exquisite ensembles, sophisticated jewelry and carefully applied makeup it is also essential to put on enticing scent to charm the socks off. It is difficult to choose from the large selection of perfumes as what to choose, thus you can take inspiration from what celebrities are using. If you have ever wondered what perfumes the iconic screen legends preferred than keep on reading and select your favorite one to add in your vanity

Guerlain Shalimar

Jacques Guerlain was the genius behind this exotic, sensual flowery elixir, it is the perfect blend of the aldehyde with notes of bergamot, iris and warm vanilla. Its one whiff will take you to the oriental garden of the iconic Prince Shah Jehan and Princess Mumtaz of India. Its undeniable elegance has solidified as a must have and have been adorned by the famous celebrities throughout their lives, such as Rita Hayworth.

Opium by Yves Saint Laurent

Created as result of an accusation of opium condoning to its creator Yves Saint Laurent, opium was the hot debate when it came out in 1977. The controversies surrounding it and truly unforgettable scent publicized it to bestselling perfume. It was aimed to achieve the whiff of the flower of fire and it undoubtedly did do, the love potion is blended of spices, amber, myrrh, incense and vanilla which made it most loveable perfume by YSL then and also for many years to come. Get Opium by YSL on up to 50% discount coupon from Kohl's. It is famously worn by. It is famously worn by Emily Blunt the popular actress of recent times

Coco Chanel no.5

Chanel is one of the oldest and most famous fashion house that has stood the time of tests, along with most incredible ensembles, beautiful jewelry and stunning shoes they also have a charming potion in their alley. One of the truly unforgettable perfume from their collection is Coco Chanel no.5. Since its formation in 1921, it has a permanent spot on the vanity of billions of people across the world and to this day it is considered as one of the best scents ever made. It is crafted by rare rose “centifolia” which only grows in Grasse France with a blend of aldehyde, jasmine, bourbon, and vanilla. It was the go-to scent of iconic silver screen star Marilyn Monroe and in modern times is favorite of current Hollywood actresses which includes Kate Moss and Nicole Kidman.

Creed by Creed

Creed was created as a wedding gift for screen enigma Grace Kelly and it was particularly created to replicate the scent of bouquet when Grace Kelly had her wedding in 1956. This aromatic elixir is made with roses, bergamot and green tea notes with a spicier note of warm citrus base. Wearing creed is like money dressed up to go out thus has famously sported by royals. In this age, Victoria Beckham's favorite and go-to scent is creed due to its age-less presence.

Joy By Jean Patou

Joy is the bottle of elegance, feminity, and luxury by Jean Patou, this love potion has been crafted by 10000 jasmine flowers and 28 dozen roses and was voted Scent of the Century in 2000. Since 1929, it has captivated hearts of several generations and continue to do so. The sultry perfume has been cherished by countless people which include icons such as Jackie Kennedy, Vivian Leigh, Olivia de Havilland, Mary Pickford and Gloria Swanson from the modern age.

Aequa Di Parma Colonia

This passionate potion was formed in the very heart of Parma, Italy. In 1916, it soon earned the deserving title of “Icon of Italian Elegance”. Its scent is exotic yet sweet which is the combination of soft citrus, lavender, verbena, sandalwood, and patchouli. Wearing this perfume gives the appealing aristocracy feel. This is the scent we will never get tired of. Recently it was worn by the iconic pop singer Miley Cyrus.

J’adore by Dior

A hint of bergamot, roses with base notes of jasmine, Calice Becker created the global best seller for Dior. Since 1999 this intoxicating floral perfume is the staple in the vanity of countless people and will always be the most renowned and cherished perfumes in the world. Keira Knightly starrer of Pirate of the Carribean has been known to love since her childhood and her love for J’adore still has not grown out.

L’interdit by Givenchy

Hubert the Givenchy founder, created the L’interdit Givenchy as a tribute to the most popular actress at the time “Audrey Hepburn”. The magical potion was composed of roses, jasmine, violet, blends of woods and grasses thus L’interdit soon became the memorable aroma which was recognized as Audrey’s scent. Givenchy kept it particularly for Audrey’s collection but on demand of people, it was made open for public in 1960 since then to this day it has not gotten old.

Black Orchid by Time Ford

Tom Ford has conquered the fashion industry with its sleek attires, show-stopping shoes, and high-quality makeup line. Along with these amazing items he also managed to produce this sultry elixir named as Black Orchid. French jasmine, black truffle, ylang-ylang, blackcurrant, citrus, amber, vetiver, vanilla, balsam, incense with woody notes of patchouli, sandalwood and dark chocolate is the truly the magic potion in the bottle. This enticing scent has made its name in the perfume world as a cult favorite and is wore by Gwyneth Paltrow and Glend Gilson.

These perfumes have been the classic favorite of billions of people since their formation and continue to thrive as best sellers in the market. These scents are available at many retail stores and you can also purchase them online. As they have made their names as the legendary scents so they are quite pricey which all cannot afford, especially those who operate on a budget.

However this does not mean that you have turned your cheek away disheartened; many companies have replicated their dupes at much steeper range on which you get your hands on, also you can pick them up in seasonal sales when their prices are further reduced and if not you can always make use of the promotional codes to get amount off your favorite perfumes!

#sitewidecoupon #fragrances #perfumes #discount #deals #scents #seasonal

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getthebutters · 7 years ago

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Low Lights Fragrance Collection

My Low Lights Collection is deep, elegant, strong, & mature. Get all four of my Low Lights and make your mood a little more intimate.

My Low Lights Collection is deep, elegant, strong, & mature. Get all four of my Low Lights and make your mood a little more intimate. Mix and match, layer, or wear individually to make a statement, set the mood, or simply turn heads as you waft by.

4 x 10ml Roller ball

Abiola Olawale No. 28

Abiola Olawale comes from the Yoruba Tribe of Nigeria. It describes a person born of honor and wealth who personifies the values of patience, justice, perseverance, loyalty, strong will and character. They're a leader, a monarch, and a loving spirit.

I captured that essence in top notes of dark creamy Madagascar vanilla, powdery musk, and woody floral. The base notes of warm amber, sweet orange, eucalyptus, and sage, round out the experience offering a sense of warmth, openness, and affection.

Djinn No. 37

Djinn is dark, intriguing, & brimming with more power than its vessel suggests. Traced back to its purest meaning, djinn/jinn means to hide. For me, it suggests something more of a proper separation. A quiet wisdom kept discreet lest for the worthy yet undeniable upon sight or, in this case, smell.

Cornucopia No. 35

Cornucopia is a surprising, warm, & fresh scent. Blended fruit, sugar, pine, and breezy waters suggest peaceful connection. Cornucopia is a fireside cuddle, a quiet, still fall day punctuated with singing winds, the sounds of life, a stroll in an apple orchard, and the dull crunch of dead rain covered leaves. It's a moment of solace in a world gone wild.

Honey Orchid No. 23

Honey Orchid (previously Midnight Head) No. 23 was created by my sweetie. They wanted something sweet, mature, and sensual. No. 23 definitely hits all those notes. It's perfect for night out or a sensual experience. Still, it won't feel out of place in an office environment or for a daily smell. I mean, you'll still leave a trail that will stop those who cross it in their path. But, that's the idea, right?

#gift ideas

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5hit-i-l00k-at · 7 years ago

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2019 Honda HR-V - Review. Changes, Release Date

New Post has been published on https://www.carsreviewupdates.com/2017/07/31/2019-honda-hr-v-review-changes-release-date/

2019 Honda HR-V - Review. Changes, Release Date

2019 Honda HR-V – Review. Changes, Release Date – The HR-V crossover SUV is, in reality, a shining legend making use of the Honda selection. This crossover SUV reveals a similar platform using the next era of Honda In shape. The vehicle carries an excellent design and utilizes the newest technological innovation as well as the characteristics that enhance the comfort of the consumer. The 2019 Honda HR-V comes in a few clip amounts particularly; the LX, EX, and the EX-L.

2019 Honda HR-V Redesign

Within the external surfaces view, the 2019 Honda HR-V design is renewed there are numerous of colours which is often provided with this crossover and for that reason are; Deep Sea Pearl, Alabaster Sterling silver Metal, Crystal Black Pearl, Present day Metallic Metal, White-colored Orchid Pearl, Misty Environmentally friendly Pearl, Mulberry Metal and Milano Red-colored. The SUV features 17-inches alloy rims. With just as much as particular date headlights and barbeque grill, the hood will get a new kind, and the new shape is awaited. Around date, sleek panels increase the elegance across the vehicle.

Inside of the Cabin, a broad selection of colors may be recognized and may include things like; Grey Leather material, Grey Material, Black Leather-based and Black Fabric. A 7-inches contact display is going to be presented, and that can offer you a simple the navigation about the vehicle. Also, a navigation method and infotainment is readily available. This product 2019 Honda HR-V may have Smartphone incorporation capacity that was not accessible in the prior versions together with the exact same. A moon roof structure is accessible for all of the trim amounts and simply by using a single drive of the mouse the moon roof top starts. The seats are warmed up, and leather-packaged and, for that reason, provide modifications for that conditions in agreement around the occupant’s frequency. The rear chairs may possibly be folded to make considerably more spot for freight when necessary. Added remedies combine; satellite FM radio, Bluetooth connectivity also to a telescopic control that improves significantly less complicated manage and managing within the vehicle.

2019 Honda HR-V Specs

Below the hood, the 2019 Honda HR-V trips with a 1.8 Liter 4-cylinders engines that will make a result strength of 140 hp in addition to a torque of 130 lb-ft. The customers come with two variety transmissions; the 1st 1 keeping a 6-speed handbook transmission also because the 2nd option keeping yourself CVT transmission. The CVT transmission kind consists of paddle shifters for a better power delivery. With all of the utilization of most popular technologies, it is expected that engine optimizing will likely be efficient, together with the gas economic crisis will boost when compared with the before designs through the similar. The up-to-date steering and suspension technique may even improve the basic effectiveness inside the SUV. The gas financial approach reviews when running on Front side Wheel Push (FWD) are 28 miles per gallon when with the area and 35 mpg when on communicate freeway, obtaining mentioned that anytime functioning on All Wheel Push (AWD) the gasoline economic technique scores are 27 miles per gallon when within the city and 32 mpg when on highway.

2019 Honda HR-V Release and Price

The 2019 Honda HR-V is predicted to have a price selection of $19,700 -$26,400 and shall be unveiled for your market spot in the end from your calendar year 2019 or early the 12 a few months 2019.

#2018 honda hr-v #2018 honda hr-v changes #2018 honda hr-v ex #2018 honda hr-v ex-l #2018 honda hr-v lx #2018 honda hr-v release date #2018 honda hr-v review #2018 honda hr-v turbo #2018 honda hrv specs

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