Considerations For New Urban Farmers

One of the big trends of the last few years is using urban spaces for farming. If that is something that you are interested in, and are considering launching an urban farm, then here are some of the considerations you’ll need to make to make it a success. 

Urban farming has some unique challenges, but ultimately can be one of the most beneficial developments in the area and have a generational reach. 

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Here are a couple of things you’ll need to consider: 

Research and visit 

One of the biggest things you’ll need to do is research. You and your team will need to find other urban farm projects and go and visit them. Make a list of the questions you want to ask about the process because that is the best source of information you can get. 

They’ll warn you of the challenges and offer the expertise you need to keep on track. 

Land & buildings

There are probably several different land options around, which means you’ll need to compare prices and size and, if possible, test the soil of each before you make a decision. Urban soils can have high levels of lead and other contaminants. The tests will be your best friend. 

You’ll also need to consider unique built-to-spec spaces to work. Agriculture metal fabrication is built to give you the best value for your money. 

Production

As you get established, you should keep an eye on your production. You’ll need to have a solid understanding of the soil, pest management, pollination, using intercropping, and how to grow all year as a start. 

It isn’t uncommon for urban farms starting out to have a few crops with poor yield or to struggle with having more than a few edible items after the first year. 

Vertical 

Many people growing crops start by looking at the flat land and picturing that as all they have. But over time, vertical farming can be one of the biggest contributors  – in fact, just by adding smart shelving, you can increase your crops by hundreds of percentages. 

So always consider how you can build upwards in the space. 

Mushrooms

The yield of mushrooms can be huge. They are happy to grow in almost any soil and can even grow in coffee grounds in a plastic bag. You’ll need to keep an eye on temperature and humidity and when growing some types, keep an eye on the right time to cut and eat or sell them. 

Microgreens

Microgreens have been all the rage for a few years and are a great addition to any garden. They are harvested in as little as 7 days, rather than the 90 days of some other crops (a great partner for the vertical spaces). 

Radishes, pea shoots, and sunflowers are perfect microgreens and are loved by chefs – so you can directly contribute to the local food scene much quicker. 

And, of course, the biggest benefit of urban farming is that you can keep everything organic: Three Clucking Good Reasons To Go Organic On Your Farm

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The Best Gadgets To Improve Your Smartphone Experience

Most people nowadays have a smartphone. But, as you know, your smartphone is more than just a phone. It can do so much more than phone or text people. It can be described as a small, handheld computer in its own right.

Smartphones, especially the higher model devices, can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. It makes sense, therefore, that you’d want to get the most out of your smartphone. One way to do this is by learning how to use it properly

Rather than only using your smartphone to phone or text people, you can use it as a personal planner. You can also play games on your phone and browse the internet. More and more software is being developed and released to help people to use their smartphones to the full.

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As well as software, such as apps, you can also use hardware. Hardware, such as gadgets or other phone peripherals can be linked to your phone and help you to get even more use out of your device. You can also use some of these gadgets with your tablet or even your laptop or computer. 

Headphones and Earphones

If you’re a fan of music, then the chances are that you use headphones or earphones to enjoy your favorite tunes. However, there is a whole host of different designs for you to choose from, and each one suits different people and purposes. 

For example, if you primarily listen to music, then you might want something with good sound quality and bass. However, some people prefer to listen to podcasts or audiobooks, which don’t require such a wide range of frequencies or as rich a sound. 

True, it’s good to get the best product that you can afford, but there’s no need to get something that you don’t need. There are other things to consider as well. First, should you go for headphones or earphones?

Headphones are small loudspeakers that sit outside your ears. They are often designed with a headband that goes over the head, but some headphones are supported in different ways. Headphones often have superior sound quality, but they’re usually more expensive and less portable than earphones.

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Earphones sit inside the ear itself and are far more discreet than headphones. They can be very cheap, but expect to pay more for better sound quality. Some earphones are fairly comfortable, light, and very portable, but some people do struggle to fit the earphones in their ear canals, which can lead to discomfort or the earphone falling out.

Another thing to consider is whether you want to get wired or wireless headphones or earphones. Most modern smartphones don’t have a headphone jack, which means that you need an adaptor for wired devices. The wires can also get tangled or restrict movement. 

However, wireless headphones depend on battery power and a connection to your phone, meaning that they might not be as reliable in every situation. They’re also often more expensive and tend to have inferior sound quality than wired alternatives, as the sound has to be compressed. 

Finally, you should consider whether you need a microphone attachment, which would turn your headphones or earphones into a headset. This is great for people who work on the go, or who want to take calls and keep them more private. It pays to choose carefully when picking out headphones or earphones, especially if you use them a lot. 

Smartwatches

Another smartphone periphery is the smartwatch, which has a whole host of useful features. To start with, smartwatches are undeniably stylish, and you can switch out your smartwatch strap to change how it looks. 

The most obvious use of a smartwatch is as a timekeeper. Like any other watch, you can quickly and conveniently check the time and date on your smartwatch without digging out your phone. You can also set alarms and timers.

However, a smartwatch really shines when you link it to your phone. You can use it to check your messages and even quickly reply. You can also make and receive calls using your smartwatch, which is handy when your phone is elsewhere.

One of the most useful abilities of a smartwatch is the fact that you can check your pulse rate and keep track of your steps. Your smartwatch can be a handy fitness aid, helping you to keep on top of your fitness goals and make sure that you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

This is just scratching the surface of the many uses of your smartwatch. Like your phone, your smartwatch is an intelligent device, much like a mini computer strapped to your wrist. Check out some apple watch tips to learn how to get the most bang for your buck out of your smartwatch. 

Other Accessories

Some smartphone accessories don’t connect to your phone electronically, but they definitely make it more usable. For example, a smartphone case keeps your phone safe. The case can also be decorative, making it so that your phone stands out and you can easily spot it.

It’s sadly easy to drop your smartphone, which can be an expensive mistake if it’s unprotected. However, by getting a good phone case and a screen protector, you can avoid cracked screens and scuffed phones. 

Phone stands are also handy devices, especially if you use your phone to give yourself directions when you’re driving. The stand positions your phone so that you can easily see the map while keeping your eyes on the road. You can also use phone stands when you’re making video calls, so you can keep your phone steady while you talk. 

You will also need phone chargers and adaptors to get the full use out of your phone. If you want to use wired headphones or an AUX cable in a car, then you will need an adaptor for modern phones. Extra chargers always come in handy, and you can even use wireless chargers for easy accessibility. 

With the right gadgets, peripherals, and accessories, your smartphone can be even more handy.

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