A: Some gardening projects are fun to try simply to see if you can succeed. The reward for coaxing a poinsettia to rebloom is in the fun process; its not about getting flowers on the cheap.

I asked Stacie to share what she did with her poinsettia during the past year, and she replied, My daughter gave us the poinsettia for Christmas a year ago. We enjoyed it throughout the holiday season and for the next few months. Before I knew it, I had kept the poinsettia growing for six months. I simply watered it when I remembered.

We moved this past August, and I couldn't believe I was bringing a poinsettia with me to our new house. The plant looked healthy and I fertilized it. I remembered you writing an article on poinsettias so I looked it up. The poinsettia hasnt been transplanted, but it's on my to-do list. It didnt bloom in time for Christmas, but started after the first week of January. The plant receives southeast sunlight in our new home.

Congratulations, Stacie! To coax a poinsettia to bloom in time for Christmas, you might try providing it with total darkness each night, blocking out even indoor lighting for 15 hours per night, from about 5 p.m. until 8 a.m. beginning Oct. 1.

Q: What do you suggest for do-it-yourself lawn fertilizing? Spring, summer and fall applications? Ray Frohlich.

A: Lawn fertilizing recommendations have changed through the years, as university research showed that early spring fertilization during April and early May force feeds grass plants, producing early flushes of leaf growth at the expense of healthy root growth. A deep, healthy root system is better able to utilize soil moisture and nutrients, keeping the lawn in top shape throughout the entire growing season.

Research further revealed that lawngrass is especially able to maximize fertilizer benefits when its applied in fall, with Labor Day being an easy-to-remember time. Fall fertilizer encourages deep, prolific root growth that helps sustain a healthy turf throughout the following year. A secondary application of fertilizer is beneficial around Memorial Day in May. Two applications of fertilizer per year, applied at these optimum times, provide turfgrass with all the nutrition needed for healthy growth.

As a side note, allowing clippings to filter down into the turf, rather than bagging and removing, provides the nutritional equivalent of one fertilizing per year, as the clippings decompose and release their nutrients into the soil.

ARCHIVE: Read more of Don Kinzler's Fielding Questions columns

Q: Ive read the discussion on carrots, and Ive been growing a Burpee variety called Short and Sweet for several years. Theyre a medium-length and very tasty. They can grow to be very large, but never get woody in the center. I harvest the main crop just before ground freeze-up to maximize sweetness. I dont clean off all the dirt, and store in peat moss at 32 degrees almost until spring. C. Eidbo.

A: Thanks for joining the conversation about carrot varieties. Carrots usually store better unwashed, as youve found, which preserves some of the natural wax that aids storage life. Ill add Short and Sweet to my new list of carrot cultivars to try.

If you have a gardening or lawn care question, email Don Kinzler, NDSU Extension-Cass County, at kinzlerd@casscountynd.gov or call 701-241-5707. Questions with broad appeal may be published, so please include your name, city and state for appropriate advice.

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Fun with poinsettias, lawn fertilizing and another sweet carrot - West Fargo Pioneer

The report on Global Dimmable LED Driver Market is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the market. The report starts with the basic industry overview and then goes into each and every detail, presenting a detailed blueprint based on performance in terms of revenue contribution from various segments and includes a detailed analysis of key trends, drivers, restraints, and opportunities influencing revenue growth of the Global Dimmable LED Driver Market.

This report studies the Global Dimmable LED Driver market size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. Categorization of the market by companies, region, type, and end-use industry has been listed in the report. While segmentation has been provided to list down various facets of the Dimmable LED Driver market, analysis methods such as S.T.E.E.P.L.E., S.W.O.T., Regression analysis, etc. have been utilized to study the underlying factors of the market.

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The report provides granular analysis of the market share, segmentation, revenue forecasts and geographic regions of the market. Following are some of the segmentations provided in the report ;

Leading players operating in the global Dimmable LED Driver market are: Inventronics, Tridonic, Delta Electronics, Hubbell Lighting, MOSO Power, Eaglerise

Dimmable LED Driver Market Growth by Types: Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), Analogue Dimming

Dimmable LED Driver Market Extension by Applications: Indoor Lighting, Outdoor Lighting, Special Lighting

The Global version of this report with a geographical classification would cover regions: North America (USA, Canada, and Mexico),Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, and Italy),Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia),South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, etc.),Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa)

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The report generated has various classifications and details of the market. The target audiences of this report would include: Analysts and Strategic Business Planners Dimmable LED Driver Manufacturers, Suppliers and Distributors Government Regulatory and Research Organizations Venture Capitalists and Private Equity Firms Investment Research Firms / Associations End-Use Industries

Further analysis provides us with other key aspects of Global Dimmable LED Driver Market Report such as;

Identification of factors that could alter the current and forecasted growth of the market.The incorporation of the target audience during an analytical assessment, to determine the impact of key drivers, restraints, and opportunities in detail.Utilization of ANOVA test and FRAP method to determine the effect of, alteration in strategies by leading players, political occurrence, change in policies, etc. on current trends and future estimations to depict the imminent investment pockets.To understand the lucrative trends and to gain a stronger foothold in the industry, the overall Dimmable LED Driver market potential is determined.To utilize and capture each opportunity Porters five forces analysis is utilized, to illustrate the potency of the buyers and suppliers in the market.

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About UsAt Acquire Market Research the database of the company is updated on a daily basis to provide the clients with reports containing the latest trends and in-depth analysis of the industry. While each report initially generated is prepared with a set benchmark of the industry, the reports are customizable to meet the requirements of the client. After careful validation of the report by our expert analysts, the report on Dimmable LED Driver Market has been published.

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Dimmable LED Driver Market Segmented by Product, Top Manufacturers, Geography Trends & Forecasts to 2026 - 3rd Watch News

With stress, anxiety and depression causing 12.8 million lost working days in the UK last year, and 6.9 million working days lost because of musculoskeletal disorders, there is increasing awareness of the impact of office life on our health.

The Work Colleague Of The Future report issued last autumn was accompanied by a life-sized model showing what office workers might look like in 20 years. Named Emma, the figure had a permanently hunched back, varicose veins, eczema, sallow skin, red eyes and a protruding stomach.

While perhaps an exaggerated portrayal of the possible future of humanity, the widely publicised images of the haunting doll are a wake-up call both to employers and office workers on the long-term effects of sitting at a desk, staring at a screen, and failing to manage stress and find a healthy work-life balance.

A holistic approach to wellbeing is vital to ensure we remain happy, healthy and productive. Although a supportive corporate culture is the most important aspect of wellbeing a bullying boss is top of the list for causes of ill health in the workplace according to a plethora of studies good office design, backed up by a carefully curated selection of amenities, can boost health and happiness in the workplace.

And with growing competition to attract talent, firms are increasingly focusing on improving their working environment. One survey found 93% of tech workers said they would stay longer with a company offering options such as wellness rooms for yoga-meditation and healthy eating options than with those that dont.

The World Green Building Council has devised seven categories to use in promoting workplace wellness: Air improving air quality; Water maintaining hydration; Nourishment providing healthy eating options; Light boosting natural light and improving artificial light; Fitness encouraging physical activity; Comfort using ergonomically designed furniture and layouts, and Mind improving mental health.

Poor air quality, whether from poor ventilation leading to higher carbon dioxide levels, high concentrations of indoor pollutants or too high or low temperatures and humidity, has a major impact on productivity. In some locations, outside pollution can be an issue requiring filtered air. However, where this is not an issue, the simplest solution could be just opening windows or encouraging workers to have meetings or take their laptops outside.

The Future Works, a new office building in Slough, for example, has a Wi-Fi-connected roof terrace with tables and benches designed for working outdoors, as well as space for socialising and wellness activities such as yoga sessions.

Providing easy access to chilled water and promoting healthy food, such as nuts and fruit rather than sweets, can also encourage staff to make better choices.

Correct lighting has a positive impact on eyesight and mental health. Researchers found being within 10ft of a window decreases eyestrain by 84%. An experiment with 124 employees conducted by international real estate advisor, CBRE, and the University of Twente, VU Amsterdam, revealed artificial lighting attuned to our circadian rhythms boosted task performance by 18%. Morning lighting used warmer colour tones and brighter afternoon lighting mimicked light changes during the day.

Encouraging movement and physical activity is also important, with sedentary lifestyles blamed for growing instances of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Well-located and attractive staircases, secure cycle storage and showers to encourage active commutes, and on-site gyms and yoga studios can all make staying active easier for office workers. Setting up lunchtime walking or running groups and giving staff the option of flexible working hours or taking a longer lunch break once a week can also make it easier to catch gym classes or do other exercises during the working day.

Breakout zones, standing desks, ergonomically designed furniture and correct set up of computers and chairs can all help avoid staff being sat in one place for too long, minimising health problems such as back pain.

There is a strong correlation between physical and mental health and wellbeing. Yoga and other exercise have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity. CBRE reported that staff in Sweden pioneering a regime of taking yoga, weekly massages and controlled naps improved their performance by 30%.

Everything from ceiling heights, colour, layouts and even access to nature has an impact on mental wellbeing. Dr Oshin Vatania, of the University of Toronto-Scarborough, discovered people feel mentally stimulated by rooms with high ceilings.

Translated to offices, the trend is increasing headroom by removing suspended ceilings, leaving ventilation and other service pipework and cabling open. Biophilic interior design, bringing nature indoors, has also been shown to boost mood, with bringing plants into working areas improving task performance by 10%.

With people spending on average a third of their life at work, both employers and employees are waking up to the importance of a high-quality working environment that prioritises staff wellbeing. With consideration of design and amenities, and the adoption of technology to enable us to work effectively from almost anywhere, the workplace of the future can be a dynamic, attractive place that contributes to our wellness, health and happiness.

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Why workplace wellbeing is rising up the agenda this year - Real Business

Located smack in the heart of the Bukit Bintang Shopping District, Wolo Kuala Lumpur delights with its minimalist decor and art installations, writes Zalina Mohd Som

THE area is not foreign to me. I know the ever-busy Bukit Bintang intersection like the back of my hand. Theres the iconic McDonalds Bukit Bintang the first Mekdi outlet in Malaysia located just across another icon, the hard-to-miss green building thats Lot 10 Mall.

Then theres Bangunan Yayasan Selangor, where I spent four months working as a canteen helper while waiting for my SPM results.

Over the years, Bukit Bintang Shopping District, as its commercially known now, has always been one of my favourite hangouts for shopping or just to lepak.

Wolo Kuala Lumpur stands tall next to Gate E of Bukit Bintang MRT Station

But I cannot mentally place Wolo Kuala Lumpur among those familiar landmarks of Bukit Bintang.

Just to let you know that since Wolo targets travellers, there is no car park. Its entrance is right next to the Bukit Bintang MRT entrance, goes a Whatsapp message.

It only confuses me more as Im not familiar with the MRT stations in the area.

Thankfully, another message pops up: If you are taking the MRT, take Gate E of the Bukit Bintang MRT. You will come out right next to Wolo.

I religiously follow this instruction.

NEW OLD BUILDING

A turn after I come out of Gate E and there it is Wolo Kuala Lumpur, standing majestically at the corner of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail intersection.

The red-brick building looks like the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building but minus the signature keyhole arches. Its main tall doors face the corner while a side door fronts the busy Ain Arabia, more commonly known as the Arab Street of KL.

Ah, no wonder my memory cannot register this building. It was not there when I frequented the area in my younger days.

It used to be an office building but was given a facelift that fits the concept of Wolo. Almost every design in this hotel has its own meaning and theyre not just art, Im told.

The lobby of Wolo Kuala Lumpur is kept simple but stylish

Inspired by the capitals rich history and culture, centrepieces and art installations in the boutique hotel are created to mimic the citys landscape, vibrant life and colourful cultures.

Take the lobby, for instance. At a glance, theres nothing much, only two counters and two long benches.

The emptiness is fortified by the generous flood of bright light, thanks to the high three-centred arch windows and the high ceiling.

But after a while, youll appreciate the bare lobby as only then will you pay attention to the art beauties that lie within.

The long bench youre sitting on is an art piece titled Where Land and Rivers Meet which translates into muddy confluence.

In front of you, the two counters where guests do their check-in and out are actually art pieces designed by Royal Selangor, the countrys finest pewtersmith. They represent the metal bora used for extracting precious minerals that the city was rich in.

Look up to the high ceiling and youll see a huge hanging art installation. Designed by Jon Reading, the downside up ceiling pendant is a fun reimagining of the Golden Triangles topography down or up, up or down.

My favourite is the one decorating a wall at the dim lift lobby. With one bright light shining directly at it, every detail of the artwork by Anniketyni Madian shines through.

SLEEPLESS NIGHT

Room with a view. To have the legendary Lot 10 Mall watching over you while you sleep is quite surreal

Bedtime for me is usually 10pm but I know it will be hard to fall asleep. Not that theres anything wrong with the room. In fact, my Copper room is perfect and dreamy. Its just that there are too many things happening outside (read: food, shopping and even a late-night movie) that I dont mind sacrificing my sleep.

My room is dim but the hotel must have picked dim lighting as its concept. Except for some dashes of rich copper and bright colours, the room follows a black theme.

But Im not complaining. I love the room its chic and modern and it has everything that I need for the one-night stay. Anyway, who needs bright indoor lighting when there are flickering lights from Lot 10 and the traffic outside.

FAST FACTS

WOLO Kuala Lumpur

Corner of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

TEL 03-2719 1333

EMAIL[emailprotected]

WEBSITE wolohotel.com.my

STAY 137 stylishly designed rooms categorised as Copper room without window, Gold room with window, Platinum suite with king-sized bed and WOLO suite with two king-sized beds

EAT There are three F&B outlets within the property WOLO Graph, Mr Chew's Chino Latino Bar and restaurant and Starbucks Reserve at Bukit Bintang Junction. However, WOLO Graph is the only one that is owned and run by the hotel. This is where the buffet breakfast is served for the staying-in guests.

DO For tourists, theres nothing much to do in the hotel. The hotel only has WOLO Graph event space which can be turned up into pop-up cooking island and meeting rooms.

GO Out, of course! The hotel sits in the heart of Bukit Bintang Shopping district. If the area is still not enough to quench the exploring thirst, Bukit Bintang MRT station is right next to the hotel.

HIGHS Location.

LOWS No parking.

Pictures by Zalina Mohd Som

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#JOM Stay: At the art of this boutique hotel - New Straits Times

A detailed research on LED Lighting Driver Market recently added by DataIntelo, puts together a concise analysis of the growth factors impacting the current business scenario across assorted regions. Significant information pertaining to the industry analysis size, share, application, and statistics are also summed in the report in order to present an ensemble prediction. In addition, this report undertakes an accurate competitive analysis illustrating the status of market majors in the projection timeline, while including their expansion strategies and portfolio.

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About DataIntelo:DATAINTELO has set its benchmark in the market research industry by providing syndicated and customized research report to the clients. The database of the company is updated on a daily basis to prompt the clients with the latest trends and in-depth analysis of the industry. Our pool of database contains various industry verticals that include: IT & Telecom, Food Beverage, Automotive, Healthcare, Chemicals and Energy, Consumer foods, Food and beverages, and many more. Each and every report goes through the proper research methodology, validated from the professionals and analysts to ensure the eminent quality reports.

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LED Lighting Driver Market Share, Growth, Statistics, By Application, Production, Revenue & Forecast To 2026 - Posts 99

Ibiza has so much to attract visitors of all ages and financial budgets, where the rich and the not-so-rich rub shoulders on the sands and dancefloors of the island.

Where though does the A-list celebrity retreat to after a tough day sunning on their superyacht? With many deluxe villa properties in the best locations, this is not a problem. Many magical homes with elegance, style and panache abound from rustic masterpieces, to mountain-top havens of tranquillity.

Now, Ibiza Spotlight together with Privadia offers these exclusive properties. Privadia has some amazing high-class properties in its portfolio with a customer backup service to match. All homes display astonishing levels of interior design, furnishing, decoration and on-site service.

If you would like to live the dream or simply want to peek past the high walls and security cameras, read on for our guided tour of the very best in beautiful villas available to rent on Ibiza right now.

The absolute last word in good taste, the utterly beautiful Villa Anna is truly one of Ibiza's finest houses. Built in a traditional finca style, the pristine white dcor seamlessly connects the interior with the exterior and cascades all the way down to the lagoon sized pool.

Every surface is exquisite and, with eight hours of cleaning per day and a caretaker on hand 16 hours per day, it is always maintained to the very highest standards. On top of that, a talented chef and assistant on hand eight hours a day to attend to your dietary needs.

Close to the hotspots of Pacha, Lo and Destino, Villa Anna stands in huge grounds and is protected by 15 surveillance cameras and 24-hour security service.

At El Zafiro you can be master of all that you survey, with astonishing views all the way across the Las Salinas salt flats to the island of Formentera beyond. Set in two acres of land, this super stylish home is in a very accessible location, only a short drive to Ibiza Town,

With polished cement, hardwood floors and tasteful furnishing throughout, the house has a shady, hacienda-style courtyard connecting the six, very spacious, bedroom suites. El Zafiro also boasts a fully stocked private gymnasium.

A maid service is available eight hours a day and a maintenance man and gardeners work tirelessly to ensure the place in absolutely tip top condition.

Exposed stone, period features and rustic minimalism are the signatures of this historic, 600-year-old, finca, offering idyllic bliss, close to the popular village of Santa Gertrudis.

Las Chumberas also has a converted barn, with high vaulted ceilings, housing a large entertaining hall. Equipped with kitchen and dining space, the barn is ideal for hosting your visitors.

Escape the midday sun and relax on mats spread beneath the shady boughs of a gigantic fig tree.

Housekeeping is available for three hours a day

This sleek, minimal and ultra-modern home is located in the eclusive, gated community of Vista Alegre, close to Es Cubells and ideally located for the beautiful beaches of south west Ibiza.

Large glassed surfaces allow light to flood in and shine on the polished surfaces throughout. Warm harwoods and fresh lawns surround the property and the lucky owner of Vista Alegre VIP will enjoy the luxury of both indoor and outdoor swimming pools!

A daily housekeeping service is avaialble for four hours.

Essentially two separate houses with bags of floor space, Estrella Roja is built on a very private three-hectare plot, with beautiful verdant gardens.

The main house is traditional finca farmhouse, modernised to the highest standard. The second building, housing an incredible master suite, is a slightly hallucinogenic, Gaudi inspired, version of a finca whose unique shapes and surfaces are mind-blowing.

Enjoying stunning views, close proximity to the best beach clubs and even a private club with DJ booth, sound system and disco lighting, Estrella Roja is the perfect adult playground. With two staff on hand to tidy up behind of course.

Cool-as-ice, Villa Ofelia is the product of award-winning architect Jano Blanco and interior designer Jose Antonio Flores who have created a modernist dream.

With lots of space, all built on one level, and set into a huge hillside plot, the house is surrounded on three sides by pine forest, giving a feeling of blissful isolation. After a few lengths in the 20 metre infinity pool, it's even possible to take a leisurely stroll into the local village of San Jos.

Four hour daily cleaning service, a night security guard and breakfast preparation service all come included in the rental price.

An impressive cliff-top, mansion of epic proportions, Can Icarus has a unique curved design, reminiscent of a Roman amphitheatre, giving front row seats to the greatest show on the island the spectacular sunsets.

With six beautifully appointed bedroom suites, the house fits in harmoniously with its privileged location overlooking the pretty cove of Cala Moli and even boasts a winding staircase which leads down to a private access to the sea!

A five-hour cleaning service is provided from Monday to Saturday.

Originally posted here:
Living the Ibiza dream in these ultra-luxury villas - Ibiza Spotlight

Puglia is home to more than just sandy white beaches, rolling fields and ancient olive groves. The southern Italian region offers a real mish-mash of architectural styles that chart the areas history, from the Roman and medieval forts to Saracen-era towers, canonical trullos and traditional masserias and even a smattering of cutting-edge contemporary villas.

Many of these structures have new roles as part of the regions bustling tourism industry, and these Puglian holiday homes feature al fresco dining spots for long summer evenings in the sun, infinity pools and picturesque orchards, vineyards and olive groves.

Heres our selection of the best Puglian holiday homes for soaking up the sun by the Mediterranean Sea.

Photography by Salva Lopez

Sleeps 8; from 3,000 per week directThis serene contemporary Italian holiday home sits among the olive groves of Puglias countryside and was designed by Studio Andrew Trotter for slow living. Villa Cardo resembles a series of stacked boxes and has been built using local materials near the village of Carovigno. Minimalist interiors feature stone floors, pale plaster walls and arching ceilings, while the Italian holiday homes black-framed windows frame vistas of the surrounding olive groves and almond trees. As well as a pool and sun terrace, it also boasts a rooftop terrace that looks out towards the Mediterranean Sea. Take a look inside.

Courtesy of Welcome Beyond

Sleeps 10; from 350 per night via Welcome BeyondThis quiet clifftop retreat perches 70 ft above the Mediterranean Sea and is stacked across three floors. The previously abandoned townhouse was renovated by hand due to its sensitive position and tricky access, using traditional techniques and local materials. Interiors of the restored Italian holiday home are decorated with a blend of traditional Puglian style, Scandinavian influences and African crafts and colour. Stone floors and a seawater cellar ensure that the hideaway stays cool in the hot summer months. Guests can dine on the ground floor terrace, or relax by the pool on the rooftop terrace. See more.

Courtesy of Moroseta Villas

Sleeps 8; from 3,000 per week directStone villa Tenuta Masseriola is surrounded by more than eight hectares of olive groves just outside of Puglias Carovigno. The trullo combines tradition and modernity, with dry stone walls contrasted by more contemporary additions. Whitewashed interiors feature exposed stonework, a vaulted ceiling, tubular steel furniture and marble-topped tables. Guests can soak up the sun by the infinity pool which is screened by trees. The Torre Guaceto nature reserve is also a 10-minute drive away and offers a coastline of white sandy beaches.

Courtesy of Masseria Petrarolo

8 bedrooms; 12,500 per week directLocal practice Simone & Musa and London based firm Tully Filmer restored this historic masseria, which was built in 1689 to provide protection from the Barbary raiders who plundered the Italian coastline from the Adriatic Sea. Masseria Petrarolo sits with 75 acres of olive groves close to Bari, and its old fortified bell tower still remains. Traces of its battle-hardy past can also be read via arrow-slit windows and thick stone walls. Soho houses Alexander Waterworth designed the Puglian villas minimalist interiors stone walls and vaulted brick ceilings are a simple backdrop for antique furniture and contemporary design pieces. See more on the Italian property.

Photography: Salva Lopez

Sleeps 6; from 2500 per week directVilla Castelluccio was built in the 1920s and the simple, boxy villa is another project overhauled by Studio Andrew Trotter. Sitting in the old town of Ceglie Messapica, next to Ostuni, the minimalist Italian holiday home has muted interiors that reflect the homes peaceful surroundings and create a relaxed atmosphere, but Trotter has focused on details in order to elevate the space. Walls feature a tightly curated art collection, white furnishings include linen sofas, simple light fittings, and antique pieces. He also commissioned local craftsmen to make concrete sinks and countertops, complemented by brass fittings. The countryside villa opens directly onto the garden, which includes a pool, an outdoor dining area, and an olive tree garden. Get a closer look.

Photography: Britney Gill for The Perfect Hideaway

4 bedrooms; from 2500 per week directTrullo Piccolo is an Italian hideaway set amongst 4-acres of olive tree-dotted land in Puglias Martina Franca. The minimalist holiday home was restored by its owners an architect and sculptor who have repaired original stone, wood and glass details. Four separate buildings make up the holiday complex, which has series of al fresco dining spots for long summer nights, and a vegetable garden with tomatoes and herbs which guests can harvest for its indoor and outdoor kitchens. For the non-foodies, theres a plunge pool and an infinity pool for cooling off after hot summer days exploring the coast.

Courtesy of Masseria Angiulli Piccolo

Sleeps 13; from 868 per night via AirbnbLooking for something on a bigger scale? Masseria Angiulli Piccolo is an 18th-century home surrounded by 85-acres of vineyards and orchards in Puglia. The rustic retreat has been fully restored by its architect owners and is as secluded as it is beautiful. Interiors feature vaulted stone ceilings which cap voluminous rooms, while cool white walls and stone floors help provide respite from the Italian heat. Masseria Angiulli Piccolo can accommodate up to 13 guests, who can dine at the pergola-covered swimming pool terrace or its sunny courtyard. The Italian holiday home is part of a working farm and the surrounding gardens supply fruit and wine for the kitchen. See inside.

Photography: Britney Gill for The Perfect Hideaway

Sleeps 6; from 250 per night via AirbnbParco Paolino is a countryside villa in Puglias Ostuni with living spaces that flow between inside and out. An outdoor patio, pergola, swimming pool and shower are surrounded by three hectares of ancient olive trees. Inside, minimalist interiors have been given pops of colour with a selection of furniture, lighting and art. Guests can dine under the olive trees, lay by the pool or sit by the fire.

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8 of the best Italian holiday homes in Puglia - The Spaces

All houseplants need air, light and water to survive, but thats not always an option when plants are shaded by trees or sit far from windows.

Lack of sunlight is one of the most common challenges for indoor houseplants, said plant expert Annette Gutierrez of the Los Angeles garden store Potted. Do you have any low-light houseplants? is the No. 1 question we get from our customers, she said. (The second is Do you carry plants that clean the air more on that later.)

The good news is that there are many houseplants that can grow in low light. But that doesnt mean they prefer it or thrive in those conditions.

A low-light plant isnt a plant that does best in low light, explained Danae Horst, owner of Folia Collective in Eagle Rock and author of the upcoming coffee-table book Houseplants for All. Its just a plant that is adaptable enough to tolerate low light.

Gutierrez agreed. You have to look at them as plants that can survive low light.

With that in mind, here are 10 indoor houseplants that will survive in low-light conditions as chosen by garden experts Horst and Gutierrez, Rhiannon Cramm of Mickey Hargitay Plants and Erin Marino of the Sill:

Variegated tropical leaves pattern of snake plant or mother-in-laws tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata Laurentii).

(Chansom Pantip/Getty Images/iStockphoto)

1. Snake plant

Botanical name: Sansevieria trifasciata

Family: Agavaceae

Pet-friendly: No

Popular sansevierias such as the snake plant, or mother-in-laws tongue, an upright plant with sword-like yellow-edged marbled leaves, are easy to grow, require little water and thrive in warm interiors as a tropical plant.

While most sansevieria thrive in bright light and even direct sun, they can tolerate medium to low light conditions, said Rhiannon Cramm of Hollywood nursery Mickey Hargitay Plants.

The key to helping plants thrive in lower light? Reduce the amount of water you give them in both frequency and quantity. When plants are in lower light, they are using less of their resources, so they are not able to use up as much water as plants receiving a lot of light, Cramm said. Water also evaporates a lot slower in cooler, darker areas so less water is definitely key.

The sculptural plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and is especially dramatic when paired with shorter plants. For extra drama at home, uplight them.

Interesting new varieties Cramm recommends: Cylindrica, Moonshine, Starpower, Masons Congo and Kirkii.

A zamiocula or ZZ plant.

(Annette Gutierrez / Potted)

2. ZZ plant

Botanical name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia

Family: Araceae

Pet-friendly? No.

If you are intimidated by houseplants, Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as the ZZ plant, is a tall, sculptural tropical that can survive just about anywhere.

A native of drought-prone East Africa, the succulent features glossy green leaves that will grow to a height and width of about 2 feet. It can survive up to four months without water, so if you are an aspiring plant parent who enjoys watering, this plant is not for you.

A slow grower, the ZZ thrives in medium to low indirect light and can tolerate bright indirect light. It can be propagated by separating the potato-like rhizomes that hold water at its base or by cuttings.

A sexy new black variety called the Raven ZZ or Zamioculcas zamiifolia Dowon looks to be the next hot houseplant. (It was voted the best new foliage plant at the 2018 Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition.) The patented plant is grown exclusively by Florida-based grower Costa Farm and is available through Walmart. We also spotted it online at Home Depot. By the end of 2020, expect to see black ZZs everywhere.

Parlor Palm, Chamaedorea elegans

(The Sill )

3. Parlor palm

Botanical name: Chamaedorea elegans

Family: Palmae

Pet-friendly: Yes

If your taste is more Bohemian modern than traditional, the arched fronds of the parlor palm, or good luck palm, will add a relaxed tropical vibe to your interiors.

The miniature palm is a slow grower that can reach about 3 feet high or, with repeated repotting, as high as 6 feet.

Like most tropical plants, Chamaedorea elegans thrives in warm, humid rooms, so it helps to mist them or place them on a tray filled with moist pebbles.

Chinese evergreen, Aglaonema

(Potted)

4. Chinese evergreen

Botanical name: Aglaonema modestum

Family: Araceae

Pet-friendly: No

The Chinese evergreen is often recommended for beginners because it is hearty, easy to grow, drought-tolerant and can tolerate just about any indoor lighting situation.

There are many different varieties of the genus Aglaonema, which are noted for their long patterned leaves speckled with gray, cream and pink. The Chinese evergreen has waxy green oval leaves spotted with silver.

The Chinese evergreen is great for tabletops and bathrooms. Variegation is quite common with Aglaonema. Cramm recommends the varieties Maria, Silver Bay and Emerald Beauty.

Satin Pothos or Silver Vine (Scindapsus pictus), Araceae.

(DEA / C. DANI/De Agostini via Getty Images)

5. Satin pothos

Botanical name: Scindapsus pictus Exotica

Family: Araceae

Pet-friendly? No

The lesser-known satin pothos not to be confused with philodendron features distinctive blue-green heart-shaped leaves with silver variegation that is compatible with modern interiors.

Because it likes humid conditions, this spiller is a great choice for bathrooms, where the long vines can cascade from hanging baskets. If leaves turn brown, it may mean that the air is too dry. Position it near other plants or on a saucer filled with damp pebbles to add moisture. You can train it to grow upright, with stakes and strings, or drape it along a fireplace mantle or bookshelf.

Calathea Medallion.

(The Sill )

6. Calathea medallion

Botanical name: Calathea roseopicta

Family: Marantaceae

Pet-friendly? Yes

The tropical Calathea medallion is named for its unique oval medallion-like leaves that feature pink and white variegation on top and deep purple tones underneath.

Calatheas are often called prayer plants a common name for Calathea, Maranta and other Marantaceae because their leaves open during the day and close at night, a phenomenon known as nyctinasty.

Although beautiful, Calathea can be a diva and needs consistent watering, pruning and feeding. High humidity is essential too, and foliage should be misted daily. Because the plant prefers lime-free water we told you its a diva take it outside when it rains.

Heartleaf philodendron, Philodendron hederaceum

(The Sill )

7. Green heartleaf philodendron

Botanical name: Philodendron hederaceum

Family: Araceae

Pet-friendly: No

Philodendron hederaceum, known for its heart-shaped green leaves and trailing vines, is one of the most common houseplants (it is the Sills bestseller) and one of the easiest to grow. The plant can survive a variety of lighting conditions and can be grown as a climbing or trailing specimen. Pinch it back and it will become bushy.

8. Corn plant

Botanical name: Dracaena Lisa Cane

Family: Agavaceae

Pet-friendly? No

Large houseplants can transform and warm up a space. Dracaena Lisa Cane, green and palmlike with arching leaves, can grow 7 to 8 feet tall with little sunlight. It will work well in a hallway or foyer away from windows. Regular dusting or misting is recommended; its known as a dust collector.

Dieffenbachia Camille

(Potted)

9. Dumb cane

Botanical name: Dieffenbachia maculata

Family: Araceae

Pet-friendly? No

Dieffenbachia are beloved for their highly decorative leaves tinged with yellow, cream and white.

The maculata variety, commonly known as spotted dumb cane, is a popular species featuring narrow green leaves with irregular white markings.

Native to Central and South America, it is most comfortable in warm and humid interiors. If your interiors are dry, place it on a tray of damp pebbles for humidity, or group it with similar humidity-loving plants to create a moisture pocket.

Because it can grow to 5 feet tall or or more, it is an excellent choice for an empty wall.

The plants name dumb cane comes from the dieffenbachias milky sap, which is poisonous and can cause oral irritation. Be sure to wash your hands after removing leaves or cuttings.

Fittonia do best in high humidity. Stand the pot on a tray of damp pebbles and mist for adequate moisture.

(Lisa Boone )

10. Nerve plant

Botanical name: Fittonia verschaffeltii

Family: Acanthaceae

Pet-friendly? Yes.

This creeping plant, which is indigenous to tropical rainforests, features green leaves with delicate white, silver and red veins.

Fittonia can be finicky: They dont like direct sunlight, which damages their leaves, and they need careful watering or their leaves will dry up and become brittle or brown around the edges. Keep soil barely moist at all times and give it a regular misting or place it on a tray of wet pebbles.

Because it is happiest in warm and humid conditions, the low-growing fittonia is an excellent choice for bottle gardens, terrariums and bathrooms. For a more compact look, pinch the growing points to encourage branching.

Originally posted here:
What are indoor plants that don't need a ton of light? - Los Angeles Times

A smoker steps outside to have a quick cigarette. They wait to light up until theyre well beyond the state-mandated smoke-free area outside the buildings door. No one is around. When theyre done, they put out the butt, dispose of it properly, and walk back inside.

As far as current laws and social norms go, this smoker has done everything right. But new research published Wednesday in Science Advances reports that even these best-intentioned smokers could have negative effects on those around them thanks to the toxic chemicals that linger on their clothes and are brought indoors.

While smokers, of course, experience smoke firsthand, those in the direct presence of a lit cigarette are exposed to secondhand smoke. Now, researchers are bringing attention to a new type exposure: thirdhand smoke.

Thirdhand smoke is the residual contamination of surfaces and spaces with nicotine and other chemicals from smokers, which others breathe in through dust or gases. And unlike secondhand smoke, thirdhand smoke is unseen and can often go unnoticed.

In the new study, researchers from Yale University and the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry looked to a well-ventilated movie theater where smoking had been banned for 15 years. Over four days, the team measured the air in the theater before moviegoers arrived, as well as throughout the movie.

The researchers found that toxic chemicals such as benzene were most prevalent when moviegoers first walked into the theater. And although they diminished over the course of the film, they were present throughout.

R-rated films showed the highest levels of thirdhand smoke, even when the audience was smaller than the G-rated showings.

During the hour-long period around R-rated movie showtime, the average emissions were equivalent to one to 10 cigarettes of secondhand smoke, said Roger Sheu, the Yale chemical engineer who led the study, in a teleconference.

While firsthand and secondhand smoke have been known to cause health complications, theres a possibility for complications from this newfound thirdhand smoke. Further research has to be done to examine whether factors like the type of indoor location, or even the brand of cigarettes, affect the amount of off-gassing, say the authors.

These results, along with past surface measurements of nicotine in nonsmoking environments, indicate that this is occurring frequently around us, said Drew Gentner, a Yale engineer also involved in the study. This effect is not just limited to the period [of time when the] smoker is off-gassing, but can leave a persistent contamination on the surfaces after those people leave.

In the teleconference, Gentner and Sheu didnt have any direct advice as to lowering the spread of thirdhand smoke. For now, Gentner says, people should be aware that the toxins are still there even when you cant see them.

[Smokers] themselves remain a source of those chemicals when they go back inside, says Gentner, which may be particularly important in the presence of small children or sensitive populations.

Excerpt from:
Thirdhand Smoke: Study Finds Smokers' Clothes are Carrying Cigarette Chemicals Indoors - Discover Magazine

DUBLIN, March 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Light Control Switches Market by Product Type (Switches, Dimmers), Communication Technology (Wired, Wireless), End-use Application, Switch Solutions (Standalone, Integrated), Light Source, Geography - Global Forecast to 2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

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The global light control switches market is estimated to grow from USD 6.6 billion in 2020 and projected to reach USD 10.1 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 8.9%.

The major factors driving the growth of the light control switches market include the advent of integrated lighting control systems, ongoing and upcoming smart city projects in developing economies, increasing adoption and reduction in prices of LEDs, and growing awareness about energy savings among consumers and governments worldwide. Factors such as lack of awareness regarding installation cost and payback period for smart lighting solutions and privacy and security issues with smart lighting control are restraining the growth of the light control switches market.

Wired technology is expected to hold a larger share of the light control switches market by 2025.

Currently, the light control switches and dimmers based on wired technology are widely adopted for different types of structures as this technology offers reliable connectivity, with no limitation on long-distance data transfer. Wired communication technologies for light control switches and dimmers include Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI), Power-line Communication (PLC), and various wired hybrid protocols, which include company-specific proprietary protocols. Wired protocols offer reliable performance and greater control; thus, the technology held the largest share of the market.

Highways & roadways to hold the largest size of light control switches market for outdoor application during the forecast period.

The highways & roadways lighting application segment holds the largest market share of the outdoor light control switches application due to government support and subsidies encouraging the installation and use of smart light control solutions. As of now, the latest trend in the street lighting segment is the replacement of existing street lighting sources with LED street lights to reduce energy consumption significantly.

Light control switches market in APAC expected to grow at highest CAGR during the forecast period.

The light control switches market in APAC is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to rapid infrastructure building activities being undertaken in APAC, mainly in China and India, where smart light control solutions pave the way for the modernization of infrastructure. Factors such as the ever-growing population, increasing per capita income, as well as vast geographic expansions, have indirectly contributed to the growth of the market for light control switches in the Asian countries.

Key Topics Covered

1. Introduction

2. Research Methodology

3. Executive Summary

4. Premium Insights

5. Market Overview5.1. Introduction5.2. Market Dynamics5.2.1. Drivers5.2.2. Restraints5.2.3. Opportunities5.2.4. Challenges

6. Industry Trends6.1. Introduction6.2. Value Chain Analysis6.3. Key Industry Trends

7. Light Control Switches Market, By Product Type7.1. Introduction7.2. Switches7.2.1. Manual ON/OFF Switches7.2.1.1. Toggle switches7.2.1.2. Rocker switches7.2.1.3. Illuminated switches7.2.2. Electronic Switches7.2.2.1. Wireless switches7.2.2.2. Sensor-based switches7.2.2.3. Others7.3. Dimmers7.3.1. Wired Dimmers7.3.2. Wireless Dimmers

8. Light Control Switches Market, By Switch Solutions8.1. Introduction8.2. Standalone switch solution8.3. Integrated switch solution

9. Light Control Switches Market, By End-use Application9.1. Introduction9.2. Indoor9.2.1. Residential9.2.2. Commercial9.2.3. Industrial9.2.4. Others9.3. Outdoor9.3.1. Highways & Roadways Lighting9.3.2. Architectural Lighting9.3.3. Lighting for Public Places9.3.4. Others

10. Light Control Switches Market, By Communication Protocol10.1. Introduction10.2. Wired10.2.1. DALI10.2.2. KNX10.2.3. Digital multiplex (DMX)10.3. Wireless10.3.1. Zigbee10.3.2. BLE10.3.3. EnOcean10.3.4. Wi-Fi10.3.5. Z-wave

11. Light Control Switches Market, By Geography11.1. Introduction11.2. North America11.2.1. US11.2.2. Canada11.2.3. Mexico11.3. Europe11.3.1. UK11.3.2. Germany11.3.3. France11.3.4. Italy11.3.5. Spain11.3.6. Rest of Europe11.4. APAC11.4.1. China11.4.2. Japan11.4.3. India11.4.4. South Korea11.4.5. Rest of APAC11.5. RoW11.5.1. Middle East & Africa11.5.2. South America

12. Competitive Landscape12.1. Introduction12.2. Market Ranking Analysis12.3. Competitive Leadership Mapping12.4. Competitive Scenario12.4.1. New Product Launches and Developments12.4.2. Acquisitions12.4.3. Agreements and Contracts12.4.4. Expansion

13. Company Profiles13.1. Key Players13.1.1. Signify Holding (Philips Lighting)13.1.2. Legrand S.A.13.1.3. Eaton Corporation PLC13.1.4. OSRAM Licht AG13.1.5. Acuity Brands, Inc.13.1.6. Lutron Electronics13.1.7. Schneider Electric SE13.1.8. Honeywell International Inc.13.1.9. Hubbell Incorporated13.1.10. Leviton Manufacturing Company, Inc.13.1.11. Havells India Limited (Havells)13.2. Other Important Players13.2.1. Dialight PLC13.2.2. Helvar13.2.3. Zumbtobel Group13.2.4. Ideal Industries13.2.5. General Electric Company (Current-Powered by GE)13.2.6. ABB13.2.7. Siemens13.2.8. LightwaveRF PLC13.2.9. RAB Lighting13.2.10. Synapse Wireless, Inc.13.2.11. Panasonic

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The Future of the Global Light Control Switches Market, 2025: $10+ Billion Opportunity Assessment - Yahoo Finance