It does not matter if you own a big garden or a smaller one. You need to own the essential gardening tools to make the task easier and comfortable. Step into any garden supply store these days; you will be overwhelmed by the different types of products and brands you find to ease up your gardening efforts. However, a shed of tools does not help you become an avid gardener. Here is all you need to know about buying right garden tools and how to take care of it.
Buying guide
Spade, rake, hoe, watering can, pruner, trimmer, chain saw – the list of garden tools is long. If you are selecting the tools cleverly, a few of them will be sufficient for all your daily gardening needs. Consider these factors before you buy the tool.
- Weight & grip: The weight of the product should be given first preference. You should be able to handle the product easily. Therefore, check the grip of the handle as well. If you can find light-weight tools with wider handles, that would make a better choice. Your ease and comfort level must be taken into consideration when you buy garden tools.
- Quality & material: The durability of the product depends on the material it is made of. If you prefer to have durable and stronger tools, steel is good option. Plastic and fiber tools will not stay with you for long. Check the warranty period of the product as well.
- Length of the handle: Gardening requires physical effort regularly. So when you choose the tools like rake, hoe etc, consider your height also. Bending can cause strain on the back if it is too small.
- Choose wisely: Garden tools with interchangeable heads make a good choice if you are not buying on a tight budget. You can change the header accordingly when you dig, prepare the soil, trim etc and adjust the handle as per the height you require. To ease up the effort, you have power options in most of the garden maintenance tools.
Store it well
Before buying the tools, find a space to store it perfectly. Find a garden tool box to keep the tools so that it can be stored dry after every use. Do not leave the tools exposed to the changing weather conditions, as their durability will decrease. Set up a shed for storing garden equipment if you have space and budget.
Clean it up
It is necessary to clean the garden tools properly after every use so that they stay in good condition for a longer period. Wash or brush up the tools to remove the dirt, debris and soil after the gardening task. Dry it and store it indoors so it does not get rusty. You can apply oil on the blade of the pruning tools to prevent rusting. If you are using the blades on plants with disease, make sure you sterilize it before using it again.
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FAQ’s on Social Security account answered
Read moreCreating a ‘my Social Security’ account not only helps you plan for your retirement, but it also has numerous practical benefits too. Prime among them are requesting for a Social Security card replacement and checking the status of your application/ appeal. Creating ‘my Social Security’ account is the first step in the process of applying for a Social Security card replacement online.
In case you’ve lost the card, a replacement may be needed in few instances where you need to show the card. In most cases, as long as you remember the number and quote it correctly, it’s enough. If you feel a replacement card is a must, ssa.gov website has all the pertinent information on procuring one.
To apply for a replacement card:
- The first step is getting the necessary documents in order. You are required to provide a document that proves your identity (driver’s license, passport or any state issued ID proof). All documents have to be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.
- Fill the application (SS-5) and along with the original documents, send it by mail to your local office.
- The replacement card is delivered within ten business days.
Pertinent facts on card replacement:
- Your Social Security card can be replaced up to 10 times in your lifetime and up to 3 times in a year.
- These limits do not apply to legal name changes and modifications in immigration status.
- If you can prove that the card is needed to prevent a significant hardship (victim of domestic violence or identity theft), the limit is not applicable.
In growing number of states, a replacement request can be placed online as long as you’re not seeking a name change or any other change in your card. It is a safe and convenient process, and the information you enter is protected. Built in features can confirm your identity and detect fraud. Once the account is set up, just follow the simple steps listed to apply for a replacement card.
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Sjogren’s Syndrome- Causes and Symptoms
Read moreWith the progress in medical science, people are hoping that one day, even the most formidable of the diseases can be cured. When we know what causes that particular disease, only then can an antidote for the same be developed. There are still a plethora of diseases the cause of which is yet to be determined. However, though we are supposed to lead our lives with such long-term diseases, we can definitely take measures to control it.
Sjogren’s syndrome is one such disorder that the affected person has to learn to coexist with for their lifetime.
What is Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects an individual when their immune system goes haywire and starts attacking the normal cells in the body instead of the bacteria and viruses that pose as the real threat. It is a lifelong disease, and since there is no proper method to cure Sjogren’s Syndrome completely, people resort to methods to adapt and coexist with the disease. Usually, Sjorgen’s Syndrome accompanies other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.What are the causes of Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Though the causes of Sjogren’s Syndrome remain a mystery, it has been identified that some bacteria or virus is known to trigger this disorder. It disrupts the functioning of the immune system, causing the white blood cells to attack healthy cells especially in the glands that produce saliva and tears. Even though the cause of Sjogren’s Syndrome remains unknown, the symptoms of the same become more prominent unless they are treated.What are the symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome?
- As mentioned earlier, Sjogren’s Syndrome causes the immune system to attack healthy cells and glands that produce saliva. As a consequence of the same, the production of saliva is affected. The individual suffering from Sjogren’s Syndrome experiences dryness in the mouth. The mouth has a chalky feeling, and he may experience trouble chewing and swallowing food. Also, the dryness of the mouth results in yeast infections.
- Sjorgen’s Syndrome also affects the glands that produce tears. This will leave the eyes dry. Dry eyes are more prone to burning and itching sensation. Unless this condition is treated with eye drops and other medications, it will affect the person’s cornea. If left untreated for quite some time, it can have an adverse impact on one’s vision.
- The effect of Sjogren’s Syndrome isn’t limited to the mouth and eyes; it can affect other parts of the body such as throat, skin, lips or nose. Also, since the immune system wages war against the glands in the body, there are chances that the glands in the face and neck might swell up.