www.thewakullanews.com THE WAKULLA NEWS, Thursday, October 29, 2015 – Page 13A
Green Scene Making your workplace green
In the garden now:
GREEN LIVING By CLARA FORAN Wakulla Extension Service
Whether working from home or in an office, creating a “green” workspace can better one’s health, mood and productivity, along with improving the environment. NASA conducted many studies which found certain plants clean the air by removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and benzene along with lowering CO2 levels. Plants such as Chinese evergreens, peace lilies, bamboo palms and gerbera daisy are well suited for indoor environments and require little light. Lavender and rosemary both filter the air while giving off a pleasant scents. Plants in the workplace are also shown to decrease stress, improve productivity and decrease absenteeism. Aside from having clean air, regularly cleaning the work place by vacuuming and dusting can reduce allergy causing irritants, leading to less health problems within the office. Keep in mind, cleaners can pose health concerns, so look for non-toxic or environmentally friendly cleaners, such as those labeled low VOC, biodegradable or solvent free. If the office is professionally cleaned, try using a service which uses a non-chemical, low-water process. No matter how much cleaning is done, there is still always the possibility of unwanted pests. Pests can be managed by taking an Integrated Pest Management approach which emphasizes prevention and low or non-toxic treatments to replace broad chemical pesticides. When it comes to the adding or replacement of products or furnishings, choose durable products that will not break or wear out quickly. Consider eco-friendly products made from recycled, reclaimed or sustainably harvested materials. Be aware of toxins, such as VOCs, that may be present in items, so look for low or non-toxic options. The classic “reduce, reuse, and recycle” can go beyond just printing on recycled paper. Printing on both sides of the paper or not even printing at all are ideas to consider. E-documents and emails can replace the need for printing. Recycling bins can be set up in break areas to accommodate the recycling of not only cans but of paper and printer cartridges as well. When replacing usable items, such as computers or furniture, consider donating or selling versus throwing them out. Water can also be conserved in the office environment by installing low-flow toilets and fixtures. Installing filters on tap faucets can replace the use of plastic water bottles and coolers. Ensure leaks are promptly dealt with in all pluming. As for workplaces with landscaping, the building manager should make sure an appropriate irrigation schedule is set up depending on the season and vegetation that is being grown. Being energy efficient in the office is not only sustainable but helps with energy cost. Look for energy efficient electronics and equipment. These items can range from energy efficient computers, copiers, lightbulbs to even energy efficient refrigerators. Help the building use less energy by keeping the thermostat at a moderate temperature – not too hot or not too cold. Try setting light switches to motion sensors to prevent them from being left on, along with keeping as many lights off at night as possible. Electronics can be plugged into power strips and switched off when not in use and computers can be set to “sleep” when idling instead of letting the screen saver bounce up and down. Although it is not technically “in the office,” commuting to work is a big part of most people’s work days. It also happens to be an important part of creating a sustainable environment. If possible, consider switching to public transportation, carpooling, biking or telecommuting to reduce the environmental impact. To make an office place truly green, educate and involve employees in conservation efforts. Two hands are better than one. Increase participation by reminding employees to practice green habits at work, have a “green” employee of the month award, or organize an office carpool anything to encourage the office going “green.” Consider what can be done individually or talk with the office manager to determine what can be incorporated office-wide. Clara Foran is UF/IFAS Wakulla County Family and Consumer Sciences Program Aide.
Peanuts PHOTO BY LES HARRISON/SPECIAL TO THE NEWS
Proud members of the Wakulla Green Thumb 4-H Club show off their peanut harvest.
Peanuts grow well in sandy soil like Wakulla’s By LES HARRISON and CLARA FORAN
of the Extension Office
Very few crops have the image which is quite as symbolic of the southern part of the U.S. as the peanut. Its long and storied history is connected with this region of the nation, and Wakulla County. As part of their club project, members of the Wakulla County 4-H Green Thumb Club grew a crop in the Extension Office’s demonstration garden this summer. Last week’s harvest proved agricultural success is not dependent on extensive experience or expensive equipment. The first peanut cultivation is thought to have occurred in northern Argentina over 7,600 years ago. There are many examples of peanuts appearing in pre-Columbian pottery and sculptures from the period. Gradually, the popular and nutritious ground nut was determined to be useful by many of the region’s cultures until it was encountered by the Spanish conquistadores. The Spanish, who found the peanut easy to store and transport, spread the planting to even more locales. Even today there are two peanut cultivar groups which reflect the influence of early Spanish explorers. Spanish peanuts and Valencia peanuts, named after the province in
Spain, are grown commercially to this day. For the home gardener planting peanuts is an uncomplicated process. Planting occurs in late April after the soil has begun to warm and frost danger has passed. Well-drained soils are preferred, which reduce the problems with diseases and insects. The seed should be planted nine inches apart in rows which are 36 inches apart to get the best results. Seed must be handled gently before planting. Rough treatment will cause the seed to split and not germinate. Peanuts grow well on sandy soils, which is common in Wakulla County. They are slightly drought resistant at certain growth stages, but there are critical stages of growth which require higher levels of soil moisture to assure yields and quality will not be reduced. Depending on the cultivar and the environmental conditions, harvesting can begin after 16 to 22 weeks after planting. Checking to confirm the nuts have filled out before harvesting is recommended. From the dietary standpoint, peanuts contain healthy fat, protein, vitamins and minerals. Vitamin E, magnesium, folate, copper, phosphorus and fiber are found to make up more than 10 percent of the nutrients in peanuts. Protein is most often thought of as a nutrient found in animal
Tuesday Special Only
Mention this ad for 10% off cut & color with free eyebrow wax
when you book your appointment with
Stacy Kent at offer valid for new clients only
850 926-6772
Dazzles Hair Studio 158 Ochlockonee St. (behind Hardee’s) in Crawfordville.
foods like meat, eggs and dairy, but is found in certain plantbased foods such as peanuts. This protein source helps to provide needed nutrients and reduces the amount of cholesterol in the diet. Peanuts also have the “good fat” or unsaturated fat. According to the Food and Drug Administration, “Replacing saturated fat with similar amounts of unsaturated fats may reduce the risk of heart disease.” Preparation may be as simple as boiling, with seasoning to taste. With the peanuts popularity the world over, many exotic recipes which contain peanuts are available to the adventurous gourmet. The Wakulla Green Thumb 4-H club members took turns planting the rows and cultivating the crop under the directions of their club leaders, JoAnn Green and Mar sha Crisler. Both leaders are Wakulla County Master Gardeners. To learn more about growing peanuts in Wakulla County or participating in the 4-H program, visit the UF/IFAS Wakulla County website at http://wakulla.ifas.ufl.edu or call (850) 926-3931. Les Harrison is UF/IFAS Wakulla County Extension Director and Clara Foran is UF/ IFAS Wakulla County Family and Consumer Sciences Program Aide.