Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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How to Grow and Care for Squirting Cucumber
Squirting cucumbers are an unusual and fun type of cucumber to grow in the garden. Unlike regular cucumbers, they grow small 3-4 inch fruits that are best harvested when young and tender. When ripe, the fruits quite literally “squirt” a gelatinous liquid and seeds when lightly squeezed, giving this vegetable its descriptive name. With some…
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What Is a Lifer Bird?
A lifer bird refers to any bird species that a birder sees and identifies for the first time. It goes on the birder’s life list as a new bird species they can check off as spotted. For passionate birdwatchers, expanding their life list becomes a lifelong adventure. Spotting and identifying new lifer birds in the…
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How to Focus Binoculars
Focusing binoculars properly is critical for getting a clear, sharp view of your subject. With some basic knowledge and a few easy steps, you can learn how to adjust binoculars for your eyes and the viewing situation. Adjust the Interpupillary Distance The interpupillary distance (IPD) is the space between the centers of your pupils. Matching…
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Poison Sumac vs. Staghorn Sumac: The Major Differences
Sumac is a genus of flowering plants that includes over 250 species. Two of the most common sumac species in North America are poison sumac and staghorn sumac. While they share some similarities, there are some key differences between these two plants that you need to be aware of. An Overview of Poison Sumac Poison…
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Broad-Tailed Hummingbird or Ruby-Throated Hummingbird?
Introduction The broad-tailed hummingbird (Selasphorus platycercus) and the ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) are two of the most popular and recognizable hummingbird species in North America. Though they occupy overlapping ranges, there are some key differences between these tiny, energetic birds that allow bird enthusiasts to distinguish them. In this article, we will compare and contrast…
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How to Kill Clover
Clover is a common weed that invades lawns and gardens. While clover isn’t necessarily harmful, its spreading nature can quickly take over turf grass areas. Killing clover takes some work, but it can be done organically or with chemical controls. With persistence and the right techniques, you can get rid of clover for good. Why…
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South Texas Birding Overview
South Texas offers some of the best birding opportunities in the United States. With its diversity of habitats including beaches, tidal flats, grasslands, brushlands and riparian woodlands, the area attracts hundreds of resident and migratory bird species throughout the year. For any birder, South Texas promises exciting discoveries and memorable sightings. Introduction South Texas extends…
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5 Homemade Weed Killers That Really Work
Weeds can be the bane of any gardener’s existence. They pop up uninvited, choking out delicate plants and flowers. While store-bought weed killers may seem like an easy solution, many contain harsh chemicals like glyphosate that can damage the environment. Luckily, there are homemade alternatives that provide non-toxic methods for targeting tough weeds. These DIY…
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Poison Ivy Pictures: How to Identify It
Poison ivy is a common poisonous plant found throughout much of North America. Contact with poison ivy can cause an itchy, irritating, and sometimes painful rash in most people. Being able to identify poison ivy is key to avoiding exposure and the resulting rash. What Does Poison Ivy Look Like? Poison ivy can take several…
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How to Identify Poison Sumac (with Pictures)
Poison sumac is a woody shrub that can cause an irritating, potentially dangerous rash upon skin contact. Learning how to identify poison sumac is important to avoid coming into contact with this hazardous plant. With some knowledge of poison sumac’s distinguishing features and habitat, you can stay safe when spending time outdoors. Introduction to Poison…
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