The Field Notes
Garden knowledge,
built to last.
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Wood chipper branch capacity: what the maximum diameter misses
Judge wood chipper branch capacity by species, green or dry wood, knots, forks, feed opening, cutting system, engine load, discharge, and safe handling.
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Forward vs. counter-rotating tiller tines: which fits your soil?
Compare forward and counter-rotating tiller tines by traction, hard soil, established beds, stones, roots, control, passes, depth, and machine weight.
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Greenhouse exhaust fans: how to size CFM, shutters, and controls
Learn how to estimate greenhouse exhaust fan CFM, allow for shutters and resistance, size the intake, choose controls, and commission the system.
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Greenhouse grow lights: plan DLI, coverage, and power before buying
Plan greenhouse grow lights from the crop’s DLI deficit, photon maps, fixture overlap, controls, and the greenhouse’s complete electrical load.
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Greenhouse benches and shelving: choose layout, material, and load
Choose greenhouse benches and shelving that fit your reach, preserve the aisle, drain freely, and carry fully watered containers without sway.
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Greenhouse polycarbonate thickness: 6 mm, 8 mm, or 16 mm?
Choose greenhouse polycarbonate thickness by frame compatibility, support spacing, thermal and light data, profiles, expansion, and local loads.
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Shed ramp slope and size: safe access for mowers and carts
Calculate shed ramp rise and run, check mower clearance, choose width and load capacity, and plan a stable threshold, surface, and foundation.
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Shed ventilation: how to control heat, moisture, and stale air
Diagnose shed heat and moisture, place passive vents, decide whether a fan helps, and avoid common condensation and retrofit mistakes.
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Tow-behind lawn sweepers: how to choose width, brushes, and hamper size
Match a tow-behind lawn sweeper to the tractor, property route, dry debris, brush setup, usable load, dumping point, and storage space.
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Lawn sweeper vs. bagger: which cleanup system fits your yard?
Decide between a tow-behind sweeper and mower bagger by collection timing, dry leaves, clippings, exact compatibility, emptying, and storage.
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Tow-behind spreaders: capacity, calibration, and control
Compare tow-behind spreaders by rotary or drop pattern, loaded weight, ground drive, flow control, calibration, edge protection, and service.
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Tow-behind lawn rollers: choose weight without compacting soil
Compare tow-behind lawn rollers by useful fill, width, drum material, hitch, service parts, route, storage, and the conditions when rolling should be skipped.