There’s nothing better than cooking with fresh, just-picked homegrown herbs! Come learn how to make an easy container herb garden, perfect for small spaces like a patio, balcony, or a larger backyard garden. You could even keep an herb planter indoors in a sunny window or under a grow light.This guide will explore the best herbs to grow in pots, container sizes, water and harvesting tips, and more. With this fun and simple garden project, you’ll be harvesting your own delicious herbs in no time!The Best Herbs to Grow in PotsHerbs that grow well in containers include culinary herbs like basil, thyme, sage, chives, parsley, rosemary, dill, cilantro, and oregano. If you plan to grow herbs indoors, consider chives, tarragon, lemon balm, mint, basil or parsley – all of which perform better inside than some larger, woodier herbs.Many of these herbs grow as annuals but can also survive as perennials in temperate zones or when protected over winter. However, they may become too crowded or stunted over time when confined to a container (especially if you plant several together). Thankfully, it’s cheap, quick and easy to re-plant fresh herbs each spring if you desire!Mint also grows well in a container but should be kept in its own pot. Mint spreads aggressively and therefore should only be planted in a confined container – never in the ground or a raised bed! Fennel also does best in a separate large container as it readily out-competes other herbs.Thyme, rosemary and sage is a great comboWhat herbs grow well together in the same container? Most herbs will happily grow alongside one another as companion plants when provided moderate water and sunshine. However, it’s wise to consider the different soil, sun, and water needs of various herbs too.For instance, woody herbs like rosemary, sage, oregano, lavender, and thyme enjoy full sun and are more drought-tolerant than some more tender herbs, and therefore grow very well together in a common container or pot.Likewise, dill, basil, parsley, cilantro and chives thrive together as they all prefer consistently damp soil (but not overly wet) and benefit from partial afternoon shade in hot climates.A mature herb planter full of several varieties of sage and thyme (flowering at the end of the season). RELATED: Learn even more about growing herbs here – including tips to start from seed, the most shade-tolerant or cold-hardy herbs, our favorite recipes to use or preserve fresh herbs, and more!Step 1: Pick a ContainerYou can plant herbs in a container that’s made for gardening, or convert a container into an herb planter such as by adding drainage holes to a galvanized steel tub (shown in step 3). Yes, galvanized steel is food-safe!Choose a container that is at least 6 inches deep. Most annual herbs will happily grow in 6 to 8 inches of soil, though 10 to 12 inches will provide even more root space, better water retention, and healthier plants. Herbs like dill, parsley, and cilantro grow especially deep tap roots. To plant many types of herbs in one container, choose a wide planter with plenty of surface area so each herb has adequate space to grow (with at least 5 inches between plants). Or to plant just one herb seedling per pot, choose a container that is at least 8 inches wide and tall. To grow perennial herbs to overwinter for a second season or beyond, a larger herb planter is definitely best! Our massive 10-year old rosemary (zone 9 here) is thriving in a big wine barrel planter. Step 2: Choose Your Herbs Next, select which herbs you’d like to grow in your planter. Pick herbs that you think you’ll actually use, plus maybe a few new-to-you options to try too! Since many herbs vary in size depending on the cultivar, look for compact varieties or ones marketed as container-friendly. (See a list of the best herbs to grow in pots at the beginning on this post.)To get started, you can grow your own herbs from seed, though the most quick and easy way is to buy herb seedlings. Many of them will be large enough to start harvesting from right away! We prefer to get organically grown herbs from a local nursery, especially since big box garden centers are more likely to spray their plants with pesticides.Some of my personal favorite herbs include thyme, sage, rosemary, oregano, and basil. Don’t miss my guide on growing basil to get huge bushy plants! I also really love to grow chamomile and lemon verbena to dry for tea or use fresh in homemade herbal sun tea. Step 3: Add Drainage and LinerIf your chosen herb planter doesn’t yet have drainage holes, it’s time to add some! Adequate drainage is essential so plant roots don’t rot in standing water. Most herbs prefer consistently damp soil, but not sopping wet.We used a drill with a 3/8″ bit to add several drainage holes to a galvanized steel container. If you don’t have a drill, you could also use a large nail and hammer. Caution: this will create sharp metal shavings and possibly some sharp edges around the drainage holes, so be careful while you work. I laid a cloth under the tub for easy clean-up.To prevent the soil from leaking through the drainage holes, you may want to line the bottom of the container with a piece of natural burlap or durable landscape fabric – especially if you intend to keep your herb planter indoors. (But don’t line it with impervious plastic!)Natural burlap will degrade within a couple years, so quality landscape fabric may be a better choice for a long-lasting liner. Though it’s easy to add fresh burlap is you plan to re-plant your herb container every year or two!Step 4: Add SoilNext, fill the herb planter about two-thirds full of soil. Herbs grow best in moderately rich, fluffy, well-draining soil. Fresh, high-quality potting soil is an ideal choice for a container herb garden. I also like to mix in a few handfuls of aged compost and/or worm castings to the soil for additional nutrients.Step 5: Plant HerbsLast but not least, it’s time to plant your container herb garden! Space each herb seedling at least 4 to 5 inches apart. For the best results and long-term growth, space them even further – up to 8 to 12 inches apart.Many nursery starts come with more than one seedling per pot (basil is especially notorious for this), so be sure to gently tease apart and separate crowded seedlings before planting them too. When planting the herbs, keep the existing root ball level with the soil. Add more soil as needed so that the container is completely full, but avoid burying the stems in soil so they don’t rotWhere to Put an Herb Garden PlanterMost annual herbs grow best in full sun, so place your new herb planter somewhere that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.However, some herbs can also tolerate partial shade and may even benefit from a little afternoon shade during the hottest part of summer. Check the sunlight preferences for each herb you planted. That’s the beauty of growing herbs in a container: you can move it around as needed! If you’re keeping your herb planter indoors, choose a location that gets as much natural light as possible, like near a south-facing sunny window. Or, use a basic grow light to provide better light if needed. You’ll also need a drainage tray below the planter to protect your surfaces and catch runoff after watering.Watering HerbsWater your herb planter often enough to keep the soil evenly damp but not overly wet. Let the soil dry out ever-so-slightly between watering. Water needs will vary depending on your climate, container, and age of the plants. Large mature plants soak up water more quickly than small seedlings. Note that smaller pots generally dry out faster than larger containers, raised beds or in-ground gardens. When in doubt, use a handy moisture meter to check the soil before adding more water! I use it for my finicky houseplants too.How to Harvest HerbsTo harvest fresh herbs, it’s best to cut small clippings of stems rather than pluck off individual leaves only. With regular pruning, the herbs will branch out, growing more full and bushy. The more you harvest, the more it promotes new growth!The exact method can vary slight depending on the herb, but in most cases, you can pinch or cut a stem above a small set of new leaves growing along the stem (aka, right above a leaf node). Don’t cut stems all the way to the soil level though! I usually trim off the top one-third to half of a stem, leaving at least a couple inches to continue to grow.If you overwinter perennial herbs in your planter, you can give them a deeper prune (cut back by about half to two-thirds) in late winter to promote fresh new growth in spring.Harvesting oregano stems just above a leaf node. Just a few days later, you’ll see new branches forming! Enjoy!Now, for the best part: sit back, relax, and watch your new herb garden planter grow! We love to use fresh herbs in recipes like our sourdough discard crackers, oven roasted artichokes, herb roasted Brussels sprouts, two-bite smashed potatoes, rosemary roasted mixed nuts and more! If you have enough to preserve, learn how to dry fresh herbs so you can make your own spice blends, tea, or herb infused oil.I hope you enjoyed this simple garden project. Please feel free to ask any questions in the comments or leave a review below. Have fun! Print DIY Container Herb Garden Planter Come learn how to make an easy DIY herb garden planter from a pot, metal tub, or other container – perfect for small spaces, a patio, balcony, indoors, or backyard garden. Also learn what herbs grow best together in a container! Keyword container herb garden, growing herbs, growing herbs in pots, growing herbs in small spaces, growing herbs indoors, herb garden, herb planter Cook Time 30 minutes minutes Cost $50 Equipmentdrill with 1/4" to 3/8" drill bit (if using a metal tub)burlap or permeable landscape fabric to line the container (optional but recommended, for indoors especially) Ingredientsa container such as a large terracotta pot, galvanized metal tub, grow bag, or wine barrel planter (see size tips below)herb seedlings of choice, such as basil, thyme, sage, oregano, parsley, tarragon, chives, dill, rosemary, cilantro, or mint* (plant mint in it's own separate pot)potting soilcompost or worm castings InstructionsChoose a container that is at least 6 to 8 inches deep (10 to 12 is even better for long-term plant growth) and wide enough to space each herb at least 4 to 5 inches apart. The more space, the better! If planting just one type of herb per container, choose a pot that is about 8 inches wide and deep. Choose your herbs. Pick things you'll actually want to use and eat! Woody herbs like sage, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and lavender grow well together in a container as they all prefer full sun and are drought tolerant. Tender herbs like basil, chives, dill, parsley, lemon balm and tarragon thrive together with consistent moisture, partial afternoon shade in hot conditions, and also grow better inside than others.Add drainage holes if your container doesn't already have them. We use a 1/4 to 3/8" drill bit to add several drainage holes to the bottom of our galvanized steel tub. Use caution as it creates sharp shavings and edges. Add a liner. To prevent the soil from leaking through the drainage holes, you may want to line the bottom of the container with a piece of natural burlap or durable landscape fabric – especially if you intend to keep your herb planter indoors. Add soil. Fill the herb planter about two-thirds full of moderately rich, fluffy, well-draining soil, such as high-quality potting soil. I also like to mix in a few handfuls of aged compost and/or worm castings to the soil or additional nutrients.Plant herbs, spacing each herb at least 4 to 5 inches apart or up to 8 to 12 inches apart for the best long-term growth. Gently separate crowded nursery seedlings before planting. Top off with more soil if needed until the container is full, but don't bury the herb stems. Place your new herb planter somewhere that receives full sun (at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Some herbs can also tolerate partial shade and may even benefit from a little afternoon shade during the hottest part of summer. If you’re keeping your herb planter indoors, choose a location that gets as much natural light as possible, like near a south-facing sunny window or under a grow light. Harvest herbs routinely by taking small cuttings (not by plucking individual leaves) just above a leaf node. The more you harvest, the more new growth and bushier they will get! Cut stems back by 1/3 to half. You may also enjoy:Harvesting Fresh Lavender: How to Harvest, Prune & Dry Lavender Flowers How to Propagate (Grow) Sage Cuttings in Water or Soil Garden Companion Planting Chart, Plans, and Benefits How to Make Chive Blossom Vinegar + 8 Ways to Use it All About Calendula: How to Grow, Harvest, Dry, & Use Calendula FlowersThe post DIY Container Herb Garden Planter + The Best Herbs to Grow appeared first on Homestead and Chill.

Read the original post "DIY Muffin Liners" on A Modern Homestead. Making your own DIY muffin liners isn't just a handy fix when you run out, it’s also a great way to save money, reduce waste, and keep baking without any extra errands! Plus, they look adorable in a rustic, homemade kind of way. Perfect for gifting or serving at brunches! Make these in any size!... Read More The post "DIY Muffin Liners" appeared first on A Modern Homestead.

Read the original post "Ultimate Mini Muffins Recipe (1 Batter, Many Flavors)" on A Modern Homestead. This ultimate mini muffin recipe is a go-to in our house. It’s simple, versatile, and perfect for creating many flavors with one base batter! Make these in bulk to freeze for later! Whether you're baking to fill the freezer, prepping lunchbox snacks, or trying to use up the last ripe banana on the counter, this base recipe... Read More The post "Ultimate Mini Muffins Recipe (1 Batter, Many Flavors)" appeared first on A Modern Homestead.

The best home accents aren’t always found in stores. Often, the most stunning pieces come straight from nature. Wildcrafted decor uses natural elements such as using driftwood, pinecones, dried flowers, and handwoven textiles to create a home connected to the land. Each item carries a unique history shaped by time, weather, and the environment. Sourcing for wildcrafted decor materials is an adventure in itself. A simple walk through the woods, a visit to the beach, or a drive down a quiet road can reveal treasures waiting to be repurposed. However, always check local guidelines to ensure responsible and legal gathering before you start collecting. Simple Ways to Decorate with Wildcrafted Elements Using natural elements as decoration helps create a home that feels connected to the outdoors. Here are a few simple yet striking ways to showcase nature’s beauty in your space. Driftwood: Natural Elegance in Every Shape Driftwood tells a story of wind and water. Its sun-bleached surface and organic form make it a perfect decorative element. Wall Art: Mount a large, sculptural piece on the wall or arrange smaller ones inside a frame. Table Accents: Place a uniquely shaped branch on a dining table for an effortless statement. Functional Hooks: Attach sturdy driftwood to the wall and add hooks for a simple yet striking coat rack. Before working on your driftwood, soak it in water for a full day. Scrub off any debris, dry it completely, and apply natural oil if you want to seal it. For proper cleaning and preservation techniques, visit The Spruce or refer to National Park Service guidelines. Pinecones: Small Accents, Endless Uses Pinecones add natural texture and visual depth to any space, making a room feel more dynamic and inviting. Their unique shape and intricate patterns create contrast, preventing decor from looking flat or one-dimensional. Plus, pinecones are incredibly versatile—they can be used in everything from rustic centerpieces to festive wreaths and even as bowl fillers for a cozy, organic touch. Decorative Garlands: String pinecones onto twine for a nature-inspired accent. Candle Holders: Hollow out larger pinecones to hold tea lights and createa warm glow. Fragrant Potpourri: Mix pinecones with dried herbs and citrus peels to create a natural air freshener. To remove any insects and ensure longevity, bake pinecones at 200°F for 30 minutes. Once cooled, they’re ready to use. Dried Flowers: Preserved Beauty That Lasts Dried flowers capture the essence of a garden long after the growing season ends. Unlike fresh blooms, they don’t require watering and retain their charm for months. Hanging Arrangements: Tie small bundles with twine and hang them upside down to dry. Pressed Artwork: Frame delicate pressed flowers for an elegant touch in your home decor, adding a timeless, botanical charm to gallery walls, bedside tables, or entryway displays. Tabletop Accents: Scatter dried petals on a table to create a subtle, organic centerpiece. Some flowers hold their color and shape better than others. Lavender, statice, and hydrangeas remain vibrant even when dried. However, store them away from direct sunlight to prevent them from fading too fast. For additional drying techniques, visit Gardening Know How. Handwoven Textiles Natural fibers like cotton, wool, and linen create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, making sofas, bedding, and window treatments feel softer and more comfortable. Handwoven blankets, embroidered pillows, and linen table runners add rich texture while celebrating traditional craftsmanship and artisanal skills. Linen Table Runners: A woven linen runner enhances an understated, earthy aesthetic by introducing soft, natural texture that balances sleek or hard surfaces like wood and stone. Its subtle wrinkles and organic fibers create a relaxed, lived-in feel that complements rustic, farmhouse, or minimalist decor. Wall Hangings: A fiber-based tapestry adds texture and visual interest by breaking up bare walls with intricate weaves, layered patterns, or soft, flowing fabric. Whether it’s a macramé piece or a woven textile, the depth and movement draw the eye, making the space feel warmer and more dynamic. Woven Baskets: Handcrafted baskets provide functional storage. Locally made textiles reflect regional history and skill. Those interested in weaving can find beginner-friendly guides at Fiber Arts Magazine. A Home Rooted in Wildcrafted Decor Using wildcrafted decor is more than a design choice—it’s a way to connect with the world outside. Whether it’s a driftwood accent, a pinecone arrangement, or a woven textile, each piece holds a unique story. Do you incorporate natural elements into your home? Share your wildcrafted decor ideas in the comments! FAQs 1. Is it legal to gather natural materials for decor? Regulations vary by region. Public lands may have restrictions, while private property requires permission. Always check local guidelines before collecting. 2. How can I make wildcrafted decor last longer? Proper cleaning and storage are essential. Driftwood benefits from sealing, pinecones should be baked, and dried flowers need protection from moisture. 3. Can wildcrafted decor be used outside? Yes, but exposure to sunlight and rain can cause materials to break down. Use protective finishes for added durability or bring pieces indoors during harsh weather. 4. How do I clean found materials safely? Soak driftwood, bake pinecones, and shake out dried flowers before using them. This prevents insects, mold, or unwanted debris from entering your home. 5. What are easy beginner-friendly projects? Simple garlands, framed dried flowers, and driftwood centerpieces require minimal effort and add a personal touch to any space.

Reviving old homestead furniture brings forgotten pieces back to life. Instead of discarding worn-out chairs or scratched tables, consider restoring them to their old glory. Traditional methods like milk paint and beeswax plus applying simple refinishing techniques can make these projects more manageable. With a little effort, you can help add some functional beauty to your home and at the same time preserve history and reduce waste. Assess the Condition Before You Start Before sanding or painting old furniture, check the structure. Look for loose joints, cracks, or missing parts. Wood glue and clamps can easily fix wobbly legs, while replacement screws help secure unstable sections. If old paint or varnish covers the surface, test for lead using an EPA-approved kit. In addition, dirt and grease build up over time and make cleaning necessary. A simple mixture of warm water and vinegar can remove grime without damaging the wood. If stains persist, mild dish soap and a soft brush also work well. Always dry thoroughly your furniture before moving on to refinishing. Refinishing for a Fresh Look Stripping old finish requires patience, but doing so helps reveal the wood’s natural character. But don’t use harsh chemical strippers and instead opt for a citrus-based alternative or a heat gun. A putty knife also helps lift stubborn layers. Once the surface is clean, sand lightly to smooth imperfections. For a classic finish, use linseed oil to enhance the grain and protect the wood. Apply a thin layer, let it absorb, then buff gently with a cloth. If the surface feels rough after drying, sand lightly and reapply. This method works well for antique cabinets, wooden chairs, and sturdy tables. Repainting with Milk Paint Milk paint is ideal for homestead furniture. It’s non-toxic, biodegradable, and creates a soft, vintage finish. Unlike latex paint, it seeps into wood rather than forming a thick layer on top. This results in a more natural appearance. Mix the milk powder powder with warm water, stir well, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Apply in thin coats using a quality brush. For a distressed effect, skip the bonding agent. If you want a smoother look, mix in the bonding agent before painting. After drying, seal with hemp oil or beeswax for a durable, long-lasting finish. Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Furniture Not all pieces need a full restoration. Some can serve a new purpose with minor adjustments. Below are some of the more creative ways to give old furniture new life: Turn an old door into a farmhouse-style dining table. Stack wooden crates to create modular bookshelves or storage units. Convert a broken dresser into a bathroom vanity by cutting space for a sink. Repurpose a ladder as a towel rack, vertical plant stand, or display shelf. Mount drawers on a wall to use as floating shelves for books or decor. Use a salvaged tabletop as a serving board, kitchen island top, or coffee table. Transform a headboard into a bench with added legs and a seat cushion. Attach old chair backs to a wooden board for unique wall hooks or a coat rack. Focusing on sturdy materials and unique shapes helps in repurposing. A little creativity turns discarded items into functional and stylish home additions. Sealing and Protecting Your Work Proper sealing keeps restored furniture looking great for years. Beeswax, a favorite among homesteaders, provides a smooth, protective coating. Rub a small amount onto the surface, let it sit, then buff with a soft cloth. For tabletops or frequently used furniture, tung oil offers excellent moisture resistance. Unlike synthetic sealers, it penetrates deep and strengthens the wood while preserving its character. Reviving Old Homestead Furniture for Future Use Reviving old homestead furniture keeps tradition alive and prevents waste. Whether refinishing, repainting, or repurposing, thoughtful restoration adds function and history to your home. Have you taken on a furniture restoration project? Share your experience in the comments below! FAQs What’s the best way to clean wood furniture before refinishing? A mixture of warm water and vinegar removes dirt. For tough stains, mild dish soap and a soft brush work well. How can I tell if furniture contains lead paint? Use an EPA-approved lead test kit. If the test is positive, follow proper safety measures for removal. Is milk paint better than traditional paint for antiques? Yes, milk paint absorbs into wood, creating a natural, aged appearance that blends well with older furniture. How do I fix deep scratches in wood furniture? Use wood filler for large scratches. For a natural fix, mix sawdust with wood glue and apply to the damaged area. What’s the safest way to strip old paint? Citrus-based strippers and heat guns work well. Avoid strong chemicals that release harmful fumes. Can I use beeswax on all wood types? Yes, beeswax enhances the wood’s appearance and provides protection without altering its natural color. What’s the difference between tung oil and linseed oil? Tung oil creates a harder, water-resistant finish, while linseed oil provides a softer, natural look. How do I reinforce weak furniture joints? Apply wood glue to loose joints and clamp them until dry. For extra support, add small brackets or screws. What’s a simple way to repurpose furniture? Turn an old dresser into a bathroom vanity, use drawers as wall shelves, or convert a headboard into a bench. How can I prevent brush marks when painting furniture? Use a high-quality brush, apply thin coats, and sand lightly between layers for a smooth finish.