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.

Spring has arrived, which means it’s time for your annual kitchen spring cleaning! If your homestead kitchen endured an entire season of baking, canning, and hearty meals, it’s probably due for a much-needed refresh. Instead of relying on harsh chemicals to get the job done, why not embrace some tried-and-true methods of the past? Using simple ingredients and applying traditional techniques, your kitchen will feel spotless and welcoming in no time! A Fresh Start: Simple Steps for Kitchen Spring Cleaning Instead of using chemical cleaners, use traditional methods to tackle dirt, grime, and clutter. From organizing your pantry to scrubbing wooden surfaces, these simple yet effective methods will leave your space looking and smelling fresh. Ready to get started? Here’s how to deep-clean your kitchen the old-fashioned way. Start with a Pantry Purge First, tackle the pantry. Crumbs, dust, and expired items accumulate over time and create an ideal environment for pests. Start by emptying the shelves and checking expiration dates. As you go, take inventory of what you have and plan meals around ingredients that need consuming sooner than later. Next, wipe down shelves with a mixture of warm water and white vinegar. This natural solution cleans surfaces while discouraging insects. For sticky residue or stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda before wiping. To keep pantry staples fresh, transfer grains and flour into airtight glass jars. If you’ve ever dealt with pantry moths, you know they can be a headache. Placing dried bay leaves in storage containers is a simple solution as they naturally deter pests. Refresh Your Appliances Naturally Once you’re done with the pantry, shift your focus to appliances. The fridge, oven, and coffee maker all need attention after months of regular use. Start with the refrigerator. Toss expired condiments, remove and wash the shelves in warm, soapy water. To deodorize, wipe the interior with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Placing an open box of baking soda inside will help absorb lingering odors. For the oven, skip chemical sprays. Instead, create a paste with baking soda and water. Spread it inside and let it sit overnight. The next morning, wipe it away with a damp cloth. If grease remains, spritz vinegar over the area to loosen it. For additional natural cleaning methods, visit Good Housekeeping’s vinegar-cleaning guide. To descale your coffee maker, run a cycle with equal parts water and vinegar. Follow with two freshwater cycles to remove any residual vinegar taste. Your morning coffee will taste noticeably fresher! Give Wooden Surfaces the Care They Deserve Wooden countertops, cutting boards, and utensils can lose their luster over time. Fortunately, an easy remedy can restore their natural beauty. First, sprinkle coarse salt over the surface and scrub with a halved lemon. The salt lifts stains, while the lemon’s acidity eliminates bacteria. For deeper conditioning, combine one part melted beeswax with three parts mineral oil, then rub it into the wood. This prevents drying and cracking while enhancing durability. If you use cast iron cookware, now is the perfect time to re-season it. Scrub with coarse salt and a bit of oil instead of soap, then bake it in the oven to maintain its nonstick coating. Need more guidance? Check out Bon Appetit’s guide to caring for wooden boards and cast iron. Wash Windows and Curtains for a Brighter Space A well-lit kitchen feels more inviting, so don’t forget the windows! Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then wipe glass with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine. If you have lace or fabric curtains, wash them with baking soda to remove grime. Let them air-dry outside to generate a crisp, fresh scent. For blinds, an old sock dipped in a vinegar-water solution works wonders. Slip the sock onto your hand and glide it along each slat to remove dust. This quick trick instantly brightens the room. Scrub Floors the Old-Fashioned Way After tackling surfaces, finish with the floors. Dirt and grease build up over the months, especially in busy areas. Instead of store-bought cleaners, try an old-fashioned mop-and-bucket method. Mix warm water with a splash of castile soap or vinegar for hardwood floors. Use a damp—not soaking—mop to prevent damage. If your floors are tile or linoleum, add a few drops of lemon essential oil to the water for a refreshing scent. To lift stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda directly on the floor before mopping. This method is particularly effective near the stove and sink, where grease and spills tend to accumulate. Keep the Tradition of Kitchen Spring Cleaning Alive With these kitchen spring cleaning techniques, your homestead kitchen will feel refreshed, organized, and chemicals-free. Using natural ingredients protects your family and honors timeless cleaning traditions. So, roll up your sleeves, turn on some music, and enjoy the rewarding process of deep-cleaning—just like Grandma used to do! What’s your favorite old-fashioned cleaning trick? Share in the comments below! FAQs 1. How often should I deep clean my kitchen? A thorough kitchen spring cleaning is ideal once a year, but a seasonal refresh helps maintain an organized and hygienic space. 2. What’s the best natural cleaner for kitchen surfaces? A mix of white vinegar and warm water cleans most surfaces effectively. For grease, add a pinch of baking soda. 3. How can I prevent pantry pests naturally? Store dry goods in airtight containers and place bay leaves in flour, rice, and grain storage. Freezing grains for 48 hours before storing also helps. 4. How do I remove stubborn oven grease without chemicals? Make a baking soda paste with water, spread it inside the oven, and let it sit overnight. Wipe with a damp cloth the next day, using vinegar for any tough spots. 5. What’s the best way to clean wooden cutting boards? Sprinkle coarse salt over the board, then scrub with a halved lemon. This lifts stains and eliminates bacteria naturally. 6. Can I use vinegar to clean everything in my kitchen? No, vinegar should not be used on natural stone countertops, cast iron, or waxed wood, as it can erode finishes over time. 7. How do I naturally deodorize my refrigerator? An open box of baking soda absorbs odors. Wiping the interior with a vinegar-water solution also keeps it smelling fresh. 8. What’s the best way to clean kitchen floors naturally? Use warm water with a splash of vinegar or castile soap for hardwood. For tile or linoleum, add lemon essential oil for a refreshing scent. 9. How can I make my kitchen smell fresh without chemicals? Simmer a pot of water with lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, or rosemary on the stove. It naturally freshens the air. 10. What’s the quickest way to clean dusty blinds? Slip an old sock onto your hand, dip it in a vinegar-water solution, and glide it along each slat. It’s an easy and effective dusting method!

Homesteaders understand the importance of resourcefulness. For example, they know that storing seasonal clothing requires careful planning and that plastic bins aren’t the best choice. They trap moisture that causes musty odors and release harmful chemicals over time. Eventually, they crack and will need to get thrown out, which adds unnecessary waste to landfills. Fortunately, there are better options than plastic bins. Cedar chests, DIY linen bags, and repurposed storage solutions help protect fabrics and keep your home eco-friendly. These methods are all practical, affordable, and adaptable. A close-up of hands gently folding a wool sweater into a handmade linen storage bag. Small cedar blocks and dried lavender sachets are placed inside for natural protection. The soft, neutral fabrics and organic elements evoke a sense of sustainable living and mindful storage practices. Why Plastic Bins Aren’t Ideal for Seasonal Clothing Storage Although plastic containers seem convenient, they have several drawbacks: Trapped moisture encourages mold and mildew. Restricted airflow leads to stale odors. Chemicals from plastic can weaken delicate fabrics. Non-biodegradable materials create long-term environmental waste. Breathable alternatives like wood, fabric, and woven materials allow air to circulate freely and help keep stored clothing fresh. Cedar Chests: A Natural Way to Protect Clothing Cedar repels moths, absorbs excess moisture, and smells nice. If you own a cedar chest, you already have an excellent storage solution. However, you can still achieve similar benefits without one. Line wooden trunks with cedar planks or place cedar blocks inside. Refresh older cedar chests by lightly sanding the interior and applying a few drops of cedar essential oil. Wrap clothing in cotton sheets to add an extra layer of protection. For more information on maintaining cedar, visit this wood care guide. DIY Linen Bags: A Breathable & Sustainable Option Linen is naturally moisture-wicking, durable, and resistant to static buildup. Unlike plastic garment bags, linen allows fabrics to breathe and prevent odors and fabric breakdown. Making your own linen storage bags is simple. Cut an old linen sheet into large rectangles. Sew three sides together, leaving the top open. Attach a drawstring or secure with wooden clothespins. Place dried lavender sachets inside to deter insects. Linen’s breathable texture keeps stored items fresh. Need more DIY storage ideas? This fabric storage guide has creative options. Upcycled Storage Solutions: Smart & Eco-Friendly Reusing existing items eliminates waste even as they add character to your home. Instead of buying new containers, consider these repurposed storage ideas: Vintage suitcases keep dust away and doubles as decor. Wooden crates fit neatly under beds or inside closets. Line them with soft fabric for added protection. Wicker baskets provide easy access to seasonal accessories and allow airflow. Pillowcases serve as simple garment protectors. Tie them closed with twine for a rustic touch. Looking for more upcycling inspiration? Explore these creative storage hacks. Maximizing Storage Space in a Small Homestead Limited space doesn’t mean limited storage. Simple adjustments help maximize every inch of your home. Wall hooks keep coats and scarves organized without taking up floor space. Under-bed storage provides hidden compartments for out-of-season clothing. Multi-purpose furniture like storage ottomans or benches adds function without clutter. These techniques help small spaces stay neat and efficient. Keeping Clothes Fresh & Pest-Free Naturally Proper storage preserves clothing quality. Instead of chemical-filled mothballs, try natural alternatives: Lavender repels insects and add a pleasant scent. Cedar keeps pests away and absorbs excess moisture. Bay leaves naturally deter bugs. Cloves and cinnamon sticks prevent infestations and add warmth to fabric storage. Placing these natural elements in sachets helps maintain freshness year-round. Seasonal Clothing Storage the Sustainable Way Seasonal clothing storage doesn’t have to rely on plastic. Cedar chests, linen bags, and upcycled materials provide effective and eco-friendly alternatives. Small homesteads can stay clutter-free using under-bed storage, wall hooks, and multi-functional furniture. Choosing sustainable solutions protects clothing and reduce your environmental impact. With a little creativity, your storage system can be functional, stylish, and waste-free. How do you store seasonal clothing sustainably? Share your tips in the comments! FAQs How do I prevent stored clothes from smelling stale? Use breathable fabric like linen or cotton. Adding lavender sachets or cedar blocks helps maintain a fresh scent. Can essential oils help protect clothing in storage? Yes! Cedar, lavender, and peppermint oils naturally repel moths and other insects. Apply them to wooden blocks or fabric pouches. What’s the best way to store wool clothing? Fold wool sweaters and place them in breathable fabric bags. Keep them in a cool, dry space with cedar to prevent pests. Are cardboard boxes safe for clothing storage? Cardboard can attract pests and absorb moisture. Line the inside with cotton fabric and add natural insect deterrents if you use them. How often should I refresh cedar storage blocks? Every six months, lightly sand cedar blocks or add a few drops of cedar essential oil to keep them effective. What’s a cheap alternative to plastic bins for storage? Vintage suitcases, wooden crates, and fabric-lined baskets are great budget-friendly options. Old pillowcases can also work for individual garments. How can I store clothes without taking up too much space? Under-bed storage, wall-mounted hooks, and storage ottomans help maximize available space without cluttering your home. How do I prevent white clothes from yellowing in storage? Wash them thoroughly before storing. Keep them in breathable fabric bags and place baking soda sachets nearby to absorb moisture. Is it safe to store clothes in attics or basements? Only if the area remains dry and temperature-controlled. Use fabric bags, cedar blocks, and moisture absorbers to prevent damage. What natural methods keep pests away from stored clothes? Lavender, cedar, bay leaves, and cloves work well. Store these in small fabric pouches and place them inside drawers or storage containers.

Are you dreaming of big bushy basil plants? Come learn how to grow basil at home with tips to plant, prune, and harvest basil to encourage full, prolific basil plants to enjoy all season long. Basil is a versatile, delicious, warm-weather annual herb that should be part of every summer garden. It’s one of my favorite easy herbs to grow, especially since we cook with it so much! Using these tips, we harvest pounds and pounds of basil every summer – more than enough to enjoy fresh, dry some, make frozen basil cubes, and stock our freezer with homegrown pesto.Just a couple basil plants will provide plenty of fresh leaves to enjoy with your summer salads and sauces. However, if you hope to have extra to preserve, plan to grow at least a few plants.Note: This post was originally published in April 2019 and significantly updated in 2025.Disclosure: Homestead and Chill is reader-supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Best Basil VarietiesThe most common type of basil is Italian or Genovese basil. These reliable varieties grow smooth, tender, spoon-shaped leaves that offer that classic sweet-yet-herbaceous basil flavor. We especially enjoy growing Rutger’s Devotion basil, a productive Genovese-type with excellent downy mildew resistance.Yet there are many other fun and unique varieties of basil to grow too! Consider beautiful Opal (purple) basil, Lemon basil, Sweet Thai basil, or even Cinnamon basil. Here is an awesome mixed-variety pack of basil seeds to try. Some “lettuce” leaf basil varieties offer huge furled leaves. We also love to grow Tulsi (holy basil) for tea, and African Blue Basil as a gorgeous ornamental pollinator plant (though it has sterile seeds, so it’s only available as seedlings or cuttings).I always love to grow purple basil in the garden… but be forewarned, it makes homemade pesto not-so-pretty!6 Ways to Make Basil BushyBefore we get into the best practices to care for basil, here are a few quick tips to make your basil extra bushy – giving you abundant leaves to harvest all summer long!Separate or thin basil seedlings to give them space. Leaving many basil seedlings crowded together stunts their growth. We like to plant seedlings in clusters of 3, each spaced 5 to 7 inches apart. Top or prune basil seedlings once they’re at least 4 to 6 inches tall to encourage branching. Add a sprinkle of mycorrhizae and worm castings to the root zone at planting time for improved nutrient uptake and explosive plant growth. Prune and harvest basil regularly throughout the growing season to promote fresh new growth and branches – but don’t only pick the leaves off! Pinch off flowers, especially early in the season. See more details on all these tips below!A side-by-side trial showing basil growth with (left) and without (right) mycorrhizae! We usually add a sprinkle of this granular mycorrhizae right into the planting hole, but if you’ve already planted yours, you can water it with this water-soluble version instead. Growing Basil from SeedBasil is easy to grow from seed, though it requires planning in advance since basil tends to grow a bit slowly at first. We typically start our basil seed indoors in the late winter to early spring to get a jump start on the season.Start basil seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost date. Fill seed starting trays with damp (pre-moistened) fluffy seed starting mix. Plant just a few basil seeds per cell or pot, and lightly bury the seeds about 1/4 inch deep or less. Basil seeds sprout most readily when the soil temperature is 75 to 85°F, so use a seedling heat mat to keep the soil warm as needed. Immediately after sprouting, basil needs ample bright light (ideally 12 to 14 hours per day) to prevent leggy seedlings. A sunny window may work okay, though grow lights will provide even better light. Keep the seedling soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Avoid overwatering since basil is prone to rot. Thin and pot up seedlings as needed to prevent them from getting root bound or overly crowded. Before transplanting indoor starts outside, make sure to properly harden them off! You can also direct-sow basil seeds outdoors once the risk of frost has passed, though it will sprout and grow much slower that way.RELATED: Get more detailed tips and best practices for starting seeds indoors, including a list of our favorite seed starting supplies and how to make DIY seed starting mix.Soon after sprouting, we typically thin our basil down to just one seedling per cell. They grow SO much faster after being thinned! Growing Basil from Seedlings or CuttingsOn the other hand, the most quick and easy way to grow basil is from nursery seedlings – or even grocery store plants. They often come with several to dozens of basil seedlings growing in one pot, so you can gently tease apart the seedlings to get even more plants for free. And yes, you DO want to separate them to grow the biggest basil possible! If left too crowded, they’ll stay small and stunted.For the best results, choose a container with only a handful of young tender basil seedlings inside; those will be easier to separate without damaging the roots compared to larger, super-crowded bunches. Even better, choose a 6-pack of basil seedlings if available.It’s also incredibly easy to grow basil from cuttings. We often do this to create more free plants after trimming our basil seedlings. See our guide on how to propagate basil by rooting cuttings in water.Potting up basil seedlings (cuttings) that I rooted in water.Pruning Basil Seedlings for Bushy PlantsHere is one KEY to growing large, bushy basil plants! To encourage branching, it’s best to start pruning basil seedlings when they’re still quite small. Without pruning, basil tends to grow tall and lanky, which produces less leaves to harvest and also makes the plants more susceptible to flopping over.Once basil seedlings are at least 4 to 6 inches tall and have several sets of leaves, use fine trimming snips to cut off the top of the seedling (or, carefully pinch off the tops with your finger tips). Prune basil seedlings just above a “node” – the place where two larger leaves are growing out of the stem. Always leave at least 1 or 2 sets of nice leaves on the seedling to grow. See photos below. Within a couple weeks of pruning, the basil will grow two new branches from the node area!Now you can either eat the pruned tops, or use the longest cuttings to propagate basil in water to grow even more basil plants.These tall basil seedlings need their first haircutTrim basil just above a node – where two large leaves are growing from the main stem. New long branches will grow where those tiny leaves are!Basil seedlings after pruning. They look a bit sad now, but will have new branches within just a week or two!Planting Basil OutsidePlant basil outside in spring ater the risk of frost has passed, ideally once daytime temperatures are regularly in the 70s and overnight temperatures don’t dip below 40-50. Basil grows best in moderately rich, loose, well-draining soil, such as potting soil amended with aged compost. Since basil is prone to root rot when overwatered, amend heavy clay soil with horticulture sand, compost, and/or potting mix to improve drainage. Be sure to harden off indoor seedlings first and follow other transplanting best practices. We love to add a handful of worm castings and sprinkle of mycorrhizae to the planting hole. Both help to reduce transplant shock, encourage healthy root development, and increase nutrient uptake – which all lead to larger, bushy basil plants! Basil makes a wonderful tomato companion plant. We always plant basil near the base of our DIY tomato trellis. See spacing recommendations and tips about planting basil in containers to follow.These big basil bushes started as a cluster of three seedlings each, planted in a triangle about 6″ apart.How Far to Space Basil PlantsDepending on variety, it’s often recommended to space basil plants 8 to 12 inches apart. However, we prefer to plant our basil in clusters of three in a triangle, with each seedling spaced about 5 to 7 inches apart. That way, they don’t become stunted but still grow together into one large bush, which looks quite nice while the plants do provide support and shade for one another. Potted basil can also be planted more densely, with each seedling spaced about 4 to 6 inches apart.Growing Basil in Pots or IndoorsTo grow basil in a pot, choose a container that is at least 6 inches deep and 6 inches wide for one to two basil seedlings. But bigger is better, since the size of the container will limit the size of your basil plant as it matures. Use an even larger pot to plant multiple basil seedlings together, with enough room to space them at least 4 inches apart.Fill the pot with rich, well-draining potting soil and ensure the container has ample drainage holes. If you plan to keep the potted basil indoors, you can line the inside of the pot with porous landscape fabric to prevent the soil from running out of the drainage holes while still allowing water to escape.Place the pot of basil in a location that gets ample bright light. When growing basil indoors, keep it in a sunny windowsill or under a small grow light for the best results.Optimal Temperature and Sun to Grow BasilBasil is a tropical, tender herb that thrives in warm conditions. The ideal temperature range to grow basil is 65 to 85°F. Basil needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight, though it will benefit from some afternoon shade in the hottest climates. While it can handle an occasional cool or hot snap, prolonged exposure to heat over 90°F will cause stress.Basil is not frost-hardy, and quickly becomes stressed and stunted when overnight temperatures are routinely below 50°F. Since we have cool, foggy spring weather here, our basil plants look a bit sad and yellow until things start to heat up more in summer.How to Protect Basil from Heat or ColdBasil is admittedly a bit picky about it’s preferred temperature range, but there are ways to work around that!To protect basil during heat waves, shelter the plants with shade cloth. Or, plant basil between other taller plants that can offer protection and partial shade, such as between peppers, squash or tomatoes. Don’t overcrowd them so they get too little sun though! Since basil grows well in containers, you could simply plant it in a pot and move it to a partially shaded location as needed too.Protect basil from temperatures below 40°F using frost cloth, cloches, or other protective covers. Mulching around the base of plants also buffers the roots against temperature extremes.RELATED: Learn how to use garden hoops and row covers to protect plants from frost, heat or pests – including our favorite supplies!Our basil always appreciates a little shelter from its tomato friends.Water and MulchBasil prefers consistently damp soil. However, overwatering or standing water can easily lead to root rot, especially in cool conditions. So, it’s best to water basil when the soil just begins to dry out slightly. Potted plants generally dry out faster and therefore need more frequent water than basil growing in raised garden beds or in-ground.We rely on our handy automated raised bed drip irrigation to provide a nice consistent watering schedule. Though they’re not particularly heavy feeders, we also water our basil plants with dilute seaweed extract or compost tea once or twice during the growing season for additional nutrients.Add a couple inches of mulch to the soil around your basil to aid in even moisture retention. Good mulch options include compost, straw, leaves or fine wood chips. Harvesting BasilThe secret for big bushy basil is to use it! By regularly pruning and harvesting basil to enjoy, you encourage more and more new growth. Basil is not intended to be grown to a full size and then harvested in its entirety. Also, it’s not ideal to pluck off individual leaves alone – which is tedious and won’t promote new growth. To harvest basil, cut stems just above a node (like we did to prune seedlings). How deep you cut depends on the size and age of your plant. Always leave a few sets of leaves behind per stem, but feel free to cut several inches off the top – not just the tip! However, avoid cutting too deeply on the main center woody stalk from an established basil plant, as that part may not bounce back.When I harvest basil, I usually trim a little from various areas at different heights to encourage branching all over. Watch the video below to see how I do it!To harvest this stem, I’ll cut down near my fingertips – just above those two little sets of leaves – which will grow new branches. I’ll repeat the same for each long stem, sometimes cutting higher or lower on each one so I don’t take too much off the plant at once. Check out our YouTube channel for more videos by clicking here!Pinching Basil FlowersBasil will naturally begin to flower as it ages and transitions its energy into producing seed rather than growing new leaves. Basil may also start to flower early in response to stress, such as extreme heat, drought, or other unfavorable conditions. Once it starts to flower, the leaves will start to get increasingly tough and bitter. To delay flowering and encourage more fresh leaves to grow, it’s best to pinch off basil flowers soon after they form – especially early in the growing season. Paired with routine pruning and harvesting, your basil plant will continue to produce new tender leaves. Yet as the season goes on, we generally let our basil flower for the bees to enjoy.Pinch pinch, off you go!How to Store Basil After HarvestWe’ve found the best way to store basil is to place freshly cut stems in a bowl or jar with water, just like flowers in a vase! (Don’t soak the leaves in water however.) Then, simply keep it out on the counter at room temperature. Basil should stay fresh and perky for over a week this way. Change the water every few days as needed.Ways to Preserve BasilIf you have more than you can use fresh, please enjoy these ideas to preserve basil:Make our popular lemon walnut Besto Pesto recipe to freeze. Dehydrate basil leaves for easy dry storage. Make frozen basil cubes with olive oil, which are perfect to use for everyday cooking!And that concludes this lesson on growing basil. I hope you enjoyed this post and learned something new. Please feel free to ask questions in the comments below. Have a fantastic growing season!You may also enjoy:How to Dry Fresh Herbs: 4 Easy Ways + Storage Tips How to Make the Perfect Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles) with Pesto How to Plant Tomatoes: When, How Deep, Fertilizer, Pots & More Growing Herbs 101: How to Start a Kitchen Herb Garden, Indoors or Out Did you enjoy this article? Want to hear more? Stay in touch! Sign up below to receive weekly updates on new posts from Homestead and Chill. The post How to Grow Basil: Best Tips for Big Bushy Plants appeared first on Homestead and Chill.

Spring decorating isn’t just about applying pastels everywhere. If you want a welcoming home, focus on colors inspired by nature. The right spring home colors will brighten your space without feeling overwhelming. Earthy greens, golden yellows, and soft neutrals bring warmth and keep things balanced. Whether you're giving a room a fresh coat of paint or adding decorative accents, these spring home shades will help you achieve a comfortable, lived-in look. Let’s explore how to apply them throughout your home. Freshen Up Your Space with These Inviting Spring Home Colors Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home with warm, natural, and timeless colors. Instead of traditional pastels, consider shades that add depth and character while keeping your space inviting. Whether you're looking for a bold statement or just need subtle accents, these handpicked hues bring a fresh, effortless feel to your home this season. Earthy Greens: A Natural Refresh Green instantly connects a home to the outdoors, making it a perfect choice for spring. However, bright greens can feel overpowering while muted shades create a calming effect. Olive Green: Deep and understated, this shade blends well with wood tones and vintage accents. Use it on painted cabinets, upholstered chairs, or entryway walls. Sage Green: Light and airy, sage green adds a subtle pop of color without dominating the space. It works beautifully in kitchens, bedrooms, or as a front door shade. Check out these inspiring sage green home decor ideas. Deep Forest Green: A darker, dramatic option that pairs well with neutral backgrounds. Try it on built-in bookshelves, accent walls, or statement furniture pieces. If painting isn't an option, introduce green through decor. Throw blankets, ceramic vases, and leafy plants add depth and a natural feel without a major commitment. Warm Yellows: A Bright and Cheerful Accent Yellow brings energy into a space, which makes it an excellent choice for spring. Instead of pale pastels, opt for richer tones that add warmth and dimension. Mustard Yellow: A deep, golden hue that works well in living rooms and dining areas. It pairs beautifully with wood furniture and neutral upholstery. Honey Gold: Softer than mustard, this shade creates a cozy atmosphere without overwhelming a room. Use it for decorative accents, wall art, or lighting fixtures. Buttercream Yellow: A delicate, creamy shade blends seamlessly with whites and beiges. Ideal for bedding, curtains, or painted trim. Add some yellow to your home via fresh flowers, patterned rugs, or textured pillows. Even small pops of color can brighten a space without making it too bold. Soft Neutrals: A Timeless Foundation Neutrals provide a balanced backdrop that allow other colors to shine. For a softer look, choose shades with warmer undertones instead of stark whites or cool grays. Warm Beige: A classic, adaptable color that pairs well with both bold and muted tones. Use it for walls, large furniture pieces, or area rugs. Greige (Gray + Beige): This blended hue keeps spaces light while adding depth. Ideal for open-concept living areas or transitional spaces. Soft Taupe: A slightly deeper alternative to beige that works well in upholstery, drapery, or accent walls. It adds warmth without overpowering the room. Layering neutral tones creates dimension while maintaining an effortless, put-together look. Pair them with different textures like woven fabrics, linen, and wood for added interest. Bring Spring Home Colors Into Your Space Refreshing your home doesn’t have to mean following trends all the time. Using spring home colors like earthy greens, golden yellows, and soft neutrals can create a fresh and inviting space. Whether you're painting a wall or swapping out decor, these shades will add warmth without feeling overwhelming. Which color are you excited to try? Drop a comment below and let’s chat! FAQs 1. What are the best spring home colors for a natural look? Earthy greens, golden yellows, and soft neutrals create a fresh yet grounded feel. These shades work well with natural materials like wood and linen. 2. How can I add spring colors without repainting? Use throw pillows, blankets, curtains, and artwork in seasonal shades. Adding fresh flowers, ceramic vases, or patterned rugs also works well. 3. Is green a good color for small spaces? Yes! Light greens, like sage, make a room feel airy and open. Darker greens, such as forest green, work well as accents to add contrast. 4. Which neutral shades work best for spring decor? Warm beige, greige, and soft taupe provide a versatile backdrop. These tones pair well with greenery, natural wood, and golden yellow accents. 5. What colors complement earthy greens? Terracotta, burnt orange, and golden yellow enhance green’s warmth. Soft creams and warm wood tones also pair beautifully with natural greens. 6. Can I mix pastels with deeper tones? Yes! Soft pastels contrast beautifully with rich, earthy shades. Try a muted blush pink with olive green or a pale blue with honey gold. 7. What’s the best way to use yellow in home decor? Introduce yellow in small touches, such as throw pillows, wall art, or floral arrangements. Mustard or buttercream yellow also works well on furniture or trim. 8. What materials enhance these spring colors? Natural materials like linen, woven baskets, rattan, and reclaimed wood add texture and warmth to these color schemes. 9. What wall colors work well with wood furniture? Soft neutrals like warm beige, greige, and sage green complement wood furniture while keeping the space light and balanced. 10. How can I update my home for spring on a budget? Swap out textiles like blankets and pillow covers for fresh spring hues. Adding thrifted decor, seasonal flowers, and nature-inspired artwork also makes a big impact.