Tuesday, July 7, 2015

How to Propagate Basil



If you follow me on Instagram you may remember the photo I shared of tiny basil clippings lined up on my windowsill back in April.  I'm pleased to say that the propagating technique worked and my garden is now bursting with basil.  If you love basil as much as I do, you are going to want to try this!
 
1.  Start with a healthy basil plant from the grocery store or garden nursery.
 
 
2.  Cut of sections of basil at the top of the plant, making sure to cut the center stem at the intersection of 3 stems.  See example in photo below:
 
 
 
3.  Place each basil cutting in a small glass jar filled with water.
 
 

4.  Place jars in a sunny windowsill.  Watch water levels and refill with fresh water every few days.
 
 
 
 
5.  In a couple of weeks, small roots will appear!  Continue to refill water in jars until roots are 1/2" to an 1" long.
 
 
 
 
6.  Plant each cutting outside in your garden and watch it grow!  If you don't have a garden, basil grows very well in containers.  Plant a big pot with your cuttings and you'll be all set.
 
Who knew that propagating basil would be so easy!  I can't wait to enjoy countless capreses and lots of pesto this summer.
 

Friday, July 3, 2015

4th of July Lanterns - DIY


I recently saw these easy patriotic lanterns on the Michael's website and knew I had to try them - I wasn't about to turn down a craft so prominently displaying the American Flag! 


4th of July Lanterns - Supplies:
- Small American flags (close to 4"x 6"in size)
- Smooth sided mason jars
- Decoupage medium
- Small foam brush
- Twine
- Sand
- Candles

1.  Carefully remove flags from sticks, taking care not to rip the fabric while removing the staples.

2.  Using foam brush, apply decoupage medium to the back side of the flag and apply to a jar.

3. Apply additional decoupage medium to the front of the flag and let dry.

4.  Wrap twine around mouth of jar several times and tie to secure.

5.  Place a small amount of sand in the bottom of each jar and place candle on top.  Light candle and enjoy the glow from your patriotic lantern!













It took me all of ten minutes to make these!  And the best part about 4th of July decorations?  They are also perfect for Memorial and Labor Day!  

Have a wonderful Holiday weekend!

 

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