So you should know how to toast sesame, because it tastes so much better that way.

The good news is, it’s very quick and hassle-free.!!!

Step 1

You have to heat up the frying pan to a medium heat.

Step 2

Rinse sesame seeds in running water in a sieve

Step 3 

We put raw sesame seeds on a heated frying pan.

Step 4

Start stirring with a silicone or wooden spoon until the sesame turns golden brown

Step 5

Turn off the fire and wait for it to cool. 

Step 6

Now your sesame seeds are ready to use. Store the seeds you don’t need now in an airtight container.

You can use toasted sesame in many dishes. It is very beautiful, useful and most importantly delicious! 

The post How Do You Toast Sesame Seeds? appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

This post is all about where to find those beautiful antique hand tools.

Where To Find Antique Tools For Sale

Hand tool woodworking is enjoying a resurgence. This makes it harder to find good bargains but they are still out there.

Be careful buying from eBay or other auction sites. Often the old tools will be missing parts and not be in a usable condition.

The best places to find antique tools are:

• Antique tool dealers
• Flea markets
• Yard sales
• eBay
• Etsy
• The Vintage Tool Shoppe
• The Vintage Tool Shop
• The Old Tools Email List
• Hyperkitten Tools
• The Superior Works Email List

Antique Woodworking Tools For Sale Near Me

This wonderful map is maintained by woodbywright.com

Click the icon in the top left corner and you can filter the map to find old hand tools near you.

Follow The Vintage Tool Scene On Social Media

You can find people discussing antique handtools on all the major social media platforms.

• Twitter #Vintagetools
• Instagram #vintagetools
• Facebook Buy/Sell Groups

Okay maybe not TicTok, but there is a thriving community on Instagram, be careful it’s very addictive!

If you see something you like why not strike up a conversation and see if you can make a deal. Everything has a price.

The Bottom Line

You can find vintage woodworking tools for sale all around.

If you want to get something in working condition then it’s best to go with a reputable hand tool restorer.

The post Where To Find Vintage Tools For Sale? appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

But over time dog scratches, cat scratches, chair scratches or even scratches from boogieing too hard can ruin the appearance of a wooden floor.

So here you find yourself trying to find out all about repairing wooden floors.

In this post we’ll teach you how to get rid of minor scratches.

We’ll show you how to repair more serious deep gouges.

And we’ll let you know when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Let’s get started.

Wood Scratch Repair 101: How Deep Is Your Scratch?

If the kings of disco sang about repairing wooden floors then it would go like this…

Because the first thing you need to assess when repairing a scratched wooden floor is how deep the scratches are.

Here’s the thing…

Is the actual wooden floor scratched or is only the wood FINISH scratched?

And if the scratch is through the wood finish how deep into the wood is it?

Are we talking a minor scuff or a deep gouge?

The depth of your scratches and amount of damages changes the best repair method for you.

It’s usually best to try the easier methods first to see if you are happy with the result.

So we’ll look at superficial scratches before moving on to more serious damage.

What Type Of Finish Was Originally Used On Your Wood Floor?

The second thing you need to consider is how was the wooden floor originally finished. This changes the repairs options open to you.

Types of hardwood floor finish are:

• Oil-based polyurethane (can flake off, has a plastic feel, glossy)
• Water based polyurethane (can flake off, has a plastic feel, glossy)
• Varnish (can flake off)
• Wax coating (Matt finish, very smooth)
• Oil finish (You can still feel the wood grain with your fingers)

Polyurethane and varnish are transparent protective layers that cover a wood floor. It’s like having a thin sheet of plastic over the wood. Polyurethane is common on modern hardwood floors.

These are durable finishes but eventually they require full sanding.

Hardwood floors that have been oiled don’t have this transparent layer. Oiled floors never need re-sanding but they need frequent re-oiling.

The repairer must match the repair technique to the original finish. Otherwise your floor scratch repair job will be very noticeable.

For example, it’s no good doing a polyurethane repair job on a oiled wood floor that never had the plastic coating in the first place!

So don’t blindly follow repair instructions without making sure they are right for your floor finish.

How To Fix Light Scratches On Wood Floors

Superficial light scratches on hardwood floors are the easiest to get rid of. Often the appearance can be improved simply by polishing.

There are a few tricks to try:

Hardwood Floor Cleaner

Cleaning the scratched area is always the first place to start to remove dust and dirt.

A good hardwood floor cleaner might improve the appearance of light scratches.

The Walnut Floor Scratch Repair Method

According to Ron Swanson using a walnut is one way to fix light scratches on wood floor.

Quick Fix gave this floor scratch repair technique a go and it worked pretty well:

Bobby also fixed light scratches using a walnut.

Since it’s the oil in the walnut that is hiding the scratch you can use any oil.

Trying some olive oil and a rag to buff out scratches on hardwood flooring is always a good place to start if the scratches are light.

Remember the stain is on the wood. If the scratch has penetrated the finish it may have scrapped off the stain.

In that case you’ll need to re-stain the scratch to hide it.

The Stain Pen Method

The next level up repair is the stain marker or furniture pen technique.

Stain pens don’t repair scratches. They just hide them.

But if a scratch is invisible then that’s good enough for me.

Make sure you pick the right color of stain marker to match the color of your floor.

This video will show you the kind of results that you can expect:

This the the Minwax wood finish stain marker that was used in the video above:

This the the Minwax wood finish stain marker that was used in the video above:

And the funny carpenter has a good demo on using stain pens to make light scratches disappear from wood flooring.

If your floor was originally waxed or oiled you can make small repairs just by applying more oil.

How To Fix Minor Scratches On Wood Floors Without Sanding

Removing scratches from hardwood floors without sanding is possible.

Ben demonstrates in this video the screening and coating technique.

This applies an additional layer of polyurethane to flooring that already has a polyurethane coating.

Scratches in the wood finish can be repaired by applying more finish.

Yes the comments are funny because the video is titled “How to Refinish a Wood Floor Without Sanding” but the first thing Ben does is to start sanding the floor.

But his sanding is not a full sanding to remove the existing polyurethane coat. It’s simply a quick roughing up of the surface so that the new layer of polyurethane well without peeling.

This refinishing technique works well to repair surface level scratches on a floor without sanding it first.

Rubbing a scratch with steel wool and applying more wood finish will get rid of it. Remember to clean up the dust from the surfaces before applying more lacquer.

However if the floor has deep scratches right into the wood it’s not a good method to use.

A full refinishing of a floor with complete polyurethane removal, sanding back to the bare wood, restaining, and reapplying polyurethane is best left to a professional.

At the very least it’s a job requiring power tools that you probably don’t own.

But you don’t always need to refinish an entire floor.

If your wood finish is scratched you can simply lightly key the existing finish areas using sandpaper or steel wool.

If the wood has been scratched stain it using a matching stain color.

You can then reapply a layer of polyurethane.

This method actually removes the groove of the scratch. It’s a full scratch repair.

Barney demonstrates restraining scratches and the results in this video. It’s the best method to fix scratches on wooden floors and easy to do even for a DIY beginner.

If your scratches are deep you’ll need to fill them too.

How To Repair Deep Scratches In A Wood Floor

Sometimes a scratch is so bad you have a noticeable cavity in the wood.

Even reapplying wood stain and applying a wood finish would leave a visible mark on the floor.

In that case you’ll want to…

Fill In The Scratch With Wood Filler

Check out how to use wood floor scratch filler as demonstrated by Kermit the frog:

Wood fillers are available in many different colors. Choose one to match the color of your hardwood flooring.

Use a putty knife to push the filler into the scratch.

Let the wood putty dry then sand lightly. You don’t want putty on the surface of the floor. The goal is only to fill area of the scratch or chip.

Then apply the matching wood stain and the final clear wood finish.

By heating wood with steam you can cause it to expand and repair dents in wood floors. This is next level stuff!

The Verdict

Scratches on hardwood floors come in all shapes and sizes.

First assess how bad the damage is then choose the right technique to remove scratches.

Make sure you’ve stained the wood with a color that matches.

Hopefully now that you’ve read this guide you be able to do basic DIY repairs to remove most hardwood floor scratches.

Sometimes it only takes a few minutes to rub in some stain with a cloth and apply a protective coat.

First try oil, then if that doesn’t work choose between trying to hide the scratch with a wood stain pen or redoing the polyurethane coating.

That’s it!

With a little effort your wood floor will be “stayin’ alive” for a long time to come and you won’t need to see scratches as such a “tragedy”

Cool beans man! Catch you on the flip side!

People Also Ask

• How do you remove heat stains from wood?
• How you you remove white spots from wood?
• Can pressure treated wood be stained?

The post How To Remove Scratches From Wood Flooring appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

But over time your wood will be exposed to the sun and the elements so unstained pressure-treated wood will turn grey and lifeless. The surface of the wood may also crack and splinter.

So can you stain pressure treated lumber to get your deck, fence, or wendy house in the color you want and to give it some extra protection?

Let’s take a deeper look.

Can Pressure Treated Lumber Be Stained?

Yes, pressure-treated wood can be stained. Staining pressure treated wood will further protect the wood against sun damage and dirt.

Since the wood is treated against rot your deck or fence should last a long time. It’s going to be around for years.

If you stain your pressure treated wood deck it will look better for longer.

If you like the color you can choose a wood sealer rather than a wood stain. A transparent wood seal will protect the wood but allow the color of the pine to come through.

If you don’t like the color then go ahead and stain your pressure-treated structure to something closer to your preference.

With the right product, you can stain pressure-treated pine to look more like cedar, although you may need to apply a few coats over the years.

Craig is delighted with how his deck stain protected his deck:

Should You Stain Pressure Treated Wood

It’s a personal deciscion whether you SHOULD stain pressure treated lumber.

Some people like the grey color that aged pressure treated wood acquires.

If you are turned off by the yellow pine color understand that it won’t always look like that.

If you do decide to stain your project you may need to restain the wood every few years to keep it looking as beautiful and to maintain the protection.

Treated lumber can be stained, but it won’t stay looking brand new forever.

Sometimes it’s better to accept the process and age gracefully.

Can You Stain Pressure Treated Wood Right Away?

You can only stain a pressure-treated wood deck or fence once the wood has dried.

How soon you can stain pressure-treated wood depends on the climate and how wet the wood was at installation time.

There is no fixed time period that you need to wait before staining new pressure-treated wood. It could be a few weeks or it could be a few months.

There’s only one thing for it. You need to test the wood.

How To Test If Pressure Treated Wood Is Ready To Stain

The best way to test if pressure-treated wood is ready to stain is to sprinkle some water on it.

With wet pressure-treated wood, the water droplets will bead on the surface.

On the other hand, dry pressure treated wood will absorb the water beads within 10 minutes.

If the water is quickly absorbed into the pressure-treated lumber it means that the wood is dry and the next step is to stain it as soon as possible.

Alternatively, you could build your project with kiln-dried wood which will be ready to stain immediately as Austin found out:

Oil Stains vs Water Stains For Pressure Treated Wood

To apply an oil stain the pressure treated wood must be dry. Remember oil and water don’t mix. If you want your stain to be absorbed by the wood you’ll need the wood to be dry.

The great thing about an oil-based stain is that you can apply a new coat every few years to keep it looking beautiful.

With a water-based stain you’d need to remove the old coat before applying a new coat.

That sounds like too much work for me!

Jeff stained his wood retaining wall and it turned out great:

Can Pressure Treated Wood Be Sanded?

If your treated deck or fence has been installed for some time you might be wondering if you can sand it before staining.

You can sand treated wood lightly but keep in mind that the chemicals and preservatives that the wood has been treated with are toxic.

Philip felt he made his treated wood look like “real wood” by sanding, shellac, filling and priming:

A heavy sanding would take away the treatment making the wood susceptible to rot.

You must wear a respirator and use dust collection to make sure you don’t breathe in toxic wood dust.

A pressure washer is a good way to clean away any dirt, grime, and mildew before staining. Also just scrubbing the wood surface with a brush can help get it ready for staining.

Always make sure your pressure treated deck is free from moisture before staining it.

The Verdict

You can and probably should stain pressure treated wood. It looks great!

If you don’t want to change the color then use a transparent wood sealant.

If you do want to change the color then a transparent stain will allow the grain of the wood to come through while changing the color.

A semi-transparent stain will have more pigment but still allow some wood grain to show.

And a solid stain will behave almost like paint but be much more suitable than paint.

You have many options. You can get those deck boards the exact color you want and looking great for many years to come.

But remember, once you decide to stain your project you can’t go back.

People Also Ask

• Can you paint treated wood?
• What’s the best deck stain for treated wood?
• How long to wait before staining a treated wood fence?

The post Can You Stain Pressure Treated Wood appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

We’ve set a hot pizza box or a hot pan on a table with nothing under it to protect the surface.

When we moved it, we discovered a milky white stain where the offending item had sat.

This is the dreaded “Heat Stain”. Heat stains are ugly and unattractive and can ruin the appearance of wood furniture.

But don’t panic. I am about to show you how to remove heat stains from wood.

It is not as hard as you might think.

What Causes A White Heat Stain?

Heat marks don’t affect the actual wood, the damage is just in the finish.

Here is what happens…

You set something hot on the bare surface, and it causes water to form in the layer of finish, creating tiny pockets of air and water that appear as a milky film.

The wood itself is undamaged, unless the stain goes dark.

The longer you leave these white stains, the greater the chance moisture will seep into the wood and cause wood rot in your furniture.

It’s best to get heat spots off wood as soon as possible, the trick is for you not to damage the wood in the process.

We can do this by removing the tiny pockets of air and water from the finish.

The goal is to remove the trapped air and moisture in the finish to remove white heat marks.

5 Way To Remove Heat Stains From Wood Furniture

Different methods work on different woods and finishes, so you may have to determine what is best for your wood table or counter.

Getting rid of white heat stains is mostly trial and error.

The basic techniques are:

The Steam Iron Method

Heat breaks down the wood finish allowing the air and moisture to escape.

This is a good method to remove heat stains from wooden furniture, but you do have to exercise a little caution to avoid burning the wood.

Simply take a clean towel and place it over the spot.

Using a hot steam iron, slowly work over the area using lots of steam.

Make sure to keep the iron moving so as not to burn the wood or burn your towel onto the surface. Check your progress frequently, and 90% of the time, this will remove the stain.

When finished, take a clean brush, and lightly feather the mark so the moisture can evaporate. Do not wipe the area until it is dry, or you may smear the finish.

This video is great because it shows how they started with less heat and gradually increased until the iron technique started working. You should do the same to make sure you don’t burn your wood table.

The Blush Remover Method

Another easy method has the added advantage of no danger of burning the finish. On the down-side, you have to buy something.

There are many brands of Blush Remover available at your local grocery or hardware store.

My two favorites are Mohawk No Blush, and Behlen Blush Eraser.

If you can’t find them in your area, you can will be able to find them online.

To use, simply spray the stain with the blush remover enough to make it wet, and allow it to set until the mark melts away.

Lightly feather the mark with a soft brush to help the solution to evaporate. Do not wipe until the area is completely dry.

This is by far, the best method. These types of products could even support a side business restoring furniture. Scott Grove spills the beans on Mohawk No Blush Retarder in this great YouTube demo:

The Mayonnaise Method

This is one my grandmother always said worked, but it never worked for me. If you want to try it, simply squeeze or dollop some mayonnaise (don’t know if salad dressing or Miracle Whip will work she never said…) on a clean soft cloth or paper towel.

Wipe it into the stained area and let it set for around 4 hours or so.

Wipe off with a clean cloth or paper towel.

There are mixed reviews on the mayonnaise method. Some people say it works, others don’t.

If it doesn’t work, refer to methods 1 and 2.

Vinegar and Olive Oil

Another old-time method. Mix vinegar and water about half and half, then rub it liberally on the stained area.

These home remedy methods tend to work best with the damage is not very deep.

Olive oil might be worth a try if your heat stain is fresh and seems to be only surface level damage.

Toothpaste and Baking Soda

While toothpaste and baking soda work like magic on some things, like cleaning iron cookware, I’ve never had any luck with it at removing heat stains from wooden furniture.

If you want to try it, just mix toothpaste and baking soda together, about half and half, and liberally apply the paste to the stained area, and keep rubbing, and rubbing… and rubbing… in the direction of the wood grain.

In this case, toothpaste and baking soda is working as an abrasive. The finish on your wood has a depth to it. The toothpaste removes the very top layer of the finish and if the damage is on this surface this might be enough to remove the heat stain from your furniture.

Your mileage may vary, it certainly worked in this example:

Conclusion

It stands to reason that the very best method to not have white heat marks on wood furniture is to prevent them from happening in the first place.

Always use a heat-resistant place setting to set hot stuff on, and you shouldn’t ever have to deal with heat stains.

If you get take-out pizza remember that the cardboard box won’t protect your table. Many people seem to get caught out by hot pizza boxes.

People Also Ask

• How do you remove white spots from wood?

The post How To Remove Heat Stains From Wood appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

They look terrible and you might worry that your coffee table is ruined…

But don’t panic!

This post is all about removing cloudy water stains from wood to restore your table or wooden furniture back to its original glory!

What Causes Water Marks On Wood?

White cloudy water rings or spots are caused by moisture getting into the wax.

It is the finish on the table that is damaged not the wood itself.

So the varnish or wax that was applied to protect the wood is actually doing its job.

The secret to removing watermarks from wood is to get the moisture out of the wood finish.

With a little TLC and effort, white water stains usually can be removed from the wood.

So if you are feeling like Bryan relax, don’t panic, you’ve got this.

6 Ways To Remove Water Stains From Wood

The Pro Method

This method works best for older water stains.

Guardsman Water Mark Remover Cloth is a popular product that promises to remove water stains from wood.

It’s a treated cloth that you wipe across the stain in the direction of the wood grain.

The older the stain the longer you’ll probably need to scrub at it.

The downside is that it’s a product that’s only for glossy tables. It’s best to test the cloth on a hidden area of your furniture first.

While Guardsman makes a great product it’s worth trying the techniques below first to see if they work for you.

The Hair Dryer Method

If you spot a white water stain early then quickly run and grab your hairdryer.

Put your hairdryer on the lowest heat setting and blow air over the water spot.

Make sure you don’t get too close to the surface and move the airflow around, you don’t want to make a burn mark on the table!

With luck, the moisture in the water stain will evaporate and the white mark will vanish.

The Hot Towel Method

This is similar to the hair dryer technique and works best with flat surfaces like tables.

Lay a clean cloth or a towel over the watermark.

Heat your clothes iron to a low temperature and place your iron on the cloth for a few seconds.

Check the water stain to see if it has improved.

Keep repeating this process and you should be able to evaporate the moisture in the water mark.

You don’t need water in your clothes iron since steam would only make the situation worse. It’s a dry heat that is required.

The Oil Method

Oil and water don’t mix, so rubbing oil into a white water spot with a soft cloth can sometimes help.

As the oil penetrates the finish it forces the moisture out removing the white cloudy mark.

You can use many different types of oil to try this.

Some people even recommend mayonnaise!

Others use olive oil with vinegar.

Petroleum jelly is another popular alternative or furniture wax or even car wax.

The main principle is that by gently rubbing oil into the water ring you force the water out making the stain disappear.

Since we are dealing with wood furniture and oily wood wax would be a good choice.

The Baking Soda Method

Sometimes removing older water stains requires more than simply heat.

Baking soda is a great gentle abrasive.

Mix a little baking soda with little water to form a paste. Then gently rub the paste into the surface of the water stain.

This actually rubs off the top layer of the furniture wax allowing the trapped moisture to escape.

You don’t want to rub so much that you start damaging deeper layers.

The last step is to reapply a furniture wax to reseal the finish of the wood furniture. 

The Toothpaste Method

Non-gel white toothpaste also makes a good abrasive for treating water stains.

Gently rub the stained area with a moderate amount of toothpaste.

You might need to apply some pressure to break down the outer layer of the wood finish.

Complete the job by using furniture polish to bring the shine back.

The Bottom Line

It’s easy to remove water stains on wood if only the surface varnish is damaged.

The deeper the moisture has penetrated and the longer it has remained the harder it will be to remove water stains.

Time is of the essence. Cleaning any spills quickly obviously makes sense. Checking your tables after parties for water rings left by guests is also smart.

A quick blast with the hair dryer before bed is much better than hours of scrubbing later.

If the moisture has got through to the wood you might not be able to completely remove the stain.

Your only option then would be to sand down the entire surface and reapply the finish.

And as they say… prevention is better than cure.

Next time use a coaster like your parents told you to avoid water rings!

People Also Ask

• How do you remove heat stains from wood?

The post How To Remove Water Stains From Wood And Rescue Furniture appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

And well as providing a place for birds to nest birdboxes can be things of beauty in their own right, they make wonderful decorative garden features.

Different species of birds prefer different birdhouse designs. So if you are starting a project you should consider the species of bird you wish to attract. Your DIY project should be sized to make a nest they will most want, especially the entrance hole. They can be pretty choosy customers!

In this post, we have curated a list of free birdhouse plans that you can use to build your bird house project. Watch the videos below to find dimensions and more details from the awesome people that generously shared their birdhouse designs.

Alternatively, if you want a book with lots of simple easy plans we can recommend this one:

Tim’s Very Basic Simple Bird House With Easy To Follow Instructions

Tim’s cheap birdhouses cost less than $5 and can be put together using basic tools. The video instructions are detailed and precise and he gives all the measurements:

You will find better designs on this page though but as Tim says “he never heard the birds complain” about his cheap and easy bird boxes.

Ben’s Bluebird Birdhouse Plans

In this video, Ben shows us how to man a box for bluebirds from one board. It’s an easy plan that you can build using limited tools. It’s very cheap to make and the plans are free.

free birdhouse plans

Stan’s Hummingbird Nesting Platform

Hummingbirds don’t nest in boxes and prefer an open nest. They are attracted to the forks in tree branches. You can build a platform that will be attractive to hummingbirds and also proved them with material to build their home.

This video has all the information you need to build a hummingbird nesting platform.

Ben’s Chickadee Bird Box Plans

This simple diy birdhouse is quite easy to make and chickadees will love it. It has ventilation in the roof and a double-entry hole to keep predators out.

Not only does Ben show you the plans with sizes but he builds the box in the video so you can see exactly how to do it.

Larry’s House Finch Birdhouse Plans

According to Larry finches like a 6×6 inch floor with a 2-inch entrance hole 4 inches above the floor. In this video, Larry takes an old wooden toolbox and turns it into birdhouse showing that you don’t always need to start from scratch.

He also has a great tip involving using soap to stop wasps from nesting in your bird box. Another great diy birdhouse.

Devin’s Cardinal or Robin Birdhouse Plans

Robin’s or Cardinals don’t like enclosed spaces, but you can build them a shelf area ledge instead.

Devin gives you all the measurements in the video and shows you how to put it together.

Sparrow Birdhouse Plans

While this bird box might not last forever it’s a great little video showing how you can easily put something together and get results!

Julian’s Woodpecker Birdhouse Plans

Julian has a little time on his hands so made this house for woodpeckers. It’s a little bit more complicated than most and requires a chainsaw but the results are spectacular.

One tip is that woodpeckers like to finish the job of making the entrance hole themselves so if you make the hole a little small they will enlarge it themselves.

Dove Birdhouse

This video proves that you don’t need birds house plans to make a bird house. Although with a workshop like that I’m sure JKL has plenty of woodworking experience.

Larry’s Nuthatches Bird Box Plan

A nuthatch needs a 4×4 bottom. Larry make this diy birdhouse from triangular offcuts, it’s in unusual design and a good way to make use of oddly shaped scrap wood.

Greg’s Swallow Houses

Swallows are hungry little insects and can be used to control flies. Greg has made hundreds of swallow boxes for his farm. “Build it and they will come!” is his motto.

Jim’s Wren Bird House Plans

Wrens like an entrance hole that has a 1.25″ diameter. This beautiful box by Jim would do the trick.

The way Jim describes how he builds his box means you the sizes could easily be adjusted.

How To Make A Birdhouse FAQs

What is the best wood to use for a birdhouse?

Wood is the best material for building with and is closest to birds natural habitat. Cypress or cedar are great. Pine us useful but it needs a coat of exterior latex paint to be more durable. Never paint the inside of a nest box.

Woodworking projects can be time-consuming and choosing the right wood can make your work last much longer. There is no sense in building a house that will be ruined after only a few seasons.

What is the best size hole for a birdhouse?

The entrance hole size plays a big part in which species of bird will be attracted to your bird house. There is no one “best size” the diameter of the hole needs to suit the species of bird.

Think about the species that you are trying to attract and research what size of entrance hole works for them. That’s the best size of hole to create for your birdhouse.

What attracts birds to a birdhouse?

Birds are not that different from other animals. They want food, water, shelter, privacy, and a nice place to live.

Bird feeders can provide food and birdbaths or birdbath fountains can make sure there is always water for them. Make sure you place your birdhouse in a quiet area away from the busiest areas of your yard.

Which direction should a birdhouse face?

It’s a good idea to face your birdhouse in the opposite direction from the prevailing winds. This usually means north-east and it should stop the wind from constantly blowing into the entrance hole.

How high should a birdhouse be off the ground?

Generally, nest boxes should be installed at least 5 feet off the ground. A tree is a good place but a pole is sometimes even better since it makes it much harder for predators to gain access to the box.

The Verdict

Hopefully, you’ll find bird houses plans that suit you on this page and very soon birds will be nesting in your handiwork.

Not to put too fine a point on it, birdhouses can bring a lot of joy into your life. When birds come and set up home in your yard you’ll feel more connected to nature. And if they set up home in a bird box that you created with your own two hands it will be even more special.

And while we’re not sure exactly how to “make a little birdhouse in your soul”… you can make one for your backyard and perhaps that will do the job just fine!

The post 12 Simple DIY Bird House Plans – Easy To Build From One Board appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

Maybe you wouldn’t call yourself a gardener at all but you probably do eat food and need to dispose of food waste.

Here are three simple ways you can get rid of some food scraps with minimum hassle. We promise it won’t be any harder than taking out the trash!

Chopped Banana Skins

You can chop banana skins into small pieces and just scatter them as direct fertilizer in your garden The smaller you chop them the faster they will decompose.

Yes, it would be more effective to compost them first but it’s not necessary.

Bananas are actually prized fertilizer that many rose growers swear by. They are one of the best things you can add to your soil.

If you are concerned about the appearance then you can bury them a little by minute mixing them into the soil.

But if that idea sounds like hard work then don’t fret about it. It’s not necessary. You’ll very quickly be unable to tell your chopped banana skins from the rest of your soil.

It’s amazing how an intact banana skin looks like trash but once they’ve been chopped and they’ve turned brown they just look like mulch.

Ground Coffee Beans

You can scatter your ground coffee waste into your soil. It’s brown already so it’s not going to be visually noticeable. Coffee is a great source of nitrogen for the plants in your garden.

If you want more you can usually pick up used ground coffee from coffee shops for free.

Also if you’re not a coffee drinks tea can be another useful direct fertilizer.

If you have a garden it makes no sense to put used coffee into your trash can. You can dump it right there on the ground and it will help your plants grow!

Crushed Egg Shells

You can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs…

And that’s good news for your garden soil.

Simply make your omelet, wash the eggshells, let them dry, and then crush them in a bag until they are in small pieces.

You can scatter these crushed eggshells directly on to your garden soil.

What Do You Think?

There you have it. Three easy common kitchen scraps that are highly beneficial for your garden soil.

You can use them all directly in the garden with very little effort. If you grow anything in your garden or yard it makes little sense to put these things into the trash when it’s so easy to recycle them.

And no need for a composting bin or even digging trench holes either.

Let us know what you think in the comments about these lazy gardeners tips.

And if you’re feeling the love then share this page on Pinterest. It lets us know we are on the right track and to keep producing more content like this.

The post Easy Composting Without A Bin, Container or Even Digging A Trench appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

While these may be functional they often are not the most beautiful. And since the staircase often takes center stage in a home it’s a great area to do something with the wow-factor.

Ta da da daaa! Hello under stairs pebble garden!

It’s an interior design hack that is often used by luxury hotels to bring the feel of the outside into their lobby. If you have an open space under your staircase you can pull it off too!

These 21 under stairs pebble gardens are all visually stunning and are easy to achieve. Most are very low maintenance too. Let’s take a look!

1. The Orchid Centerpiece

This nice little under stairs garden uses two different types of pebbles to create an interesting pattern with the stones. And the orchid centerpiece provides a beautiful splash of color.

That’s much better than a dusty corner to stick the vacuum cleaner or a thousand pairs of shoes!

2. The Mini Jungle Under The Stairs

This indoor pebble garden benefits from those amazing windows bathing the plants in light. The way that the plants are climbing into the stairwell space gives the effect of an indoor mini jungle.

And it’s only complimented by the fact that there is also tall greenery growing outside on the other side of the glass.

3. The Neat & Tidy Indoor Bamboo Garden

The bamboo gives this little garden height where it is needed. The driftwood completes look.

4. The Clean & Simple White Plant Pots Garden

The lighting in this under stairs pebble garden is superb and really turning it into a stunning feature.

5. The Mini Landscape Pebble Garden

This is little landscape under the stairs is adorable. I love those rocks that are suggesting the “mountains”. And the use of 3 tiers so the garden climbs up is perfect for under the stairs.

6. The Artifical Rock With Waterfall Indoor Garden

This understairs garden would be perfect for a dentists lobby. The calming water feature helps to create a relaxing mood.

7. The Message In A Bottle Under Stairs Beach

Sometimes just the right colors are all you need for your under stairs garden to work well. I love the two little bottles that have washed up on this pebble beach!

8. The Japanese Style Minature Rock Pool

It’s a little mini paradise hiding under the stairs! It makes me wish I was 2 inches tall so I could go swimming in the rock pool and climbing on the rocks. The house plants have become trees and the pebbles are creating the ocean. Fabulous work!

9. The Zen Rock Garden Under The Stairs

This is a great example of an indoor zen garden. The black pebbles and white pebbles are creating a yin and yang effect. It’s actually the fish tank in the wall that I love the most though. It really completes the vibe.

10. The Pebbles & Decking Under Stairs Garden

The bamboo provides great texture to what would be an otherwise plain white wall. The use of decking and pots makes this feel more organized and less ramshackle than some other indoor gardens.

11. The “Should Have Stuck With Shoes Storage” Under Stairs Garden

The is a great low maintenance indoor garden and it looks fantastic. But the 3 pairs of shoes that are balancing on the edge shows why many people opt of storage solutions under their stairs!

12. The Recessed Under Stairs Garden

The recessed floor means that the garden blends seamlessly with the rest of the room. That color of the sofa and the curtain matches the color of the pebbles is no accident. Someone has put in a great deal of thought to make this space hang together.

13. The Climbing Under Stairs Garden

With the plants shooting up and the lights hanging down upstairs and downstairs are merging in this area. Which is great because that’s what a staircase is for!

14. The Candle Lanterns Under Stairs Garden

I’d love to see this space in the evening with those candle lanterns burning.

15. The Not Quite Under The Stairs Garden

Who says under the stairs gardens need to be under the stairs? If you have a wide hall you can make a garden feature adjacent to the staircase. It can work equally well.

16. The Floating Staircase Garden

When you have a magical staircase such as this you need to pull off something magical for underneath. This is a great design for an understairs pebble garden.

17. The Minimalist Under Stairs Pebble Garden

Not every indoor garden needs to be complicated. This garden does not even have an edge for the pebbles which are simply resting on the tiles. I do wish they had found a way to hide that wall power outlet though!

18. Every Time You Go Upstairs You Climb A Mountain

Every time climb the stairs in this house you have conquered a mountain. I’m not sure if it counts for your exercise goals though.

19. The Dinosaurs Egg Garden

Something has laid a giant egg under the staircase. This indoor garden has so much going on. It’s a lovely way to decorate this area and you find something new every time you look at it.

20. The Outside-In Under Stairs Garden

If you have space like this with lovely large windows overlooking a garden. Why not create an indoor pebble garden to bring the outside in. It works great here under the stairs but you could use this idea in other rooms too.

21. The Fairy Forest Beach Under Stairs Garden

Who lives under this staircase? It feels somehow enchanted. I would not be surprised if a few fairies were hiding in the back somewhere.

What Do You Think?

Did you see any good ideas for a pebble garden under your own stairs? We hope you found some inspiration and are beginning to form a plan of your own.

Let us know in the comments if anything resonated with you.

And we appreciate any Pinterest pins. It really helps us to continue making content if we know it is being liked and shared.

All the images on this page were curated from the internet in places where images are widely shared like Pinterest or Instagram. We have tried to find and attribute the original owner where possible. If you own the copyright for any of these images and wish to be attributed or removed then please contact us.

The post 21 Under Stairs Pebble Garden Ideas appeared first on InspiringPlans.com.

Picture yourself throwing that fresh basil on top of your favorite pasta dish before bringing it to the table.

There are so many to choose from and you may not know where to start. This guide gives you a little insight into 50 different herbs and spices you can choose to grow in your kitchen garden. Read on to get inspired and start “plotting” your own herb and spice list!

Your Handy A-Z of Herbs & Spices To Grow

1. Allspice – An All-Around Good Spice

Inspiration:

Named by the English in the 1600s for having a flavor combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, the allspice plant is grown in many warm countries around the world. It is also known as “pimenta”, “Jamaica pimenta”, or “myrtle pepper”. Allspice is used to flavor food in a variety of ways such as Jamaican jerk seasoning when making sausage or curry, or baking desserts.

Allspice is also versatile in the way it can be grown and maintained. If grown outdoors in the tropics, it can reach up to 59 feet tall; if grown indoors, it thrives well in a greenhouse environment or even as a houseplant. Because of the many uses for allspice in cooking and baking, growing this spice is beneficial and tasty!

If you love baking you might be inspired to grow your own allspice!

2. Anise – More than Meets the Eye

Inspiration:

Also known as “aniseed”, this herb is native to the Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. It is similar in flavor to other spices such has fennel, liquorice and star anise.

Anise is used in a multitude of ways from cooking, liquor production, herbal medicine, and even to lure fish! If you have ever wondered what black jelly beans are made from, the anise seed is the culprit! If you happen to be in Greece, be sure to enjoy ouzo, which is flavored by anise.

If you are considering adding anise to your garden, plant the seeds in an area that is well-lit when the weather begins to warm up in the spring. Also, make sure the soil is fertile and well-drained.

If you love the taste of anise maybe this is the herb for you!

3. Annatto – Red Makes Yellow

Inspiration:

Like the anise herb, the annatto spice also has a variety of uses. The flavor of this seed is often described as somewhat nutty and peppery, but sweet. It is mainly used as a food coloring agent, as its deep red color can lend a yellow color to foods such as cheeses, butter, and cakes.

In addition to food coloring, annatto is found in many different culture cuisines, from Latin to Jamaican, to Vietnamese and Filipino (and more!). One popular spicy pork Mexican dish, cochinita pibil, is cooked with annatto paste. It is also used in the sauce for a Filipino dish, pancit. You’ll enjoy all of the flavorful and exotic dishes annatto is used in!

Since the annatto seed comes from the achiote tree that is native to tropical regions, it is best to grow this plant in a warm environment.

4. Basil, Sweet – Royal Mint

Inspiration:

Deriving from Latin and Greek roots, the basil herb means “royal plant”. Other names for it include “great basil” or “Saint Joseph’s wort”. The plant is native to tropical regions such as Southeast Asia and includes other varieties such as Thai basil and holy basil.

Sweet basil is best when used fresh; the most popular recipe it is used in pesto, a delicious Italian herb sauce. It is also great when you add fresh basil to your dish at the last moment since cooking it can cause the herb to lose its flavor.

Basil grows best outdoors in hot, dry conditions, but can also thrive in cooler climates. It can also grow indoors in a pot, but be sure to place it on a sunny windowsill. You can also use fluorescent lights if you don’t have good natural light settings.

If you’ve never grown fresh basil have you every really lived?

5. Bay Leaf – Used in Cooking and Herbal Remedies

Inspiration:

The bay leaf herb is widely used in cooking as well as alternative remedies to heal conditions such as rashes, open wounds and in massage therapy. Also known as “bay laurel”, “sweet bay”, or just “bay”, this leaf is native to the Mediterranean region and grown worldwide.

Used mostly to flavor food, you can use the bay leaf in a variety of dishes such as Italian food, soups, stews, and even in a Bloody Mary. It is common to remove the leaf from the dish before serving unless the leaves are ground up (which makes them safe to ingest). One of the greatest advantages for growing bay leaf plant is the long shelf life the leaves have when picked (up to one year).

It’s so easy to grow if you ever use bay leaves in your cooking you might as well grow your own!

6. Caraway – Makes a Good Rye!

Inspiration:

The caraway see comes from a small plant that resembles other plants found in the carrot family. It is native to Europe, West Asia, and North Africa, but can also be found in Canada as well. Also known as “Persian cumin” or “meridian fennel”, the seeds have a strong, anise-like flavor and is used mainly in cooking.

In the United States, caraway is often used in rye bread or Irish soda bread; however, it can also be used in desserts such as caraway pudding, liquors, or harissa (a Tunisian chili pepper paste). Because of its European roots, the caraway plant grows best in warm, sunny places with rich and moist soil.

In addition to flavoring your food, you can also enjoy using caraway in making soap, fragrances, or lotion!

Caraway is a less popular spice and you’d really need to love it to want to grow it.

7. Cardamom – Save Money and Grow Your Own Cardamom!

Inspiration:

Did you know that cardamom (also known as cardamum) is the third most expensive spice in the world? That is reason enough to grow your own in your backyard! In addition to the flavors it lends food such as Indian and Thai curries, it can also be found in Wrigley’s gum!

The two different types of cardamom seeds: green and black. In addition to Indian dishes, green cardamom is also used in Scandinavian and Swedish breads. Black cardamom has a strong taste accompanied by a smoky and somewhat minty fragrance. You can even use them in herbal teas, such as the Korean traditional tea, jeho-tang.

Cardamom grows best in warm and moist environments, so be sure to keep the soil well-watered and give the plant lots of light!

It’s pretty easy to grow indoors, so if you like cooking Indian dishes maybe this is the spice for you!

8. Celery seed – Used in Perfume

Inspiration:

Planted in the fall to grow into the celery plant, these tiny seeds pack a good punch of flavor and are used to season soups and stews. You can also ground the seeds up and mix them with salt; celery salt is often used on the classic Chicago-style hot dog and in Bloody Mary cocktails. It is also part of the seasoning makeup of Old Bay seasoning.

Did you know the seeds are actually considered “small fruit” and can produce an essential oil that the perfume industry is known to use? Also, it has been used in the past for certain health conditions such as arthritis, inflammation, and reducing blood pressure!

Celery needs a lot of water and can’t handle drought so it can demand a lot of attention.

For many, it might not be worth the effort.

9. Chives – Keeps Garden Pests at Bay

Inspiration:

Chives produce a mild onion flavor and is grown all over the world in areas with cooler climates such as Europe, Asia and North America. The leaves of the herb can be used in savory pancakes, soups, cheeses, and many other dishes.

It can also be used in your garden to keep insects out. Chives naturally repel insects, so you can plant them around the border of your flowerbeds to protect your plants from those unwanted bugs.

When planting chive seeds, be sure to plant them in well-drained soil in a sunny area of your garden. The seeds germinate based in mild temperatures, so springtime is ideal.

A simple herb to grow and very tasty with cheese!

10. Cilantro – Not to be Confused with Culantro

Inspiration:

Also known as “coriander” or “Chinese parsley”, cilantro is a widely used herb in many cuisines across the world. It is often confused with “culantro”, which is a similar plant but has a stronger fragrance and a spiny look and feel.

The leaves of the coriander plant are mainly used fresh in Asian salads, soups, and Indian dishes. The seeds have a nice citrus flavor, but when crushed can lend a nutty orange taste. Roasting the seeds only intensifies everything, so be sure you are someone who likes the taste of coriander!

Because it is native to areas such as southern Europe and southwestern Asia, cilantro may grow best in warmer climates.

Cilantro is one of the tastiest herbs and is awesome with stirfries and Asian cooking. If that’s your bag get growing it! 

11. Cinnamon – The Spice of Life

Inspiration:

The cinnamon plant is a tree with thick bark and oval-shaped leaves. The process of growing cinnamon trees takes about two years, so if you are considering adding this spice in your garden, you will need to be patient with the process!

However, the rewards of having homegrown cinnamon are worth the time and effort. The pungent flavor of the cinnamon tubes (formed through the drying process of the bark) will add warmth to your desserts, hot beverages, and countless dishes. You can also use to add a punch to some alcoholic beverages such as whisky or brandy.

If you have the time and the patience growing and harvesting your own cinnamon can be very rewarding.

12. Clove – Relieves Toothache

Inspiration:

The clove spice is grown on a tree that can grow as tall as 12 meters high. They are primarily found in countries such as India, Pakistan, Madagascar, and others. Because the harvest season is different for the various countries they are grown in, cloves are available all year round. However, if you are thinking of growing your own clove tree, it is best to grow it in a climate similar to the Asian countries listed above.

Cloves are used in a few different ways, but mainly in Asian, African, and Indian cooking (think curries and marinades). It is also paired with fruit and mixed together with lemon and sugar in hot teas. When you make your famous pumpkin pie, clove is a common ingredient found in the spice mix for this dessert.

The essential oil derived from the cloves can be used topically to help digestive issues as well as toothache from a cavity.

I’m a big fan of cloves but they require a hot humid climate so the effort to reward ratio is not the most inspiring. If you love somewhere that you can plant the trees in your garden then I highly recommend it!

13. Chili Pepper – The Hottest Spice Around

Inspiration:

Who likes a little heat? The chili pepper (or, chile pepper…or, chilli pepper) is one of the most common spices in the world. In 2014, over 32 million tons of green chili peppers were produced! That’s a lot of spice!

Chili peppers mainly get their spice from the capsaicin chemical. They are broken down into three major categories: bell peppers, sweet peppers, and hot peppers. Chili peppers can be ground, roasted, dried, or blended into a hot sauce with other ingredients. Because of the variety of colors, some gardeners use them as decorative plants.

If you don’t have the climate for outdoor growing you can grow them in the greenhouse or indoors.

So if you like gardening… and if you like hot spicy food… why haven’t you tried growing your own chili peppers yet!

14. Cumin – Earthy and Warm

Inspiration:

Cumin is a delicious spice that adds a distinct, warm flavor to food. Added to popular dishes such as chili, soups, and stews, cumin takes the dish from regular to “wow!”. Because India is one of the largest producers of cumin, it is highly common in Indian cuisine.

The cumin plant is short in stature with an average height of 12-20 inches tall and grows best in a tropical or subtropical environment. The leaves are just a few inches long and the small flowers are white or pink. The cumin seed has a unique feature of eight ridges with oil canals, but look similar to the caraway seed because of its oblong shape.

Sorry cumin but I just can’t get excited about growing you.

15. Dill – An Herb and a Spice

Inspiration:

Dill is used as both an herb and spice in a variety of Eastern European cuisines, such as Russian, Swedish, and Hungarian (among many others). A popular use of dill is to mix it with butter and top boiled potatoes with it. It can also be used in salads, soups, or mixed with sour cream to make a cucumber salad.

Dill grows best in warm or hot climates with lots of sunshine. The soil has to be rich and well drained. To harvest the seeds, cut the flower head off the stalk when you see the seeds starting to ripen. Then, hang the seed head upside down in a paper bag for a week in a warm, dry place. The seeds will separate easily from the stems.

A nice easy window plant to grow that is great in potato salad.

16. Fennel – A Spice and a Vegetable

Inspiration:

A milder version of the anise spice in flavor and fragrance, the fennel plant can be used as a spice and a vegetable. Once native to the Mediterranean area, it now found all over the world – including alongside the roads you drive on!

The fennel plant can grow up to 8 feet tall with tiny yellow flowers on short pedicels. The round bulb can be cooked in a variety of ways or eaten raw as a crunchy component to a salad. The seeds are often used in desserts as well as spice combinations such as Chinese five-spice or when making Italian sausage.

Easy to grow and attract the right kind of insects to your garden. It’s a win-win situation. Roasted fennel with Parmesan cheese is delicious!

17. Fenugreek – An Herb, a Spice, AND a Vegetable!

Inspiration:

All parts of the fenugreek plant are used – the leaves are harvested as an herb, the seeds are used as a spice, and the young sprouts are used as a vegetable. This is the plant that will give you the most bang for your buck!

Once roasted, fenugreek seeds are used in Indian cuisine (as well as Turkish, Egyptian, and Persian cuisine). For example, they can be a part of a pickling spice or ground up to flavor vegetable dishes or dal. The leaves are used in curries and salads.

If you have a peanut allergy, there is a chance you may be allergic to fenugreek as well; however, if you are a nursing mother, fenugreek may help you with your milk supply!

If authentic Indian cooking gets you salivating then grow some fenugreek. It’s easy to grow and requires little effort other than some occasional weeding.

18. Filé powder – I’m Dreamin’ of a Good Gumbo…

Inspiration:

Filé powder is a spice that is made up of ground sassafras leaves. It is most commonly used in Creole cuisine, particularly gumbo. Once the gumbo is ready to be served, the file powder is added on top to give the dish an earthy finish.

Sassafras trees can grow pretty tall, anywhere from 25-40 feet high! Except for some initial pruning, taking care of the tree is pretty straightforward – give it a good amount of water and partial sunlight. Once the leaves are grown, you can pick them and grind them up into file powder for your next bowl of gumbo!

If you have space in your garden and the right climate and your love gumbo maybe this is the spice for you! That’s too long a list for most people.

19. Ginger – Relieves Nausea in Pregnant Women

Inspiration:

Ginger, or ginger root, is a common spice in Asian, Indian, and Caribbean cuisine. It is a relative of turmeric, cardamom, and galangal. The ginger plant’s flowers first start off as white and pink but turn yellow as they mature. If you live in a warm climate, you could take advantage of ginger’s beautiful blooms as part of your landscaping.

Although not officially studied, ginger has been known to relieve nausea and vomiting in pregnant women. When harvesting the rhizome, be sure to scald or kill the stalk to keep it from growing. Then, use the spice in your curries, gingerbread, or hot tea.

Fresh ginger root is way better than the dried powder for cooking but it can be expensive to buy in the stores. It’s easy to grow in a pot and believe me, it tastes even better if you grew it yourself!

20. Horseradish – A Vegetable that Acts as a Spice

Inspiration:

Popular all over the world, horseradish a root vegetable with a pungent flavor. When cut or grated, it can produce the effect that onions have and make you tear up. Note: if you do grate horseradish, serve it immediately or store it in vinegar to keep the flavor.

This plant is pretty hearty and can withstand cold temperatures. It is possible to grow horseradish in warmer climates, but it won’t be as successful as an area with a long growing season and cold temperatures.

Since horseradish can survive some pretty cold temperatures, this is a great choice to add to your garden so that you have something to harvest in the fall or winter!

But it’s hard to get excited about the taste horseradish for me so marked down for flavor profile.

21. Kaffir Lime – Cleans Your Clothes and Your Hair!

Inspiration:

Kaffir lime, also known as “makrut lime” or “Mauritius papeda,” is a citrus fruit commonly found in Southeast Asian countries and heavily used in their cuisines. Both the fruit and the leaves give off a citrus fragrance.

The kaffir lime plant is a thorny bush that can grow up to 35 feet tall. What’s unique about the plant are the hourglass double leaves. The fruit itself is small, bumpy and turns yellow when it’s ripe.

Kaffir lime would be a great citrus addition to your garden if you’re looking for another option to lemon trees.

They are tolerant of less than ideal condition but need to be protected from frost.

Want to try making your own Thai food with herbs grown yourself? Maybe Kaffir Lime leaves are the missing piece of the puzzle.

22. Lavender – Natural Mosquito Repellent

Inspiration:

Lavender is found in many parts of the world from Europe to northern Africa, and all the way to China. It is mainly cultivated for their essential oil, which can be used in a variety of ways (including anti-inflammatory uses and acting as a mosquito repellent!).

Lavender can also be used in cooking, as it has a sweet aroma and a citrus-like taste. It can be used as a spice to flavor salads, dressings, desserts, and teas. Did you know that lavender buds are used to make marshmallows?

Lavender honey is also a popular item, as the flowers produce a lot of nectar. The plant grows best in dry, well-drained areas with sandy soil and full sunlight.

Grow it just for the scent alone! Choose dwarf plants if you need to grow it inside.

23. Lemon verbena – Also Called Lemon Beebrush

Inspiration:

The leaves of the lemon verbena plant are used as herbs to add a lovely lemon flavor to dishes such as fish and chicken, but also in marinades, dressings, and jams. You can also make herbal teas and use it as a substitute for actual lemon.

The plant itself is a shrub that grows to about 6-9 feet tall. The leaves are glossy and pointed at the ends; when bruised, they give off a strong lemon scent. The flowers tend to bloom in late spring or early summer and are sensitive to cold temperatures. This is a highly popular herb to include in your garden!

Lemon verbena is nice but sorry I’d rather have lemons. Not inspired.

24. Licorice – “Sweet Root” in Greek

Inspiration:

Licorice (also spelled “liquorice”) is a root and used to flavor candy and sweeteners. The extracts are also used in traditional Chinese medicine. Though it can have a strong flavor, it is not related to anise or fennel, as one might think.

Licorice grows best in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight. It takes about two to three years before the first harvest can take place and usually occurs in the fall.

Be careful not to consume excessive amounts of licorice, as it can have some negative effects on your health (no more than 200 mg a day) and also do not consume it if you’re pregnant.

Licorice candy is often actually made with Anise and not Licorice root. So if I wanted to make my own Licorice candy I’d be growing Anise instead.

25. Marjoram – Smooth Because It’s Hairy

Inspiration:

Marjoram, also called “sweet marjoram,” “pot marjoram,” or “knotted marjoram”, is an herb with a piney, citrusy flavor. The leaves are small and have a smooth texture due to the tiny hairs all over the leaf.

Marjoram grows best in warmer climates, such as the southern half of the United States and the southern coastal areas. As the plant begins to flower, the top is cut off and then dried. The leaves and tops can also be steam-distilled to make an essential oil, but marjoram is mainly used in cooking (such as seasoning soups and adding the dried leaves to sauces or dressings).

A great indoor herb plant. It’s great with fish and meat. Easy to grow so why not if you have space.

26. Mustard, White – Makes Your Favorite Hot Dog Condiment!

Inspiration:

The white mustard plant is grown for their seeds and when mixed with turmeric, makes the classic yellow mustard we all love to top our hot dogs with. The seeds are small and round, ranging in color from beige to yellow to light brown. In the Greek culture, the leaves can also be eaten before the blooming season begins (February-March).

The mustard plant is an annual and grow to about two feet tall. It is common all across the world, from Europe to Africa to Central Asia. Just before the pods that contain the seeds ripen, farmers pick the yellow flowers that contain seed pods. A popular use for whole mustard seeds is to use them for pickling spices.

I wasn’t inspired about mustard until I watched the video above. Now i need to try making my own french mustard style sauce.

27. Nigella – Also Known as Black Cumin

Inspiration:

Nigella seeds are called by many other names such as black cumin, black caraway, nutmeg flower, and Roman coriander. The plant itself is small, with an average height of about 8-12 inches tall. The leaves are linear and divided, while the flowers are a beautiful pale blue and white. The seeds are contained in a capsule made of about seven united follicles.

Nigella is common in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines. The strong taste has been described as a combination of black pepper, oregano, and onions. They are excellent when dry-roasted and used in curries, vegetable dishes, and even breads.

28. Nutmeg – Can You Wait Nine Years?

Inspiration:

The nutmeg tree is a dioecious plant and must be grafted using seedlings to in order for flowers to bud in the sixth year. Yes, that’s right – the nutmeg tree begins budding flowers anywhere from the sixth to eighth year. The first harvest can occur anywhere from the seventh to ninth year.

So, if you’re willing to wait that long, you will actually get two spices out of the same tree: nutmeg and mace. The seeds are dried in the sun for about six to eight weeks. The shells can then be broken and the seeds inside are picked out. You can use nutmeg to flavor many dishes from baked goods to vegetables, meats, and the ever-famous eggnog.

Just imagine 9 years from now sipping eggnog made with your own nutmeg…

Yeah, 9 years is too long to plan ahead for me too!

29. Oregano – Marjoram’s Cousin

Inspiration:

When I think of Italian food, I immediately think of the oregano herb. It’s very aromatic with a slightly bitter taste at the end. However, it’s also used in a variety of other cuisines such as Mediterranean, Filipino, Turkish, and Argentinian.

Oregano should be planted in the early spring months in an area that gets plenty of sun. Although it grows best in hot, dry environments, it can also grow in cooler climates as an annual. Be sure to also space your plants about 1 foot apart to give each some room to stretch. Sometimes called “wild marjoram”, the oregano plant will sprout tiny purple flowers to add color to your garden!

You can grow it in a pot indoors if you don’t have the correct climate where you live.

Inspired yet? Okay I’m just going to add one more word… 

Pizza!

30. Paprika – Heat in Oil to Bring Out the Flavor

Inspiration:

Paprika is a ground spice made from the dried red fruits of the bell pepper plant. It is produced in many countries around the world such as Hungary, China, and parts of the United States. Some of the different grades of paprika are: noble sweet, rose, and strong.

Paprika is commonly used in Hungarian dishes such as goulash and paprikash. However, the spice is also used in a variety of other dishes such as rice, chili, stews, and sausage. Depending on the grade you choose to grow, the flavor and spiciness of your paprika will vary.

If you love red peppers and can grow them then why not use a few to make your own paprika!

31. Parsley – A Popular Garnish

Inspiration:

Garden parsley can be grown as either a biennial plant in temperate climates or as an annual herb in tropical areas. In its first year, it forms tripinnate leaves and a taproot for food storage. In the second year, you will see the flowering stems with sparse yellow-green leaves.

Parsley loves to grow in a moist, sunny, well-drained environment with warm temperatures. It can take time for the seeds to germinate, so don’t be concerned if you don’t see anything happen in until about 4-6 weeks after planting. If you’re growing it to harvest the leaves, you an keep the plants pretty close together (about ten centimeters apart); if you’re growing parsley for the roots, spread the plants out a bit further (twenty centimeters apart) so they can develop.

Parsley is easy to grow. If you like cooking with it get growing it!

32. Pepper – World’s Most Traded Spice

Inspiration:

Offering a different kind of heat that comes from chili pepper, peppercorns are the world’s most traded spice. Ground pepper has been used for ages to impart flavor in cooking and is the compliment to salt.

Some of the common forms of peppercorns are black, white, and green; however, there are red and orange peppercorns as well. White peppercorns come from soaking red peppercorns in water and rubbing off the flesh, leaving the seed within and changing the flavor of the spice.

The pepper plant grows as a vine and can get up to thirteen feet tall on supporting surfaces. The soil needs to be moist, well-drained, and have lots of organic material.

They need to stay warm and in moist and it will take a couple of years. But maybe you could refil that peppercorn grinder with your own homegrown peppercorns. That would be pretty cool!

33. Peppermint – A Cross Between Watermint and Spearmint

Inspiration:

Peppermint is a hybrid of the watermint and spearmint plants. It is a perennial herb that can grow to about three feet tall with smooth stems and dark green leaves.

The peppermint plant loves water, so be sure to keep its habitat moist. You also don’t need to give it a lot of sun since it grows best in shady areas. Because it can spread so quickly, you may want to plant peppermint in a container and keep it in a shaded place.

Peppermint is used mainly to impart a minty flavor in cooking as well as in toothpaste, gum by extracting its essential oil.

A must-grow plant for any herb grower and a gateway herb for many addicted growers.

34. Rosemary – A Member of the Mint Family

Inspiration:

Like many other herbs, the rosemary plant is a member of the mint family. The leaves of the plant look like tiny needles and provide a woodsy and somewhat bitter taste, which pairs well with roasted or grilled meats and vegetables.

There are many different cultivars of rosemary that you can choose from – all produce different colored flowers. For example, the “Gold Dust” variety produces flowers with deep golden streaks and dark green leaves – how beautiful would that be in your garden!

Such a delicious herb. Rosemary roasted carrots will make your mouth water. Growing rosemary isn’t difficult so it’s well worth trying.

35. Saffron – One of the Most Expensive Spices

Inspiration:

With a grassy or hay-like taste and fragrance, Saffron spice comes from the crocus flower. The dark red stigmas (called threads) are plucked from the flower and dried before used in cooking for flavoring. Also, the threads color the dish they are added to a beautiful yellow or gold color. Rice dishes such as paella, risotto, and biryani will contain saffron as part of the flavor profile.

The crocus flower thrives best in areas with rainy springs and hot, dry summers. It also needs full sunlight, and you’ll want to plant in June for things to start sprouting between October and February. However, if you live in a colder climate, the crocus flower is hearty enough to withstand the temperature.

Some things are better off outsourced and growing saffron is one of them. The flowers are beautiful though!

36. Sage – Also Called Garden Sage

Inspiration:

A member of the mint family, sage is a perennial subshrub that can be found all over the world. It is also called “garden sage,” “common sage,” or “culinary sage”. There are many varieties of sage and they all have their own unique characteristics such as leaf shape and flower color. Though small in size, sage plants love a hot and dry environment with lots of sunshine. Just be careful to not expose them to super cold and wet environments; the soil should always be well-drained.

Sage is used mainly in cooking, especially in Italian and Middle Eastern cuisine. In America, it is commonly used as the herb for turkey stuffing on Thanksgiving. In some countries, sage can be used to make an herbal tea.

Are you going to Scarborough fair?

If not then grow your own sage at home instead.

37. Saigon cinnamon – Used in the Popular Vietnamese Noodle Soup, Pho

Inspiration:

Also known as “Vietnamese cinnamon” or “Vietnamese cassia,” Saigon cinnamon is an evergreen tree whose bark is used to flavor dishes such as the popular Vietnamese soup, “pho”.

Cinnamon trees grow best in hardy zones 8-11, where there is a lot of moisture in the air. If you want to control how tall and wide it grows by planting it in a pot and pruning it regularly. In a small pot, the tree can grow up to three feet tall; in a larger pot, the tree can reach up to eight feet tall.

38. Sassafras – Used to Build Ships

Inspiration:

If you’re thinking about growing a sassafras tree, be sure to have plenty of room in your yard since they can grow anywhere from 30-115 feet tall! They are deciduous trees that will lose their leaves when there isn’t adequate water for it to absorb. Sassafras trees grow best in moist and well-drained soils, so if you happen to live in the Southeastern part of the U.S., you are in a prime spot!

While sassafras trees are a good source of food for animals, there are also other uses for the bark, leaves, and fruit. All parts of the tree can be used for either cooking, treating health conditions, or even building ships!

39. Savory (Summer) – Classic Ingredient in Herbs de Provence Mix

Inspiration:

The savory herb is an annual herb and is popular substitute for sage in the eastern parts of Canada. It is a small plant growing one or two feet tall with slender leaves. Savory grows best in rich soils, but takes a long time for the seeds to germinate.

Savory is used in cooking, to flavor foods like sausage and dishes like dressing. It can also be used to season stews and meat pies as well as grilled meats. One of the benefits of growing savory is that the flowers can be plucked and dried for later use.

40. Star anise – Used to Make Mulled Wine

Inspiration:

The star anise plant is a spice that is common in Indian and Asian cuisine, giving dishes a licorice flavor. It is also used to make mulled wine, which is a classic French recipe. If you steep the star anise pods in your coffee, it will deepen its flavor. The spice is also used in making perfume, toothpaste, and skin creams.

Star anise is called by other names such as Chinese star anise or badian. A major characteristic of this spice is the star-shaped pericarps, which get harvested before they ripen. The plant grows best in subtropical climates with good moisture, so it cannot grow in northern, colder areas. You will also want to ensure it gets some sunlight as well as some shade.

Star anise is perhaps one of the more beautiful spices to look at but flavor-wise I’m not too excited about growing it.

41. Tarragon – Makes a Great Bearnaise Sauce!

Inspiration:

Tarragon, also called “estragon”, is a perennial herb that is part of the sunflower family. It is very common in Eurasia and North America, and used in many different European dishes.

The plant can grow up to five feet tall and produces very slender stems. The leaves are long and slender; depending on the variety you may choose to grow in your garden, you may not get many flowers (for example, French tarragon, which is used the most in cooking, hardly produces any flowers). If you are attempting your own Bearnaise sauce, be sure to add tarragon for its distinct flavor. You can also use it in savory sweets or make your own tarragon vinegar.

I’m just not into the type of recipes that call for Tarragon so much.

42. Thyme – Oregano’s Cousin

Inspiration:

A perennial evergreen herb, thyme is used in cooking, medicine, and for decorative purposes. It is a part of the mint family and related to oregano. When used in cooking, you can use a whole sprig (such as in a bouquet garni) or just the leaves (such as in soups or marinades).

Thyme thrives best in hot, sunny climates with well-drained soil. Springtime is the best time to plant so that it can grow as a perennial plant. Thyme is hearty enough to survive deep freezes, so if you live in a colder climate, you may still be able to grow some!

Thyme should be one of the first names on any herb growers herb list!

43. Turmeric – Popular in Asian Cooking

Inspiration:

Turmeric is a perennial herb in which the roots of the plant are used for cooking purposes, especially in Asian cuisine. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicine, where the root is called “haridra”.

Turmeric can grow up to three feet tall. The plant has many branches and the rhizomes are yellow or orangish in color. The long leaves can grow up to 45 inches long!

The flavor it provides to dishes like rice, cakes, curries, and other sauces is earthy and mustard-like. It’s typically used dried and ground into a powder, but it also can be used fresh. Did you know it is also used to color cheese, dressings, and canned chicken broth? If you are planning to ground it into a powder, boil the root for 30-45 minutes and then dry it in a hot oven.

Ginger’s less attractive cousin. If I get around to growing it it will be for making Tumeric Tea which is a great anti-inflammatory.

44. Vanilla – Time-Consuming, but Worth It!

Inspiration:

Imagine walking into your kitchen and smelling your favorite dessert baking in the oven – odds are, the fragrance of vanilla is adding to your warm and cozy feeling inside! Vanilla primarily comes from the Mexican species of the orchid plant and is translated to mean “little pod”. It grows on a vine, so you will want to give it wood or something for it to hold on to. It grows best in hot, humid climates that gets pretty good rainfall, but if you live further up north, you can try growing it in a greenhouse and mimicking the temperature and humidity.

The process to cultivate vanilla is pretty time consuming and labor-intensive, so this isn’t for the faint of heart! The process includes: harvesting and curing, which is broken down into four steps (killing, sweating, slow-drying, and conditioning). From beginning to end, it will be about 8-9 months before the vanilla beans will be ready. If you start early enough, you may have some ready for that pumpkin pie you’re famous for at Thanksgiving!

My wallet says yes. My heart says yes. My brain says… it’s going to be a lot of work. Inspired? Yes. But I still didn’t accept the challenge of growing my own vanilla pods. Did you?

45. Wasabi – A Popular Spice, but Not Commonly Cultivated

Inspiration:

Wasabi, or Japanese horseradish, is closely associated with sushi. Although its popularity in the U.S. has grown considerably over the last several decades, it is a rare plant to grow in America (only a small number of farmers grow this plant in large quantities). Because there are issues surrounding the cultivation of wasabi, the price of the product is very high.

If you’re able to get your hands on your own wasabi seeds and plant some in your garden, you will be able to use it for more than just wasabi paste for your next round of sushi. When you grate fresh wasabi, be sure to cover it immediately or it can lose its flavor in fifteen minutes! Consider turning it into a fine powder and mixing it with other seasonings over roasted peanuts.

Even some Japanese restaurant don’t use real wasabi and substitute horseradish. You’ll be forgiven for doing the same or passing altogether.

One for real Japanese cuisine aficionados.

46. Watercress – One of the Oldest Known Consumed Leaf Vegetables

Inspiration:

The watercress plant, also called “yellowcress”, is a perennial that is related to mustard, radish, and wasabi because of its strong, bitter taste. It is best suited when growing in water, so if you are thinking of growing watercress, you may need a bucket or some kind of large container that can create a hydroponic environment.

Watercress can grow up to four feet tall if left unharvested! It is mostly water, but has a high level of vitamins K, A, and C. It is most commonly grown in the UK, but Huntsville, Alabama also has watercress farms. The shelf life of the plant once harvested is short, so you must store it in the refrigerator and consume it in a day or two. Change up your salads by adding a little watercress!

Watercress is easy to grow but hard to get excited about since it’s pretty bland to taste.

47. Willow herb – Blooms Teeny Tiny Flower Buds

Inspiration:

The willow herb plant, also called “hoary willowherb,” or “smallflower hairy willowherb,” is a perennial herb that can grow to about a foot and half feet tall. The pale pink or purple flowers are extremely small, only six or seven millimeters in diameter. A small capsule contains even smaller black seeds. The oil has been used to treat inflammation, kidney issues, and even has been shown to stop human prostate cells from reproducing.

Willow herb grows best in very moist areas such as swamps and marshes. The stems can grow between four and eight feet tall, so be sure to give it plenty of room!

Are you a gardener with prostate troubles? Check out willowherb.

48. Wintergreen – Make Some Root Beer!

Inspiration:

The name “wintergreen” is used to describe a group of plants that stayed green through the winter months. The most common species in North America is the American wintergreen. It is used to provide a mint flavor to a variety of things such as gum, candy, mouthwash, and even root beer!

Did you know that wintergreen oil is used to transfer images or laser print to art paper? It can also be used to clean your firearms and preserve the metal surface. Some old folk remedies attribute wintergreen to the relief of many health conditions such as arthritis, poor circulation, headaches, eczema, and many other conditions.

To grow wintergreen, keep the soil moist – water the plant when you notice the top ½ inch of the soil is dry. It should be planted in early spring in a spot that gets both shade and sun.

If you like the idea of making your own root beer maybe wintergreen is the herb for you!

49. Yerba Mate – May Help with Weight Loss

Inspiration:

Translated in Spanish as “mate herb”, yerba mate is most commonly used to make hot tea. There is a tradition in Paraguay, Brazil, and a few other countries when partaking in yerba mate – friends gather in a circle and share a gourd full of the tea, refilling it after each person has taken a few sips.

Yerba mate can also be mixed in cold drinks, such as lemonade, when the weather gets warm. The flavor has been described as “grassy” much like green tea, but can become bitter if steeped in boiling hot water.

A benefit to adding yerba mate into your diet is weight loss. The herbs contain elements that help suppress your appetite and also increase your mood and focus. Just be mindful not to drink it too late at night because of the caffeine inside it!

50. Zedoary – Common in Indian and Thai Cooking

Inspiration:

Although this spice is not very common in the Western world, it is used in countries such as Indonesia, India, and Thailand. Zedoary is a friend to ginger, having a similar flavor with a bitter aftertaste.

There are a few ways you can use Zedoary if you’re feeling adventurous in your cuisine:

1. Ground-up the rhizome (the edible part of the plant) into a fine powder and add it to your curry.
2. Peel and thinly slice the rhizome and add it to a Thai-style salad.
3. Pickle it! Then, cut it into strips and eat it by itself or as a side dish.

If you like fresh ginger root but want to branch out into something a little different then try Zedoary!

Time to Plot Your Plants!

Did you find this guide helpful in picking out your herb and garden’s profile?

I hope it taught you a few things about each plant so that you know what will work best in your climate and your cooking!

If you have any questions or thoughts on this list, start a thread in the comments section below!

Spread the word to your gardening buddies pinterest repins are much appreciated!

Sources

https://www.fooducate.com/app#!page=post&id=57A33F16-295A-4054-46D6-BC43E23F783F

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_culinary_herbs_and_spices

http://www.heirloom-organics.com/guide/va/guidetogrowingcardamom.html

https://www.motherearthliving.com/gardening/growing-tropical-cinnamon-ze0z1101zdeb

https://www.gardenoid.com/how-to-grow-star-anise-plant/

https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/w/wilher23.html

https://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/how-to-grow-wintergreen

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