Christmas door swags are such a simple yet beautiful way to add some fresh greenery to your door. And much easier to make than a wreath! I love this Christmas swag with a vintage skate twist. So dust off your skates, and let’s get crafty.
Who doesn’t have a pair of old skates lying around the basement gathering dust? You can transform them into this charming vintage skate swag in just a few simple steps.
Truthfully, you can even use the skates you still use. If you’re anything like me, those skates only come out once or twice a year to go on the ice anyway, so you might as well use them for décor!
The beauty of a swag is that you really don’t need many clippings to make a beautiful display. I’m a big fan of going out in your garden or foraging locally for some branches to use in your display.
You can use whatever is local and fresh in your area. Here are a few of my favourites for holiday greenery decorating:
Add pine cones, too, as well as dried flowers and seed heads.
How to Make a Vintage Skate Christmas Swag
Put those babies back into use as charming holiday décor for your door. Embellish your skates with holly and other holiday greens from the garden, some fancy ribbon and a candy cane or two. You may also want to use bells, seed pods, holiday ornaments, mini gourds or small tree fruits.
Materials
Make It!
Clean the skates and replace the laces with heavy-duty or double-ply garden twine. Leave enough twine at the ends so you can hang them from your door.
Find two small jars that will fit inside the skates. They will keep your greens in place and also hold water (optional) to keep them fresh. They won’t be seen, so don’t worry about how they look. Opt for something you already have to keep this project easy and low-cost.
Select an assortment of greens from the garden (holly, cedar, salal, etc.) and tie them into two neat bundles. Place the bundles in the jars and trim the ends until you have a pleasing display.
Decorate your skate swag with more ribbon, pinecones, and ornaments and then hang it in place on your front door or potting shed. An over-the-door wreath hanger is a great way to hang it on your front door without needing to put in a screw or nail.
Be sure to grab a copy of Everyday Eden: 100+ Fun, Green Garden Projects for the Whole Family to Enjoy. The book is filled with projects using inexpensive, often recycled, materials and easy techniques. This lively collection of garden projects and practices will delight beginner and experienced green thumbs alike.
Overhauling a townhouse backyard after a renovation is a fairly common assignment for a New York City landscape designer. For one recent project, Julie Farris, the founder of XS Space, was given different a task. “Rather than erase and start anew as most projects do, the goal with this project was to identify the aspects of the previous garden, and to try to magnify those aspects in a more targeted and precise way,” says Farris. The results are a garden that felt deeply personal from Day One.
Farris’s clients had lived in their Brooklyn brownstone for some time before deciding to add an addition to the ground level. The family loved their home and slightly wild yard, where they had built many memories. “It sort of had this secret garden kind of feel,” says Farris. But as is so often the case post-construction, the 20 x 45-foot garden was left in a sorry state in need of a total overhaul.
“They wanted it to feel very natural and organic—sort of revealing what was there rather than inventing a new landscape,” says Farris. The clients requested a stretch of grass for the kids and a little more privacy from the nearby neighbors, but they didn’t have a laundry list of outdoor rooms and functions they wanted to cram into their space. What they wanted was simply a garden.
“It was more about having a quiet sanctuary for their family and some friends and not being a showy kind of garden,” says Farris. The family was also intent on doing it as sustainably as possible. “They wanted native plantings, birds, and butterflies,” says Farris.
The resulting garden is something of a sleight of hand: It honors the spirit of the previous garden, but almost every inch of it was built from scratch. It’s a lesson in the power of restraint and resourcefulness: All the sustainable materials and climate-appropriate plants make this garden feel like it belongs here. Now it’s ready for decades more memories.
Above: Architecture firm Bangia Agostinho Architecture designed the two-story rear extension and deck on the house. The renovation resulted in three different outdoor spaces for Farris to design: The backyard, a new deck, and a little terrace off of the primary bedroom that sits on the roof of the extension. Above: Farris describes designing the garden as a process of “sculpting the edges” to draw the eye outwards. “There’s this negative space, and then you’re just kind of feeling how you want to structure the space in terms of hierarchy and softness,” she says.
The weather outside is starting to get frightful, but the garden photos we’re receiving are so delightful! Today we have another new garden to explore, with a range of peak-season highlights. These photos are from Deborah Beacham, and they showcase lots of blooms and gorgeous plant combinations throughout the years in various parts of her gardens.
In spring, Deborah’s garden comes alive with a flush of fabulous foliage that glows and shines on a sunny day, and a bright pink rhododendron kicks off the color show on a vibrant note.
Alongside the rhododendron, some lovely foxglove (Digitalis purpurea, Zones 4–8) adds a pinch of purple.
As the weather heats up, the displays also get hotter. This border of yellow blooms sizzles with lots of black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta, Zones 3–7), and some orange is added to the mix with the ‘Autumn Colors’ cultivar (R. hirta ‘Autumn Colors’, Zones 3–7) seen in the foreground.
When it comes to classic color combinations, why fix what isn’t broken? Pinks and reds always play nice with blue, and this combination of scarlet bee balms (Monarda didyma, Zones 4–9) and a light blue bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla, Zones 6–9) is a superb example.
Color might be the first thing that catches your eye in Deborah’s garden, but she also plays with interesting texture and form combinations. Spires of obedient plant (Physostegia virginiana, Zones 3–9) are a perfect contrast to the dark purple clusters of hydrangea blooms, and a variegated kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa, Zones 6–9) adds even more textural interest in the background.
Deborah’s plant combinations are spectacular, but even the most enticing designs are made a little more fun with the addition of garden art. This playful pooch appears to be enjoying the scent of these light pink roses.
In addition, Deborah’s plantings are full of personality. Some gardeners opt to limit their plant or color palette, but Deborah put no limit on the interest and excitement in this bed. Allium, agastache, echinacea, geranium, and a splash of orange butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa, Zones 3–9) are just some of the plants coming together for this wonderful display.
The diversity that Deborah has cultivated over the years is astounding, and this is reflected in the many exciting combos she has shared. Blue and yellow is one of my favorite color pairings, so I find this achillea with cornflower (Centaurea cyanus, annual) particularly dazzling.
For even more color and whimsy, Deborah turns to containers. A white garden cart becomes the perfect vessel for a mini fairy garden, planted with a marvelous mix of verbena and calibrachoa.
When a garden is filled with an amazing array of blooms such as we’ve seen here, the pollinators are sure to follow. This monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) gave Deborah its stamp of approval when it paid a visit to this peachy pink zinnia.
Thank you so much for sharing these beautiful photos with us, Deborah! You have an impeccable eye for color, and the combinations you’ve created in your garden are enchanting.
It’s gearing up to be a long, cold winter here in North America, and we’re going to need a lot more colorful garden photos to get us through. Next time you’re scrolling through your archive of garden photos from past growing seasons, consider sharing some of your favorites with Garden Photo of the Day! Follow the directions below to submit photos via email, or send me a DM on Instagram: @agirlherdogandtheroad.
We want to see YOUR garden!
Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!
To submit, send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.
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Asparagus ferns (Asparagus densiflorus, Zones 9–11) make a wonderful addition to the houseplant collection. Despite their common name, these beautiful plants are not actually ferns, but rather part of the asparagus family. If you have grown the vegetable asparagus (Asparagus officinalis, Zones 4–8) in your home garden, you may be familiar with the mature foliage the plant develops as it grows. While Asparagus densiflorus is not as dramatically tall and airy as Asparagus officinalis, it does share a similar structure of growth.
When brought indoors, the evergreen foliage of Asparagus densiflorus can be enjoyed year-round by those of us in colder northern zones. While they spend their summers tucked in a shady section of our container display at Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum in Bristol, Rhode Island, they happily winter in our Lord & Burnham glass greenhouses. However, a greenhouse is not necessary to overwinter these lovely plants.
Keeping asparagus ferns happy indoors
As a houseplant, asparagus ferns are the forgiving type. They can enjoy a period of less frequent watering in the winter months (as long as they are not forgotten forever). However, many homes are quite dry in the winter, so keep an eye on the stems and increase watering if they seem brittle. The other option to mitigate dry winter air is to increase humidity with a tray beneath the ferns. You can make your own humidity tray by filling a tray with stones and keeping water in it to slowly evaporate beneath your potted asparagus fern.
While these plants love heat and humidity, too much direct sun can scorch their delicate foliage. Photo: maruco via iStock
Light levels for your plant should be kept to medium indirect light. Placing a potted asparagus fern in prolonged direct light can result in burnt and damaged foliage. Even in our greenhouse, the asparagus ferns are placed on the ground beneath a layer of other potted plants to allow only dappled light to hit them.
Asparagus fern spring and summer care
If you are inclined to plant your asparagus fern in the garden for the growing season next spring, stick to a location that receives primarily shade or is at least partly shady in the afternoon (when the sun’s rays are the harshest). Their foliage will provide great textural contrast with classic large-leaved shade plants such as hostas.
Given the right growing conditions, asparagus ferns can quickly become behemoths, so be judicious with your fertilizing. Here, Betsy is splitting a massive asparagus fern so it can be more easily utilized in containers. Photo: Betsy Ekholm
When kept in a container year-round, adjust summer watering to be more frequent as heat will increase evaporation. Some experts recommend monthly fertilizing starting in spring. I have not found this to be necessary as the plants are quite vigorous and often need to be repotted or even split. The roots are both fibrous and tuberous, which allows the plant to store nutrients for leaner times of the year. When we repot asparagus fern, we use a combination of bagged soil-bark mix and our own compost. Our compost will slowly feed the plants without overdoing it and causing them to quite literally break out of their containers.
If your plants are happy, you will get to see them bloom in spring to summer. The flowers are small and may go unnoticed to the untrained eye, as they bloom along the stem beneath the foliage. In the fall, the red fruits will follow and provide colorful seasonal interest harkening to the holiday season ahead.
Top asparagus fern varieties
Foxtail fern (Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’) steals attention whether potted alone or crafted into a container combination. Photo: Tracy Walsh
We have two types of asparagus ferns here at Blithewold. Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’, known as the foxtail fern, has shorter upright foliage that does indeed resemble a fox’s tail. This is a wonderful choice if you are planting the fern with other plants in a display container as it will not splay out and cover the companion plants over time. Asparagus densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’ is the common asparagus fern with long foliage trailing out in all directions. It is also a fantastic container plant, but I prefer it solo in a planter displayed with other containers nearby. These are not hard-and-fast rules, so feel free to experiment with whatever works best for your asparagus fern.
Sprengeri asparagus fern (Asparagus densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’) has more of a cascading habit. Photo: Forest & Kim Starr, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Learn more about indoor plants:
Discuss this article or ask gardening questions with a regional gardening expert on the Gardening Answers forum.
And for more Northeast regional reports, click here.
Betsy Ekholm is the gardens manager at Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum in Bristol, RI.
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The best way to winter-proof sensitive plants is more basic than you think: Water them. Experts say keeping plants hydrated through the fall is essential for setting them up for success come wintertime, especially broadleaf evergreens like rhododendron.
Last year’s winter wiped out plants across the Mid-Atlantic, a devastating blow to gardeners and nurseries alike. But it was the two-month drought in the fall that caused the harm, not winter itself. “Well-hydrated plants handle winter stress far better,” said David Brill, owner of The Farm at Green Village, a nursery in Green Village, New Jersey. “Many homeowners stopped watering too early, thinking their plants didn’t need it once the weather cooled. It was one of the worst winters for plant damage.”
My rhododendrons were a thing of beauty, but I ignored their clear signs of chlorosis, which made them stressed. So last year’s weather hit them hard.
The impact on broadleaf evergreens
Rhododendrons and other broadleaf evergreens got hit particularly hard. I had so much winter burn on mine that I had to cut back almost to the ground. My brokenhearted friends and I texted each other pictures of our lost beauties.
My 6-foot rhododendron with burn and die-back: I had to cut them almost to the ground, and they are regrowing slowly.
Here is why: Plants release water vapor through their leaves to regulate their temperature and move nutrients from the soil to the leaves. The bigger the leaf, the more water leaves the plant. A rhododendron leaf in winter sun can still get hot, up to 75°F. But when the ground is frozen, the plant can’t get water to cool itself. Harsh winter wind also sucks away much-needed moisture.
Leaf curl, the most common sign of distress on broadleaf evergreens, is a normal defensive move by the plant during winter months. It minimizes the amount of surface space on the leaf to limit the amount of water that it loses. However, when these plants have not received enough water prior to winter, the leaves will die off before springtime rather than bouncing back.
Winter curl and droop is a normal occurrence in rhododendrons during the colder months, but if they are overly damaged by winter conditions these leaves will not rebound in the spring. Photo: Danielle Sherry
“The single biggest issue is plants going to bed when the soil is dry,” said Art Laster, owner of Plant Detectives, a nursery in Chester, New Jersey. “You are going to lose them if there is no moisture.”
Right plant, right place
Just because a plant can handle conditions outside its comfort zone does not mean it is happy there or will survive in that situation for the long term. This matters when it comes to dicey weather conditions because the plant can end up getting stressed to the point where it shuts down. As an example, a rhododendron can generally take sun, but their ideal location is part shade. Southwest exposure in a tough fall and winter puts it under a lot of stress.
Many rhododendron species can grow very large, but they are still understory shrubs. This means they thrive in the partial shade and moist, acidic soil under the canopy of tall trees. Photo: Susan Fraser
They also like acidic soil, and if you let that pH climb, the plant again is under stress. It grows, sure, but we are asking it to do backflips for us instead of making it easy on them. “You really need to minimize the amount of stress the plant will have going into winter,” Laster says.
Below are tips for setting up your plants for success this winter. But experts caution that winter care alone will not protect the plant; it is a year-round job to keep them healthy enough to handle the harshest months. “Often the damage starts earlier in the season—we just don’t see it until winter finishes them off,” Brill said.
Keep your irrigation going around your evergreens for as long as possible, and switch to hand-watering once your irrigation system needs to be winterized. Photo: Kim Toscano
3 ways to set plants up for success
Hydrate: Keep watering your plants until the end of November if not beyond. Water deeply two to three times a week, rather than lighter waterings more frequently. Water by hand if there has been a drought or dry weather in the fall. If you have an irrigation system, push winterizing back as late as possible and don’t rely on that alone for larger shrubs.
Limit stress: My rhododendrons sent me clear signs they were unhappy. The green leaves had become pale and bright yellow, a sure sign of chlorosis. But I ignored it, hoping it would go away. So, when the harsh weather hit, my plants were weak and I had die-back almost to the ground. If I had given them an iron treatment and amended the soil, they would have been in a much better position to survive winter.
Consider cover: For evergreens, anti-desiccant spray can help by locking moisture in the leaves but only when done in combination with proper watering and mulching. Wrapping plants in burlap can also protect them from the wind.
For newly planted or particularly exposed broadleaf evergreens, well-secured burlap provides extra protection from harsh winter winds. Photo: Mark Dwyer
Find more on broadleaf evergreens:
Discuss this article or ask gardening questions with a regional gardening expert on the Gardening Answers forum.
And for more Mid-Atlantic regional reports, click here.
Caitlin Francke is a landscape designer, writer, and speaker who owns Dirt Diva Designs in Chatham, New Jersey.
Photos, except where noted: Caitlin Francke
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To fix the problem, ease up on watering. Let the soil dry completely between waterings, and in winter, cut back even more.
You can also repot into a more appropriate potting mix if poor drainage is the issue. Use a cactus and succulent potting soil or follow our instructions to make your own.
4. Pest Infestation
Sap-sucking insects including aphids, mealybugs, scale, and spider mites can cause black discoloration on jade plant leaves.
They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew that encourages the growth of sooty mold, which appears as black, soot-like patches on leaves.
Aphids and spider mites typically cause stippling while scale insects resemble small brown or tan bumps on leaves and stems and can cause tissue damage that appears as dark spots.
Mealybugs appear as white, cottony clusters and can also cause spotting as they feed.
Stressed succulents are more susceptible to infestations. For aphids and spider mites, wash the leaves with a strong spray of water or wipe them down with a cloth dampened with plain water.
You can also use insecticidal soap for more advanced infestations, but make sure it’s specifically labeled as safe for succulents since jade plants can be sensitive to some formulations.
Scale insects can be scraped off with your fingernail or a dull knife if there are just a few.
For larger infestations, dab each scale with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or spray the foliage with a solution of one tablespoon insecticidal soap mixed with one cup rubbing alcohol in one quart of water. Repeat applications every three days for two weeks.
If you find mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them. Regular inspection is key to catching pests early before they cause significant damage.
Sudden exposure to intense sunlight, especially after being indoors or in low light, can scorch jade plant foliage.
While they need plenty of bright light to thrive, they must be acclimated slowly to stronger sun conditions.
Sunburned leaves develop dry, brown to black patches that may feel crispy or papery. Severely burned leaves may collapse or wrinkle before eventually dropping off.
Moving a jade plant suddenly from low light to bright, direct sun is the most common trigger.
Indoor specimens are especially vulnerable because window glass can intensify the sun’s rays. Even outdoor specimens can burn during heat waves if they’re not used to full sun exposure.
Many UK households are struggling with rising energy costs, especially during winter when demand for lighting, heating, and hot water increases. People want to keep their homes comfortable without overspending, and the good news is that significant savings are possible without sacrificing comfort. Even small changes can make a meaningful difference. Increasingly, consumers are consulting renewable energy specialists to identify which adjustments will deliver the greatest long-term savings. With simple, affordable, and time-efficient solutions, families can achieve a great deal.
Here’s how smart investments with quick paybacks can deliver both energy savings and home comfort.
1. Maximise your heating settings
Central heating is one of the simplest and most economical ways to keep your home warm. Many households still rely on manual thermostats, even though modern thermostats and radiator valves are affordable and far more efficient.
Using programmable thermostats and thermostat-compatible radiator valves allows you to better control temperatures by room and time of day. Setting a comfortable target temperature and letting the system regulate itself is far more effective than constantly adjusting it. Bedrooms can be kept cooler than daytime living spaces, for example. This more organised approach reduces heat loss without letting rooms become uncomfortably cold.
2. Repair leaks and prevent heat loss
Gaps and draughts can cause significant and costly heat loss. Fortunately, simple and inexpensive draught-proofing measures make a big difference.
Add brushes to letterboxes, seal gaps around windows and doors, and close unused chimneys or flues to keep warm air inside. Many homes also have inadequate loft insulation; ensuring a gap-free installation and adding insulation under the roof can help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. These year-round improvements can boost comfort and reduce energy bills and cold spots.
3. Reduce hot water usage
Hot water consumes a surprising amount of energy, yet bills don’t always reflect how heavily we use it. Making small lifestyle changes can reduce your home’s hot water consumption without affecting comfort.
Showering instead of bathing daily saves both water and energy, and aerated showerheads reduce water use without compromising pressure. Using a timer and adding a jacket to your hot water cylinder helps retain heat for longer. For some households, a conventional hot-water tank system offers better control so water stays warm, and not excessively hot.
4. Choose low-energy appliances and habits
Replacing outdated appliances with energy-efficient models can steadily lower your household’s energy consumption. Fridges, freezers, washing machines, and dryers all list their running costs, and although efficient versions may cost more upfront, they often save money in the long term.
Daily habits matter too: washing clothes at lower temperatures, running full loads, and switching off unused appliances all cut costs. Switching all your bulbs to LEDs is another easy win, with immediate savings and no loss of brightness or convenience.
5. Save money with smart meters and time-of-use tariffs
Smart meters show your energy usage in real time, helping families identify quick wins like turning off lights or adjusting heating schedules.
Many energy providers offer time-of-use tariffs, which charge less during off-peak hours. Running appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines at these cheaper times can add up to significant savings. Small changes to your routine can translate into weekly or monthly reductions on your bills.
6. Think long-term
Finally, try to view energy conservation as a positive, gradual process rather than a burden. There’s no need to tackle everything at once. Start with the most affordable steps and work toward bigger upgrades, such as improved insulation, more efficient heating systems, or better windows.
Everyday habits for warmer, smarter homes
Small, consistent changes to your daily habits can make your home warmer, more energy efficient, and more comfortable. This not only protects the environment but also helps families save money year-round. What’s your top tip to reduce energy bills?
Now that we own a feed store, we have lots and lots and lots of chicken feed.
Problem: we no longer own any chickens!
We got rid of our last few chickens over a year ago, after repeated predator attacks.
We went from about 20 birds to 5 in a couple of weeks, and I quickly gave the rest of the flock away before the mysterious nocturnal marauder returned. My guess is that it was a bobcat. Somehow, it kept pulling birds under the wire fencing.
We were so busy with other things – gardening and the nursery in particular – that we didn’t have time to turn our chicken coop into a predator-proof enclosure.
Are you thinking about introducing chickens to your home? There are over a thousand different chicken breeds, and while it may be tempting to make a quick choice, some chickens need more specialised care than others.
It’s important to avoid a chicken breed that’s too much for your family to take care of, or a breed that may end up miserable in their coop or aggressive. Choosing a suitable breed will ensure that the quality of life of both your family and the chickens is consistently high.
This article takes a look at some of the best chicken breeds for families to help you narrow down your choice.
1. Australorps
One popular and beginner-friendly chicken breed you can easily find is the Australorp. This chicken is known for its sleek and balanced build. It’s also a medium-weight breed, making it easy to carry around no matter your age.
The Australorp is derived from the Orpington breed found in Great Britain, and it’s selectively bred to be an excellent egg-laying chicken.
What makes this chicken breed great for kids is its docile and non-aggressive nature. They can typically handle children well, remaining calm and patient even when it’s the first time the child interacts with them. This gentle nature makes them ideal for families new to the world of chicken rearing.
On top of that, this chicken breed also handles shifting climate pretty well. They can typically lay about 20 to 25 eggs a month, regardless of the weather outside, as long as they’re housed in a cool and cosy coop. They also behave well both in confinement and when freely roaming.
It’s crucial to construct or purchase an adequate coop to house your hens. If you need suggestions, Somerzby’s range of outdoor chicken coops offers a great range of potential structures for your hens to call home.
2. Orpingtons
Orpingtons aren’t only a hit in Great Britain; they can also be a great family-friendly chicken in other countries, including Australia.
This breed tends to be larger and sturdier than Australorps, but that’s not a problem for older children. Their size makes them less likely to flap their wings and fly around, which can make them quite predictable and easy to deal with for the entire family.
Just like Australorps, this chicken breed has a gentle temperament that makes them easy for children to handle. Carrying them around is easy thanks to their friendly nature, and they tend to warm up to families quite quickly. They also rarely exhibit signs of aggression, which helps when it comes to your child’s safety.
For a first-time chicken owner, Orpingtons are a great breed. They’re not fussy to handle, have a steady egg production rate, and can work in a variety of garden setups. They’re practical and quite a good choice for families looking to get their first yard chicken.
3. Plymouth Rocks
Another notable domesticated chicken breed is the Plymouth Rock. This chicken breed is known for its medium build and attractive feather pattern.
Plymouth Rock is a hardy and confident breed, which are excellent traits to have for a chicken going to a household with children. Plus, they’re excellent egg layers due to their steady laying cycle and year-round production, making them great chickens to educate children on the egg-laying process.
If you plan to raise a new generation of chickens, Plymouth Rocks are also a good option because of their moderate broodiness. While they don’t sit on eggs constantly, they are fairly attentive mothers when they do decide to hatch their eggs and produce chicks.
That said, if you just plan to have one or a couple of them around the household, then their docile and non-skittish nature makes them a popular choice.
4. Sussex Chicken
If you plan to raise a breed of chicken with both excellent flesh and eggs, Sussex chickens are an optimal choice. This chicken has a classic white-bodied look with a black neck and tail. They have a medium-large build, but they’re still quite manageable for older children.
Unlike the other chicken breeds, Sussex chickens are very social and curious. They enjoy frolicking around the garden and being near people. This can make them a fun breed to have for young families who want their chicken to be more than just a farm animal, but also a loving pet.
Sussex hens produce a good number of light brown eggs. They’re also quite hardy and can generally handle a diverse range of weather conditions and climates.
All these factors combined make Sussex chickens an excellent livestock to have at home. Their non-aggressive nature makes them safe for kids to be around, and their friendly disposition helps them fit easily into all sorts of household setups.
5. Bantam Chicken
If you want a smaller breed for your little ones to handle, Bantam chickens make for the perfect pet.
These chickens have a miniature stature, making them light to carry and easy to hold. They’re also very friendly chicken breeds that enjoy the company of humans, making them an easy fit in a family home.
If you have a small yard or coop setup, bantam chickens tend to thrive better in such conditions compared to the medium and large-sized breeds. On top of that, these chickens are fairly entertaining to watch due to their big personalities.
6. Wyandottes
The Wyandotte is a chill and majestic chicken breed that can be excellent for families with young children. Known for its laced feather pattern, this chicken breed is a standout among many chicken-owning families for its visual appeal.
Wyandottes can lay a respectable 210 large eggs a year. Their steady temperament makes them approachable for children and other animals. Moreover, they tend to integrate smoothly into mixed flocks without causing much trouble.
If you want a chicken breed that looks strikingly beautiful and has a gentle temperament, the Wyandotte fits the bill quite well.
Do any of our suggestions on good chicken breeds for families sound like the perfect fit for your home?
Snow globes are a magical wonder, showcasing tiny scenes where snow is always whimsically falling. Making your own Mason jar snow globe is surprisingly simple with easy-to-find materials. Personalize the scene inside, and you’ll have a beautiful decoration to display every holiday season.
Is there any more quintessential winter object than a snow globe? There is something about these tiny snow-covered winterscapes that fills us with a sense of nostalgia and wonder.
Making your own is easy and fun, and all you need are a few simple materials that you may already have around the house.
This Mason jar snow blog is fun for kids and adults to make, and having your very own personalized snow globe feels magical, no matter what your age.
This post will cover..
How to Make a Mason Jar Snow Globe
For this project, you can easily use a Mason jar or a different glass jar and lid you have available, as long as it’s air-tight. Feeling extra creative? Make your miniature objects yourself out of polymer clay.
Materials
Make It!
First, choose the objects you want to use and try setting them up in different ways until you get the scene you want. Try holiday or winter-themed items or objects in red and green for a Christmassy snow globe.
Or do something wild and unexpected, like a tropical scene. It’s completely up to you! I chose garden-related objects with a holiday theme.
Make sure the miniatures are the right height for your Mason Jar as well as the width.
Position your objects on top of the plastic canning lid, the way you want them to be laid out inside the snow globe.
Keep your scene small enough that everything fits easily in the center of the lid. The glass of the Mason jar will magnify the scene, making the snow globe look fuller once it is all put together.
The glass will slightly magnify what’s inside.
Use the waterproof adhesive to glue down the objects in the positions you want them in.
Allow the adhesive to dry for a few hours to make sure it is completely set.
Ensure your adhesive is waterproof.
Glue the plastic lid down onto the underside of the snap lid, making sure not to get any adhesive on the orange ring around the outside edge of the lid. The orange ring is the seal, which will not work to keep liquid inside if it gets glue on it.
Some waterproof adhesive expands when they dry, so keep that in mind and give yourself some extra room around the snap lid’s seal.
Keep your orange seal clear.
Fill the jar with water, glycerin, and some glitter. The consistency of the mixture will be different depending on how much glycerin you add.
The glycerin makes it thicker so that the glitter falls more slowly, so start with mostly water and add glycerin gradually until you like how the liquid moves the glitter when you shake it up.
I used fairly small glitter, but not superfine. It clumped together a bit, which made it look more like snow.
I used a super fine glitter that formed little snow-like clumps when in the glycerin.
Now it’s time to put the snow globe together! Add a bit more water to the jar so that it is very full. You’ll want to do this next step over the sink, as there will likely be some spillover.
Carefully screw the lid onto the jar so that the miniature scene stands up inside it. If your jar has writing or patterning on one side, try to position the scene so that it faces the part of the jar that is completely clear and smooth to give you the best possible view.
Wipe off any liquid that spilled over the sides, and seal the lid with waterproof sealer so that the ring stays in place permanently. Turn the jar upside down, and you have a whimsical snow globe ready to set somewhere in your home or give as a gift.
Mason Jar Snow Globe FAQ
Are there eco-friendly alternatives to glitter for a snow globe?
Thankfully, there are many eco-friendly glitters available now. They’re slightly pricier, but it’s worth it to not be contributing any more microplastics.
I originally made these snow globes many years back, so I have not had the chance to try ones with eco-friendly glitter yet. Since they’re designed to break down, they might slowly fade over time in the snow globe, but I’m not positive. If anyone tries this out, please come back and let me know how it does!
What kind of jar is needed for a snow globe?
You need an airtight container. Even though you will use a waterproof sealer to secure the snowglobe, you want to ensure the lid and the container are a good fit.
Also consider a jar with writing on it. If yours has writing on it, this will play a part in where you position your scene inside the snow globe.
Avoid using tall glass containers and opt for rounder and shorter glass jars.
What liquid do you put inside a snow globe tumbler?
My snow globes use a combination of water and glycerin (and glitter). The ratio depends on what type of glitter you use. 50/50 is a good place to start, but play with it depending on how you want your “snow” to fall.
More Crafty Christmas Projects
A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants.
File this under Seemingly Antithetical but True: The tinier the outdoor space, the more verdant it should be. “We find that minimalist garden strategies work well on large, vast spaces, while smaller gardens are more conducive to wild, exuberant approaches,” says David Godshall of LA- and San Francisco-based landscape architecture firm Terremoto. “Therefore, in this small space, we got wild.”
The garden in question belongs to architect Fredrik Nilsson of Studio Nilsson, a neighbor and friend of David’s, and was, when the pair began, “mostly just dust,” David remembers. Construction had just wrapped on the compact, architecturally forward LA house Fredrik designed for his young family, and the remaining space on the lot was tight—some of it set at an incline. Still, the family “wanted to make the most of it. They have a young daughter and wanted to spend family time together outside as well,” David says.
Creating the feeling of an oasis, even in a busy urban environment, was key. “Through conversation and walking onsite together, we realized we want to create privacy from the street, and thus we planted jasmine to intertwine with the steel fence and make the garden smell wonderful,” says David. A mix of native California flora, low-water plantings, places to lounge, and artfully hardscaped paths complete the pocket-sized escape.
Join us for a look at this garden that’s every bit as lush as it is compact.
Photography by Caitlin Atkinson, courtesy of Terremoto.
Above: The house, designed by Fredrik, is set on a petite lot. When Terremoto took on the project, David remembers, “Fredrik had designed the concrete aspects of the hardscape, and those were in place.” Fredrik had also designed the powder-coated wire-mesh fence: “It’s designed to allow vines to grab hold and take over with time while still preserving a visual connection to the street and into the property,” he explains. “The fence facing the two neighboring properties is cedar planks. It has the same materiality as the house but untreated, allowing it to weather over time.” Above: Tiered gravel steps lead to a small sitting area. “The planting plan is really a mix of native Southern California species and low-water regional species as well,” says David. “The garden is as much for local insects and wildlife as it is for the family.”
Keeping animals healthy throughout the year doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re caring for pets, horses, or larger livestock, each season brings its own challenges. Understanding what animals need as the weather shifts can help you make simple changes that keep them comfortable, calm, and thriving.
As temperatures rise and fall, animals rely on us to help them adjust. Seasonal changes can affect everything from hydration to stress levels, which is why introducing supportive routines early can make a big difference. Some owners also use natural wellness options, such as Silver Lining Herbs products, to help their animals stay balanced as conditions shift.
Understanding seasonal needs
Animals experience seasonal stress just like people do, though they can show it in different ways. A change in temperature, humidity, or daylight can influence mood, appetite, and energy levels. Paying attention to small changes helps you act quickly before discomfort becomes a bigger problem.
Recognising subtle stress signals: Animals often communicate discomfort through small cues like restlessness, changes in eating habits, or avoiding certain areas. Watching for these signs helps you adjust their routine before discomfort worsens. Early awareness can prevent health issues during extreme heat or cold.
Considering breed and species differences: Some animals naturally handle heat or cold better than others. For example, thick-coated breeds may struggle in summer, while short-haired animals may need extra protection in winter. Understanding these differences lets you match your care approach to each animal’s needs.
Creating a flexible care plan: A seasonal routine doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should be adaptable. Simple changes like adjusting feeding times, adding shade, or increasing bedding can help animals feel supported. Flexibility helps you respond to unexpected weather changes quickly.
Spring and summer care
Warm seasons bring more daylight, increased activity, and new environmental challenges. As temperatures climb, animals rely heavily on shade, airflow, and hydration. Taking extra steps during spring and summer can prevent heat exhaustion and keep them energetic.
Managing heat stress: Animals cool themselves differently than humans, so high temperatures can be risky. Providing shaded areas and good airflow helps heat escape more effectively. Fresh, cool water should always be available, especially during afternoon hours.
Parasite prevention and grooming: Warm weather encourages fleas, ticks, flies, and mites. Regular grooming helps spot issues early and keeps coats clean and breathable. Using preventive sprays or treatments helps reduce irritation and disease.
Adjusting feeding routines: Many animals eat less during the hottest hours of the day. Shifting meals to cooler mornings or evenings encourages healthy digestion. For pasture animals your may need to rotate grazing areas to prevent overgrazing and heat buildup.
Hydration and overheating checks: Water requirements increase dramatically during summer. Keep water containers clean and refill them often to avoid bacterial growth. Watch for signs of overheating, such as panting, heavy drooling, or unusual fatigue.
Autumn and winter care
As the weather cools, animals need more protection from wind, cold air, and wet conditions. Autumn is a good time to prepare shelters and adjust diets before temperatures drop sharply. Winter routines focus on warmth, safe footing, and steady nutrition.
Transitioning diets for cooler weather: Many animals burn more calories in cold environments. Increasing feed slightly or choosing higher-energy options helps them maintain healthy body weight. Introduce changes gradually to avoid digestive issues.
Providing shelter and warmth: Windbreaks, insulated shelters, and thick bedding help animals retain body heat. Check shelters regularly for draughts or wet spots that could cause discomfort. Safe heat sources, such as heated mats or lamps, should be monitored to prevent accidents.
Monitoring weight and condition: Animals may hide weight loss under thicker winter coats. Regular hands-on checks help you feel changes that aren’t visible. Tracking body condition ensures you can adjust feeding before a problem develops.
Preventing winter hazards: Slippery ground, frozen water, and poor ventilation can create risks. Using sand, rubber mats, or straw improves footing in icy areas. Good airflow helps prevent respiratory issues caused by trapped moisture.
Safe movement and seasonal transportation
Animals often need to travel for vet visits, shows, or relocation, and weather plays a big role in how safe that travel is. Preparing both the animals and the equipment used to move them reduces stress and prevents injuries. A little planning goes a long way during both hot and cold seasons.
Preparing for temperature challenges: Animals transported during summer can overheat quickly in enclosed spaces. Opening vents and avoiding travel during peak heat helps reduce the risk. In winter, adding wind protection and checking that surfaces aren’t icy keeps them steadier.
Choosing the right equipment: Strong flooring, good ventilation, and secure partitions help animals stay safe during transport. Even short trips should be planned with safety in mind. This is especially true when using livestock trailers, which must be inspected often to ensure they remain in good condition.
Timing travel wisely: Early mornings or late evenings are usually safer travel times in summer. In winter, midday warmth can make trips more comfortable. Planning around weather reports can help prevent accidents and reduce stress for both you and the animals.
Keeping animals thriving all year long
Caring for animals through every season isn’t about perfection – it’s about consistency. Simple habits like checking water daily, watching body condition, and updating seasonal routines help animals feel secure are all important. No matter the species, animals thrive when their owners stay observant, flexible, and proactive.
By learning what each season demands and responding with small, thoughtful adjustments, you give your animals the comfort and stability they need to stay healthy. With a little preparation and year-round attention, you can confidently guide them through changing seasons while keeping them safe, relaxed, and thriving.
Last week we enjoyed two days at Arianne’s small but mighty garden in Minneapolis, Minnesota (check out Part 1 and Part 2 if you missed them), and in those posts I discussed how inspiring it is to see the many creative ways gardeners utilize their space. Arianne’s garden was on the smaller side, and today we get to see how equally impressive it is to create cohesive gardens in a large space, thanks to Ami Dushkowich in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Ami gardens on 12 acres, and also prioritizes native plants and wildlife-friendly plantings. Naturalistic gardens with this much space can get messy quickly, but Ami manages to keep her designs just as beautiful as they are beneficial.
I live with my family on a 12-acre horse farm in SEPA. I got into gardening about five years ago, and my focus is primarily on native plants, although I do grow some nonnatives. My garden has grown quickly, as I’ve gone a bit wild propagating as much as I can handle with upkeep. I’ve found gardening to be incredibly rewarding not only for the satisfaction I get providing for wildlife but also as an artistic outlet. I’m a very visual person, so the gardens give me great stimulation and motivation to be outdoors.
A place to relax by a fountain made from a reclaimed millstone. Four horses, a mule, and two mini donkeys live in the barn.
Scarlet bee balms(Monarda didyma, Zones 4–9) in the foreground and wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa, Zones 3–9) in the back. A native basswood tree(Tilia americana, Zones 3–8)grows by the barn.
Plant milkweed(Asclepias syriaca, Zones 3–8)for the monarchs, they say. And I do. But they don’t talk enough about how amazing they smell! They are the most fragrant native I have, and they’re beautiful too! They look a bit ragged for the latter part of the summer, but it doesn’t bother me.
Not-yet-ripe blackberries, Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia, Zones 4–9),and coneflower (Echinacea purpurea, Zones 3–9)
Queen of the prairie(Filipendula rubra, Zones 3–6), my favorite native: It’s something I’ve never seen in the wild and don’t expect to—it’s rare here. It grows by rhizomes, and every year I add it to another spot in my gardens.
Native Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium maculatum, Zones 3–8)and lots of it: This spreads like crazy, and I have a ton of it. The bees and butterflies love it. The flower heads are large, so you can see them from a distance, which helps make an impression when looking at the gardens as a whole.
Anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum, Zones 3–6), phlox(Phlox paniculata, Zones 4–8), spent wild bergamot seed heads, and some fennel for the swallowtail butterflies. A monarch feeds on gayfeather(Liatris spicata, Zones 3–8).
Evening sun shining through native grass sea oats(Chasmanthium latifolium, Zones 4–9): I only have one plant but plan to spread this around because it’s so unique looking.
A pair of goldfinches (Spinus tristis) perched on waning anise hyssop: The seeds are a favorite of these birds, and at certain times of the year, we’ll see a dozen at a time.
A secluded patio where we sit and have drinks, and watch the bats, and listen to the night bugs
Thank you so much for sharing your space with us, Ami! Your landscape looks as inviting for human guests as it does for the wildlife and pollinators that clearly adore your plant choices—a delicate balance to strike.
Are you a native-plant aficionado? More gardeners are realizing they don’t need 12 acres (though Ami proves it certainly doesn’t hurt!) to plant something that supports their ecosystem. Whether it’s a massive meadow or a group of containers dedicated to pollinators, we would love to see the ways you garden for good. Follow the directions below to submit photos via email, or send me a DM on Instagram: @agirlherdogandtheroad.
We want to see YOUR garden!
Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!
To submit, send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.
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Spider mites occasionally appear, especially on indoor plants or during hot, dry weather. These tiny arachnids cause stippling and discoloration on leaves.
If you notice fine webbing between the leaves, it’s likely spider mites. Wash them off with water and apply neem oil.
Disease issues with ‘Black Prince’ almost always stem from too much water or humidity.
Fungal leaf spots can appear as brown or black spots on leaves, especially during humid weather or after extended periods of rain.
Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering.
Root rot is the most serious problem you’re likely to encounter. It’s caused by overly wet soil that prevents the roots from absorbing oxygen and allows fungal pathogens to thrive.
Early signs include leaves turning yellow and mushy from the bottom up or the entire plant becoming soft and floppy.
If you catch it early, you may be able to save the plant by removing it from the soil, cutting away all rotting tissue, letting it dry for several days, and replanting in fresh, dry soil.
‘Black Prince’ combines dramatic good looks with easygoing care requirements, making it perfect for beginners and experienced growers alike.
Whether you grow ‘Black Prince’ indoors on a sunny windowsill or outdoors in a rock garden, this echeveria is guaranteed to draw attention.
So what are your plans for this dark beauty? Will you grow it solo as a statement piece, or mix it with lighter succulents for contrast? Share your ideas in the comments section below!
Modern family life moves quickly, and finding the time to build healthy routines can feel like an ongoing challenge. School schedules, work demands, last-minute changes, and evening activities often leave parents feeling as though there is no room left for structured habits. Yet small, sustainable routines bring calm, predictability, and a sense of balance that benefits everyone in the household.
The key is understanding where most routines fail, what changes are realistic, and how families can create healthier patterns without adding pressure to their daily lives.
Why healthy routines often collapse
Most families begin new routines with good intentions. The difficulty appears when the plan requires too much change too quickly. Parents often try to transform daily meals, introduce new exercise blocks, and adjust sleep schedules all at once. When a routine becomes overly ambitious, it collapses under its own weight. People feel discouraged, and the next attempt becomes even harder because the memory of failure lingers.
Unrealistic expectations can deepen this problem. You might imagine that you’ll cook fresh meals every evening or complete regular morning workouts before school. These ideas look achievable during planning sessions, but they rarely fit the lived reality of a busy household. When the first disruption appears, the entire routine tends to fall apart. This discouragement keeps many families locked in old habits even when they truly want to make healthier changes.
Introducing one small habit at a time can make the process more manageable. A simple adjustment, such as adding a fruit snack after school or shifting bedtime by fifteen minutes, feels achievable and builds early success. Small steps create momentum, and momentum helps new routines settle in.
It’s normal for family members to resist changes at first. Children may prefer old patterns, and partners might find the new expectations unfamiliar. This discomfort is often strongest in the first few weeks. Once the new habit stabilises, resistance fades, and routines begin to feel more natural.
Creating small changes with big impact
When it comes to healthy routines, mornings offer valuable opportunities for subtle improvements. A calmer start to the day influences how the entire household feels. Preparing breakfast components the night before, arranging school bags in advance, or laying out clothes for the next day can help reduce morning stress. With a few minutes freed up, families can introduce a small stretch, a gentle moment of breathing, or simply an unhurried breakfast together. These simple changes can shift the morning rhythm without requiring major time commitments.
Some adults exploring long-term health improvements may also be curious about targeted weight-management options. Online resources can provide guidance for individuals considering prescription weight-loss treatments as part of broader lifestyle adjustments.
Evenings play an equally important role in creating stability. The way a household unwinds affects the quality of sleep and the mood the next morning. Lowering lights, switching off screens half an hour before bed, and spending a few minutes reading together will create a quiet, predictable atmosphere. These signals encourage the body and mind to relax. Children often fall asleep more easily when screens are removed from the end-of-day routine, and adults typically notice a difference in the calmness of the household.
Weekends provide another natural opportunity to strengthen healthy habits. Exercise doesn’t have to be time-consuming or structured; enjoyable movement is more effective. A walk through the neighbourhood, a playful game in the garden, or music and dancing in the living room introduces activity into the day without framing it as a task. When movement feels enjoyable, children are likely to join in more enthusiastically, and adults are more likely to maintain the routine.
Tailoring routines to fit your family’s natural rhythm
Every family has unique energy cycles. Some households function best in the early morning, while others are more productive in the late afternoon or after dinner. Creating routines that reflect these natural rhythms increases the likelihood of long-term success. Working against the flow, even with good intentions, often leads to frustration.
Taking a close look at a typical week can reveal moments that are more flexible than they seem. A ten-minute window after school, a quiet period before dinner, or a pause immediately after waking up can become the foundation for new habits. By identifying where the family naturally slows down or comes together, parents can introduce routines that feel seamless instead of forced.
Families with children of different ages will probably benefit from flexible structures. Toddlers respond well to predictable cues and visual reminders, while teenagers may prefer more independence in how they participate. A routine that allows for both structure and autonomy meets the needs of the whole household without creating unnecessary conflict.
Seasonal adjustments also help routines stay fresh. Winter may encourage indoor movement games and warm, nourishing meals. Summer brings opportunities for outdoor activities, lighter foods, and extended daylight. Allowing routines to shift with the seasons helps keep everyone interested and prevents habits from feeling repetitive.
Flexibility becomes especially important during schedule transitions. School terms and holidays follow different rhythms, and expecting a single routine to fit both often leads to disappointment. Planning in advance for seasonal changes, school breaks, and busy periods will help prevent routines from collapsing. Families that allow their habits to expand and contract with the calendar tend to maintain them over time.
Maintaining momentum when life gets chaotic
Life interruptions are inevitable. Illness, work deadlines, travel, or unexpected events can disrupt even the most stable routines. Instead of viewing these disruptions as failures, try to accept them as normal parts of life. A gentle return to healthier habits helps maintain progress without placing unnecessary pressure on anyone.
Simple visual reminders placed in a shared space can guide both children and adults back toward their routines. A family calendar or a small chart near the kitchen can serve as a quiet prompt throughout the day. Younger children often respond well to picture-based reminders, which give them an immediate sense of clarity and involvement.
Technology can also support routine-building. Simple apps that track water intake, suggest quick meals, or remind family members to move can reduce mental load. The key is choosing tools that simplify, not complicate, daily life. When apps are user-friendly and unobtrusive, they help families stay consistent without overwhelm.
Encouraging small successes can also strengthen motivation. Noticing when a child remembers to prepare their school bag, when a partner keeps a new bedtime routine, or when the family shares an outdoor activity helps everyone feel supported. Celebrations don’t need to be elaborate; a kind acknowledgment or shared moment of appreciation is all that’s needed.
Building a family health planner that works
Many families find that a weekly health planner transforms abstract routines into practical schedules. Creating a simple chart with the days of the week across the top and family members down the side allows each person to see their routines at a glance. Adding sections for morning habits, evening wind-down activities, and weekend plans helps shape a structure that feels achievable. Try to review the planner together each week, so you can all learn what worked, what needs adjusting, and where new opportunities might fit. Exploring practical approaches to family routine planning can strengthen this process and help parents maintain clarity over time.
Healthy routines only thrive when they grow in ways that match real family life. The small changes that fit naturally into mornings, evenings, and weekends create the strongest foundations, especially when parents allow habits to adapt instead of forcing perfection. When you focus on gradual improvements, honour each person’s rhythm, and return gently to routine after disruptions, daily life becomes calmer and more predictable. Over time, these steady patterns reduce stress and support a healthier, more connected home.
12 years ago, I got my first Meadow Creature broadfork and tried it out.
At the time, I had a tiny YouTube channel and was broke. I wrote to Meadow Creature with some questions about their fork and said I wanted to try one out when I had the money, and Margot at the company just sent me one to review.
I loved it.
Since then, I have recommended the company many times and have used their broadforks for making countless garden beds, as well as dividing clumps of bananas, aerating older beds, pulling out shrubs and even prying massive boulders out of the ground.
It’s an excellent tool and I would not be without one.
After buying our store, I wrote to Margot at Meadow Creature and asked her if we could carry their forks. She agreed, and now Atmore Farm & Garden is the official (and only) distributer of Meadow Creature products in the SouthEast!
We got our new forks and display stand last week and set them up:
To start, we got two of the 14″ forks and two 12″ forks, plus two of their unbreakable hand digging forks and two border forks. Incidentally, the Meadow Creature forks are hanging up with hoes from EasyDigging.com, which is another long-time connection of ours and a company we’ve supported over the years.
It’s great seeing these long-time relationships lead to a more collaboration now that we have the store.
That said, I know a lot of you live far from Lower Alabama and might not get a chance to visit.
If you want to buy Meadow Creature broadforks and still support us, just use this link here. The price is the same, but we get a small commission. There is a $20 off sale going on right now.
In other news, we sold out of poinsettias in just four days of having them in the shop. Next year we may have to get more, provided we aren’t in a hyperinflationary death spiral.
In that case, we’ll make sure to have more garden tools and fruit trees instead.
These last-minute DIY Christmas gift ideas are practically guaranteed to be gobbled up by the recipient! Each of these thoughtful DIY gifts is created in the kitchen and makes for perfect hostess gifts, teacher gifts, or stocking stuffers. There is something for everyone on this list.Plus, grab my go-to crowd-pleasing Italian bread dip mix at the end of this post.
Want to know my secret to last-minute DIY Christmas gifts? It all begins in the kitchen! Making unique and heartfelt gifts can easily be done with ingredients you already have on hand.
In fact, I wrote a whole book about gifts that you can whip up right at home in the kitchen. Sugar and Spice: Handmade Gifts from the Kitchen is full of last-minute DIY Christmas gifts, and I wanted to share a couple of those recipes with you here today!
Your Kitchen: The Perfect Spot to Make Last-Minute DIY Christmas Gifts
As hard as I try, every year there is always a last-minute panic before Christmas to finish up shopping. Even if you plan it out and start getting gifts months in advance, there are always last-minute gifts that pop up for neighbours, teachers, postmen, party hosts…you name it!
That’s why it is SO important to have a ton of last-minute Christmas gift ideas at the ready. No one likes feeling unprepared, but at the same time, it’s hard to have a lot of presents at the ready. That’s exactly why I turn to the kitchen! It is always packed full of ingredients at my disposal and never fails to disappoint in the gift sector. After all, food is universal and something everyone loves and appreciates.
My book, Sugar and Spice, is perfect to have on hand anytime you need a gift ASAP. I wanted to share with you one recipe from each chapter. There are over forty recipes in Sugar and Spice that are easy to make and are basically guaranteed to be loved.
Herbs and Spices
If you have a stocked spice cabinet, chances are you already have most of these ingredients on hand and ready to go in your kitchen. We all know that good spices are the key to making tasty dishes. By creating spice blends and other easy condiments, you’re encouraging your giftee to create their own tasty meals with your help.
In Sugar and Spice, my first chapter is dedicated to the art of herbs and spices. I share recipes for walnut garlic scape pesto, soup mix in a jar, BBQ spice rub, and so many more herbalicious recipes. My first recipe, which I wanted to share with you, is the first one you’ll find in the book.
Italian Bread Dip Mix
Good quality herbs mixed with oil and balsamic vinegar is the tastiest bread dip out there. This Italian bread dip mix is a dry-ingredient herb mix that stores well until ready to be eaten. Simply combine with olive oil and vinegar, warm up a loaf of bread, and you’re ready to dip.
Trust me, this dip mix is a winner! Grab the recipe in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Recipe blend:
½ cup oregano
½ cup basil
½ cup parsley
½ cup rosemary
½ cup dehydrated garlic
½ cup dehydrated onion
¼ cup kosher salt (or according to your taste)
freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup red pepper flakes
More Herby Goodness
These are some of the easiest recipes to whip up last minute. To really sell it, you need cute packaging! Make homemade labels and place these herb and spice-inspired recipes in cute containers.
Love in a Mason Jar
Only good things come in mason jars. They are known for jams and preserves, but they can also be used for a ton of other recipes and gifts. Mason jars are great for last-minute DIY Christmas gifts because they are easy to decorate. Throw on some jute twine and a label, and you’re good to go!
From peach brandy preserves to blood orange and raspberry marmalade, I have a ton of recipes featuring mason jars in Sugar and Spice. For this chapter, I wanted to share with you the perfect combination of salty and sweet.
Here are some great Mason jar-inspired gifts:
Refreshing Sips
With all the food being consumed during come holiday season, we’re going to need some refreshing sips to wash it all down. While I love eggnog and cinnamon-spiced drinks, I like to have a little variety when it comes to holiday drinks. Drinks are a sure-fire way to ensure your last-minute DIY Christmas gifts are a hit with whoever receives and enjoys them.
My drink recipes in Sugar and Spice include different syrups to make alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, as well as special recipes just for adults.
Here are a few drinks and syrups you can gift!
Oven-Baked Goodness
What would the kitchen be without an oven? Warm and toasty, some of the sweetest and most savoury food comes from the oven. Christmas baking is a staple between gingerbread and shortbread, but there are a ton of other oven-baked goodies that are waiting to be made.
The baking chapter in Sugar and Spice features some holiday recipes you may not have thought of, including puff pastry lollipops, sweet compound butter, pumpkin apple bread, and more.
Here are a few oven-baked recipes on the blog that I think would make great gifts:
‘Tis the Season
Most of these recipes could actually be made and gifted year-round, so I wanted to come up with a few last-minute DIY Christmas gifts specifically for the season. In Sugar and Spice, I have a few recipes that you can make to eat, drink, and be merry.
Here are some holiday-inspired recipes from the garden to gift:
Beauty From the Kitchen
I have many plant-based beauty product recipes that you can make at home, but they often require specific ingredients you might not already have on hand. However, some recipes are super simple to create using ingredients from the kitchen, or that can easily be found at a natural grocery store.
Here are some easy, last-minute beauty gifts you can make:
More Homemade Christmas Gifts
If you’re looking for more inspiration beyond the kitchen, here are some more guides to check out!
Italian Bread Dip Mix
A dry herb ingredient mix, combine with oil and vinegar and dip with warm bread.
Cook Time5 minutesmins
Total Time5 minutesmins
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: bread mix, dip, edible gifts, italian
Servings: 4bags
Calories: 28kcal
½cuporegano
½cupbasil
½cupparsley
½cuprosemary
½cupdehydrated garlic
¼cupkosher salt(or according to your taste)
Freshly ground pepper
¼cupred pepper flakes
Serving: 0.25bag | Calories: 28kcal
A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants.
Recently, when I made limoncello from the plump fruit of our little Meyer lemon tree, I had leftovers: seven perfect and precious—but naked— lemons. Their skins were soaking in vodka (see last week’s story for the limoncello recipe). What to do with the juice? Freezing it was one option, but I wanted to salt-preserve the rest of the crop, and this juice would be an added luxury. You can make preserved lemons with just fruit and salt, but a top-up of lemon juice makes this versatile condiment and slow ferment even better: a little of the salty syrup from the preserved lemons makes fantastic vinaigrettes and drizzles for salads and seafood crudos, and a spoonful added to roasting vegetables or slow winter stews adds eye-widening depth of flavor. It’s also very good on the rim of a holiday cocktail glass.
Above: Destined to become preserved lemons, our crop will last at least a year.
If you use store-bought fruit, whether organically grown or not, wash them well and then dry them. Cut them from the tip to the stem end into quarters, but leave them attached at the base (cutting them all the way does not alter their flavor so don’t panic if you over-slice a couple).
Above: Use sea salt or rock salt to make preserved lemons. Above: The salted lemons are packed into a clean jar. Above: The peeled lemons I used for limoncello are now squeezed for their juice.
Above: The juice is added to the jar. Above: Over the next few days the salt will draw out additional juice from the cut lemons, to cover them.
Preserved Lemons
This method works for any quantity of lemons. Preserve one or 20. Meyers are very thin-skinned, but thicker-skinned lemons work very well, too.
8 Meyer lemons
Fine sea salt
Juice of 7 to 8 lemons
4 fresh bay leaves (optional)
Wash and dry the lemons. Cut each fruit into quarters from the tip to the stem end, but keeping the stem end intact. Place the fruit on a plate. Add a tablespoonful of salt to the center of each lemon. Some will fall out, don’t worry. When your lemons are filled pack them into a clean jar or jars that can hold them comfortably. Add more salt, shaking it down, to reach about one quarter of the way up the jar. Pour in the juice. Add the bay leaves, if using. Cover with a lid and give the jar a good shake. Loosen the lid again. Leave out at room temperature for at least a month. You’ll notice the liquid level rising as juice is drawn from the lemons. If any lemons remain uncovered after a few days, add more salt to the jar. Preserved lemons keep indefinitely, becoming softer as they mature.
To use them, rinse them off and chop finely, you can use both the lemons kin and the soft pulp (just discard the seeds).
Expect a mature height and width of four to six feet.
Growth is upward and arching, for naturalistic, informal privacy hedges, stand-alone specimens, or mixed shrub groupings.
8. Lynwood Gold
F. x intermedia ‘Lynwood Gold’ reaches heights of six to eight feet with a spread of eight to 10 feet, and has an upward, branching growth habit.
You can create privacy around a property perimeter, or plant as an imposing stand-alone specimen that welcomes spring with voluminous quantities of bold blossoms.
F. x ‘Meadowlark’ is one of the most cold-hardy late winter to early spring choices. It’s a hybrid cross between F. ovata and F. europaea, and is hardy as far north as Zone 3.
It is densely branched and reaches impressive heights of eight to 10 feet with an equal spread.
F. x intermedia ‘Northern Gold’ is a cold-hardy champion bred specifically for northern climates.
This Canadian-bred cultivar has flower buds that can survive temperatures down to -30°F, making it reliable in Zones 3 through 8.
It reaches a manageable six to eight feet in height with an equal spread. The growth habit is upright and arching, creating an attractive rounded form.
The bright golden-yellow flowers are particularly abundant and reliable, even following harsh cold snaps that would damage less hardy varieties.
This is an excellent choice for gardeners in cold climates who want a classic forsythia without worrying about bud damage.
Use it as a specimen plant, in mixed shrub borders, or plant several for an informal hedge. Foliage turns attractive shades of yellow and purple in fall.
Known as “semi-compact,” F. x intermedia ‘Sunrise’ is a late winter to early spring selection with upright branches and a mounding growth habit. This cultivar is hardy to Zone 4.
Although I tend to favor native plants, I like non-native forsythia because it’s a part of my family’s gardening culture.
As a matter of fact, it’s so prevalent in my region that at one time I thought it was native to Pennsylvania.
For me, the first sighting of yellow brings a sense of giddy anticipation of the gardening season to come, and a welcome sense of having weathered another winter.
I also like forsythia because it is so user friendly. Simply snip a stem and push it into the soil, or bend a branch to the ground and cover it with a rock, and nine times out of ten, roots will sprout.
