Propagating Plants (Basil & Mint) - So Easy and They Will Make Some Great Gifts!

Propagating plants is, when you grow a new plants from leaf, root cuttings, basically parts of the parent plant. When you grow plants from cuttings, they will have the same qualities as their parent plan, unlike when you grow from seeds. 

So far I've tried propagating basil and mint, they root quite easily. I accidentally left some zinnia flower cuttings in water vase for a couple of weeks and they root too! Potato, sweet potato, and ginger are also among those which are easy to grow. Shallots are easy too, they can even root when you keep them in a fridge!

Basically, you just need to cut some of the plants you want to grow, reduce some leaves, and put them in water. In several days to week, they will start developing roots. Sometimes they don't root, so keep several cuttings just in case.

mint cuttings

So, when your plants are getting too bushy, why not prune them a bit and grow them back? They will be a great souvenirs for guests or friends coming over to your house.

 left : mint; right : basil cuttings ~ can you see those tiny roots?

Next step? Wrap them up! Gather your craft supplies.

You don't even need expensive container for it, just wrap them nicely and you're done. You can use fabric stickers, fabric, ribbons, lace, colored paper, or even doilies. 

 

DIY Heating Pack

Heating pack is kinda must-have item nearby, don't you agree? They are very easy to make yet very versatile. Even if you're not experience winter, heating pack is very useful as pain reliever or for tense muscle.

What you need to make one (or some) :

1. Fabric scraps - You can use fabric scraps that you like, but better stick with natural fiber, instead of synthetic

2. Raw rice (or you can use dried corn, flaxseed, cherry pits)

3. Essential oil of your choice

4. Zigzag scissors, funnel (optional)

And, the good thing is, you can make it any size you like! Unlike sewing dresses, we can get away without pattern easily. I'll give you some example on ways to sew the pack :  



1. Zig zag heating pack

This is one of the easiest way to sew this, all you gotta do is :

1. Sew straight stitches in U shape

2. Fill with scented rice

3. Sew it closed

4. Snip the edges with zigzag scissors

Done! Easy right? I believe you can make it without even seeing the instructions.



 

2. Single Heating Pack
You don't need a zigzag scissors for this one. It's a little bit more complicated, but still easy.
 

1. Sew straight stitches in U shape (but this time flip the fabric first, so you're sewing on the inside part)

2. Reverse it, then Fill with scented rice

3. Fold the top inside, secure with pins, and sew it closed


3. Long Wrap Heating Pack
It is very convenient, because you can wrap it over the aching body parts. You can make it longer and add velcro if you want a secure wrap.
 

The Result

 

To heat it, simply pop it into microwave for 1-2 minutes. I usually put a bowl of water together to prevent the rice from burning. (But don't soak the pack, it's gonna get cooked). Happy sewing!