With warmer weather on the horizon, you might be on the hunt for a few DIY projects. Luckily, you don’t have to look any further. It’s time to break out some tools and creativity to spruce up your house and the planet in time for spring. Here are six sustainable home improvement ideas.
1. Hanging Herb Garden
If you’ve ever wanted to cook with your own herbs, you should build a vertical herb garden. This setup works well in apartments, as you won’t need any outdoor space. Here’s how:
- Install two curtain brackets on a wall far enough apart to hang four containers across.
- Poke a few drainage holes in four small galvanized buckets with top handles.
- Put planting soil and the herbs in the buckets.
- Loop the buckets across a metal or wooden rod.
- Place the rod on the curtain brackets.
Technically, you can grow many popular herbs inside year-round. If you want to use the spring sunshine, try basil, chives and parsley. Remember to pick a sunny spot for your garden for the best results.
2. Framed Botanical Portraits
It’s the perfect time to bring nature inside. There are a few flowers that bloom in early spring, like bluebells and primroses. However, you don’t need blossoms to make DIY framed botanical portraits, as you can use leaves and twigs, too.
First, see what materials you can use. Look for greenery that would work with your space. Head to a thrift store to pick up picture frames. Arrange them on a wall in a pattern you like. Then, use tape to set your botanicals in each frame’s center.
3. Knit a Pair of Socks
Though spring might mean warmer temperatures, you can expect some blustery days. Why not knit some socks to stay cozy through the unpredictable weather? There are endless free patterns you can download online. Remember to use yarn made from a material like bamboo, which grows 3 feet in one day, so you can be sustainable.
4. Wooden Bee Habitats
Researchers have discovered that insect populations have declined around the world due to factors like agriculture, urbanization and more. These species are essential for ecosystems, so we need to preserve them. Here’s a project to house the endangered bees in your backyard.
All you’ll need is a wooden block and an electric drill. First, you’ll drill 4-inch deep holes in the wooden block. These openings should be spaced an inch apart. Tap the block to remove any shavings. Set up your bee home so the holes face south for the morning sun.
5. Backyard Compost Pile
It’s an ideal time to start your own compost bin. This DIY project will allow you to repurpose your food scraps for nutrients for your garden. Use a bin to collect specific compost materials like apple cores and banana peels. Then, select a shady spot outside to dump the items. Add water to keep the pile moist — and in several weeks, you can use your compost.
6. Homemade Cleaning Products
If you have spring cleaning plans, skip the store-bought cleaning products. Instead, you’ll want to use natural alternatives that don’t come with chemicals. From laundry detergent to bathroom cleaner, you can make products using household ingredients that are just as effective.
Try These Creative and Eco-Friendly DIY Projects Today
There’s no better way to welcome spring into your home than with a few fun and sustainable DIY projects. These ideas are a great way to embrace the warm weather. Try a few today!
