Introduction

Have a few old jars lying around? Don’t toss them—turn them into a charming indoor herb garden! Whether you’re living small in a van, embracing zero-waste, or want a mindful DIY project, this upcycling idea brings fresh herbs—and good vibes—right into your space.

Why Upcycle?

Upcycling is eco-friendly and creative. It helps you:

  • 🌱 Reduce waste and limit landfill
  • 🧠 Stay mindful with a soothing craft
  • 🌿 Grow your own kitchen herbs for free

What You’ll Need:

To create your own upcycled jar herb garden, you’ll need just a few simple materials—most of which you can find around the house or online:

  • Glass mason jars (500ml) – great for herbs and perfect for small-space gardening
  • Organic potting soil – choose a good quality compost for healthy roots
  • Herb seedlings – such as basil, mint, parsley, or rosemary
  • Small stones or pebbles – to create drainage at the bottom of the jars
  • Chalkboard herb labels – stylish and reusable, these are great for keeping track of your plants
  • A spoon or small trowel – for scooping soil into jars
  • A little water and a sunny spot

💡 Tip: I love these chalkboard labels because they include a chalk pen and give your jars a beautiful handmade touch!

DIY Steps

Clean the Jars
Wash off labels and soak in warm, soapy water if needed.

  1. Add Drainage
    Place 1–2 cm of pebbles to prevent soggy roots—critical for herbs in sealed jars.
  2. Add Soil
    Fill jars with potting mix, leaving about 2 cm at the top.
  3. Plant Your Herbs
    Sow seeds or transplant seedlings gently.
  4. Label Your Jars
    Get creative—paper tags, chalkboard labels, or wooden sticks add a rustic touch.
  5. Decorate (Optional)
    Try chalk paint, twine wraps, or skip decoration for a clean, minimalist look.

Care Tips

  • Sunlight: Place near a sunny window—it makes all the difference!
  • Watering: Keep soil moist, not waterlogged. Use a spray bottle to avoid overwatering.
  • Harvesting: Trim herbs regularly—ideal for promoting fresh growth and flavorful herbs.

Why This Project Matters

When I began healing from toxic relationships and rebuilding my life, this simple craft helped ground me. It wasn’t just about plants—it was about reclaiming creativity, caring for living things, and finding peace in everyday actions.

Final Thoughts

This project is perfect for anyone—van dwellers, crafty souls, or mindful homemakers. It’s eco-friendly, easy, and brings fresh green joy to your kitchen.

What herb are you planting first? Let me know in the comments below 🌱

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for supporting The Mindful Nomad!

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