Creating a Fresh-Smelling Home with a Summer Simmer Pot
There are countless ways to make your home smell pleasant, from buying scented candles to using elegant room fresheners. However, in today’s world of convenience, there is something uniquely satisfying about creating something with your own hands. This is especially true if you have the ingredients already available in your garden. Combining the desire for a beautiful-smelling home with the joy of crafting can be achieved by making your own summer simmer pot using simple plants from your garden.
A simmer pot is an easy method to infuse your home with refreshing scents. It involves combining various ingredients in a pot on your stovetop and letting it simmer for a while. As the liquid heats up, it releases the fragrances of the ingredients into the air. Using ingredients directly from your garden is ideal because you always have them on hand. One TikTok creator, @silvershieldmaiden, suggests a blend that includes rosemary, mint, tomato leaves, salt, lemon, sun water, and daisies to create a visually appealing and aromatic mix. This recipe is straightforward but effective, offering a summery scent without requiring a significant investment.
Variations and Considerations for Your Summer Simmer Pot
While you can use the suggested recipe, not every garden has the same ingredients. Fortunately, there are many variations of simmer pot recipes that can refresh your home. If you have an herb garden, you can get creative by adding ingredients like a sprig of rosemary, several leaves of mint, and a few orange peels for a delightful aroma. For a romantic touch, consider blending fresh lavender sprigs with lemon and adding a bit of mint for a cheerful lift. Thyme and oregano can add depth and complexity to any recipe.
When preparing your simmer pot, fill it about three-fourths full with water, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Always keep an eye on the pot, and add more water as needed to maintain the simmer.
Sourcing Ingredients from Your Garden
When sourcing ingredients from your garden, it’s important to avoid over-harvesting your plants. Some herbs thrive with regular harvesting, such as rosemary, which produces new shoots when cut. However, other herbs like lavender may have their growth limited if you cut the lower sprigs instead of the uppermost flowers. Mint grows quickly, but it’s wise to harvest only one-third of a plant to prevent stress. Whatever recipe you choose, drawing inspiration from your garden offers a unique and personal touch.
If you’re looking to expand your garden, here are some easy-to-grow herbs that can withstand the summer heat and flourish throughout the season. These include:
- Rosemary: A hardy herb that adds a fresh, pine-like scent.
- Mint: Known for its strong, cooling fragrance.
- Lavender: Offers a calming and floral aroma.
- Thyme: Provides a warm, earthy scent.
- Oregano: Adds a robust, herbal note.
By experimenting with different combinations, you can create a unique and personalized scent that fills your home with the essence of summer. Whether you follow a specific recipe or create your own, the process of making a simmer pot is both rewarding and enjoyable.
