I have been working in the garden for many years and have all the tools and other garden tools I need. Oh, every now and then I find something new, but it's getting less and less. When I give gifts, I always want my gifts to be sought after, appreciated and long lasting. Therefore, I will give some recommendations for a gift to a gardener.
Many gardeners, even non-gardeners, love plants. These gifts need not be limited to "traditional" poinsettias, Christmas cacti, amaryllis, cyclamen and Norfolk Island pines, but can also include other plants that do well indoors. Some suggestions include gardenias, orchids, rosemary, miniature roses, citrus, and more. Some are available locally from gardens, nurseries or florists, while others must be ordered. Anyone can enjoy it for months or even years. Some of them can be planted in the garden later after being used as houseplants.
Be careful when it comes to tools. There is no shortage of garden tools and equipment. I will suggest a few things to consider when buying tools for someone. Cheap tools are just a waste of money. They won't last, they can be difficult to use, and they can be frustrating.
With proper care, good tools can last forever. My favorite palette is the one my mom bought me in the 50s. If you saw it you would think it was only a few years old. This is one of the two tools I use the most.
Today's best hand tools are ergonomically designed to be easy and comfortable to use. If it blooms a lot, it is very important to reduce fatigue and avoid repetitive stress. Good tools are expensive and come in many forms. If your gift recipient is serious about gardening, you may want to consider a gift card. Tools that can be used to get something done become very personal to those who take their work seriously, and everyone has their favorite tool for a particular job. A gift card will help ensure you get the right tool.
While there are many good gardening magazines out there, those who are more serious about plants and gardens, whether they are gardeners or not, may enjoy subscribing to one of the often more detailed gardening magazines than others. Three of these magazines are: American Gardener, also a member of the American Horticultural Society (ahsgardening.org); Horticulture (hortmag.com); and Fine Gardening (finegardening.com). One of the benefits of joining the American Horticultural Society is that membership offers free access to 340 of the best public gardens and arboretums in North America.
There are gadgets, special items, garden ornaments, statues and more to look out for. Think about the gardener's special interests and collections and tailor the gift to the recipient. If purchased correctly, most of these items will be used and enjoyed for many years.
This article originally appeared on the Amarillo Globe-News. Gardener column. gifts for gardeners
