Christmas Gifts for a Gardener

Life has been kind of crazy in our house.  Who's isn't at this time of year?  With my husband working on his physical therapy and the extra work of getting ready for Christmas, I haven't had the time to sit and read email let alone write.  I have been thinking about gardening.  I do every day in some way.  After a recent trip into a north side garden center I knew what I wanted to share with those who might care.


What does the gardener in my life really want?


This is what is on my wish list:

• A good watering can, a metal one like you would find in an English gardening catalog.
• New garden clogs, a sturdy pair that can take the wear.
• A sharp folding garden saw.  Not a cheap one but a durable saw that will stand the test of time.
• A new pair of by-pass pruners, preferably Felco.
• A Dramm watering wand 2-3' long, with 2" wide watering head.  The darn things don't last forever and we are always bending the screens on our watering heads which changes the water flow pattern to "crappy".
• Clay pots, 10" or larger, glazed or natural, with patterns or standard design.  They eventually crack so even veteran gardeners are looking to get more.
• Gift cards/certificates to some of the local garden centers for my spring buying spree.  A little here and there to spend is my preference rather than one big purchase at the box store.
• Plant stakes and cages, the really beautiful ones that I would never buy for myself.
• A 6'x9' green house that can be set up and taken down.  This size would fit over one of my raised beds but would also be the right size for spring propagation.  Being able to move it is important for my year round plans.
• If I can't get the greenhouse, a cold frame with thermostatic arms that open and close on warm, sunny days.  I would like this for the side of the house where I could put in some early and late season crops.
• A garden swing built in my backyard.  The kind that I can hang plants off the ends and sit with my sweetie at the end of the day.  I want to be able to sit by the pond and listen to the water and smell the herb garden.
• More time in the garden with my family.

OK. So you can't buy all that in the store and I certainly don't expect to get even a small amount of these things.  I guess the point of this is that a gardener is easy to buy for especially if you buy them quality tools!  Skip the cheap stuff and get one really nice tool that will stand up to the tasks that they put it through.  With tools, you get what you pay for.


Most gardeners don't need another garden knick-knack.  Instead of getting the plastic turtle or ceramic deer, get some nice quality plant supports.  I have even seen some really great items at craft fairs that are made by welders that are more practical than cute.  Of course you have to consider the taste of the person you are buying for, but keep it simple, keep it strong.  A former co-worker of mine made trellis from bent willow which were beautiful as well as practical.  It is worth supporting your local craft people.  If it seems like it costs a lot for such simple materials, remember, you are paying for the time it took them to make it.  Ask them about their craft while you are at it and you may be enriched by learning something new, and you will have a story to tell the gift recipient as well.


This list may to be late for this holiday season, but keep these general thoughts in mind when shopping for your gardening friend on other occasions.  Mother's Day will be here before you know it (hint,hint!).