Gift giving is a meaningful part of the holiday. The most thoughtful presents are those that fulfill a need or desire of the recipient. In other words, shirts and ties probably aren't a good idea. But some waterproof gardening boots might be just the thing, especially if they live in the Northeast. Here, the ground becomes very muddy after the spring thaws. Gardening tools and supplies are wonderful if they need them.
Some gardeners are in dire need of plant labels. It sure beats wandering around the garden in the spring trying to figure out where things are supposed to be. The best labels are durable, weatherproof, and permanent ones you can stick in the ground.
For those yucky, messy garden jobs, garden gloves are just the thing. Disposable ones sold in pharmacies are perfect for transplanting small seedlings. One size fits all, and the giant economy size box is a great buy and so convenient to have around.
Aprons and tool belts make gardening easier. Gardeners can fill them up with everything they'll need before they head out to the yard.
For those in cold climates, winters seem to last forever. This means a gift pack of bird food or a bird feeder brings nature to the gardener's door. Cold-climate gardeners may also appreciate a pot of indoor cheer, such as potted citrus or herbs. Some onlline nurseries already have their 2002 print catalogs available, so browse away.
How about a membership in a fruit society? This allows them access to the group's publications and the chance to share scion wood with other members.
Container gardeners will welcome new pots from plain to fancy. Some are decorated with fruit motifs. Prices vary considerably. The most beautiful ones I've seen are by artist-sculptor-biologist Melissa Reichmann. Of her works, my favorite is a half melon wall planter decorated with fruits. These should be available at upscale garden centers. Or take ordinary terra cotta pots, and stencil them with fruit motifs. Special non-toxic paints are available for pots.
If you know the gardener uses a journal, a new garden journal is a great gift idea. The best one I've seen is "My Growing Gardenbook," an expandable looseleaf type with five sections designed to fit in a standard binder. Gardeners can keep all their records and add extra pages as they are needed.
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