If your budget is small, go for things like gloves, kneepads or even a shady hat. A pretty pot (or a watering-can) filled with a small bag of potting mix, a packet of bulbs, some gloves and a small trowel or other tool will be received with delight by most gardeners. There are many hand tools at hardware stores that are reasonably priced.
If you feel that is too ordinary, how about a subscription to a gardening magazine? A tiny bit more expensive perhaps, but it will give twelve full months of delight. A book on gardening is another idea, but make sure your recipient does not already have the one you choose. Books are often heavily discounted at Christmas time, so you may get a bargain.
On the other hand, a pot that contains a flowering plant is usually a welcomed gift. Be sure to choose a plant that is suited to your climate. Sometimes plants are sent from tropical to temperate zones and kept in artificial conditions in the store. These plants will not do well once taken from their environment. Shrub roses are hardy and attractive and grow in many climates. Tulips do best in the cooler climate.
If your budget is strong, a more expensive tool may be appropriate. A pull-trolley is easier to use than a wheelbarrow and, like some electric tools, is still not terribly expensive. Small electric tools such as whipper-snippers can retail for as little as $20.00. Or if your friend has a hose but not a hose reel, then that would be a more useful gift that he would truly appreciate.
Automatic lawn mowers, electric cultivators, hedge trimmers and brush cutters are in the more expensive price range and you are the only one who can decide whether that is an appropriate gift. However, when the recipient realizes you have given a gift that complements his passion, expensive or not, it will certainly become the best gift your friend has ever received.
For the friend or loved one who is an avid bird watcher, choosing gardening gifts that attract birds or gifts that can enhance your loved one's bird-themed garden is a great way to show you care. Gardening gifts come in an assortment of designs, materials, and colors so you can easily find useful items for your loved ones. They make great gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, "thank you" presents, co-worker gift exchanges, Chinese auctions, or the Christmas season.
Birds are attracted to flower gardens, especially those packed with all the plants, foods, and accessories they love. For your bird-watcher friend, look for gifts that will complement their garden decoration as well as provide an easy place for bird seeds and accessories that attract an assortment of birds. Here are some gardening gift ideas to get you started.
Hanging or Statue Bird Feeders
Bird feeders attract hummingbirds, cardinals, wrens, and many other types of amazing birds. Bird feeders can be decorative or practical, or both. You can choose a plain bird feeder, which is basically a plastic see-through tube filled with birdseed with a dispenser at the bottom. These are great for hanging in trees or on the patio. They are simple and effective. Or, for the bird watcher who also loves lawn decorations, you can choose from a variety of styles and themes of statue bird feeders such as the garden fairy bird feeder, cherub bird feeders, flower bird feeders, and animal-themed bird feeders.
One particular company that makes excellent bird feeders is Droll Yankees. They make quality bird feeders that last and also guarantee their products.
Stone Bird Baths
Your loved one can accent their yard with a stone bird bath and watch as beautiful birds play in the water on those steamy hot summer days. Birdbaths are decorative and great for attracting an assortment of birds throughout the year. Stone birdbaths are exceptionally durable and can last for years and years. They come in various designs such as prairie, koi pond, flower designs, and English. There are even animal-themed birdbaths and brass birdbaths to suit every gardener's taste.
Cedar Bird Houses
Birdhouses also attract many types of birds. They enjoy playing in them and peeping through the holes. Cedar is an excellent choice because it will not warp or rot, it stays cool in the summer, and it gives off an alluring cedar wood aroma. The good news is that pesky insects and moths hate the smell of cedar! Birdhouses are lovely additions to any yard or garden, and bird watchers often love receiving them as gifts.
Other Complementing Gardening Gifts
Bird watchers who love decorating their yard or garden will also appreciate other gardening gifts such as an arbor or garden trellis, garden sculptures, garden fountains, patio furniture, or unique garden tools.
You can find these items and many other gardening gifts online, which enables you to shop from home any time of the year for holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions.
Both Jon Simms & Chris Robertson are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.