Top gifts for gardeners in 2013

We all know that finding the perfect present can be somewhat tricky, but if you’re buying for a gardener, there’s good news – there is absolutely loads you can get for them. From books and tools to barbecue accessories and gadgets for the shed, there’s so much choice that it’s easy to find something that’ll show just how well you know the lucky recipient.

So, with so much of variety, how do you decide what to buy? Here are my top picks for Christmas gifts for gardeners.

1)  Gardening books

Personally, I absolutely love receiving books, and I can’t think of much that’d be better for green-fingered friends and relatives than a gardening book. There are all sorts out there, including guides for beginners, introductions to growing all sorts of plants in pots (which is really handy if a lot of your garden is paved or you simply don’t have a lot of space), and in-depth guides to growing your own veg.

Of course, the grow-your-own trend is very big at the moment, so something like Veg Patch: River Cottage Handbook No. 4 could be particularly welcomed. This has all kinds of handy tips, and you may even get to taste some of the produce when summer rolls round!

2)  Ornaments

The thing I like most about the idea of giving garden ornaments is that there’s equal scope to find thoughtful gifts and to be a bit silly, which makes them appropriate for all kinds of people. For instance, you could buy a funny ornament for a colleague perhaps, or something really decorative and pretty for your mum.

When you’re picking something out, remember there’s far more than just gnomes to choose from these days. There are also pretty wood carvings, stone statues and much more, so take the time to find an ornament that’s just right.

3)  Barbecues and accessories

I find that a lot of gardening enthusiasts also love a bit of a barbecue, so it’s worth considering going down that route with your gifts. Now, obviously, you may not be able to stretch to buying them a gleaming new barbecue (though it’s fantastic if you can!), but you can always buy related items.

Recipe books are a good idea, for example – make sure you pick one that’s actually about barbecuing food, rather than things like casseroles or cakes, though! Tongs, aprons and containers to store utensils in are also all nice accessories to receive.

4)  Storage and accessories for sheds

Now, sheds are a popular fixture in gardens in the UK, and these days they’re used for way more than just storage, often acting as hobby rooms or a place to relax. So, that if you know someone who’s always pottering about in the shed, it’s a lovely idea to get them a few bits and bobs to make the place more comfortable.

You could simply pick up some nice storage containers for their seeds and tools, but you can also buy things like cushions, kettles and blankets to make the place cosier.

5)  Tools, gloves etc

Another area worth considering is picking up one or two functional bits and bobs you know they need. Tools such as hand trowels and watering cans can make excellent gifts, while things that make working in the garden a little more comfortable (some thick gloves or garden kneelers, for example) are particularly good.

6)  Seeds, bulbs and plants

Perhaps the most obvious route to go down is to buy some seeds, bulbs or pot plants. Personally, I find it’s best to get this kind of gift those who a bit newer to gardening. This way, you’re less likely to double up with something they already have – and you can help them get started!

Fantastic Hedge Trimmers

As the summer season approaches, outdoor activities begin with barbeques, picnics and pool parties. It is also a time to perk up your weather-beaten lawn from the harsh elements of winter. Hedge trimming makes a good start in giving your home a facelift and much needed curb appeal. There are five fantastic hedge trimmers that will make your sprucing up job as easy as a summer breeze.

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Gardening: Never Without My Tools!

Want to garden but you do not know where to start? First step: get the right tools. A visit to the garden you may dive into total confusion. Do not panic! You do not need all the tools that sell. Here’s a short list of essential equipment.

Gardening gloves

There you have several kinds. Buy first light gloves, coated with rubber, useful for working in the wetland and allow you to make delicate work such as transplanting and clarify. Get also thick gloves are essential to prune, move rocks, shoveling and perform other tasks without demanding hurt your hands. Choose them the right size: small gloves are not too comfortable, oversized gloves will prevent you to manipulate tools and plants accurately.

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