by Margaret Telsch-Williams

Created on: January 21, 2009

When the time comes to buy a gift for your favorite gardener it can be difficult to make a choice as to what to give them. The key is to know your gardener and if they enjoy items which are functional, decorative, or both. If you're not sure where to start from there, don't worry, there are lots of options you can look at to make your choice. When making your purchases, remember to keep in mind the type of garden they have, full sun, shade, annuals, perennials, vegetables, formal, informal, etc.

One of the best things you can start with is gift cards, gift cards, and gift cards. Lowe's, Home Depot, your local Mom and Pop store, you name it. A gift card is a pass to freedom for a gardener. This gives them the flexibility to choose what they want or need, even if it only buys their next shovel or a set of tomato plants, it's a help. If they are into canning vegetables you could also select a gift card from your local grocery store or Walmart, wherever canning supplies are sold.

If a gift card doesn't feel personal enough you do still have a great selections to make. Consider a nice wind chime, thermometer, a decorative hose hanger, planters, or stepping stones. All of these are useful and beautiful in the garden and will be a welcome gift for any gardener. Even a new pair of gloves or a tool caddy will be seen as a great gift to break in. Another consideration is also to buy them some good garden clogs that are able to hold up to being sprayed down with a hose after a long day in the dirt.

Maybe your pocketbook is a little larger for your gardening friend, if that is the case, then you'll certainly not run out of ideas anytime soon. There are some great tools that are always in need in the garden. Whether it's tillers, weed eaters, or a couple of seeping hoses, start with something you know they have been needing or wanting; make sure it's something they will enjoy having. The last thing you want to do is get a composter for someone that can't handle the time and effort it will take to turn it often, and add the right ingredients for the best compost cocktail.

When all else fails, take your garden guru on a shopping trip and tell them a price range to stay under. Let the experience be part of the gift, and when it comes time to checkout you buy. Although it may seem like a daunting task from the outside looking in, but when it comes to gardening, there's always something that could be used or added in the garden. If there is truly nothing you can think of, go with the old standby, buy a couple of comfortable outdoor chairs and spend some time with them relaxing in the garden.

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