Give the gardener in your life something green this holiday season. From ingenious tools and practical essentials to a well-earned indulgence, these eight gardening and garden-inspired gifts are designed to delight, entertain and help prepare for the next growing season.
Built-in compost
Drawing on the traditional African keyhole garden, Vita’s Urbana 4-by-4-foot Keyhole Composting Garden combines a raised vegetable bed with a built-in composter. Set the bed on grass or soil, then add kitchen scraps to the central compost basket, where they naturally break down to nourish nearby plants, help retain moisture and reduce the need for watering. Made from BPA- and phthalate-free PVC, the lightweight garden assembles without tools or screws. Vita also supports sustainable gardening programs in Africa and elsewhere around the world. $239.99.
A “just-right” gardening tool
Part long-handled shovel and part handheld trowel, Sneeboer’s Great Dixter Planting Spade is a Goldilocks-style gardening tool. It is especially useful for digging while kneeling and features two side-by-side handles for easy control. Its compact design allows gardeners to work in established beds without disturbing neighboring plants. Made in the Netherlands, this heirloom-quality tool has a hand-forged, stainless-steel blade angled and curved to scoop soil efficiently. The unfinished 16½-inch (42-centimeter) ash hardwood handle is replaceable, helping ensure years of use. $109.
A toast to last year’s tomatoes
For the tomato enthusiast, a little liquid holiday cheer can celebrate both past and future harvests. Crop Tomato Organic Vodka is an award-winning, USDA-certified organic spirit that is gluten-free, distilled from non-GMO corn grown in Minnesota and infused with the essence of vine-ripened tomatoes. Its savory, garden-fresh flavor works well in a Bloody Mary, martini or an original cocktail — perhaps with a touch of fresh basil. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $34.99 for a standard bottle.
Style that stands tall
Sticks and moss poles may support climbing houseplants, but a Treleaf trellis turns that practical task into a decorative display. Made in Atlanta from locally sourced materials, each nature-inspired support is designed as a piece of art. The trellises come in 13 designs and are available in finished or unfinished wood, including modular versions that can be expanded as a plant grows. $24-$45.
Bath-time antics on display
The solar-powered Birdfy Bath Pro smart birdbath offers an intimate look at backyard birds as they drink, bathe and splash. Its dual-lens camera is positioned for a clear view and streams live video to a phone through a free app. Built-in artificial intelligence can identify up to 10 visiting species each day; an optional paid membership adds unlimited species identification and other features. The integrated solar fountain includes interchangeable spray nozzles and a shut-off function to help conserve water. Around $259.99 with stand; $199 without.
Blow leaves, not smoke
The battery-powered Stihl BRA 200 backpack leaf blower tackles garden cleanup without the noise and pollution of gas-powered equipment. It provides consistent airflow in a lightweight, ergonomic design, while a lockable throttle lets users set the speed at any position to ease hand fatigue. Operating at 64 decibels, it is quieter than an average conversation. $729.99.
A personal no-fly zone
Mosquito repellent may not top a wish list, but practical-minded gardeners will appreciate it whenever they head outdoors during bug season. Each Parakito wristband includes two refills made with a blend of seven natural essential oils, with each refill promising 15 days of protection. Available in numerous patterns and solid colors, the adjustable neoprene bands come in four sizes, including a children’s option, and can also be worn around the ankles. Made in France, they cost $19.99; replacement refills are sold in two-packs for $13.
Hope for black thumbs
Houseplants often fail, and their caretakers do not always know what went wrong or how to prevent it. LeafyPod uses artificial intelligence to guide users in caring for individual plants. After placing a plant in the smart container, filling its water reservoir and downloading the free app, users upload a photo for identification. Sensors monitor soil moisture and release the appropriate amount of water at the right time. The system also tracks light, humidity and room temperature, then sends updates to the app, which alerts users when the plant needs attention. $145.
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