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Whether you’ve just started a garden in quarantine or have been obsessed with plants for years, these gifts are sure to sprout happiness for every green thumb this season.
If you panic-bought plants during the pandemic, keep your new companions alive with the help of “The New Plant Parent” by Darryl Cheng. The 208-page book, available at Pigment, guides horticulture newbies through the basics of plant care, including watering, lighting, fertilizing and more. $24.99. shoppigment.com
The Hydro Grow Kits offered at La Mesa shop Small Batch are the perfect fit for forgetful plant owners. Packaged in a small terracotta pot, the container’s glazed interior has a passive hydroponic system — known as “wicking” — that provides water and nutrients to the plant’s roots, keeping it healthy on days you under (or over) water. These “modern sprouts” came in a variety of species, ranging from evergreen spruce to coastal fan palms. $18. smallbatchstore.com
Established in 1886, London-based Haws Watering Cans handcrafts sleek, steel vessels that are equal parts functional and aesthetic — sure to impress even the most seasoned green thumb. Small and large sizes of the Haws Traditional Watering Can are carried nationally at Terrain, available in either green and black. $78-$98. shopterrain.com
Gardener’s Lifetime Trowel is a great addition, or upgrade, to every horticulturist’s tool kit. This steel blade attached to a hardwood handle is handmade in Holland, with a sturdy design suitable for digging, planting and mixing soil. And true to its name, the trowel has a lifetime guarantee, letting you tackle any gardening project with peace of mind. $39.95. gardeners.com
Made from recycled milk jugs, WallyGro’s Eco Wall Planter turns any wall into a living work of art. Simply mount the bracket on your wall and slide the planter on top to create a vertical indoor garden. The portable design makes watering day a breeze, and with multiple planters, you can easily swap the placement of plants around your home. Offered in nearly a dozen colors to match any room. $29.99. wallygro.com
For those lacking outdoor space at home, consider an annual membership to the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas. Explore the 37 acres of greenery, featuring 27 gardens blooming with plants, flowers and trees from around the world. Annual membership includes unlimited visits, free parking, two complimentary guest passes, and other perks. Basic, one-year memberships can be purchased for either individuals or families, with senior, student and military discounts available. $55-$85. sdbgarden.org
This year, finding ways to have a holly jolly holiday season begins with giving. This year’s top picks.
Get U-T Arts & Culture on Thursdays
A San Diego insider’s look at what talented artists are bringing to the stage, screen, galleries and more.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the San Diego Union-Tribune.