GARDEN COLUMN FOR THE SALISBURY POST
Darrell Blackwelder
December 21, 2001
It's late and shopping the gardener can be quite be a
challenge, especially for those who have everything or for those
hard to please. However, purchasing a last minute gift for the
garden enthusiast may not be that difficult. Below is a list of
gifts to consider for the home gardener or for those who have an
interest in gardening.
BULBS: Almost everyone enjoys blooming plants. The
amaryllis is always a Christmas favorite. Place good quality
bulbs in an attractive container to make an excellent gift.
Combinations of different types of bulbs make an interesting
display. Older adults and inquisitive youngsters
enjoy these types of gifts.
PRUNERS: Avid gardeners always need a spare set of hand
pruners. This is a welcome gift, as a stocking stuffer,
especially among those who grow fruit trees, grapes, roses or
other plants requiring high maintenance. Area garden shops carry
replacement parts and blades for better quality pruning shears.
Pole pruners, loppers and bow saws should also be considered.
for those that have shade trees.
UNUSUAL SEEDS: Most home gardeners like to experiment.
Unusual vegetable or flower seed may offer the ultimate
challenge. Young children may also like the challenge. The best
way to obtain these seed is to order from catalogs.
GARDEN MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS: Althouth garden books are
always a safe bet for gardeners, garden magazine subscriptions
are more interesting. "Fine Gardening" and "Carolina Gardening"
are a couple I would recommend. These are perfect gifts for the
"arm chair" gardener.
COMPUTER OR LOCAL ONLINE SERVICEI can't think of a better
gift for the avid gardener. Massive amounts of gardening
information is available on software as well as online
information, including the Rowan County Master Gardener web site.
SMALL GARDEN TILLER- A Master Gardern favorite is the
"Mantis" tiller. It is small and lightweight, but pound for
pound, is one of the best garden tools we have. However, it's a
bit pricey, over $300.00 dollars, but worth the cost for those
that are constantly working in flower beds. They are sold
locally at outdoor power equipment stores.
WATER TIMER AND OTHER IRRIGATION TOOLS: Even if we come out
of this drought with consistant rain, water will still be an
issue with gardeners. Water timers save time and prevent water
waste by over watering. Trickle or drip systems are becoming
even more popular because of the extended drought. Professional
drip systems are almost fool proof designed for the average
home gardener, but local irrigation specialists can design and
install them for both floral and vegetable gardens.
BASKET OF VARIOUS PRODUCTS: If all else fails, give that
special gardener a Christmas basket brimming with of various
gifts such as: gloves, pruners, bulbs, kneeling pads, rubber
clogs and an unusual assortment of seed. Stock the basket with
speciality fertilizers, reference books, pest control products,
garden soaps and an assortment garden tool gadgets. Anyone who
gardens will appreciate this special basket.