If you are looking for a wonderful gift for the gardener on your list then here are some great suggestions for you. Although it is winter outside, gardeners never really hang up their trowels – they simply garden a bit differently. Winter gives gardeners a chance to finely hone their knowledge so that in spring they begin the gardening season with gusto.
If your gardener might like to spend some time this winter learning how to hone their design skills using fresh flowers then there are a series of workshops right down their alley. The best gifts are those that keep on giving and the knowledge they will gain will make them really smile. Jan. 24 and 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. your favourite person could enjoy learning and working with fresh beautiful flowers. What better way to make winter go away and also expand the skills and knowledge of your perfect gardener? Level I Floral Design will allow participants to learn the basic concepts of floral design and gain the necessary skills to begin work in the floral industry. Participants will design four spectacular floral pieces to take home. Cost is $495 plus GST. Call the Saskatoon School of Horticulture at 306-931-GROW (4769) or email [email protected].
There is a great community program that might be a great fit for those gardeners who like to keep current and share their knowledge with other gardeners. The Prairie Master Gardeners share their love and knowledge of gardening with anyone and everyone. They have social and educational events that make gardening even better than it is. Check out their affordable and enjoyable classes and other events and if it suits your fancy (or your favourite gardener's) joining or taking a class is a very thoughtful gift. The first big event is Feb. 7. Escape Winter this year is both bigger and better. For the low cost of $50 for members ($60 for non-members) you can spend a great day filled with fun, fellowship and fabulous classes. Mark your calendars and watch in early January for details.
Even in the age of electronic information there is still a great desire to have a collection of gardening books. What is really wonderful is that there are more books on the subject of gardening that are really suited to gardening on the Prairies. Lone Pine is the publisher that has the greatest selection of these books and offer very competitive prices. Books on perennials, vegetables, trees, herbs and more are welcomed by gardeners as a source of reference, or just an enjoyable read. Browse your favourite bookstore or take a minute and search online for a gardening book that will suit the gardener on your list this holiday season.
Never forget your favourite garden store that even in the middle of winter is getting ready for spring by stocking their shelves with a multitude of garden related gifts. Each year it simply is amazing that there is more to choose from. Tools, gadgets and other garden features in a variety of styles that will fit your personal landscape are not far away. Giving a gift that has a useful component somehow makes the gift extra special and of course a gift that will be appreciated over and over.
If none of these ideas suits your criteria for choosing that perfect gift, then why not give the gift of your strong back and give your gardener the pledge of your devoted time this spring? Some of the most meaningful gifts are those that give of yourself. A nice hand crafted card pledging your time on the end of a shovel or hoe to get that garden into shape this spring might just be the best gift under the tree this holiday season.
The gifts for gardeners are endless. From the bottom of our trowels – we hope you have a happy and healthy holiday season.
— Hanbidge is a horticulturist with the Saskatoon School of Horticulture and can be reached at 306-931-GROW(4769); by email at [email protected] or check out our website at saskhort.com.
