February

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Gardeners

By Sarah Marcheschi

Gardening Boots

Similar to durable gloves, a pair of sturdy rubber boots or garden clogs is something every gardener would love to have. But, instead they often makes do with old gym shoes, or worse, easy to clean flip flops! High quality boots or clogs can be an investment. But, good ones will last for years and make working outdoors in wet, muddy conditions a breeze. Wear them with thick socks for the chilly days of early spring and fall, and after mucking about in the soggy April earth, just hose them off and they’ll look almost new again! Pair these with a good set of gloves or wide-brimmed hat for that really special someone.

Garden Cart

A garden cart is one thing I have never bought myself, but always wish I had. (Hint to anyone who might be taking notes.) Hardly a day goes by during the summer months that does not require unloading plants, hauling plants, or dragging plants clumsily around the yard. By the end of the day, muscles ache. You are kicking yourself for forgetting to lift with your legs, instead of your back! Select a weatherproof utility cart with solid tires that can be pushed or pulled easily over grass or other rough terrain like gravel paths and driveways. It will be a welcome addition to anyone’s shed. It’ll be remembered long after Valentine’s Day.

Skin Repair Treatments

There is no shortage of salves on the market for dealing with the dry, cracked, and chapped hands, knees, feet, and elbows that often go along with hours spent watering, weeding, and digging in the dirt. Another splurge-y item, these creams often come in gift-worthy packages – and feel like a luxury. Choose a product formulated specifically for gardeners, as these are often thicker and include ingredients with more healing properties than the average drugstore hand lotion. Look for a nourishing balm with beeswax, oatmeal, and soothing essential oils like lavender or sandalwood. Is there a better way to say love at Valentine’s Day than with a skin care product?

No matter which Valentine’s Day gift item, or combination of items, you choose from this list, you can be confident that the gardener in your life will be thrilled. Putting the time and energy into sourcing a truly thoughtful gift is almost a present in itself. Perhaps the best part is that gifts like these bring a welcome dose of sunshine to the bleak February days when it seems like warmer temperatures are never going to arrive. Let a Valentine’s Day gift serve as a reminder that spring is coming!