Whether you’re looking for a Christmas gift, a housewarming present, or just a nice thank-you, potted plant gifts are both simple and unique. Urban dwellers with green thumbs can appreciate stylish items that bring the outdoors in. Whether it’s a new addition to their indoor garden or simply a pretty token of their passion for plants, these unique gifts are sure to please. The following is a list of plants which are not complicated to take care of and have other outstanding qualities which make them great to give as gifts:
LUCKY BAMBOO
Lucky Bamboo is technically a member of the lily family. Along with its ease of growth, Lucky Bamboo has long been associated with the Eastern practice of Feng Shui – or the bringing of natural elements of water, fire, earth, wood and metal into balance within the environment. Lucky Bamboo is believed to be an ideal example of the thriving wood and water element, with the addition of a red ribbon sometimes tied around the stalks which is believed to “fire” the positive flow of energy in the room.
PAPERWHITE
Another carefree flowering bulb, paperwhites can grow in different mediums like soil or pebbles which can provide very different visual effects. The flowers are very fragrant, and the bulbs can be replanted in a garden after the holidays.
ALOE VERA PLANT
Aloe plants are members of the succulent family and require minimal watering. They’re also great to have around to treat burns and surface wounds. Just crack open a leaf and apply the inner lining directly to the skin! such a unique gift with healing properties!
SUCCULENTS
Succulents are easy to care for since they don’t require much water, and they come in a wide range of shapes and colours. As long as they’re kept in sunny spots, they only need to be watered about once a week in the summer and once a month in the winter. Just make sure you are putting them in planters that can drain. They’re hearty little guys and conditions can vary, but if you’d like to be on the safe side, make sure to have a hole or two in the bottom of any planter you might make or buy.
CHRISTMAS CACTUS
While the Christmas cactus may be known under various names (like Thanksgiving cactus or Easter cactus), the scientific name for Christmas cactus, Schlumbergera bridgessii, remains the same. The Christmas cactus will adapt to low light conditions, but the plant will produce blooms more readily if exposed to brighter light. That being said, too much direct sunlight can burn its leaves, so keep the Christmas cactus in an appropriate area to avoid this.
AMARYLLIS
The Amaryllis is a traditional holiday gift, since this winter bulb blooms through the New Year. Because the amaryllis produces such brilliantly-coloured flowers, many people put them in their homes in the winter. Growing amaryllis indoors requires little of you during the first winter. The bulb will be ready to bloom in early winter, around November, and most stalks will produce two to four flowers. All you need to do is keep the amaryllis watered and out of harm.
ORCHIDS
Orchids are becoming one of the most popular plant gifts because of their graceful appearance and minimal maintenance requirements. They are increasingly available in different sizes and colours and make an elegant plant gift.
POTTED HERBS
Why not give herbs as a gift? Mint, thyme and oregano are examples of hardy and attractive pot herbs which can serve a dual purpose. Plus, they can either be maintained for years in their pots or transferred to the garden.
TIPS FOR GIFT WRAPPING THE POTTED PLANTS:
- Burlap is inexpensive, easy to work with and makes great pot covers. This versatile fabric can be personalized to fit practically any type of style with the addition of a fabric bow, tied ribbon or even lace. The threads can simply be pulled to create ruffles or loop holes to gather the fabric around the pots. You can even use simple jute material and tie a cute ribbon over it.
- Put the plain brown bag from the grocers to good use by turning it into paper bag flower basket. Simply put the potted plant in the bag and cut out the top portion. Tie ribbons to make a handle and it is done!
- A beautiful scarf or decorative belt can add colour and style to any inexpensive terra cotta or even plastic planter instantly- plus is doubles as two gifts in one!
- How about socks? Yes socks! The stretchiness makes them perfect pot covers. The bold bright colours and fun patterns can cover up pots in a snap.