Here’s our selection of fantastic gardening gifts in 2023, tailor-made to suit the gardener in your life.
Finding that perfect gift for the gardener in your life can be hard work. Unless they’re a complete gardening novice, your gardening friend or loved one probably has quite a lot of the tools, clothes and seeds that they need. But shopping doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, when it comes to finding the perfect gardening gifts we’ve done a significant amount of the work for you.
We’ve put together the below list of unusual, innovative, unique gifts for gardeners who have everything. But there should be gardening gift ideas to suit every level of garden knowledge, from people who you want to encourage into gardening, to those who are starting their journey, to those who are experts.
Behind the scenes at our gardening gift guide shoot
Our list is also a round up of gifts for garden lovers – they don’t have to be into digging and mulching, they can just love the outdoors, appreciate an excellent planting plan and be enthused by the wonders of botany.
These gardening gifts are a real mixture of things we’ve spotted from our favourite brands, but also gifts that surprised us and charmed us too. Some are for entertaining in the garden, some are for the nitty gritty garden tasks, some just have a gardening theme. We’re certain you’ll find the gifts you’re looking for.
If you’re looking for garden furniture, we’ve rounded up the best.
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Gardening gift ideas
Best gardening gifts for flower lovers
Fresh flower subscription
Buy from Bloom & Wild (from £19.58)
A flower subscription makes a wonderful gift and the regular deliveries bring joy again and again as the months go on. So, it’s a great choice if you know someone who loves to have a steady supply of fresh blooms in their home.
Bloom & Wild is one of the UK’s most popular flower subscription providers, delivering fresh bouquets in fully recyclable, letterbox-friendly packaging. Delivery prices vary between £19.58 and £26.66 per month, and you can choose a three-, six- or 12-month subscription, or an ongoing monthly order.
To browse alternative packages, check out our list of the UK’s top flower subscription services. Or, if your intended recipient is more of a plant-lover, why not take a look at our favourite plant delivery boxes?
Get 15% off your Bloom & Wild order right now! Just use the code GARDENSILLUSTRATED15 at the checkout.
Mojave Ceramic Bud Vase
For an inexpensive yet stylish gift, you can’t do much better than this ceramic bud vase. It comes in a range of beautiful colour tones, so you can find the perfect choice for the recipient.
We love the natural cream, blue and green versions, but you can also go for a bolder choice with the yellow, pink or black designs.
See our other favourite bud vases for more ideas.
Seed Tin
This seed tin is sure to help out a messy gardener who is in need of some organisation.
The team here at Gardens Illustrated love the simple yet fun design of this seed tin from Suttons. There are internal compartments to help create a neat system so seeds are easy to find. It is made with powder-coated steel and we think it would look super perched on any window sill or greenhouse ledge. The handles also make it easy to carry when on the move.
It is also available in dark grey and cream if you fancy selecting a different colour.
Don’t miss our list of favourite seed boxes to buy.
Fluted peony support
Buy from Agriframes (£37.99)
Keen flower growers can always do with a couple more plant supports to keep their blooms in tip top shape, and we love these smart ones from Agriframes, which are handcrafted from solid steel.
Choose the natural rusty finish for a traditional look, or opt for the plain matt black or stylish sage green versions. They’re all available in both small and large sizes, and you can save 10% when you buy three together.
We’ve found a great selection of other peony supports and plant supports online.
Gardening gifts for indoor gardeners
Lata Terracotta Hanging Planter Set
Buy now from Toast (£23)
These hand thrown and wood fired terracotta pots and planters bring a little bit of the Mediterranean inside. Made in Spain, the finish on the pots is charmingly rustic, with an earthy, porous texture. They could be used for a variety of indoor plants, but could be used outdoor too. Hanging from natural twine and they’ll brighten up an empty corner beautifully.
Buy now from Toast (£23)
Plantsmith Houseplant gift set
Buy from Waitrose (£29.99)
Most of us have built up a healthy house plant obsession in recent years, and succulents, which were absolutely in vogue before 2020 hit, are still high on the houseplant list for many people. Even if your loved one is a seasoned gardener, we’d wager they probably don’t have something as stylish as this house plant care set, which will help keep your plants looking and feeling healthy.
The set is designed to offer everything you need to keep your house plants alive, with all the essential nutrients they might need. It’s a lovely and thoughtful gift from for the gardener who has everything.
Jute Rope Flowerpot
The perfect way to add a touch of style to large house plants in plastic pots, this jute pot is both flexible and sturdy.
We love the rustic appearance of this handmade item and feel it would look gorgeous in a bright, sunny porch or even a corridor to help create a relaxing feel to the space.
When it’s not filled with beautiful plants, it can be used as a storage basket – perhaps for vegetables or plant ties, twine and your bits and pieces – so this is a handy gift any gardener could make use of. The handles mean it can be easily carried and moved from room to room.
It is 28cm in width and height and best fits a 25cm flower pot.
If you want a good list of eco plant pots, don’t miss our round up.
Take a look at more great pot cover ideas here.
Indoor Herb Growing Kit
One of the best gifts for gardeners, especially those who don’t actually have much space outside. This zesty herb kit from Plant Theory comes with everything you need in order to grow your own herbs. The seeds and compost are organic and vegan and the kit is 100 per cent plastic free.
There are five classic cooking herbs in the kit, basil, chives, oregano, parsley and thyme, alongside biodegradable bamboo pots, wooden plant labels, vegan, peat free compost, a pencil, tweezer, jute bag and instructions. A whole series of gardening gifts in one, and even those gardeners who have everything will likely put these to good use.
Find more herb garden kits in our round-up.
Haws Copper Indoor and Seedling Watering Can
Buy from Harrod Horticultural (£55.00)
As attractive as it is useful, the Haws copper watering can would make a great gift for those who take great pride in caring for their beloved indoor plants.
It is particularly suited for greenhouse use too, so it is a solid option for a friend who has lots of greenhouse seedlings to look after. The watering can can be polished to retain the sleek finish or if left alone, it will eventually turn green, giving it a more rustic look.
It is 16cm in height and 36cm in length and can hold 1 litre of water.
Check out our selection of the best watering cans for gardeners.
Terrarium Bottle and Extending Tool Set
Terrariums may be all the rage, but there’s a reason for that: they’re beautiful and easy to maintain too. If you know someone who’d be great at experimenting with growing their own this 5 litre glass bottle terrarium is an excellent place to start.
There’s a telescopic shovel and rake for you to help adjust your curated ecosystem, but note: this gardening gift doesn’t come with the soil, pebbles or plants themselves. Those will need to be sourced separately. Check out our other guides for tips on how to plant a terrarium, and the best terrariums for home style.
Gold mister plant set
A stylish and functional mister made from stainless steel and complete with an ergonomic handle that makes it easy to look after your plants. The mister holds 300 ml of water and is 15 cm high. This bundle comes with a nifty plant and pot that will make the entire set look very fetching on your windowsill.
Find more cleverly designed gear in our guide to the best ergonomic garden tools you can buy online.
Crazy Plant Lady 1,000-piece puzzle
A jigsaw puzzle is a classic gift but this one would make an extra special present for indoor gardeners. What’s more, the whole family can get involved in trying to complete it.
Best gardening gifts for young gardeners and families
Bee Brick
If you’re stumped for gardening gift ideas, this Bee Brick would make a fail-safe choice. Designed by Green and Blue in Cornwall, the Bee Brick is an innovative concrete block, created to support the declining bee population. The concrete brick can be left as a freestanding bee home in the garden or it can be built into a wall for an integrated look.
The bee bricks contain cavities for solitary bees to lay their eggs in safety; their offspring emerge the following spring and the cycle begins again. It’s an eco-friendly gift that would be perfect for a sustainable gardener or a bee-lover.
The bee brick comes with high praise too; it won the Soil Association’s 2014 Innovation Award, sponsored by the Duchy Future Farming Programme.
Looking for bee hives or other bee homes? You can find our recommendations in the guides.
Tree Vision: Know Your Trees in 30 Cards
If you’re looking for gifts for young gardeners or just gardeners wanting to know more about trees, look no further. Both a gardening gift and an educational gift, the card game format will help players learn about a tree’s leaves, seeds, flowers and more in an accessible and fun way. Ash, beech, birch, cedar, hornbeam, juniper, lime, maple, oak, pine, spruce, sycamore, yew are just a few examples of trees that players will soon be able to recognise in a flash!
Each card is beautifully illustrated by Holly Exley and the text is written by Tony Kirkham, former Head of Arboretum, Gardens and Horticulture Services at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, so you can rest assured that you’ll be learning from an expert.
Here’s our guide on how to identify oaks.
The Botanist’s Sticker Anthology
Gardening is one of the most mindful activities you can do, but over the winter we have to find other activities to keep us busy. If you’re looking for a gift for a busy gardener, a young gardener, or just an arty, nature lover, this sticker anthology should tick your box. Mindful and pleasing on the eye, this sticker anthology is packed full of vintage, intricate botanical drawings; including flowers, ferns, exotic plants and fungi.
Perfect for scrapbook lovers, or gardeners in need of some plant escapism during the colder months, this is a gardening gift that brings nearly as much joy and mindfulness from the act of gardening itself.
Find more outdoor-inspired presents in our edit of the best gardening gifts for kids.
RSPB Bird nest box camera system
Buy from the RSPB (£149.99)
A bird box with an in-built camera is a great gift idea for families with young children, giving the chance to see the local wildlife up close and watch as new chicks grow.
This one is sold by the RSPB and comes with a 30m cable to connect it to your television. Then, you’ll be able to see ultra-high-resolution images of any visitors; in colour during the day and in black and white after dark.
Beeswax Wrap DIY Kits
Buy from Etsy (£15.00).
These DIY beeswax wraps are a great, eco-friendly alternative to plastic wraps for food that will keep your produce fresh in a natural way.
A great feature of these wraps is that they are reusable. This would make a fantastic gift for an eco-conscious friend who is actively trying to reduce their plastic consumption.
The kit contains a set of detailed instructions, three organic cotton fabric squares, two pieces of baking paper, three beeswax blend bars – made with pine resin and organic jojoba oil – and a Fairtrade canvas tea towel. To make the wraps, you’ll need an iron.
Looking to make them literally from scratch? Here’s our guide on how to make beeswax wraps.
A Bee Grow Bar
No, this isn’t something to help you grow bees, instead it’s the gardening gift for people who care about wildlife but aren’t expert gardeners. Grow Bars makes planting extra easy and curates a series of seeds around themes. This one is catered for making bees happy – and who doesn’t like doing that?
All you do is put the bar in a container, keep it watered and place in a sunny position and eventually the seeds should start to germinate. Once they’ve grown up a bit, you can plant them around the garden. Easy.
The seeds include hyssop, verbena and lavender. A perfect gift for garden lovers and an unusual gardening gift too.
We also love these seed bombs.
Worx Cordless Lawn Mower
OK – not everyone will be thrilled with a lawn mower for their birthday or Christmas, but for the right person, this could make a great gift.
It’s battery-powered, so there are no annoying cables to contend with, and you don’t have to refill it with petrol. It also has six different cutting heights and comes with a roller to create neat stripes in your lawn.
Considering other options? See our guides to the best lawn mowers to buy today, or narrow down your search with our pick of the top cordless mowers, mulching mowers or push mowers. For a real treat, check out our favourite ride-on mowers.
We also regularly update our list of lawn mower deals for anyone in search of a bargain.
Gardening gifts for fruit and vegetable gardeners
Garden Bag
Buy from Garden Trading (£15.00)
For those who prefer not to use a traditional trug to carry their garden goods, a sturdy garden bag is a perfect alternative.
Whatever needs to be carried from the garden into the house – vegetables, fruit, bulbs or even a leftover coffee cup – this handy khaki bag is sure to help. It would also make a nifty storage bag that could live in a shed or a greenhouse.
The khaki bag is made with waterproof canvas and has a capacity of 15 litres.
Victorian growhouse
This might just be the most beautiful little greenhouse we’ve seen, and it would make a great gift for anyone who likes to grow seedlings or cuttings.
Handily, the lid, sides, tray and base all come apart, so you can use each bit individually. When it’s time to plant out veg in the garden, you can use the top as a stylish cloche.
Love the look of vintage garden structures? See our favourite Victorian greenhouses for more inspiration.
RHS Flora and Fauna Kneelo Kneeler
You can help your loved ones have a more comfortable time in the garden with this delightful kneeler from Burgon and Ball’s RHS Flora & Fauna collection.
Spending hours at a time weeding and planting can be tough on knees, so this kneeling pad – which is made with memory foam technology – would be a perfect gift for those looking for a bit of extra support.
It also prevents gardeners from ruining their favourite jeans so it’s a pretty useful item to have.
Thanks to the cut-out handle, the pad is easy to carry and after a long day’s work, it can hang up in the shed for easy storage.
You’ll find more garden kneeler recommendations in our list of the best garden kneelers.
Rob Smith Heritage Veg Selection
Begone plastic novelty gifts, here’s a gardening gift that connects your loved one directly with the earth. The perfect gardening gift for either a person new to gardening or a pro, this veg collection offers a host of seeds for planting in the coming year, something lovely and very, very tasty, to look forward to.
This gardening gift includes bean seeds, cucumber seeds, pea seeds and squash seeds, the heritage veg harks back to more traditional garden growing times: don’t expect any of these newfangled cucamelons. As such, the selection is bound to excite the gardener or garden lover in your life and what’s more, they aren’t difficult to grow either.
Here’s more on where to buy seeds online.
Apple Tree
Give the gardening gift of a lifetime this season, with this apple bramleys seedling – the ultimate English cooking apple. This particular version Is on dwarf rootstock, which means it’s the perfect gardening gift for smaller gardens.
Autumn and winter are the perfect seasons to plant a tree, something that we should all be doing much, much more of in order to support the wildlife and local eco system. These apples can be harvested from October, and ideally you’d grow this tree near another apple tree, as it isn’t a self pollinator.
We’d class this as one of the of garden gifts which is good for the gardener in your life, but also nature, birds and bees too. Plus you could also be on the receiving end of some very tasty apple pie. This apple tree needs to be planted in a sunny border in well drained soil.
For more on how to plant a tree, or to see our favourite crab apple trees, head to our guides.
Sussex Garden Trug
This handcrafted trug is perfect for those of your gardening friends who enjoy spending an afternoon picking delicious fruit and vegetables.
It is made with naturally rot-resistant birch aircraft ply wood in a gorgeous colour and is durable enough to guarantee long lifespan and years of good looks.
It measures 53cm long, by 28cm wide so it’s ideal for longer produce such as leeks and asparagus… Or anything that want to look great in your new garden trug.
Ceramic Plant Labels Set of five
For gardeners who are well into their herb growing, these little labels are a thoughtful and handy present.
These ceramic plant labels allow herb growers to organise their produce so they know exactly what they have planted and where.
There are five sticks in the pack and you can either get them pre marked or ask for your own.
Looking for more plant labels? We love these.
Why not take a look at our favourite seed suppliers to get started?
Lockable galvanised calendar seed trunk
For serious veg-growers, or anyone who wants to get more organised with their seed sowing, this handy trunk would make a thoughtful gift. It’s crafted from sturdy galvanised steel and comes with month dividers to help gardeners file their seed packets by the time of year they need to be used.
There’s plenty of space inside, which makes this trunk ideal for those with a big veg patch – or big ambitions!
Our full guide to the best seed boxes includes everything from small tins to large trunks with monthly dividers.
Gardening days out and subscription gifts
Gardens Illustrated Magazine Subscription
Buy from Gardens Illustrated and save 50% on a subscription
An absolutely necessary gift for the intrepid gardener, a year’s subscription to Gardens Illustrated will be absolutely worth you while. Yes, we’re biased, but we are confident that gardener in your life will love the mixture of beautiful photography, inspiring gardens, practical advice and plant expertise. Make sure they never miss a copy by getting it delivered direct to their door each month.
What’s more there’s always a fabulous offer or two available and you can save up to 50% on a subscription in our Christmas offer.
National Trust Membership
Buy from National Trust (from £76.80)
The last few years have, to put it mildly, been tumultuous. But one of the key things many people have taken away from them is a greater appreciation of nature, open spaces, trees and greenery. What better way to continue the connection than by investing in a membership for the National Trust, which does vital nature management work up and down the country and conserves historic, fascinating buildings and gardens for the country.
The charity, as with many charities, suffered during lockdown, having to content with decreased visitor numbers, so supporting the organisation goes some way to helping with that.
Become an RHS Member
Buy from RHS (from £71.00)
The vital work the Royal Horticultural Society does throughout the UK is a huge part of the country’s world-beating reputation in horticulture and gardens. There are four RHS gardens, soon to be a fifth, alongside 218 RHS partner gardens, all of which have something unique and exciting to offer. As the world continues to change and understanding about nature, wildlife, the earth and growing becomes vital to all of us, the RHS stands as a place for experimentation, research and education.
If you buy a gift membership before the 24th December, you will receive a £15 voucher to spend at RHS Garden Centres.
MasterClass subscription
Join Ron Finley’s gardening MasterClass (access 180 courses from £10 per month)
MasterClass is an amazing resource for anyone who loves to learn. With a £120 annual subscription, you can access over 180 different courses, covering everything from cooking by Gordon Ramsey, to Creative Writing by Margaret Atwood, to Conservation by Dr Jane Goodall.
Ron Finley’s gardening MasterClass would be of particular interest to anyone with green fingers, and involves 10 video lessons, which you can download and watch on a laptop, TV or mobile. The community activist, who started out by creating his own humble curbside garden, supports learners to get the most from their outdoor space, no matter its size.
Anyone on the course also has the chance to share their progress and get feedback as they go.
Looking for more garden subscriptions?
Chelsea Flower Show tickets
Buy from the RHS (from £37.85)
For avid gardeners, there isn’t really a bigger date for the diary than the Chelsea Flower Show. Whether you know someone who loves the event or has never been before, treating them to a ticket for the next show is a lovely idea.
If you’re not already, become an RHS member to get access to discounted tickets.
Best garden clothing gifts
Egret ankle boots: limited edition
Buy now from Moshulu (£90)
These limited edition ankle boots are made in conjunction with the National Trust and Moshulu and come high with sustainability and eco-friendly credentials. The unique designs on the side of the boots are inspired by the National Trust’s conservation efforts and part of the money you pay goes back to the charity. It’s a win-win. But be quick, they are limited edition, so will likely sell out soon.
Buy now from Moshulu (£90)
Canvas Garden Apron, Khaki
Buy from Bloomling (£28.00)
If your friend spends most of their time in the garden, often with damp soil on their jeans and hand wipe marks on their top, this khaki canvas apron from Garden Trading is the perfect gift for them.
Designed to ensure that their clothes will stay clean underneath, ready for a full day of gardening, the apron is a practical piece of kit. The waist strap is long enough to tie at the front of the apron for an even better and closer fit. In addition to this, there is a handy front pocket for keeping gardening tools close to hand.
Our list of the best garden aprons will also provide you with more potential options.
Birkenstock Schuhe Super-Birki Clog
Available in a range of colours and sizes, the versatile Super-Birki can be worn by anyone and everyone. Made from dirt-resistant polyurethane, with a fabric footbed lining and non-slip sole, these are both practical and durable. The super-resilient shoe can actually be washed at up to 60C.
Plus, the removable, cork-latex footbed can be removed and popped in the washing machine. A practical addition to keep by your door or in your allotment or greenhouse for sliding on and off.
Take a look at the best boot scrapers for clean hallways and wellies!
For more garden footwear recommendations see our list of the best gardening shoes.
Evercreatures Raspnavy Tall Wellies
Buy from Evercreatures (£47.00).
A top pair of wellies are an essential piece of garden gear.
The unembellished yet attractive design makes these boots from Evercreatures easy to wear with a range of different items, whether it’s a mucky pair of overalls or a nice pair of jeans. As well as running along the bottom of the boot, the red raspberry stripe can be found at the back too.
For a very reasonable price, these reliable wellington boots are a practical gift that your outdoor loving friend is likely to make great use of.
Here’s our list of the best wellies to buy.
Burgon & Ball Tweed Gardening Gloves
Great for protecting every gardener’s most valuable tools, these stylish gloves will not only keep busy hands safe when working in the garden but also warm during the colder months. The gloves have an adjustable strap allowing for maximum comfort and are recommended for people with medium-sized hands. The strap itself is a rip-tape fastener so the wearer will be able to tighten or loosen the gloves with ease.
They feature some padded protection with a soft felt liner in the palms and fingers which won’t stiffen when the gloves are dried. There is also a breathable mesh that will ensure that fingers are kept cool with improved mobility.
For more stylish handwear visit our list of the best gardening gloves.
Boot Socks
These stylish Merino wool boot socks from HJ Hall are the perfect gift when paired with walking boots for countryside strolls and dog walks for any nature lover.
With 135 years in the industry you know that you’re in good hands (or socks!) with HJ Hall’s products. Merino wool is known for its ability to help regulate body temperature making these fashionable socks an appealing choice that should keep your feet comfortable, warm and dry. The socks also come with a six month guarantee.
Belstaff jacket
Made for adventurers, Belstaff products are designed to stand the test of time. Although they were originally intended for use with motorsports when the brand launched in 1924, they’ve since found fans across the world. Che Guevara, Amelia Earhart and David Beckham have all owned Belstaff jackets. And Steve McQueen wore one in The Great Escape.
The Trialmaster has been around since 1948 and is Belstaff’s ‘definitive’ jacket. With its waxed navy cotton, checked twill lining and brushed corduroy linings at the collar, cuffs and hem, it’s a smart choice.
Don’t miss our round up of the best jackets for men and women.
Celtic & Co. Statement Donegal Jumper
An 100 per cent wool jacket will keep you warm when you’re working in the cold outside and make you feel 100 per cent better about yourself. This chic, traditional style jumper is like a lovely, warm cup of cocoa and you’ll love it every time you put it on. We’d recommend for days in or for working in the garden too.
We also love these luxury outdoor clothing pieces and accessories.
Rab down jacket
Warm yet lightweight, down jackets are becoming more and more popular, and a Rab version is a great choice if you’re looking for a slightly higher-end option. Founded by climber Rab Carrington, who started out making technical sleeping bags designed to withstand the icy conditions on mountains, the brand specialises in cold-weather gear.
This lightweight Rab jacket is the one to buy for easy storage as it comes with a convenient stuff sack, which you can clip to a larger bag. It’s filled with recycled, hydrophobic down and has three pockets and a stiffened peak on the hood.
For more great men’s gardening jackets take a look here.
Gardening tool gifts
Fallen Fruits copper plated trowel
Buy from Farrar and Tanner (£13.00)
A garden trowel that’s brilliantly stylish as well as being very high quality. This copper plated trowel includes a leather loop for storage and measurements on the blade to make sure you’re planting at the right depth. You can use it for removing weeds as well as planting and if you want, you can get it engraved with your loved one’s name to make it an extra special present.
The perfect gift for a gardener that’s also lovely to look at.
Here is our round up of the best trowels for the garden.
Burgon & Ball National Trust Secateurs
A pair of secateurs is one of the most important items in any gardener’s collection, so why not treat a loved one to this smart upgrade?
As part of a collaboration between the National Trust and Burgon & Ball, it’s made with high-quality materials; the steel from the blade extends to the very end of the handles for extra strength, while the brass rivets add durability and style.
Copper plated dibber
Buy from Farrar and Tanner (£14.00)
A dibber is a must for any dedicated gardener. Essentially a little stick that you push into the ground to make a hole, a dibber is perfect for planting seeds, seedlings and also small bulbs. This smart, copper-plated version has a lovely look to it and a handy leather strap from which to hang it. It also goes very well with the copper plated trowel, seen above.
If your loved one is a fan of futuristic garden tools, check out the best robotic lawn mowers in 2023.
Copper plated row marker
Buy from Farrar and Tannar (£15.00)
Complete the set with this lovely copper plated row marker. If you’re planning any kind of garden, be it vegetable or flower patch, knowing you’re planting in a straight line can be very helpful. That’s where this row marker comes in. Use natural twine to mark out the space between planting on your seed beds so you’re giving your plants enough space and everything grows in the right spot.
Barebones Hori Hori Tool and Sheath
Buy from Bespoke Post ($70.00)
A hori hori tool is a useful item to have in the shed, and comes in handy for digging, cutting through roots and transplanting flowers and shrubs.
This one makes an ideal gift, as it comes with a walnut wood handle, as well as a pommel base for hammering, depth markings and a twine-cutting notch you can also use as a bottle opener for a refreshing drink.
Niwaki 4′ Tripod Ladder
Buy from Niwaki (from £259.00), Harrod Horticultural (£309.99)
Tripod ladders are a garden essential, allowing you to get up close and personal with your subject for pruning, sculpting, crop picking and more. The third – front – leg negates the need to prop the ladder against anything so you can place them anywhere without requiring something firm (and bruiseable) to lean against. Niwaki have been bringing their Japanese gardening know-how to bear globally since 1997 – the tripod ladder being their first product to market, so they’re truly kings in this court!
Available in nine sizes from 4 feet to 15 feet high, there’s something for every purpose, being built-to-last from tough and sturdy (yet light and portable) aluminium.
Here’s our round up of the best garden ladders.
Niwaki Tool Roll
Niwaki tools are some of the best in the business and we’d recommend this as a gardening gift for the gardener who has everything. It’s a handy tool roll, with five lined pockets for all your essential tools. Made from weatherproof canvas, you could fit anything in it from pruners to cutlery for picnics. The linings are for the sharp items, so you won’t cut through to your clothes and it wraps easily and neatly round the waist for ease of transportation. A perfect gardening gift.
Garden scissors
Buy from Garden Trading (£22.00), eBay (£24.00)
These stainless steel gardening scissors look beautiful and are perfectly sized for simple jobs. Use them to cut flowers, prune, snip off dead stalks: have them near when you’re in the garden at all times.
These snips take their inspiration from Japanese bonsai scissors, which have precise cuts. These come in stainless steel and have a polished brass finish and come in a handwoven bamboo bag. They could be the perfect quirky garden gift for your loved one.
Here are a few more ideas for great pruning tools.
Fire pit tools – set of 3
For us on open fires, braziers and fire pits, these are long length fire tools which have a fire-resistant black coating. They will be great for your open air fire, whether it’s simply a bonfire, or when you’re cooking in the open air. Included is a pair. oftongs, a poker and a chestnut roaster pan, which will be perfect for your foraging expeditions.
You’ll need to invest in some oven gloves as the handles will get hot.
These measure 68cm.
Niwaki Rattan Kiridashi Knife
Buy from Niwaki (£79.00)
This is a hand forged blue carbon steel blade, that has a handle hand wrapped in wisteria rattan. Niwaki are the best in the business when it comes to specialist garden tools, and their designs are a pleasure to use.
This is a comfortable knife, that comes complete with a leather pocket sheath. It’s the sort of knife you can use for the kitchen, garden, craft jobs and more. It is an incredibly sharp knife, but also, because of the nature of the way it is forged and the material it is made from, quite brittle. So not for use on heavy handed jobs.
Don’t miss our round up of the best pocket knives for the garden.
Shuro brush
This small but very very fetching hand broom is a perfect addition to a carefully thought through cleaning cupboard. The brush is made from palm fibres of Trachycarpus fortunei and bound together with copper wire. It’s the perfect tool for delicate jobs such as sweeping up around a bonsai or in corners of terraces and patios.
Unusual gardening gifts
Bosch Indego S 500 robot mower
Here’s a gardening gift you may not have considered. A robot mower can be a real treat, helping to keep your lawn trimmed to perfection throughout the year. Bosch’s Indego S 500 is a popular choice, and it works well in gardens up to 500m².
This clever model maps out your lawn and cuts the grass in neat parallel lines, starting with the borders and returning to the dock when it’s done. Using the automatic calendar system, it creates an efficient mowing schedule, so you don’t have to worry about trimming the lawn yourself.
Sprout Pencils
If you’re looking for an unusual gardening gift that they won’t expect, these plantable graphite pencils from Sprout are a great gift idea.
Once the pencils are worn and too short to use, you plant them upside down in soil and wait for them to grow. The pencils can grow into luscious flowers, fragrant herbs and even fresh vegetables.
They are made from sustainable and certified wood and are 100 per cent natural and non-toxic. This packet of eight pencils features a range of seeds, with each pencil indicating what plant it will grow. A brilliant and unusual gift for the gardener who has everything.
The Urban Forager: Find and Cook Wild Food in the City by Wross Lawrence
Another cool title from Hoxton Mini Press who publish great little books packed with class and style. The Urban Forager tackles the intriguing and enlightening subject of city foraging. If you know any urban gardeners who love nothing more than a day on the veg patch, this would make the perfect garden gift for them. Writer Wross Lawrence, a professional forager, supplies 32 vegetarian recipes, all using ingredients sourced from the city streets and green spaces. Cherry blossom shortbread or nettle ravioli anyone?
With more and more people turning to vegetarian and vegan diets due to the worries surrounding climate change, this is a timely book that would interest many an eco-savvy gardener, or help to reconnect an urban dweller to nature. Don’t forget our list of the best gardening books for more great reads.
Emma Bridgewater Ladybird Mug
If you know of someone in need of a new favourite garden mug, this cute option from Emma Bridgewater could be a winner.
It is made from earthenware so it’s suitable for everyday use and it is also dishwasher safe. Holding half a pint, it’s a great option for when you want a big cuppa to take outside.
The sweet and delicate ladybird paintings make this mug a top choice when having a spot of tea and cake in the sunshine.
Looking for more mug inspiration? Don’t miss our garden mugs round-up.
Galicia Hand Turned Nutcracker
Buy now from Toast (£29)
A simple, wood-crafted nutcracker made from ash and birch wood by artisans in the hamlet of Berres in Galicia, Spain. The hand turning techniques have been passed down through the generations and it measures 5.6cm x 10.5cm.
The cracker works by placing your nut in the centre of the hole, and screwing down until it cracks.
Buy now from Toast (£29)
Great Trees of London Map by Blue Crow Media
We are slowly understanding more and more about the wonders of trees; Judi Dench’s documentary My Passion for Trees and Richard Powers’s book The Overstory are just two recent examples which have contributed to society’s rediscovered fascination for them. If you know a tree-lover, this specialist tree map would make a fab gift choice for them. It focuses on 50 trees throughout our nation’s capital, from magnificent English oaks to delicate cherry trees.
Each tree has a description from Paul Wood, the founder of the Urban Tree Festival and Tree Talk. The map is printed on recycled paper and comes with a protective band, helpful for when you are carrying it out and about.
Don’t miss our round up of the best books about gardening.
An Opinionated Guide to London Green Spaces by Harry Ades and Marco Kesseler
Did you know that half of the area of London is made up of green spaces? With a staggering 3,000 parks, London is one of the greenest cities on the planet. In this beautifully photographed book, Harry Ades breaks down the city’s top 50 hot spots when it comes to natural, green areas. Urban parks, canals, woodlands and stately gardens are just a few examples of what London has to offer.
This aesthetically pleasing and informative book would make a fab gift for style-savvy urban gardeners or for those wanting to discover more about city gardens and beneficial public green spaces.
The Almanac: a Seasonal Guide to 2023
Now in its fifth edition Lia Leendertz’ annual Almanac is a must-have for anyone who spends their time out in the open working through the seasons. We’d absolutely recommend Lia Leendertz’ Almanac, which compiles all sorts of interesting lore and tales of the natural world, as well as the moon’s phases, tide timetables, sun rises, seasonal recipes and gardening tips. A perfect Christmas gift for the thoughtful, discerning, smart gardener.
Here’s our selection of the best almanacs to buy for 2024.
Behind the scenes at our gardening gift guide shoot
Kikkerland Shovel Bottle Opener
Perhaps a gift for the gardener in your life who likes to round off a hard day’s work outside with a refreshing drink. A subtly themed and beautifully designed item which could also be classed as an essential tool.
With a copper plated finish, this is 17.4 cm in length and is part of John Lewis’ smart copper’ series. A great novelty gift for a gardener.
Gardener’s leather journal
Buy from Crocus (£19.99).
This beautiful brown leather covered journal is the perfect garden journal for the gardener in your life. Protected from the weather and muddy feet and paws by its lovely brown cover, inside are 60 pages of plain white craft paper that can be used as you might wish. Sketches? Weather recording? Planting plans? This journal offers everything you might need from a garden journal.
It’s the perfect garden gift for those sorts of gardeners who like to think and plan and will be a cherished item for years to come. Who doesn’t enjoy looking back over their journals at what they had been up to in the past?
There is chestnut and walnut browns available in the series, plus there’s a journal size which is w15cm x h19cm and a sketchbook size, which is w19.5cm x h23cm.
Want more garden journals? Here is our list.
Botanical gardening gifts
Molton Brown hand lotion
Buy from Molton Brown (£25.00)
Who doesn’t love Molton Brown toiletries? With their gorgeous fragrances and beautiful packaging, they’re a no-brainer when it comes to gifting.
We love these botanical hand lotions – perfect as a soothing treat after a day of gardening.
We’ve also found other great hand creams for gardeners. Take a look if you’re after something different.
Seedlip Drinks
Seedlip has been busy in the garden developing a new range of non-alcoholic spirits inspired by botanicals. The spirit garden option is infused with the taste of hand picked peas and homegrown hay and will likely transport you to the countryside at first sip. Other flavours include citrus grove, spice and the drinks are sugar and sweeteners free, calorie free, without allergens, artificial colours or flavours.
These could be a tasty, refreshing gift for a thirsty gardener who wants a drink but doesn’t want to be distracted from the job in hand. Perfect for serving while entertaining in the garden.
Looking for more botanical drinks? Here’s our list of the best botanical gins.
Aery Botanical Scented Candles
Botanical candles are a classic gift option, and we love this stylish set from Aery. The brand uses 100% plant-based wax in these botanical candles, so they’re completely vegan and cruelty-free. Plus, they’re shipped in recyclable packaging using carbon-neutral DPD.
Each candle is made in England and has a 15-hour burn time.
Epicurean Herb Melamine Picnic Serving Platter
Buy from Wayfair (£35.24)
This serving platter does a grand job of holding tasty treats for hardworking gardeners in need of a break.
You’ll find dill, parsley and thyme printed on this rectangular tray so it’s another item on our list for the herb growers in your life. It is made with shatter-resistant melamine so it’s appropriate for outdoor use and it’s also dishwasher safe.
Whether it’s for a picnic or a party platter, this is a gardening gift that is sure to be used.
Neighbourhood Botanicals The Daily Glow Facial Oil
Fragrant facial oil is always a luxurious gift, and this one is packed full of glorious botanicals from plants including grapefruit, ylang ylang, jojoba and evening primrose.
The makers recommend it as a morning serum to help plump the skin and reduce eye puffiness throughout the day – perfect for anyone who loves a bit of pampering.
Find more botanical skincare in our guide.
Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin
We tasted this gin as part of our quest to discover the best gin with botanicals. It’s called Monkey 47 because there are a whopping 47 botanicals listed, including lingonberries, locally sourced near the distillery in the Black Forest.
It has a gorgeous nose and a bottle that we love – think apothecary aesthetic and there’s a great story behind the company, which was originally started by British RAF officer Montgomery Collins who was posted to Germany after the second world war and stayed for good.
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew 2024 Calendar
If you know someone who always has a calendar up on their wall, why not treat them to a fresh one ready for 2024? We recommend this colourful option from the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew; ideal for anyone who loves plants and wildlife.
Garden lifestyle gifts
DeliVita Portable Wood-Fired Pizza Outdoor Oven
If you’re searching for an extra-special gift, a pizza oven could be a fun option. Not only do they produce delicious, authentic Italian pizzas, but they’re a great item to have when friends and family visit. We love this olive green colour, although you can buy DeliVita’s stylish pizza ovens in a range of bold tones too.
You can also get the DeliVita starter set, which includes a waterproof cover, pizza peel, cleaning brush and prodder. You also get a recipe book on wood oven cooking and a 5kg bag of kiln-dried logs, kindling and eco firelighters to get started.
See similar designs from other great brands in our full guide to the best pizza ovens you can buy.
Kilburn and Scott Wool throw
To prevent an outdoor party from being cut short, it’s always a good idea to have a cosy blanket close by.
This woven throw from John Lewis is a beautiful addition and although it can’t be put in the washing machine, its natural fibres will make it a robust addition to your picnic plans. Whatever the deco, this pink number would look fabulous in any garden.
Drape it over an outdoor sofa or day bed for extra cosiness or take it inside to add a fun splash of mustard and brighten up a room.
Here are lots more blankets we love.
Lion wall mounted feature
Buy from Cox and Cox (£195.00)
This neo-classical eye-catcher is a great addition to anyone’s garden, whether it be big or small. A water feature is always a must, with the sound and motion of the fountain guaranteed to set of beautiful corners of your space and make them feel bigger and calmer.
We love this lion-design, which harks to grandeur but can be presented with chic style and subtlety. There’s also LED lights atop the lion’s head so this is a perfect feature for night or day.
Gardener Man Illustration
Buy from Etsy (£18.00)
A beautiful and unique illustration, hand drawn digitally using an iPad Pro by artist Emily Lou Holmes, her print ‘Gardener Man’ is a wonderful piece of art that will make a brilliant gift for a gardener who already has everything.
The illustration print is available in sizes A2 and A3, but also as a greeting card and can be gift wrapped if desired.
It is part of a series of illustrations by the artist where she found inspiration from British gardeners and lovers of the outdoors. We think that it’s a lovely piece or art that would make a brilliant gift for any passionate gardener. There is also a female version of the print called ‘Gardener Woman’ available to shop on Etsy.
Hardworking Hands Soap
A lovely, natural soap for hardworking, muddy and cold hands: i.e gardener’s hands. Using coconut oil, the soap will create a rich lather, with charcoal providing exfoliating and detoxifying qualities.
The lovely smell comes from the fennel, which is a stunning deep aniseed aroma. Perfect for banishing those earthy muddy smells, and for making a homely aroma in your kitchen or bathroom.
Barrington Fire Pit
The Barrington Fire Pit from Garden Trading is formed in raw metal and is available in two sizes. Intended for use with logs only, the Barrington’s exterior is curved, creating an attractive and contemporary design.
Similar to other fire pits left exposed to the elements, this model will naturally age and become rusted over time.
Willen Portable Bluetooth Speakers
A trendy dust and water resistant bluetooth speaker that should bring you all the portability, without sacrificing any of the sound. You can get these in black and brass or cream and they are a great addition to any garden party, offering fifteen hours of listening on one charge. If you know a gardener who likes to work to music, then this is probably the investment you should make.
The speaker is made from 60 per cent recycled plastic and also has a built in microphone.
Dome Gozney oven and stand
Buy dome oven from Gozney (£1,799.00)
Buy stand from Gozney (£289.00)
A beautifully designed professional grade outdoor wood-fired oven, the Dome works for beginners for open air cooking and for professional chefs.
You can roast, stem or bake with this oven and although wood fuel is recommended for taste, there is the option of a built in gas burner. It comes complete with a digital thermometer, excellent heat retention and a weather resistant outdoor shield that will protect it from whatever mother nature throws at it.
See our other favourite outdoor ovens if this one’s not quite right.
St Ives Harbour Outdoor Pendant Light
An outdoor light is a much needed item when your garden dinner party continues late into the night.
This pendant is weatherproof but can also be used inside. There is a 2.5m cable which can be adjusted so you can hang the light at the height of your choice, making it suitable for a variety of spaces. It could be used as a reading light over a comfortable chair, or it could hang over a table for al-fresco entertainment.
It is worth noting that the light needs to be wired in and it is recommended that you use the help of a qualified electrician.
Here’s our list of the best outdoor lights.
Nest iron fire pit bowl
A decorative fire pit makes a lovely gift for gardeners, and this one is a real show-stopper. It’s modelled on a bird’s nest, with a removable inner bowl, which sits 7cm off the ground to allow for air flow underneath.
Place on the ground beside outdoor sofas for marshmallow-toasting sessions with friends and family.
Stake bird bath
A tasteful bird bath makes a great little gift for anyone who loves to tend their garden. This one comes in green or ‘putty’ (pictured above) and has a steel arm stretching over the bowl, where the birds can land.
Gardeners could also use the bowl for bird food, so it’s a versatile feeder.
Our full round-up of the best bird baths to buy includes rustic stone and terracotta designs too.
ViewSonic M2 HD Portable Projector
Here’s a gift idea we bet no one else will buy: an outdoor projector. Use it to create your very own outdoor cinema in the garden, or showcase photos and videos when guests come round for special events.
Of course, you can use this projector indoors too, for family movie nights throughout the year.
Find other high-quality garden projectors in our full guide.
Picnic, garden party and decorating gifts
Limited Edition Darling Clementine Cocktail
These are limited edition cocktail liqueurs and will be a welcome addition to any picnic party or Christmas soiree. There are two here: Limited edition darling clementine, which is made from fir tree liqueur from eastern France, and a ginger cosmopolitan cocktail. The latter features cointreau, ginger cordial and sweet cranberry. Snap them up while they are still available.
Buy now from Daylesford Organic (£15)
Corkcicle X Rifle Paper Co Canteen
Flasks are an essential item for gardeners; they keep us cool and hydrated in the summer and warm in the winter. This water bottle is a great gift for gardeners as it does two jobs in one: it keeps cold drinks cold for up to 25 hours and hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours.
Better yet, it has been beautifully designed by American stationery company Rifle Paper Co., known for its striking floral designs, and Corkcicle, a clever brand creating innovative barware and sustainable drinking vessels.
A practical and pretty gift, this would be a welcome addition to a gardener’s essential kit, and you can find other stylish designs in our full edit of the best insulated flasks to buy.
Looking for more outdoor tableware?
Matchbox Seat Pads
Buy from Graham & Green (£38.50)
Garden seating doesn’t have to be dull. And thanks to these bright, retro-inspired cushions, you can really liven up dark or outdated garden furniture. If you know a gardener who loves to entertain, these would be an ideal gift for them.
Taking inspiration from retro matchboxes, these handmade cushions come in a range of quirky designs including lovebirds, parrots and cockerels – a great gift for gardeners and for nature lovers alike. The pads can be used both indoor and out too, making them a great transitional item.
Each seat pad measures 5cm in height, 40cm in width and 40cm in depth.
And take a look at our favourite selection of garden seating here.
Trancoso beach bat set
Buy from Frescobol Carioca (£245.00)
One of the things we love best about this bat set – perfect for beach or garden games – is that for every bat sold, a tree will be planted. This bat is made from five pieces of sustainably sourced Brazilian wood offcuts and heat stamped. It is coated in natural waterproof and sand-resistant resin and comes with balls to boot. This is a bat set that will last you a lifetime and beyond.
Lexon Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
A wireless Bluetooth speaker may not seem like an obvious choice when it comes to gifts for gardeners, but these handy gadgets are a joy for those working outside for long periods, wanting to listen to music or a podcast hands free and without the faff of earphones or headphones.
When the weather is warmer, they’re also a great accessory for garden parties and entertaining in the garden. This particular Bluetooth speaker has a battery life of three hours, and takes only an hour to charge. Simply stream your music, podcast, audiobook or radio station via your smartphone or tablet.
Find more fun tech in our guide to the best smart garden products and the best garden gadgets for a quick upgrade.
Check out our handy gift guide for outdoor entertaining too.
Rathfinny Estate Classic Cuvée
Anyone who appreciates a good wine will be pleased with this English sparkling cuvée made with Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grapes.
We recommend this one as it’s sustainably produced in Sussex, and packaged with re-usable and recyclable materials. But you can always consider our other top English sparkling wines if you’re after something different.
Eucalyptus & Laurel Wreath
Buy from Lights4Fun (£39.99)
Bring the outdoors in with this stunning fabric work of art from decoration experts Lights4Fun. The soft fabric leaves are amazingly life-like, giving the appearance of freshly picked Eucalyptus and Laurel, while the delicate linen bow adds a stylish decorative finish. Give your guests a festive welcome by hanging the wreath on your door, or it could be hung on your wall, or even lain flat on the dinner table as a striking centrepiece.
This botanical wreath would also make a wonderful garden-themed gift which loved ones can bring out year after year, without having to worry about any unhappy, crispy leaves!
The wreath measures 50cm in diameter.
And learn how to make your own garden wreath here.
Kikkerland Ivy String Lights
A great addition to brighten up any outdoor or indoor area, these remote controlled ivy-inspired string lights by Kikkerland will add a gorgeous level of comforting light to any room or outdoors area at home. Guaranteed to make rooms feel cosier in the evenings and less up-keep than real ivy!
The lights are 10 feet long and features eight different animation settings that you’re able to toggle between using the remote control provided. Batteries are also included for the remote control when you buy the string lights and all is required is a USB port to plug the lights into.
Don’t miss our picks of the best string lights and festoon lights for gardens.
National Garden Gift Card
If you’re still stuck for ideas, why not give your recipient the gift of choice with a National Garden Gift Voucher? These handy cards can be used at most garden centres and gardening shops across the UK.
Go for a £25 voucher or spend a little more with a £75, £100 or £250 gift card.
With so many bits and bobs to choose from when it comes to garden must-haves, you’re sure to discover the perfect gardening gift idea for your loved one in our roundup. Don’t miss our Christmas hub page for gift and decoration ideas!