Campania Faccia container is decked for the holidays at Altum's. (C) Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp
Most gardeners prefer gifts that nourish their gardening soul and spirit, such as good tools, an interesting book, fun accessory or a load of high quality manure or mulch.
Corona saw.
In the tool category, Corona has the Professional Razor Tooth Saw, (Model RS 7245, $24.44), which makes fast work in removing small to medium size branches. The 7-inch, chrome blade locks into a sturdy handle, which fits comfortably in the hand.
Mud Glove.
Cool Mud Glove.
Mud Gloves do a respectable job of keeping hands dry when weeding, planting or pruning. The cuffs and upper portion of the gloves are made of organic cotton and the fingers and palms are coated in crinkled, tough latex. Cool Mud Gloves are made of lightweight Lycra, which breathes in hot, sticky weather. Each retails for around $8 at most lawn and garden centers or visit the Web site.
A.M. Leonard's soil knife.
The Leonard Soil Knife s a multi-tasking tool. The blade slices through crops for harvesting, digs out rocks and roots, loosens soil and measures planting depth. Available at Sullivan Hardware & Garden or online, the knife sells for about $25 to $30; or, with a leather sheath, $30 to $35.
For a fun, focal point in the garden or on the deck or patio, there’s Campania International’s Faccia planter, which is cast stone and comes in three sizes. Available at Rosie’s Gardens Center and Altum’s Garden and Landscaping or online, these planters are heavy. Prices range from $75 on up, depending on size.
As gardeners become more experienced, they realize the connection between insects and the product of fruit, vegetables and flowers. In celebration of this process comes Bees, Wasps, and Ants: The Indispensable Role of Hymenoptera in Gardens by Eric Grissell (Timber Press, $27.95, hardcover). Grissell, who also penned Insects and Gardens, takes readers on the fascinating, scientific adventures into the lives of this species and the roles it plays in nature.
