I almost hesitate to post this gift idea here since it is so simple, but it really is one of my favorite gifts to give (and receive) and we seem to have made a tradition of it in our family. Some years we give blooming bulbs, other years seeds or small pots of fragrant herbs. Some years we decorate the pots (by painting or decoupaging), other years we have just wrapped them with pretty tissue paper and bows. These living gifts of green are perfect for teachers, neighbors, and garden-loving friends. They are also gifts that little hands of all ages can easily help to prepare. And these are gifts that will hopefully provide some much needed color and cheer during the chilly months of winter.
This year our gifts of green are succulents. Since moving to a Mediterranean climate, we have discovered the wonderful world of succulents. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and textures. They don't need much water and they can thrive in sun and shade. And best of all, they multiply like crazy! Seriously, all you really need to do is break off bits and pieces, let them dry out for a day or two, and then just stick them straight into the dirt where you want them to grow.
If you don't have easy access to succulents in your own garden or if your garden is already under snow, here are some of the bulbs and seeds that have worked well for us in the past:
Parsley, Cilantro, Basil (from seeds or small starts)
Be sure to include the name of the plants you are gifting along with care instructions. And if you really want make those teachers/neighbors/gardening friends happy, try making some of this fabulous gardener's hand scrub to go along with those special green gifts. Happy planting and happy gifting!
---Lucia
