Gifts for Gardeners

By Janet Loughrey, special to HGTV.com
It's sometimes hard to know what to get that favorite gardener for the holidays — not because there aren't enough options, but because there are so many to choose from.

We asked some veteran gardeners what they'd most like to receive. High on the list was a gift certificate from a favorite nursery or a load of compost from a local supplier. A certificate for spring cleanup or a garden helper also was popular. For the gardener on your list, find out which mail-order companies they like and purchase a gift certificate from one of them. Include a copy of the catalog and wrap it in pretty paper. Here are some other suggestions:

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Atlas Work Gloves
Gloves

Gardeners can't have too many gloves. They come in a wide range of styles and are made to suit various uses, from light weeding to laying brick. The serious gardener can go through several pairs in a year. Atlas Work Gloves offer the best attributes of protection and durability while allowing maximum hand movement. The texturized rubber palm offers a firm grip while wet or dry. Gloves come in a wide array of sizes and colors and are machine washable.
$7/pair, plus shipping, Garden Basket, available at HGTV Marketplace.

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Miracle Fiber Rose Gloves

For extra protection for those heavy-duty projects, rose lovers may also love the new Miracle Fiber gloves. Made of synthetic suede, these gloves breathe so hands won't sweat. The material stays flexible and won't stiffen, shrink or crack with washing. The palms are padded, and the extra-long 15-1/2" sleeves protect arms from thorns and scratchy brush.
$32.95/pair, plus shipping, Gardener Supply, available at HGTV Marketplace.
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Hori-hori knife
Cool tool

This hori-hori knife can be used for just about anything, including digging, pruning, cutting or weeding. The traditional Japanese knife was originally used by bonsai enthusiasts to collect specimens in the wild. The stainless steel blade is sharp and durable, making any gardening chore a snap. Comes with a heavy vinyl sheath.
$34.99, plus shipping, Clean Air Gardening, available at HGTV Marketplace.