Latest from Gardening Know How in Home-and-garden-reviews

The Gas Chainsaw Battle: Husqvarna vs. Stihl Head-to-Head Review

Naomi MacKay — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 21:30:00 +0000

Husqvarna and Stihl are titans of the chainsaw world – and we pitted two of their best models against each other to see who cuts the competition down to size.

Swedish-based Husqvarna and German-based Stihl are both reputable brands, so we're off to a good start. Husqvarna produces popular high-quality gardening tools like strimmers and mowers as well as chainsaws. Stihl is also an expert in the gardening field, providing a host of excellent and durable tools to help you get the job done.

These industry leaders are well-known for producing some of the best chainsaws on the market today, but it can be hard to know which is right for you. Let’s dive full throttle into the competitors’ best chainsaws and see whether the the Stihl MS 211 or Husqvarna 440 comes out on top.

STIHL

Stihl Ms 211 18 Gas Chainsaw

Type: Gas powered
Bar size: 18in
Weight: 12.3lbs
Emissions: Low emissions
Battery capacity/fuel tank volume: 16.9oz
Engine power: 2.6 kW
Safety: Mechanical safety brake
Settings: Summer and winter starter

Weighing in at just over 12 lbs, this is not a saw for the faint-hearted. But in actual fact it’s a decent weight for such a capable tool, and with an ergonomic design and anti vibration technology, it is designed to be as comfortable to use as possible, despite its size.

With the capability to clear medium sized trees, it has some cool features - including winter and summer settings to ensure it won’t let you down when you’re firing it up in varied conditions. And they stand it in good stead, because user reviews are all really positive.

Pros

Sturdy and powerful
Good fuel efficiency
Can tackle large-diameter wood

Cons

Can only buy through a dealer

Husqvarna

Husqvarna 440 Gas Chainsaw

Type: Gas powered
Bar size: 20/24in bar available
Recommended max cut: 44 inches
Weight: 13.2lbs
Power: Max power 9000 rpm
Horsepower: 3.62
Fuel consumption: 437 g/kWh
Vibration: Front handle at 3.8 m/s² , rear handle at 6.9 m/s²
Noise: 104 dB
Warranty: 2 years

Husqvarna is a brand well-known for its quality - and this model is no exception. It sits at the top end of the models designed for amateur use (both brands produce ‘professional’ models made for those working as arborists or in similar roles). However, it now only seems to be offered with 20 or 24 in blades (and users in the UK may have trouble sourcing it, so we suggest looking for the 455 model instead).

Recommended for tidying up small to medium trees and cutting up firewood, it boasts good fuel efficiency, decent safety features and low emissions - and promises to be a good starter.

Pros

Powerful
Comfortable to use
Easy to start

Cons

Needs assembly out of the box
Heavy

Stihl vs Husqvarna chainsaw: Performance

Chainsaws can make felling and pruning trees a much quicker and simpler task. As chainsaw expert and founder of both firepitfanatic.com and firewood-for-life.com Nick Greenway puts it: “You can do a lot of work in a short amount of time using a chainsaw. Whether you're trimming some branches or cutting down full-sized trees, a chainsaw is an amazing tool to have around your home.”

When it comes to your chainsaw, you want something with enough power to get the job done but is not difficult to operate or use safely. In terms of raw power, the Husqvarna 440 just edges out the Stihl MS 211. The 440 has an engine power of 2.4 horsepower and a displacement of 40.99 cc. The Stihl MS 211 is just behind with 2.3 horsepower and a displacement of 35.2 cc.

The lightweight MS 211 can cope with a range of tasks and can cut through wood with ease. It is a great all-rounder to have on hand when you want to fell small-to-medium trees or cross-cut and debranch them. This chainsaw is conveniently sized and easy to start to make getting the job done as simple as possible.

The Husqvarna 440 is incredibly easy to start and operate thanks to its wide variety of features. It is also two pounds heavier than its MS 211 counterpart, coming in at 9.7 pounds total. It is still very easy to lug around from job to job and is well-balanced during use.

In terms of negatives, there are a couple of things to bear in mind with each model. The MS 211 has sluggish tension in the chain and a knob that could be softer. The On button could also be more visible and large for those using gloves. On the other hand, some customers have reported that the Husqvarna 440 can have some idling issues out of the box and may need time to warm up before hitting its best performance.

With all this in mind, it's a close call. However, we think the Stihl MS 211 just edges out the Husqvarna due to its sheer power and ease of use.

Stihl vs Husqvarna chainsaw: Features

Modern chainsaws come with a wide range of features to make them easier and safer to use. So, whose features are better?

The Husqvarna has no shortage of convenient features. The SmartStart Technology ensures that starting your 440 chainsaw takes minimal effort from you. At the same time, the QuickStart with Air Purge removes air from the carburetor and fuel system to add to that easy start feeling. The combined choke and stop control make starting easier and reduce the risk of engine flooding during use.

Once you get going, the Low Vibration Technology places dampeners between the engine and the chassis, reducing fatigue and making the chainsaw more comfortable to hold during use. The Fuel Indicator system ensures that you are never caught out mid-job again. The X-Cut Dedicated felling marks keep your incredibly sharp and durable X-Cut chain precise every time.

When you need to idle your 440 chainsaw, the chain oil pump disengages with the engine to reduce oil consumption and emissions. This is not even counting the maintenance features incorporated into the design.

Stihl’s MS 211 chainsaw, on the other hand, keeps it short and sweet when it comes to features. Made in the USA, the MS 211 has the exclusive ElastoStart handle with starting grip and built-in shock absorber designed to reduce the effort when pulling on your starter cord.

Once you're raring to go, the MS 211 chainsaw has an anti-vibration system to keep you comfortable and minimize fatigue during a job. The Ematic lubrication system and guide bar provide proper lubrication and work to minimize oil consumption by 50 percent. The Master Control Lever is a single-use lever that operates the choke, works the throttle lock, and the on/off switch for convenient handling. Should you need to stop suddenly, the Quickstop chain brake will stop chain rotation if manually activated or by inertia if there is a strong enough kickback.

With all this in mind, we have to give it to the Husqvarna 440 for its wide range of handy features.

Husqvarna vs Stihl chainsaw: Price

(Image credit: Stihl/Husqvarna)

Price is a big factor to consider when considering chainsaws. Nick Greenway agrees, stating that: “When shopping for a new chainsaw, you should consider how much you want to spend. Both gas and electric chainsaws have a wide range of prices. As with any tool, you get what you pay for, and chainsaws are no exception.”

When it comes to the price tag, both the Stihl MS 211 and the Husqvarna 440 are very similar. The Husqvarna is the more expensive one upfront, coming in at $399.99 on both the Husqvarna site and Amazon. Stihl’s MS 211 is a little trickier to pin down as they tend to sell through approved dealers who mark the price individually. At Ace Hardware, the Stihl is currently priced at $339.99.

Getting a chainsaw is not just about the upfront costs - fuel and maintenance costs also play a role in how much a chainsaw will cost you. Husqvarna’s shop has various chainsaw fuels, lubricants, and oils available in a range of sizes and prices for your convenience. Husqvarna even lets you finance your 440 chainsaw over time if that is best for you.

Stihl also has a range of oil and lubricants in various sizes. The price can be tricky to pin down due to Stihl’s insistence on using verified dealers. However, some oils tend to be priced between $2.50 and $17.99 depending on the price. We recommend shopping around for fuel, gear, and lubricants from the verified seller list to find items in your budget.

Overall, we would suggest that Husqvarna is the better choice despite its higher upfront cost due to its convenience and ease of financing your purchase and getting parts. Stihl is still excellent and cheaper upfront but requires some shopping around to make any purchase.

Husqvarna vs Stihl chainsaw: Care and maintenance

Chainsaws need regular maintenance to stay in top shape. While most chainsaws have similarities in their care routines, each model will have little key differences that you need to bear in mind.

To make this easier, both models’ manuals lay out a maintenance schedule and details on what care to perform and when; this makes it a breeze to input into your calendar so that you do not forget. The 440 even goes a step beyond and has included multiple points of easy access and cleaning into its ergonomic design so you can perform these routines with ease.

Husqvarna vs Stihl chainsaw: Verdict

Husqvarna and Stihl are both famous producers of quality chainsaws that will help you get the job done. However, after considering the price, features, and performance of the 440 and MS 211, we think the Husqvarna 440 comes out on top.

This is not to say that you should not think about getting Stihl’s MS 211; there are plenty of jobs that the MS 211 is perfect for. It is just that the Husqvarna is perfect for beginners while the MS 211 is better for felling trees efficiently in domestic situations.

No matter which model you pick, it is vital to do your research and learn how to handle a chainsaw correctly before use. As Nick puts it: “Chainsaws can cause a lot of harm, especially if you're an inexperienced operator.” Make sure to read the instructions thoroughly and register your warranty before cutting to the wooden chase.

Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower Review: Is It Right for Your Small Yard?

Jennifer Oksien — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 21:30:00 +0000

Getting one of the best cordless lawn mowers for your lawn is essential for maintaining grass growth and health from spring to fall. I was fortunate to be offered the opportunity to review the Worx 40V 17 Cordless Lawn Mower. It's battery-powered with some familiar tech, pitched for small-to-medium lawns.

We have a lawn sized at 400 sq. ft at the back, and we also have front and side lawned areas in our house. This meant I could test the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower in stages throughout the day, between charges, or when I was distracted by other tasks to complete in the yard. It took less than a couple of hours to recharge both 40V batteries fully, so I didn't have to wait too long until I could restart a mow.

I found that the cutting performance was fantastic. There are seven cutting heights; I struck a happy medium by opting for a grade 4 cut across our yard to tackle the uneven ground. There were many grass cuttings, so I was grateful for the grass collector, although I could have done with this being larger. This is just a teaser of how I found the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower, which, as I'm sure you can tell, was riddled with pros and cons. Keep reading for the full run-down of this cordless electric lawn mower.

Worx 17" Cordless Lawn Mower

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Key specs

Model no:	WG743
Lawn size	Up to 1/8 acre / 5500ft2
Drive type	Push
Deck width	17in
Battery	20V
Cutting width	16in
Height adjustment	Single-lever / 7 positions
Cutting height	1-1/2" - 4.0"
Weight	38.1lbs
Dimensions	41.34 x 17.72 x 56.99in (h x w x d)

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Price & availability

The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower has a list price of $329.99 and is available from Amazon. Lowes has it for $350.65. I have seen it regularly discounted, so it would be worth watching the reseller sites if the budget is tight.

This RRP puts the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower in the mid-range price bracket. It comes with two 20V batteries, a charger, a mulch plug, a 1.2-bushel collection bag, and instructions.

Price & availability score: 5 out of 5

(Image credit: Future)

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: First impressions

It arrived in a cardboard box wrapped in thick plastic; my first impression of the Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower was that it was big and heavy. I did manage to get it through to our living space instead of dragging it out to the garage in the rain, but this wasn't without putting in some effort.

Upon cutting through the plastic and opening the box, it was evident that not much assembling was required (hurrah). While there were instructions, I didn't need to refer to them, but having them as a backup was good.

The box could have been recycled, but the plastic had gone into the trash. Inside the box was the lawn mower, 45L grass collection bag, 2x 20V PowerShare batteries, charger, and instruction manual.

(Image credit: Future)

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Setup

Setting up the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower was (thankfully) a breeze. All in all, it took me just 10 minutes to unbox and assemble this lawn mower.

All the parts were self-explanatory, so I didn't feel that I needed to refer to the instructions, but they were good to have as a backup. The blade was already in position, so all I needed to do was attach two sides of the handle and the grass collector bag.

Before the first use, I fully charged the batteries so I could attempt to tackle the overgrown backyard in one run. It took less than two hours to fully recharge two 20V batteries.

(Image credit: Future)

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Design

The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower measures 41.34 x 17.72 x 56.99in (h x w x d) and weighs 35.3 lbs, according to the specs. It looks and feels like a lawn mower with a few little quirks.

One of those quirks is that while you can extend the handle bar 110 - 115cm it doesn't collapse to enable easier storing. I found that adjusting it to 115cm which gave me a height of 100cm was the most comfortable for me (I'm 5ft 8in tall). To store, it'll mean that you'll need to be prepared to take the handlebar apart and / or remove the collector bag, as I did, so that you can fit it into a secure storage space.

It also has a removable 40-litre grass clippings collector that attaches to the rear of the mower. The handle on top of the grass collector, which can be slid on and off, is useful for emptying because it makes it easier to tip out the grass clippings.

(Image credit: Future)

For a shortcut of the grass, you can adjust the height of the deck and the 30-cm blade with a lever found in the front left-hand-side wheel. This lever can be adjusted when the mower is not in motion, but be prepared to use your other hand hold down the mower for adjusting because moving and lifting the mower from the ground with said lever can be stiff.

(Image credit: Future)

The two 20V 4.0Ah batteries neatly sit under the hood at the front of the lawn mower, which can be accessed by lifting the front of the hood to release them. A neat little design feature is the ability to check the remaining battery power levels by pressing a button next to the hood. This will light up a display in green to give an indication of how much battery is remaining, which is helpful to gauge whether or not it would be worth challenging another patch of lawn with the remaining battery charge.

Design score: 4 out of 5

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: Performance

The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower was surprisingly easy to use and didn't make much noise while cutting, but it didn't come without some quirks.

To start up this mower is one of the easiest I have experienced. There's a safety key which slots in the a designated spot on the side of the handle bar, and then there's a lever that spans the full width of said handlebar that's required to be held down at all times while in use.

It did a fantastic job of cutting our 400 sq.ft lawn in the backyard, but I never quite finished the first mow in one go because the battery ran out. The first mow challenged longer, older grass; other subsequent mows were shorter, lusher green shoots. This lawn mower is advertised as suitable for lawn sizes up to 500sq.ft/1/8 acre, which ours is not, yet it failed to meet that specification when combating a more wildly lawn.

Fortunately, the two 20V batteries only took a couple of hours to charge, so I could finish the mowing that day (if I still felt like cutting the grass). If you have other Worx items in the PowerShare collection, switching to one of those batteries (fully charged) could be a good backup option.

While cutting the grass, the 45L grass collection bag quickly became filled with grass clippings. This is probably because I only mow once a week; if you mow more regularly, there will be less grass to collect. The filling up of the bag meant that I had to frequently stop to empty the grass clippings in the garden waste bin. If you prefer to add mulch back to your yard, you can use the mulch plug to return the nutrients to the grass. I did not do this because we're combating an embarrassing amount of weeds in our lawn, which I do not want to regrow.

Thankfully, the grass collection bag was easy to remove with the handle. It then hooked back over the rear of the mower to be refilled.

(Image credit: Future)

To test the cutting performance of the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower, I mowed over an apple. It's suffice to say that there wasn't much apple left; most of it had been turned into juice with a few scraps of peel scattered around the sides of the mower. What I was demonstrating here is the cutting power. Go over uneven ground with a low cutting height. The mower will automatically cut out (that blade is sensitive, too), so I'd adjust by selecting a sensible height - start high before dropping it to gauge the most suitable level.

(Image credit: Future)

I have a fence that runs both sides of our yard, so I like to get as close as possible to that before getting out the string trimmer. But this battery-powered mower didn't get as close as I wanted. It has chunky wheels and a chunky 17-inch deck to boot, which the blade edges couldn't surpass. Still, it didn't take too much effort to trample on the longer blades, remove the grass, or, as I say, get out the trimmer.

(Image credit: Future)

Getting to the end of the yard is a bit of a pinch point, too, although I'd say that there is still ample room to turn a lawn mower. The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower didn't make light work of this; it made a meal out of maneuvering. I resolved it by doing an awkward 5-point turn, which made its weight (38.1 lbs) feel a lot heavier than it actually was.

As a battery-powered, cordless lawn mower, it didn't cause a smell when operating and didn't generate a lot of noise. I measured 89dB on my noise level meter (lower than the advertised 92dB) similar to a food blender or dishwasher.

Cleaning and maintenance were super easy. All required is to charge the battery and ensure the empty grass collector bag. The blades may need sharpening or replacing after some months or years of use, depending how often or challenging the terrain is.

Performance score: 4 out of 5

Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower: User reviews

Looking at the reviews on Amazon, this cordless mower is a clear winner for small yards. Customers have rated the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower 4.2 out of 5 stars. They really like the size, quality, and weight of the lawn mower. One reviewer says, "It cuts well and is ideal for a smaller area," with another echoing, "It works well for my small front and back lawns."

Some appreciate maneuverability, but there are mixed opinions about the power and battery life.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower?

Test results
Attribute	Notes	Score
Battery Life and Runtime	struggled with longer, older grass; required recharging after about 2 hours of use	7/10
Power and Performance	performed well on short, lush grass; clean and precise cut; some limitations on tougher grass	7/10
Cutting Deck Size	well-suited for the reviewer's small to medium-sized lawn	8/10
Ease of Use	easy to set up and operate; intuitive controls; lightweight and adjustable design; straightforward grass clipping collection system	9/10
Battery Charging Time	recharged in less than 2 hours	8/10

Buy it if...

You're on a budget

The Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower has a $329.99 RRP and is regularly on sale.

You have a small/medium yard

This cordless mower can hold enough charge for cutting grass in a 1/8 acre, but nothing more.

You want the option to bag or mulch clippings

The Worx 40V 17-inch Cordless Lawn Mower can either clear away grass cuttings or return nutrients to the lawn by mulching.

Don't buy it if...

You don't have much outdoor storage

The Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower doesn't have a foldable handlebar or any easy way to store it.

Your grass grows quickly

The grass collector bag needed emptying several times during a mow of our yard, which got tiresome.

Your yard has tight spots to manoeuvre

The Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower isn't the easiest to maneuver around corners, so best to avoid if you have obstacles in your yard.

How does the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower compare?

Another electric mower we've reviewed is the Black + Decker BEMW472BH Electric Lawn Mower. It has a much lower price point, but it also has a cord. That means a bit less range and maneuverability, but you'll never run out of charge. Read our full review to see if that fits your needs better.

We've also compared popular cordless mowers from EGO and Greenworks. Read the full comparison to see fi those brands are more your style.

If you have a yard of 200 sqft or less, it would be worth getting another battery-powered mower with a smaller cutting width. The Greenworks 40V 19" Brushless Lawn Mower (Amazon) could be more suitable. It has a cutting width of 19 inches, folds down nicely for storage, and has a more palatable list price of $279.

Owners of larger yards would benefit from a ride-on lawn mower. Read our full review of the EGO TR4204 Power+ 42" T6 Lawn Tractor for more info.

How I tested the Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower

The Worx 40V 17in Cordless Lawn Mower was used for two months in my backyard. It was delivered to my house by courier. I then set it up, charged the battery, and cut the lawn several times. I adjusted the cutting height to see how that fared on uneven ground and even ran over an apple to see how well it turned to mush. Other specific tests I carried out included recording the noise level reading and how long it took to drain and recharge the batteries.

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360i Review: Is This Cordless Trimmer Worth It?

Jason Cockerham — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

If you’ve got a yard full of hedges, or even some particularly stubborn ones, the Husqvarna Hedge Master 320iHD60 Hedge Trimmer (320i) is made for you.

Don’t let the fact that it’s battery powered fool you; this thing will cut anything and everything you can throw at it. I trimmed my own hedges, including some fairly large branches, as well as my neighbor’s and my parent’s hedges (as a one-time courtesy) and nothing slowed the 320i down.

The 360i is part of Husqvarna’s MAX battery series of tools, which also includes their new Combi Switch multi-tool, as they branch out into the competing space of electric hedge trimmers. The idea is to use the same battery system to power a whole range of outdoor tools and in this case, the 360i comes with the company’s Bli22 battery and charger. The long cutting length means it can get to even the most hard-to-reach places, and the three-position handle makes for easy angle cutting so you’re not breaking your wrists trying to twist the thing.

It also comes with the ability to unjam the blades at the push of a button, so you don’t ever have to worry about getting caught or stuck somewhere and your blade snapping. All the power and features of the Hedge Master make it ideal for even the toughest hedges, but all this makes it fairly heavy so just be ready to take some breaks if using for longer periods.

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 Hedge Trimmer: price & availability

You can get the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360i from Husqvarna directly, from your local Husqvarna dealer, or from resellers such as Lowe’s, Amazon, and others.

To get one bundled with a battery an charger will set you back $319, but sometimes we’ve seen it for as low as $299. If you’ve already got a compatible battery, you can pick up just the tool itself for $229. This puts it definitely towards the higher end of its competitors, but if you need to be able to cut through just about hedge, you can’t go wrong.

Score: 4.5 out of 5

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 Hedge Trimmer: First impressions

The first thing I noticed was that the box itself seemed to be a bit more dinged up than I’d expect. My only assumption here is that since mine is a review device, it could quite possible have been a returned item due to the damage of the box. I can’t say for sure, but I would hope assume that most first-time purchase boxes would be in better shape. It also could entire have happened during transit, but either way, it arrived with some dings to the box.

Once inside the box, I was pleasantly surprised at the lack of plastic and Styrofoam present. Some of the pieces had their own plastic bags, but for the most part everything in the packaging was cardboard, which was nice to see. It was also nice that there was essentially no assembly required. You can quickly insert the included option sweeper on top of the blade if you like, but that’s all you would need to do. I also very much appreciated that they included hardware to mount the battery charger to the wall if desired. Other battery-powered tools I’ve purchased did not include that.

After I had it out of the box and got a good look at it, it was clear to see that the 360i means business. The teeth are large and sharp and it’s clear this thing is ready to work.

Future / Jason Cockerham

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60: Design

The Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 is extremely easy to use. The large handles are easy to grasp, especially while wearing gloves, and the D-shaped forward handle makes it easy to slide your hand around as you turn the trimmer when changing cutting angles. The safety button built-in the forward handle covers the entire length of the handle so you don’t ever have to take your hand off when adjusting. While the rear handle doesn’t rotate for seamlessly switching cutting angles like on some competitor models, “tri-handle” still makes it fairly easy to rotate quickly.

The large cutting blade certainly helps reach the trickier spots, but that does mean the whole thing is quite large. You’ll need to reserve plenty of space in your garage or tool shed for it. Also, while not as heavy as a gas-powered hedge trimmer, the 360i is still quite heavy, especially for prolonged periods or higher up places. It’s not necessarily a deal breaker, but if you don’t need all the power of the 360i, you could certainly find something smaller and lighter.

(Image credit: Future / Jason Cockerham)

The battery operation does allow for adjustable speeds, however. Just above the power button on the handle is another button that adjusts the cutting speed letting you opt for more power when you need it and more battery life when you don’t. Next to the speed controls is a release button that will open the teeth allowing any stuck branches to fall out; no more jammed blade.

Score: 4.5 out of 5

Husqvarna Hedge Master 320iHD60 Cordless Hedge Trimmer: key specs


Model no:	320iHD60
Blade length:	24 in.
Cutting size:	Up to 1 in.
Cutting speed:	3,800 cut/min
Fuel	Batter - BLi22, 36V / 4.0 Ah
Weight:	8lbs (without battery)

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60: Performance

The Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 absolutely lives up to its name. No matter what I tried to cut with it, it sliced through it cleanly like a hot knife through butter. I started on a few small, rounded shrubs we have and was able to give them a nice trim in a couple of minutes.

As they are about the height of our garage, this is really where the large size and weight of the 360i made an impact. It almost became a bit unwieldy on such small shrubs. I was certainly feeling it after a couple of minutes, but luckily it didn’t take me long and this hedge trimmer is not designed for such small bushes. To get your money’s worth, you need to take on some larger shrubs.

So that’s what I did.

(Image credit: Future / Jason Cockerham)

Next, I tackled our much larger shrub on the other side of the house and appreciated even more the power and versatility of the Hedge Master. Trimming this hedge has taken me as long as half an hour in the past doing it by hand, but now I can knock it out in less than 10 minutes.

(Image credit: Future / Jason Cockerham)

I also cut an entire row of my neighbor’s waist-high hedges and again was thoroughly impressed with how quickly and neatly I was able to do it. Not only did the Hedge Master cut through everything fast, it left clean, precise cuts, almost as if done by professionals. On some of the thicker spots in the hedges I cranked up the cutting speed and whipped through them with no problem. I even cut through some branches that were fairly thick and never had an issue.

I was pleased to see that battery life was never an issue either. Granted, I wasn’t using it for hours at a time, but most people should not have any trouble trimming their hedges in one charge. The LED indicator on the battery is helpful for keeping track of how much juice you’ve got left.

Once you’re done for the day, there’s really no way to easily disassemble or collapse the Hedge Master so you’ll just have to make room in your garage or tool shed. I do recommend covering the blades between uses with the included blade cover, particularly if you’ve got kids around.

Blade cover to protect the blade (and your fingers!) (Image credit: Future / Jason Cockerham)

Before you put it away, it’s a good idea to make sure there are any leaves or wood chips stuck in the blades and that could damage them over time. Other than a gentle cleaning every now and then sharpening the blades from time to time should be all you need to do.

Score: 5 out of 5

Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60: User reviews

Customer reviews of the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 all echo one another, all speaking highly about the battery-powered tool. It's worth noting that the majority of the reviews I'm reading are incentivized, and the reviews appear across multiple sites; I'll highlight anything standout.

Looking direct on the Husqvarna site it has overall scored 4.8-out-of-5 stars. Reviewers rave about the long battery-life, and how easy and safe it is to use. There is a comment about the cost of batteries for it, though, and the size being bigger than expected. Still, from what I can see, even those three reviews who gave it four stars speak well about it.

Over on reseller sites, Amazon customers have given it an overall rating of 4.6-out-of-five stars. One reviewer says "Great product for the value, I would recommend this to others needing a professional type hedger" whereas another said "This Husqvarna Hedge Master trimmer is exactly what I was looking for". There is a negative comment, though, which is about the lack of power but this seems to be an unfortunate isolated incident. And on Lowe's it scored 4.5-out-of-5 stars with an independent reviewer noting that the trimmer is great to what they had before, but it arrived in a wet box.

Should you buy the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60?

Score card
Attribute	Notes	Score
Price & availability	A bit pricey but worth if you have the need. It comes with a battery and is easy to find.	★★★★½
Design	Well built with useful features, best for larger, thicker hedges	★★★★½
Performance	Exceptional trimming performance with plenty of battery life	★★★★★

Buy it if...

You want something easy to use

One of the biggest benefits of battery-powered tools is that they startup instantly without any hassle.

You want to cut all the things

The Hedge Master is quite appropriately named. With its adjustable cutting speeds, it can handle even the trickiest hedges and even branches up to an inch thick.

You want something durable and eco-friendly

Using battery power is typically better for the environment and the Husqvarna build quality is among the best.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t need a lot of power

If you don’t have a lot of hedges, or anything particularly thick, you could certainly do with something a bit smaller and lighter. Not to mention less expensive.

You're on a budget

The Hedge Master is among the pricier hedge trimmers we’ve tested. There are plenty of other good options available for much less.

You don't want to rely on batteries

There are certainly some cases where you would need the power and reliability of a gas-powered hedge trimmer. In that case, you'll need to look elsewhere.

How does the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60 Hedge Trimmer compare?

Overall, the Husqvarna Hedge Master performed tremendously during my testing and offers a lot of value for the money. But as with everything, it’s not perfect.

Lucky for us, Husqvarna isn’t the only hedge trimmer manufacturer in town. If you only have a few small hedges and a good extension cord, the Greenworks 24V is a solid, low-cost option.

For those with taller shrubs or trees that need a good trimming, the DEWALT 20V is well-made.

How I tested the Husqvarna Hedge Master 360iHD60

I tested as many different types of hedges as I had access to for this review. I started with two small, ball-shaped shrubs that stand about head height outside my garage. Next, I attacked a rather large rounded hedge on the corner of our house that had not been trimmed in over two years. Lastly, I trimmed several rows of waist-high rectangular hedges at a few different locations.

24 Gift Subscriptions Gardeners Will Love: Best Subscription Boxes For Gardeners

Mary Ellen Ellis — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 19:00:00 +0000

These 24 different cool subscriptions from Cratejoy offer something for everyone on your list this year. Subscription boxes are the gifts that keep on giving. On this list, you’ll find everything from seeds and houseplants to craft baking projects that change by month throughout the year.

Here at Gardening Know How we want to keep you in the know. If you make a purchase through one of the links below, we may collect commission or other compensation at no extra cost to you. All prices are accurate as of the publishing date of this article.

FLOWERS & PLANTS

For the serious plant lovers on your gift list this year, check out these subscription gifts for gardeners. They include fresh cut flowers to cut the gloom of winter, seeds to get ready for spring, and specialty plants.

For the Friend Who Needs Mid-Winter Cheer — Bloomsybox ($49.99/box)

This box will bring your friend a fresh handpicked bouquet of flowers weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. It’s perfect for that person on your list who gets the winter blues and needs a little breath of spring.

For the Garden Planner — Seed Club Pro Membership ($20/box)

If you know a gardener just itching to get started on their garden, try this monthly seed starting box. Choose the growing medium, location, sunlight, and experience level of the gardener giftee. They'll receive five varieties of seeds (plus everything else they need) curated for their garden and the current planting season. Starting seeds couldn’t be easier!

For the Houseplant Collector — The Plant Club (from $45.83/box)

We love this monthly gift box for anyone who treasures houseplants. Each month, The Plant Club will send a new plant with care instructions and a “Plant Story,” an id tag, a goodie kit, soil and a decorative container for your new plant baby. Perfect for your friend who’s building an indoor oasis.

For the Trendy Plant Lover On Your List — Succulents Box (from $4.95/box)

Succulents are all the rage in houseplants right now, and if you have someone on your list who appreciates them, they’ll love this subscription. Choose one to four succulents, with or without terra cotta pots. Your friend will get everything they need to grow a unique succulent they may not offer at the local garden center.

For That Person Who Always Needs to be Different — Air Plants Monthly Club (from $19.99/box)

Air plants are truly unique, so get this gift box for the person on your list who likes to try something new. Each box comes with four or more air plants. You won’t find these at your local nursery. Some of the selections create pups, others bloom, and all are truly unusual and hard to find.

For Your Friend Who Doesn't Want to Do The Work — Cactique Boutique Box (from $27.25/box)

This box of cacti and succulents comes with a container already perfectly arranged with specimens. We won’t say it’s for your lazy friend, but maybe the one who prefers admiring plants to crafting. They’ll get care instructions too, so this is great for beginners.

HOME & COOKING

Gardeners love home and kitchen too, so try these unique subscription box ideas for cooking, baking, and seasonal decorations.

For That One Person Who Always Has Their Holiday Decorations Out Too Early — Habitation Box ($80/box)

Get a monthly box of 4-6 pieces of seasonal decor curated by a professional interior designer, or upgrade to the Habitation Elite subscription for even more goodies. Boxes include handmade, eco-friendly seasonal and holiday-themed pieces sourced from small businesses. What an easy way to add a little charm to your abode!

For the Friend Missing Their Home in the Mountains — Appalachian Mercantile (from $45/box)

This monthly regional gift box ships food and other products from small businesses in Appalachian states. Your friend will get a taste of home, or their favorite vacation spot, with BBQ sauce, grits, roasted nuts, and more. Boxes include a recipe to try and home goods like handmade soaps or wooden utensils.

For Your Friend Who Binge-Watches The Great British Baking Show — Bake Eat Love's Original Baking Kit (from $36.50/box)

Your baking enthusiast friends will love to get this box every month. Each kit comes with pre-measured ingredients, instructions, and at least one kitchen tool to add to their collection. Choose from one, three, six, or twelve boxes for a new treat every month.

For the Person Who Has Permanent Wanderlust — Roaming Radish Global Cooking Box (from $44/box)

This box will bring your gift recipient to a new world destination each month. Each box comes with the non-perishable ingredients and recipe cards. A recent box includes ingredients from South India and recipes for spiced potatoes, vegetable stew, coconut soup, and lentil pancakes. Yum!

REST & RELAXATION

This list of gift boxes includes soaps, scents, and everything necessary to relax and unwind all year long. These are perfect for those people on your list who need to decompress.

For the Friend Who Always Chooses a Bath Over a Shower — Bath Bevy Box (from $39.57/box)

This delightful subscription includes five to seven bath-related items. Each month brings a new collection of soaps, bath bombs, bath salts, scrubs, and more. And for those friends who like to pamper themselves but don’t have time for baths, choose the tubless box.

For the Person Who Thrives on Self-Care — Self Blossom Box (from $53/box)

The Self Blossom Box is a curated collection of self-care and personal growth items, delivered monthly, or just once. The person who’s always going on about personal improvement will enjoy the monthly book, inspiring craft projects, and products crafted by socially-conscious small businesses.

For Your Friend Who Always Has Fancy Soaps in the Powder Room — Merkaela Handmade Soap Box (from $24/quarter)

The sweet smell of self-care! In each box from Merkaela the suds-lover in your life will receive three natural, organic handmade soaps, plus a meditation and music playlist to align their mind, body, and spirit. Crafted and curated with care, this box arrives once every three months – just in time for new seasonal scents.

For the Person Who Always Goes for the Herbal Supplement — Apothecary Monthly (from $36.95/box)

Friends who love natural healing will appreciate this monthly gift box. Each one focuses on a seasonal herb and comes with the ingredients and instructions needed to make botanical remedies. Created by Southern Seed Exchange, the experts who put together this box are standing by to answer any questions.

For the Person Who Loves Aromatherapy — Sixth Scents Essential Oil Set (from $50/box)

Scents can be therapy. Try this monthly subscription for your friend who knows that. Each box comes with six different 100% pure essential oils specially selected to match the mood of the month. This USA-made gift comes in earth-conscious packaging and 6% of the profits go to small farmers around the globe.

ARTS & CRAFTS

Your crafty friends and family will appreciate these project-based subscription boxes. They include embroidery kits, nature sketching, and options for both beginners and seasoned crafters.

For the Friend Who's Always Knitting — Knit-Wise Monthly (from $30/box)

We all know someone like this. They’ll even knit at a party, if they can get away with it. This subscription box includes everything your friend needs to create an accessory or home item, like cute coasters! This box is great for novice knitters or skilled stitchers. Customize the kit for their experience level and choose either crochet or knitting for projects they will love.

For Beginning Crafters Who'd Like to Try Something New — The Hopebroidery Box ($45/month)

This box includes a monthly embroidery project and is designed for beginners to the art form. Each box has everything needed to complete one project, including fabric, scissors, needle and threader, embroidery hoop, and embroidery floss. Choose from one or three months.

For the Person Who Posts Their Projects on IG — Craft In Style Kit (from $30.75/box)

This craft box is customizable – perfect for picky giftees! They can choose projects that suit their interests and each month they’ll receive everything they need to make a social media-worthy craft.

For Someone Who Has an Inner Artist Longing to Create — Nature Sketch Crate (from $43/box)

More arty than crafty, this box provides everything needed to make ink and watercolor works of art. The theme is nature, including images of animals and plants. Your gift recipient will get easy instructions, sketching lessons, and all the materials needed to make these wall-worthy works of art.

KIDS & CRITTERS

For kids and for the pet-lovers on your list, these boxes will thrill.

For the Kid Who Digs Reading — Kids Monthly Book Box (from $21.95/month)

The little bookworm in your life will love this subscription. You choose the reading level (from board books to chapter books) and each month your child will receive beautifully gift-wrapped books that help your little one grow their mind.

For the Kid With Perpetually Dirty hands — Think Outside Box For Kids (from $44.50/box)

This outdoorsy box is great for the kid on your list who prefers to go out and dig in the dirt or play in the woods rather than sit indoors. Each box teaches real-life skills for exploring and surviving in the great outdoors. The subscription begins with a starter kit, including the gear and introductory lessons a child needs to enjoy a year’s worth of outside lessons and adventures.

For the Kid Who Would Rather Go to a Museum — Box Of Matter (from $37.46/box)

Choose this gift box for the science-lover in your life. Each month brings new items from all over the world that will help a curious child build their own mini-museum at home. These include fossils, minerals, and artifacts. Your favorite future scientist will also get lessons, tools, and instructions for investigating and conducting experiments.

For Your Furry Best Friend — PupJoy Power Chewers Box (from $37/box)

Your dog, or dog-loving friend, will appreciate this monthly box of artisan toys and treats. Each box comes packed with goodies customized for your playful pup. Plus, part of every purchase goes toward helping animals in need. No wonder this box was the winner of the Purina Pet Care Innovation Award.

For Your Favorite Cat Lady — Crazy CatLadyBox (from $39.99/box)

Crazy cat ladies (and their cats) will go gaga for this gift! Each box is filled with ameowzing items for your favorite cat momma and her fur baby. CatLadyBox donates to different cat rescues each month, so your purrchase helps cats in need.

See More Gift Guides

25 Last Minute Gifts On Amazon: Last Minute Gift Guide For Plant Lovers

Caroline Bloomfield — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Do last minute gift decisions present a conundrum for you? Nobody wants one of those during the holidays! So, here’s a great, big list of the very coolest last-minute gifts for everyone we care about. Okay, maybe we’re a little biased, but everyone loves garden-related gifts, whether they need a brand new challenge, or believe themselves to be experienced pros like some of the (amateur) gardeners in my family. So, don’t panic.

FOR INDOOR GARDENERS

Costa Farms Houseplant Subscription Box ($19.59 for your first box)

How about a gift of purified indoor air that doesn’t require you to lift a finger? Ready to enjoy – no fussing, choosing, buying, planting, making a mess – three or four healthy, sweet plants shipped to a special person is a reminder of your thoughtful nature, and will freshen their indoor air long after Santa leaves.

5-Pack Macrame Plant Hangers ($23.99)

Maybe you remember macrame plant hangers from the 60s and 70s – I do. But, things are different now. Having a full set of these beautifully crafted plant hangers is way back in style for houseplant lovers. A perfect touch of retro décor, especially for those who have limited space, they adjust to any size pot. They make a room feel boho and current, especially when hung as a group. A small indoor jungle comes to mind.

Set of 5 Modern Plastic Pots ($18.99)

This 5-pack of creamy white pots makes a perfect gift for houseplant enthusiasts with a flair for Scandinavian design. African violets, herbs, succulents and cacti go great in these 6 inch pots, which add clean modern style to any home.

Copper Watering Can ($28.99)

This shiny copper watering can makes a beautiful holiday gift for the quality-conscious houseplant lover in your life. Lush, full houseplants can be challenging to water, but this ergonomically designed can with a long gooseneck spout makes it easy. Plus, it looks great sitting on a shelf or nestled amongst plants.

Speckled Watering Can ($16.99)

Now, consider the more practical indoor gardeners on your list. This plastic watering can is made to last and holds a whopping gallon of water. Designed for the serious plant grower, this heavy-duty waterer is a welcome gift for those who mean business when it comes to giving accurately-targeted drinks to lots of plants.

Terra Cotta Watering Stakes ($18.89 SALE)

Okay, stay with me here. A terra cotta watering stake, when you plunge the pointed end into soil, makes a little moisture tunnel next to your plant. Place a bottle of water upside down on top of the open end to slowly deep-water a plant, even at root level. Now your plant parent friend can go on vacation without having to worry about thirsty neglected houseplants. These also work great for plants in hot environments.Personal Recommendations:I absolutely love these terra cotta watering stakes! They are so easy to use and keep our indoor and balcony plants alive when we go on trips. We've started loaning them out to neighbors when they go out of town - everyone loves them! -Allie, GKH Manager of Direct Sales

How Not To Kill Your Houseplant by Veronica Peerless ($9.49)

Surely you know someone who can’t seem to keep a houseplant alive. There are many of us for whom buying a houseplant means the kiss of death for the poor plant. But how can we know what one plant wants and the other doesn’t? Finally, someone did it! She wrote a book that simply and elegantly removes the confusion for those of us who so desperately need it. What a great gift.Personal Recommendations:I am into How Not To Kill Your Houseplant! It is simple in nature but... it also suggests companion plants that require the same soil and light. -Amy, GKH Digital Community Manager

Succulent Pots with Bamboo Trays ($15.88 per 2-pack)

I’ll admit it – I just ordered a set of these succulent pots for myself. Maybe I’ll give one away. If you know someone who loves succulents, or who really needs to be introduced to them, this is the perfect gift. More like a dish than a pot, the simple clean lines are perfect for displaying the intricate beauty of succulents. Bamboo trays protect the table. A perfect gift for that person who just needs a pretty touch of nature indoors.

6-Pack Mini Succulent Pots ($13.99 per 6-pack)

Don’t just fly past this one – a collection of six little ceramic succulent pots is a fantastic gift, especially for someone with limited plant space. Beautifully made, and each one unique, they’re a great style statement for a windowsill. This is a perfectly trendy gift for beginning gardeners, or if you’re already a succulent fan, you know how handy these are. Plus, they look expensive – and they’re not. Be sure to include some healthy succulents to go with.

Bonsai Tree Starter Kit ($29.99)

Someone you know either already loves Bonsai, or needs a new hobby. But this isn’t just any old bonsai kit. It comes with four kinds of tree seeds and everything you need to get started, but even more amazing is that this kit has its own Facebook community, a Grower Help Bot, and a team of experts for support. Help your loved one start a rewarding new hobby and be their designated favorite gifter this year.

Indoor Veggie Starter Kit ($29.97)

Spade to fork! Promote your penchant for organic gardening and eating. Your favorite culinary enthusiast will love this planting system kit. Everything is included for germinating and growing healthy sustainable produce indoors on a windowsill or even a countertop. This is a wonderful way to get a vegetable garden started – and who knows, maybe you’ll get a dinner invite.

FOR OUTDOOR GARDENERS

8-Piece Garden Tool Set ($26.99 SALE)

A lot of us became even more hyper-interested in gardening these past two years. Maybe you know someone who would absolutely love to get a passel of garden tools in one heavy-duty bag, complete with organizer and gloves. This 8-piece set gets great reviews for quality and affordability, and will make a newbie feel like a real pro.

Felco F-2 Hand Pruners ($58.59)

If you’re looking for some high-end pruners, check out these babies. The best on the market, these pruners aren’t usually even available at big home improvement stores. They last forever, are super-easy to use and come with their own handy holster. Real experts wouldn’t even try to use anything else, so you may want to indulge in this not-so-cheap tool for someone you really care about.

OXO Kitchen Compost Bin ($22.95)

Every time I peel an orange, make a soup or munch on a fresh carrot, I think about my composting methods and how I could improve them. Along comes this compost bin – it sits on the counter or can be hung – and it covers all the things I gripe about. It doesn’t latch, so if my hands are full I can still pop something in there, but the lid seals down perfectly. This is a great gift for anyone who composts kitchen scraps. Basically, it’s a no-problem bin and comes in more than one size. Someone you know needs this.

Floating Plant Row Cover ($19.99+)

“Well the weather outside is frightful…” (I’ll bet that song will ring in your ears all day). In this weather, extending the growing season can be challenging. Your gardener friend will appreciate keeping sensitive plants and newly planted trees happy and safe with this plant blanket. What makes it different? It’s made from a light polypropylene that allows air in, but is so strong it can protect against inches of torrential snow and rain. Easy to cut and re-size, it’s also great in spring for protecting tender seedlings. “I was able to cover my garden and had leftover material…” -Amazon reviewer

Hammock Chair/Hanging Rope Swing ($46.99 SALE)

I can’t imagine anyone who would not want something this cool. A chair that’s a comfy hammock can be hung inside or out, for a relaxing, suspended moment of reflecting on beautiful things, like gardens, puppies and Christmas pipedreams. If it’s too cold to swing outside under a tree, your happy recipient can use it indoors and dream of breezy summer days. You will be thanked many times over.

FOR KIDS

Gnome-Eating Dinosaur Statue ($31.44 SALE)

Everyone has a friend or relative with a bizarre or hilarious sense of humor. Some of us just aren’t that fond of cutesy little gnomes in the garden, and would much prefer this dinosaur who has the same attitude. Okay, we’re listing this under gifts for kids, but really, don’t you have a favorite uncle who would adore this garish garden art? It’s a great gift for kids of any age and makes a funny statement that you can’t un-see.

Unicorn Terrarium Kit for Kids ($29.99 SALE)

Do you know a little one who might love to get an early gardening start? Send her this STEM-inspired terrarium for Christmas. The kit includes soil and seeds, fairy tale figurines (with paint and brushes), garden stones and fairy lights. Your favorite kiddo can create a tiny ecosystem with real plants that will pop up in a couple days. This is a great early-life nature project that imprints a long-lasting hands-on memory of how nature works.

Flower Building Kit for Kids ($33.97 SALE)

Some of the littles in your life will spend hours designing and redesigning these bright toy flower arrangements. Lead and BPA-free plastic, the flower parts and pieces come in rich colors and have flexible stems. Great for kids who love to play with small parts that fit together, this is an awesome gift for future designers and engineers. It includes a flower pot, a storage case and bases to hold the creations upright. Comes with a 20% off coupon and is an Amazon favorite.

FOR ANIMAL LOVERS

2-Pack Hummingbird Feeder ($19.79 SALE)

The more hummingbirds that come to visit, the better, right? This bright red feeder has five ports so you can feed a flock of the tiny creatures at once. With two to a package, hang them from your eaves or shepherd’s hook and enjoy the show. It’s the best entertainment you can get for the price. Bonus features: Easy to fill and clean, they don’t need to be turned upside down, and they don’t leak.

3-Pack Grass Birdhouse ($16.99 per 3-pack)

These really lovely, natural birdhouses placed on a tree branch invite finches to claim some real estate. Hang or secure them where hummers can duck in out of the weather. Pretty and handmade, they’re beautifully woven from natural hibiscus grass, and provide valuable shelter for birds who need a place to hide when wind and weather gets difficult. Besides being functional, they’re lovely to look at and are a charming addition to someone’s yard or garden. In packs of three, they make an unusual and unexpected gift.

3-pack Cat Grass Grow Kit with Seeds ($13.41 per 3-pack)

Everyone knows a cat lover. Here’s a kit for the cat who has everything. All cats need an occasional chew on fresh grass to help their digestion. Seeds and soil and a container to grow sweet organic oat grass make for a private feline indoor garden. Why do cats love this stuff? I don’t know, but they do. It’s especially great for cats who like to chew on houseplants; the sweet grass provides vitamins and minerals that healthy cats need. This company is extremely conscientious about child and pet safety. The cat lover on your list will be delighted.

FOR FASHION LOVERS

Waterproof Garden Clogs ($30.73 SALE)

Have you ever, ever seen garden shoes this incredibly cute? Someone on your shopping list will be thrilled with a pair of these from thoughtful you. Designs include chickens, flowers, dogs, horses, hummingbirds, cows, polka dots – and even plain black. Look at all of them – you’ll see a design to strike joy in the heart of anyone on your shopping list. They’re built for quality and stability in the garden, but honestly, the art is everything.

Flower Power Socks ($8.95 SALE)

Golfers, gardeners, yogis and super-moms love socks – everyone loves socks. These are 85 percent cotton and will hold up longer and stronger than you might think. The specialized themes are embellished with pretty art and cute sayings – there’s nothing not to like about these, including the price.

Harry Potter Herbology T-Shirt ($19.99)

If you want to make someone happy with a Harry Potter herbology t-shirt, order it now because these lovely things aren’t stamped out and stacked up somewhere, but are printed on demand. If you know a favorite wizard or witch, or just someone who loves the magic of herbs, this beautiful licensed t-shirt will be a welcome, unexpected holiday gift that will last for years. Made for both men and women, it comes in four colors. I want one.

Hopefully, a quick scan through these 25 simple-to-order items will help you get your shopping finished up easily and early so you can kick back and thoroughly enjoy all the good holiday vibes this year. Stay healthy, happy and light.

See More Gift Guides

16 Garden Gift Ideas Under $50 - Best Cheap Gifts For Plant Lovers

Teo Spengler — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:00:00 +0000

As the holiday season rolls into town, we all start making lists of potential gifts for friends and family and wondering how to do up Christmas presents right without breaking the bank. If you have plant lovers on your list, we’re ready to help with a special selection of 16 small gifts for gardeners that don’t cost too much.

With a wide-ranging selection – from an elegant wine-bottle bird feeder to a cool cotton hammock for outdoor relaxing in the garden – these are unique and delightful gardening gift ideas that cost under $50 each, with half of them less than $25.

Here at Gardening Know How we want to keep you in the know. If you make a purchase through one of the links below, we may collect commission or other compensation at no extra cost to you. All prices are accurate as of the publishing date of this article.

GIFTS UNDER $50

For the Gardener Who Needs to Mix Things Up — Garden Weasel Cultivator ($42.21)

Despite its eccentric name, the Garden Weasel Cultivator is one of the most practical and thoughtful gifts for gardeners on your shortlist. It’s a tool for cultivating the soil, with three rotary blade wheels that break up the soil and clean themselves at the same time. When we asked Laura, our Junior Editor, for her go-to garden tool, this is the one she named, citing the ease with which it loosens dirt and blends in compost before planting day.

For the Gardener Who Likes a Little Sparkle — Crystal Suncatcher ($32+)

Every gardener we know loves a rainbow, especially on the wall in their plant room. The Crystal Suncatcher – delicate and elegant – is one of our inexpensive gifts for gardeners and, hung on a curtain rod, it offers your friend and their plants an endless supply of rainbows.

For the Gardener Who Believes in Magic — Fairy Garden Kit ($24.99 SALE)

Who says grown-up gardeners don’t like to play? In fact, many would classify planting and pruning as a mix of fun and magic. So why not bring a little extra enchantment into a gardening friend’s life with a charming fairy garden set? It includes fifteen handcrafted pieces, including fairy patio chairs, a bird bath, and even butterfly-shaped stepping stones.

For the Gardener Who Wants Nighttime Ambiance — Decorative Tree Lanterns ($36.99)

I must admit that I am a big birch tree fan, so these solar garden lanterns that cast shadows of slender birches across the ground at night really speak to me. Though functional and effective, it is the beauty and ambiance of the gorgeous patterns that excite me as a gardener and gift giver. Just let them soak up sun for 6-8 hours, then they automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn. Such easy elegance!

For the Wannabe Botanist — Framed Pressed Fern ($27.50)

Gardeners can’t spend every moment outdoors, especially in the winter. Help your gardener friends bring nature inside with the Framed Pressed Fern, one of our favorite handmade garden gift ideas. The fern herbarium offers lacy fronds pressed between two panes of high-quality glass, set in a silver floating frame. Each is different, one-of-a-kind, but all are delightful.

For the Gardener Who Loves Birds and Wine — Wine Bottle Bird Feeder ($25.49+)

Most gardeners love birds and it’s a good bet that many also enjoy fine wine. Cheap Christmas gifts for vintage wine lovers are hard to come by, so consider the Wine Bottle Bird Feeder a steal. This handcrafted item is sure to impress. The yellowed wine bottle is trimmed with copper to create an ornate and effective feeder for feathered friends in the garden.

For the Gardener Who Wants Fresh-Grown Flavor All Year — Indoor Herb Garden Kit ($29.97)

One of the most thoughtful Christmas gifts for gardeners is the gift of homegrown flavor, even in winter. Gift your gardener friend this indoor herb garden starter pack. Gift it to anyone really, because this kit truly is that easy! They’ll be savoring the flavor of five different fresh herbs in no time.

For the Water-Conscious Gardener — Drip Irrigation Kit ($35.80)

Installing drip irrigation can feel more complex than brain surgery, but this kit was designed with the first-time user at mind. It offers a complete irrigation system perfect for flowers, vegetables, trees, shrubs and vines, with everything needed to get started. The kit comes with 250 feet of tubing and helps save lots of water. It just needs to be attached to a garden hose. Our Junior Editor Laura found it much easier to set up than she expected. “One of my favorite gardening purchases ever,” she tells us.

GIFTS UNDER $25

For the Gardener Who's Always Out of Town — Irrigation Timer ($23.89)

Gardeners travel, just like everyone else. These efficient irrigation timers are relatively inexpensive gardening gifts for those who are always calling on you to water their tomatoes while they are off in Bali on the beach. It will do a better job too, with run times from 1 to 240 minutes a day and intervals from six hours to once a week. Our Junior Editor Laura relies on this timer to turn her drip irrigation system on and off while she’s traveling for work – though I don’t think we’ve sent her to Bali yet.

For the Gardener Who Wants a Fire Pit but Doesn't Have the Space — Portable Bonfire Candle ($21.95)

Is one of your friends dreaming of getting a fire pit but lives on the top floor of a high-rise? Take a look at the darling Portable Bonfire Candle and you’ll know just what present to get. Light up one of these hand-poured soy wax candles and you are in the land of campfire vibes and starry skies. Portable, re-lightable and entirely delightful, the long-lasting bonfires work as well in the garden as when you are camping, tailgating or at the beach.

For the Chill Gardener Who Loves to Hang — Cotton Hammock ($24.99)

What gardener on your gift list couldn’t use a break, swinging gently in the backyard on a brightly colored hammock? This cotton hammock has some of the best reviews we’ve ever seen. Customers call it gorgeous, easy to set up, comfortable, durable, inexpensive, beautiful and sturdy. One girl uses it with her dog. People of 200 and 300 pounds feel secure it in. And the price is very hard to beat.

For the Artsy Gardener Who Appreciates Printmaking — Marigold Linocut Print ($16)

There's just something about marigolds that cheers up a garden. And this hand-printed marigold linoleum block print is sure to cheer up the gardener on your list – all winter long. The 5x7-inch print on acid-free Strathmore paper is a perfectly charming gift. It can be easily framed and set on a desk as a lovely reminder that spring is always just around the corner.

For the Gardener Who Loves Surprises — Air Plant Mystery Set ($21.25+)

There is something mysterious about air plants. Hundreds of curious plants that live on air alone – no soil needed – and so many different species you can’t possibly know them all. The Air Plant Mystery set adds another level of surprise: it’s a mystery group of five different tillandsias. Though you won’t know what kinds will be included when you order the set, you can be sure to receive a good variety of texture, shape, and color. A perfect intro to air plants for any gardener!

For the Gardener Who Always Gets Poison Ivy — Tecnu Extreme Poison Ivy & Oak Scrub ($12.22+)

Gardeners are always messing around outdoors, so that makes them more likely than anyone else to encounter poison ivy or poison oak, those unwelcome plants with toxins that cause rash and awful itching. Tecnu Extreme Scrub works in the blink of an eye – 15 seconds is all it takes to remove the urushiol oil that causes problems. Itch gone, rash gone, no spreading. Laura, our Junior Editor, says that she worked on a TV show about expedition races in the Alaska wilderness and they all swore by this product.

For the Gardener Who Likes Birds, but Not Squirrels — Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder ($15.99)

Everyone loves wild birds in their garden, but squirrels aren’t always popular. If you know a gardener who loves birds but is tired of pushy squirrels, the Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder is a great find. It comes fully assembled and ready to hang, with a little rain cover so the food and the birds stay nice and dry in the rainy weather. Two pounds of wild bird seed are included in this lovely bird feeder set for a surprisingly low price.

For the Gardener Who Likes to Work Hard and Look Good — 3-Pack Floral Garden Gloves ($8.99)

If these gloves don’t inspire you to go out and get to work, nothing will. They are really bright and attractive, with flower patterns on three fingers and polka dots on the thumb and index finger. Tough enough for garden work but light, soft and pleasant to wear. They keep your hands warm and clean, and they wash and dry out nicely. For three pairs, the low price is astonishing.

See More Gift Guides

40 Gifts From Small Businesses For Every Gardener On Your List

info@gardeningknowhow.com (Bonnie L. Grant) — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Are you looking to shop small this holiday season? This might be just the list for you. Uncommon Goods, an online shop promoting creative goods from artists and craftspeople, boasts a one of a kind seed saving kit, beautiful swimming koi sculptures, useful kitchen garden shears, and much more. All their products are creative gifts that impart a love of life and nature's bounty. We at Gardening Know How recognize the value of supporting small businesses and bringing a whole lot of joy to the holiday season in a sustainable retail cycle.

Here at Gardening Know How we want to keep you in the know. If you make a purchase through one of the links below, we may collect commission or other compensation at no extra cost to you. All prices are accurate as of the publishing date of this article.

FOR THE INDOOR GARDEN LOVER

For the plant parent who's also a bookworm — Plant Propagation Bookends ($60-80)

Plant devotees tend to do their research to keep their plant babies happy. Give the gift of these glass, maple, and walnut bookends featuring cuttings from their favorite flora to keep all those tomes tidy. Handsome and handy, these bookends are sure to please any plant enthusiast.

For the Oh-So-Cool Urban Gardener — Fire Escape Shelf ($129)

Never a dull moment in the present universe, this shelf is urban kitchiness personified. Featuring epoxy coated iron that really does look like the real deal in miniature, the shelf unit is perfect for plants, pictures, art, and more. One of the most unique gifts for home and garden.

For the Friend Who Can't Keep a Plant Alive — Stained Glass Succulent Leaf Set ($90-110)

Can’t keep real plants alive? Get a touch of nature in the form of this artistic stained glass rendering of either an aloe or a snake plant. A classy light-catching sculpture of succulent plants that need even less water than the real thing!

For the Girlfriend Who's Obsessed with Pillows — Cactus Bloom Throw Pillows ($32-45)

These cuties are chubby versions of real life cacti that won't prick or harm. Instead they are felted from locally sourced wool that imparts cozy Southwest whimsy without pain. Snuggle up with one of these and read about the American deserts and other Wild West tales.

For the Cousin Who's Obsessed with Candles — Succulent Garden Candle ($50)

Handmade in Texas by crafty Megan Reep, this lightly scented candle display would look at home with the Cactus Throw Pillows for a Southwestern nod to succulents and their infinite diversity. The soy blend wax burns brightly for 40 hours of enjoyment, while adding a fresh beachy aroma to the home. The hand carved wooden vessel is useful for knickknacks long after the wax has gone.

For the Fiancé Who Adds Avocado to Everything — Avocado Tree Sprouter ($34)

Toast, salads, smoothies, facials…avocados make everything better! Sprout discarded pits (we know you have plenty) with this set of two handcrafted stoneware sprouters. Grow as houseplants, or if you live in a warm climate, plant seedlings outside and harvest your homegrown fruit.

OUTDOOR GARDEN GIFTS

For the Dad Whose Back Needs a Break — Gardener's Tool Seat ($46)

Gardening is hard work, but this handy seat gives you a place to rest your weary caboose. Made of lightweight steel and sturdy nylon, it has a detachable bag with 21 different sized pockets. Easy to carry and foldable, this little stool is sure to be an indispensable item in the garden.

For the Sister Who Goes Overboard at the Farmer's Market — Farmer's Market and Harvesting Bag ($78)

Always get more than you need at the farmer's market? A waxed canvas tote carries loads of fresh produce, and is a real helper during harvest time. The best feature? The bottom opens so you can drop your spoils out easily. Durable and classy, the bag will be your best friend during the growing season and beyond.

For the Friend Who Wants to Be More Sustainable — Gardener's Seed Saving Kit ($28)

Now why didn't I think of that? Everything you need to save and catalog your seeds is included in this fantastic kit. Envelopes, tins, labels, and a handy chart with instructions on successful seed saving are all included. All you need to do is take a little time to preserve your favorite flower or heirloom veggie seeds. In spring, you are all organized and ready to plant!

For the Novice Gardener — Sunflower Garden Grow Kit ($12)

Beautifully packaged, this sunflower kit has everything you need to grow one of the most impactful plants in the garden. Sporting 6 varieties of sunflower, including the must have Mammoth variety, you can sprout seeds in a recycled egg carton. Soon your landscape will be a sea of yellow and golden hues, guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

For the Budding Gardener — Kid's Garden Journal ($15)

This journal gets little ones away from screens and into the garden. With a year’s worth of DIY and gardening projects, this interactive book is the holy grail for stay-at-home parents trying to educate and entertain their kids.

For the Neighbor Who Always Cuts His Grass Before Everyone Else — Grass Gauge ($18)

If you are like me and are a touch neurotic about keeping a tidy lawn, this grass gauge will tell you when it's time to mow. The tongue-in-cheek notations are cute and funny, but also a useful reminder that frequent mowing allows you to return nutrients back to the soil, resulting in a greener and healthier lawn. Crafted from partially recycled stainless steel, the gauge will stand up to your watering schedule without showing wear.

For the Grandma Who Likes the Gentle Tinkling of Chimes — Rainbow Ceramic Chime Duo ($84)

The garden is a vision of beauty, but also a place for peaceful sounds. These charming chimes add appeal to the landscape with pastel colors and a calming soundscape. Handmade and fired, each disc is a different hue, with tones that are sure to enhance the outdoor experience. Artist Lindsey Bricker's chimes will enchant you with their distinctive, natural form.

FOR THE NATURE LOVER

For the Brother Who's Interested in Beekeeping — Solitary Bee Hive ($40)

Honeybees get all the publicity, but there are other beneficial pollinators such as Mason and leafcutter bees for whom you should put out the Welcome mat. This bee house is literally a condo with separate floors to invite friendly pollinators. Made of sustainably sourced wood, each level comes apart for cleaning or inspection. Plus, this bee house is a real beaut.

For the Aunt with the Amazing Pollinator Garden — Bee Drinking Garden Ball ($55)

Bees need more than nectar to keep them buzzing. They also need water, and they can get it from this imaginative orb. The textured surface catches dew and irrigation water, providing a place for bees to get a sip. Colorfully hued in sunset tones of gold and orange, it is a piece of art for anyone who cares about our Apis friends.

For the Uncle Who's Trying to Attract Orioles — Birdie Fruit Feeder ($62)

We all know the importance of a balanced diet, and it is especially true with our bird and animal friends. Many species of bird need more than bugs and seeds to live their best birdie lives. The arty design of this hanging feeder has plenty of places to adorn with fresh fruit. From the mind of Catherine Murphy, the decorative copper feeder will age to a pleasant patina, while providing essential meals for our feathered visitors.

For the Father-in-Law Who Wishes He Had A Koi Pond — Swimming Koi Sculptures ($30-85)

Don't have a koi pond? No problem with this blue or red-orange glazed ceramic garden art. The fish is designed to have the feeling of motion as it swims in the water, all wiggly and natural. It's a super charming feature you can use in garden beds, perched on the attached stakes. Each is handmade and completely unique.

For the Toddler Who Is Gaga for Giraffes Right Now — Coconut Fiber Giraffe Planter ($65)

Color me tickled. This adorable planter handmade from coconut fiber in the Philippines is an unusual and charming way to display your plant. Because each is hand crafted, each one will be slightly different, just like you or your gift recipient. Cute gardening gifts like this support individual businesses.

For the Friend Who is Proud of Her Home State — Birds and Blooms Art - Individual States ($80)

For those proud of their state, this memento of the flora and fauna of the region is priceless. Anna Branning and Mara Murphy hand paint every design, with a look that captures the old-fashioned art of botanical books. They are available in a Black Bonanza wood or barnyard finished frame. The website contains a handy link to identify the bird and flower of every state.

GETTING CRAFTY

For the Cousin Who is Hooked on Puzzles — Vintage Succulents Puzzle ($22)

The infinite varieties of succulents are reflected in the 1000-piece puzzle. The pictures are straight out of an old-fashioned botanical book. Glue it all together when you are done to make a beautiful piece of art honoring our prickly, chubby, alien-like succulent pals. Gifts from small businesses are thoughtful and sustain economic diversity.

For the Other Cousin Who Likes DIY Crafts — Mini Terrariums DIY Kit ($20)

Charming felted succulents to build into mini terrariums. There are 18 different plants to create, each with their own personality and whimsy. Hand drawn chalk detailing brings them to life. For a more realistic appeal, each is nestled in a bed of tiny white rocks.

For the Niece or Nephew Who Likes Cacti But Not Getting Pricked — Handmade Crochet Cactus with Pot ($35)

An adorable home gift to bring a touch of the Southwest into your home. Each features a ceramic pot and comes in one of several varieties like Saguaro, Barrel Cactus, or Domino. And you don't need to water them!

For the Grandchild Who's Learning the 50 States — State Flowers Coloring Book ($11.99 SALE)

Laden with facts about the United States, this book will become a child's artistic canvas as they learn about our beautiful country. Every page will fill their head with more and more of the wonderful secrets of this great land.

For the Friend Who Celebrates Her Whole Birthday Month — Birth Month Flower Paint by Numbers Kit ($30)

Unique gifts for home and garden appeal to almost everyone, like this floral painting set. Every month celebrates a flower that connotes certain traits. Select the recipient's month and soon they will be merrily painting a veritable masterpiece. A thoughtful and relevant gift that also creates art suitable for framing.

For the Daughter-in-Law Who Likes Pretty Things That Are Also Eco-Friendly — Dried Flower Wreath DIY Kit ($50)

Sustainably sourced beauty to grace the wall or door is at your fingertips. Krista Freita's kit is sourced from local farms and includes everything you need for a long lasting wreath. Made in Oregon, the willow frame, flowers, and foliage are grown from seed in ecologically friendly surroundings that will grace the home with elegant splendor.

For the Mother Who Wants to Start a New Hobby — Budding Artistry Flower Arranging ($25-60)

Learn a new skill in just 90 minutes! Perfect for the impatient DIY-er, this virtual class teaches the beginner the joy of peaceful flower arranging. The unique experience will introduce the meditative calm of selecting flowers and putting them in pleasing designs. You choose your own blooms, foliage, and vase, so each creation is unique to you.

For the Grandmother Who Visits All the Local Craft Shows — Garden of Love Serving Bowl ($175)

Gifts from small businesses celebrate the talents of artists, like this wonderful bowl. Unique and individual, these bowls feature pressed lilies and baby's breath on stone clayware. The brainchild of Neena Jhaveri, this bowl is rustic and natural, perfect compliments to the floral decor. Handmade in Virginia, the bowl would suit an elegant salad, array of fresh fruit, or simply stand alone as a display piece.

For the Husband Who Needs His Morning Cup of Coffee — Tree Hugging Mug ($24.99-39.99)

Can't function without some Joe? These handmade mugs are perfect to house that all important morning beverage. Enjoy your java in a forest-inspired stoneware cup that holds in all that tummy warming heat and won’t tip over. These individually etched tree mugs make great creative Christmas gifts.

For the Wife Who Makes Wishes Come True — Floating Wish Dandelion Earrings ($55)

Remember blowing those fluffy, umbrella-like seeds from dandelions and making a wish? These earrings keep the seeds close to hand for daily desires. Housed in eco-resin flanked by beautiful gold plated bronze, the earrings are classy and elegant, suitable for any outing or everyday wear.

FOR COOKS

For the Mom Who Can Never Have Enough Dish Towels — Flowering Herb Kitchen Towels ($45/set of 3)

Fresh herbs liven up any dish made in the home kitchen, so why not give them an honorary place? Everyone needs dishtowels, and these unbleached cotton ones are printed with water based inks, making them a natural solution for the home. Designer Jodi Kostelnik sends these off in adorable produce container packaging.

For the Boyfriend Who Likes to Cook, But Not Water Plants — Mason Jar Indoor Herb Garden ($24)

He's a cooking fiend, but a forgetful plant parent. Get him these easy-care frosted mason jar hydroponic growing vessels. Vintage style containers wick up moisture to moisten the herb seeds of your choice. Once you have leaves, snip as needed to spice up his kitchen creations.

For the Grandpa Who Wants To Get Into Foraging — Foraging Tool Kit ($40)

This foraging kit is ideal for beginners who want to try wildcrafting. Forage for a variety of foods with the tools in this kit. Use the knife and canvas bags for fresh morels or tap the sap from a maple tree with the sugaring spile. Bon appétit!

For the Gourmand Who Simply Must Have Fresh Herbs — Thai Kitchen Garden Shears ($38)

Pair these handy shears with the Farmer's Market Bag for a combo gift sure to please. Hand-carved Pradu wood handles are durable and beautiful, while stainless steel blades are sure to see you through all your snipping requirements. Handmade in Thailand, these are a perfect indoor or outdoor gardening gift.

For the Dad Who Doesn't Know What to Do With All His Zucchini — Veggie Lover's Cooking Kit ($35)

Everyone needs new and exciting ideas in the kitchen. During harvest time we can often use a little help. This group of 6 savory seasoning packets will enhance the dining experience while making it easier. Neil Edley has developed each seasoning to compliment a host of recipes. Comes with Mexican street corn, coconut curry, zesty horseradish, sesame soy, lemon rosemary, and maple brown sugar. Yum!

For the Hubby Who Loves Homemade Pasta — Best-Ever Homemade Farfalle and Marinara Sauce ($30)

Homemade pasta is worlds apart from store bought. Learn how to make farfalle (the little bowties) in your home with a classic marinara sauce. The online class is taught by Sydney Wilcox, who will walk you through every step to ensure a delicious and special meal experience.

SEND THE LOVE - SELF CARE

For the Hard Working Gardener Who Needs a Little Self Care — Floral Printed Weeder Glove Spa Gift Set ($24)

The eyes might be the mirrors to the soul, but the hands are the tools that make everything happen. One of the most important body parts needs a little TLC now and again. Pamper your hands with waterproof nitrile coated gloves on the palm, and breathable cotton on top. After your hard labor, luxuriate in the soothing natural soap.

For the Indoor Gardener Who Wishes Every Day Were Spa Day — Just Breathe Eucalyptus Spa Gift Set ($40)

The natural oils in Eucalyptus open the lungs and the pores. Start by planting the seed and baby your plant until it has leaves. Then indulge in a bath experience featuring the aromatic foliage, botanical bath salts, and jute body scrubber. Relax away a crummy day.

For the Daughter-in-Law with Dry Winter Skin — Handmade Solid Lotion Bars ($32/set of 4)

Heat melts butter, just like these buttery bars will melt into a soothing, aromatic lotion after massaging them onto skin. Indulge in 4 scents made with essential oils that will relax, rejuvenate, and care for winter skin.

For the Teen Who Always Wanted to Make Her Own Bath Bombs — Floral Fizz DIY Bath Bomb Workshop and Kit ($45)

A 60 minute online class for 13 years and up, this workshop shows how to make up to 16 bombs using Michael Wiesel's 100% organic kit (included in the price of the class). What could be more fun than making some gifts and immersing oneself in the scents of lavender, chamomile, and rose? Enjoy these yourself or give them to a deserving loved one.

For the Gardener Who Believes All Their Wishes Will Bloom — Plantable Wish Cards ($10)

A truly unique and memorable gift concept. Kit comes with 12 cards and a handy pencil to imprint wishes on each card. Plant, water, and wait. Soon your wishes will come up in a variety of annual and perennial wildflowers. A great way to celebrate a special occasion!

See More Gift Guides

Subscription Garden Gift Box Review: 10 Reasons To Try ‘My Garden Box’ From Cratejoy

Nikki Tilley — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 18:00:00 +0000

Got a gardener on your gift list this season but not yet sure what to buy? That’s easy! As a gardener myself and lover of all things plants, I highly recommend sending a monthly garden gift box from Cratejoy, specifically My Garden Box.

My Garden Box Subscription Gifts for Gardeners

When I received my first box, I quickly became a fan. The plants are packaged really well - even the box itself is nice! Depending on the monthly theme, you can receive anywhere from 1-3 plants, plus everything else needed to complete your garden project – soil, quality containers, fertilizer (if necessary) and illustrated instructions that also include plant care tips and fun facts. You might even get an extra little surprise, too.

Even better, it doesn’t matter if you’re a new or experienced gardener. Anyone can enjoy My Garden Box subscriptions. In fact, my 3-year-old grandson has helped with many of these projects. And I’m always just as excited to dig into each box as he is! Let me take you on a tour of 10 of my favorite deliveries My Garden Box has sent me over the years.

Top 10 Delivery Box Gifts from My Garden Box

One of the things I love most is that every garden box you get is different. One month you might get tropicals, the next some succulents, and then maybe something for the garden. You never know until you open it. While I cannot remember each and every specific named box, here’s 10 of the best delivery gifts I’ve received with My Garden Box subscription:

1. DIY Terrarium

This was the first box I got years ago and the one that started it all. It contained a cute little glass terrarium that I added a chicken to just for fun. Complete with everything necessary, this terrarium kit had two plants, soil, lightweight rocks, moss and a mister for easy watering. It even had a fun surprise: some paints and a rock for added color.

2. Elkhorn/Staghorn Fern

I absolutely loved this box! I hadn’t yet tried my hand at growing this type of plant, but with its detailed care instructions I had no problem. The box included a cute shallow square pot and fertilizer spritzer. My elkhorn fern continues to thrive, and I certainly can see where the plant gets its name. It looks more and more like antlers the bigger it grows.

3. Bonsai Tree Box

This was my first try at a bonsai. It was really easy to do and included small pruning scissors, moss, sand and nice stones to decorate the already ornate pot. The plant was even appropriately named “Nana” as my grandson helped put this one together.

4. Water plants

I loved the cute clear jars that came with this fun box. Consisting of three different sizes, each uses the clay ball pebbles as growing medium with water. I thought this one made a great teaching tool for kids, since you’re actually able to watch the roots grow. The plants included with this box were papyrus, Juncus “Spiralis” and Japanese sedge. The latter two I’ve since replanted outdoors but reused the containers for other plants.

5. Kokedama

Another first for me was the kokedama box. Complete with all the tools necessary (twine, moss, dirt, ceramic dish) to create these interesting kokedama moss balls, what was really cool about the box was the fact that it used different plants than what you would ordinarily imagine for kokedama - hosta, curly juncus and astilbe. They were definitely thinking outside the box on this one.

6. Schefflera Box

I wish I could remember the name for this specific box, but the healthy looking schefflera plant was unforgettable, as was the cutest galvanized metal watering can container it came with. My plant has since outgrown that little pot but continues to thrive in its new location. And the watering can was given new life as a trinket holder in the greenhouse for items like plant labels, scissors, etc.

(Image credit: Nikki Tilley via Gardening Know How)

7. Message in a Bottle

OMG, another box I loved! The unique container for this one was actually a clear bottle that had been cut in half, lengthwise. It also included a couple snake plants, different types, and like all the other boxes, everything you needed to complete the project. Mine are still thriving in their bottle.

8. Begonia Paint by Nature

I remember this gift box came with a beautiful container made to resemble bark, or even a tree. The little Rex begonia was absolutely stunning and grew quickly. This box also had a fun surprise included: a small canvas with a begonia image and paints.

9. Garden Zen Box

Many of my garden boxes have included various succulents over the years, from hens and chicks to haworthia and sedum. The Garden Zen box, however, was probably one of my personal favorites (it’s so hard to choose when you love them all). This box came with air plants, small stones, sand, a shallow wooden container and a little wooden rake to create waves in the sand. I definitely found my Zen!

10. Trio of Treats Box

This was the box I received this past October. It had a cute 3-in-1 teal pot with labels that resemble hard candy. Each plant, of which there were three, was different and included the classic spider plant, Cryptanthus ‘Earth Star” and Tradescantia “Oyster Plant.”

So there you have it. Some of the best delivery gifts for gardeners can be found with monthly subscription plant boxes like My Garden Box. I certainly fell in love with mine!

See More Gift Guides