I'm dreaming of a green Christmas

Why not give the gift of greenery this festive season.

- Andrea Durrheim

As Christmas approaches, the garden centres seem to empty as people flock to malls to get their Christmas shopping done. But what to buy? Invariably, we end up getting friends and family yet another set of toiletries or the umpteenth box of choccies to add to the inevitable seasonal weight gain. Why don’t we give a gift that grows something other than waistlines – something that keeps giving back? Could it be that we don’t know how to present plants as gifts? It’s time to get inspired!

Why do people really love getting plants as a gift?

Plants are among the most memorable gifts you can give. Let’s count the reason why:

They live, they grow, they bloom, and every new leaf or flower reminds your recipient of the giver (you)!

Plants are versatile. Keep them in the pot or add them to the garden. Either way, the satisfaction grows with every passing month or year.

Plants relieve stress. Countless studies have shown that indoor and outdoor plants make us feel happy and relaxed.

Plants add colour to our lives. Flowering plants bring beautiful blooms, and the lovely colours of new foliage bring a little thrill of pleasure.

Plants make us feel proud of ourselves. After all, it’s our love that keeps them growing so beautifully.

Choosing plants to suit the person