When time is short and the pressure is really on, I give seedling certificates. Each spring I grow far more seedlings than I can ever use. The colors and fragrance of the garden are so welcome at this time of year. Giving a certificate for a couple six-packs of seedlings costs me nothing, and people really love it. I offload some of my plant inventory, and get that much closer to emptying out my greenhouse.
Winter is a hard time for most gardeners.
I always feel like I'm in suspended animation, waiting to be productive again. I get a tremendous amount of pleasure from being able to produce beautiful flowers and an abundance of fruit, vegetables, and herbs. Sharing these home-grown riches with family and friends makes me feel productive and useful. And in the face of the holiday season's frenzied consumption, it feels good to give simple gifts you've made yourself. Archive of past Innovative Gardener articles.