Giving plants is one of the easiest things you can do for the holidays, but when you throw in some creativity alongside that garden know-how, you can end up with plant presents that are uniquely beautiful and thoughtful. Here are some of our favorite DIY gift ideas to grow your gift-giving to the next level!
Kokedama Balls: A Hanging Garden Marvel
We love Kokedama balls! On the same creative par with the bonsai tree, this Japanese invention marries plants with art effortlessly. Translating literally to “moss balls,” Kokedama balls are hanging houseplants whose roots are wrapped in moss and twine instead of being planted in soil, forming a perfect ball.
To craft these charming presents:
1. Start with a small, well-rooted plant like pothos, philodendron, African violet, ferns, ivy, dracaenas, and cyclamen.
2. Gently dig up and remove excess soil from the roots.
3. Encase the roots with moistened compost, then cover it with moistened sustainable sheet moss and secure it with twine.
When finished, they can be hung from the ceiling or arranged in a decorative bowl for a captivating centerpiece. To water them, take them down periodically and soak them in water for a few minutes. Kokedama balls are not just plant presents; they’re living art, a blend of human and earthly creativity that adds charm to any space.
Charming Succulent Planters
Succulents merge cuteness, simplicity, and eccentricity like few other plants do. Primarily originating in the desert, they’re defined by juicy leaves that hold moisture and bright colors that stand out in a sandy landscape.
As a creative project, arrange different succulents into one planter with various sizes, shapes, and colors for maximum impact. Plant them in a shallow dish or a vintage container, keeping in mind that succulents grow slowly. You can arrange them close together if you need to!
As a finishing touch, arrange a layer of pebbles on top in a swirling design. These succulent masterpieces are resilient and low-maintenance and thrive on neglect. They make for perfect plant presents that bring a piece of nature’s charm to desks, windowsills, or any cozy corner.
These plant presents are not only a delightful sight for the holidays, but become long term friends long after Santa has come and gone.
Terrariums: Green Ecosystems Under Glass
Terrariums are like miniature ecosystems under glass. Here’s how to make one:
1. Beginning with a clear glass container—such as a round vase, a fishbowl, or a purpose-built terrarium—layer the bottom with stones for drainage.
2. Add activated charcoal to keep things fresh, and top it off with a mix of potting soil.
3. Select small plants that thrive in humid environments, like ferns, creeping figs, tillandsia, or moss, and arrange them artfully within the confines of your glass haven.
Remember to avoid fast-growing species that will outgrow their home quickly. With minimal care, these botanical gems transform into plant presents that merge miniature beauty with biological curiosity.
Bathtub Tea Bags: Herbal Bliss for Relaxation
Imagine bringing the scent of your herb garden right into the bathtub with you—except without the dirt. In essence, this is what these pockets of goodness promise.
To create them:
1. Gather aromatic herbs like lavender, chamomile, and mint—each known for its calming properties.
2. Dry them thoroughly before assembling your tea bags.
3. Place the dried herbs in small muslin bags or cheesecloth pouches, tying them securely with twine.
These aromatic concoctions can be tossed into a warm bath, infusing the water with a fragrant blend of nature’s finest.
Obviously, with our gardens in North Dakota now thoroughly frozen, it’s a little late for gathering herbs, but you can keep it in mind for next year. Alternatively, you can purchase herbs to keep as houseplants and prune some of the leaves for bathtub gifts. Fresh herbs from the grocery store are another option!
Holiday Containers with Mini Trees for North Dakota
When it comes to decorative trees this winter, why stop with the Christmas tree? Miniature evergreens make equally good gifts; in this case, you don’t have to chop them down to enjoy them.
The Norfolk Island Pine is the most famous indoor conifer. For this gift, you can also go for broad leaves like rubber trees, fig-trees, jade plants, bonsais, and many others. Decorate these mini trees with tiny ornaments, miniature lights, or even teeny-tiny bows. Just think of them as your favorite pets you’re dressing up for the holidays!
These plant presents are not only a delightful sight for the holidays, but become long term friends long after Santa has come and gone.
Creating Herb-Infused Planters for Cooking Enthusiasts
Do you have any friends who aren’t houseplant lovers (yet) but are food fanatics? Great! There’s nothing like fresh garden herbs to make a chef happy. When the garden is under snow, herbs can be kept inside like houseplants—except you can eat these ones!
Herb planters are the perfect addition to a sunny kitchen, but will need a bright spot to grow and will benefit from occasional wind from a fan so the limbs become strong. Mint, oregano, marjoram, basil, chives, rosemary, and sage are the best selections!
Handcrafted Plant Labels and Markers for Bismarck Gardeners
Here’s a gift that doubles as a fun craft day for the grandkids and an artful and useful present. Carefully crafted plant labels can replace the ad hoc sticks or seed packages that are the default for most gardeners. Painted rocks or wooden tags glued to stakes are two cute and super easy ideas. With your choice of colors, ink, and a little cursive writing, it’s easy to make beautiful and long-lasting labels for your friends and family this holiday.
Handcrafted gifts express extra care and love to our loved ones, allowing us to escape the shopper mentality and giving us an excuse to use our creativity. Need more inspiration for plant presents? Visit the garden center today in Bismarck, ND!