Leonie Cornelius believes that everyone should experience the joy of gardening so if you’re stuck for a gift this Christmas, this might be what you’re looking for
“What a treasure trove of inspiration the garden is for gifts. If the last few years of the pandemic and ever-worsening climate challenges have taught us anything, then it is this: gardens are vital for us from a wellbeing perspective and play an elemental role in the future of our planet.
The moments of joy, community and connection with nature, which we experience in the garden, is something which brings joy to us all – regardless of ethnicity, sex or age.
With that in mind, I thought I would put together a small but lovely gift guide, inspired by the garden. The gift of a designed garden – and all the wonderful things which we use in the garden – are truly gifts worth giving and there really is something for everyone in this wild-inspired list.
Fujimaki Rattan Secateurs – €129.00 and Tsubo leather Holster – €48
We all know that getting out in the garden and digging, chopping and pruning are great ways of getting some gentle exercise in on a daily basis. Having the correct tools is key to doing so safely and enjoyably. I often get asked what my favourite secateurs are and there are plenty of different varieties out there. There is nothing quite like the Niwaki range however. The Fujimaki Rattan Secateurs are a gorgeous pair of Limited Edition secateurs which are forged from KA70 steel, a hard-wearing carbon steel with handles which are wrapped with Wisteria rattan, that not only looks amazing but also provides a natural textured grip that feels great in the hand and provides perfect ergonomics and grip. They also have the cutest leather holster to match.
A subscription to The Irish Garden – €40
Whether they’re a green-fingered pro or just getting started, The Irish Garden magazine has seven issues annually with a team of experts and seasonal advice for gardeners of all abilities. Subscribe to the magazine and all seven issues will be delivered to the door for just €40 and, for a limited time, those who sign up will get two Green Angel hand creams worth €20 absolutely free. Click here for more information.
The Overall No 1 – €240
The Abito Overall No 1 is a relatively new product but one which is already quietly and elegantly taking the garden and florist world by storm. A product which has evolved over many years as a collaboration between two designers based in Ireland and Italy, this incredible hard-wearing overall is not just super useful for all your bits and bobs in the garden, it is also incredibly stylish. Available in denim, olive twill green, and Tobacco twill brown, this overall, which is basically a versatile utility jacket with a gorgeous scalloped detail at the back, is one you will never want to take off.
Farmer Gracy Gift Card – From £25
The Farmer Gracy site makes me feel like a kid in a candy shop. The dreamy selection of jewel-coloured flowers are impossible to resist and any garden lover in your life would adore a gift voucher. They come wonderfully packaged too with growing instructions, artwork cards and are super quality. I blame Farmer Gracy for my ever-growing dahlia obsession!
Nest Box for Blue Tits – €26
The Nest Box for Blue Tits from the Biodiversity and wellbeing site ‘Connecting to Nature’ is a gorgeous modern bird box made specifically for Blue Tits – who prefer to use nest boxes with an entrance hole of 25-27mm in diameter. This size specific design prevents larger, more dominant species from entering the nest box. The grey, non-toxic paintwork and zinc roof are a lovely touch and there are many different bird houses for many species of bird to explore on the website. A must-have gift for the bird-watching gardener.
A Garden Design Course – From €280
Giving the gift of a garden design, however large or small, is a way of planning ahead for next year’s growing season. Where do you want to create a patio area or have some areas for relaxation and family entertaining? A voucher from a reputable garden designer is a great way of helping someone get started on their joyful garden journey.”
Garden Design Sessions on Leonie’s website start at €280 and vouchers start at €150 on leoniecornelius.com
