Small space gardening opens up a world of possibilities and forces gardeners to get creative with their layout. Hanging, wall-mounted and collapsible planters all save vital space and extend the garden in new directions. And with new dwarf species of plants, vegetable and fruit coming out every year it’s easier than ever to have an abundant, productive garden on a patio or balcony. These are our top gifts for garden lovers who want to make the most of their space:
1. Wire Hanging Basket, £9.95
A small, stylish container for balconies or gardens this hanging basket can be hooked over railings and fences or mounted on vertical surfaces. Plant up with a neat, flowering geranium so you can see the pretty wirework or fill with tumbling flowers, tomatoes or strawberries. A versatile basket for any garden.
2. Aged Zinc Windowbox, from £16.95
A classic zinc windowbox is essential for balcony gardens. As a decorative accessory or a much-needed planter for vegetable and herb gardening it is deep enough to provide a sturdy foundation for any plants. Available in a range of sizes, from 40cm – 80cm it can be attached to a curved railing, balcony or wall using brackets. An ideal gift for the green-fingered city dweller.
3. Matchstick Garden, £2.50
Small space gardening is made fun by little products like the Matchstick Garden, which grows an entire mini-garden from a matchbook. All you need is a couple of planters and some water to grow a whole pot of herbs, flowers, salad or Italian veg. The Matchstick Garden is perfect for a friend who has grown disheartened by their lack of space and/or ability. Anybody can grow one!
4. Shaker Heart Votive, £15.95 available in zinc or rust
A balcony or patio garden might be overwhelmed by other lighting solutions – fairy lights could seem gaudy and there’s little space for border posts or stakes. The shaker heart votive is an attractive source of ambient candlelight that would be lost in a larger garden. And it can be hung from a beam, railing, fence or any other surface to suit your needs. This is a thoughtful gift for somebody special.
5. Strawberry and Herb Planters, £15.95
Practical and purposeful planters for gardeners without allotments and raised beds for their fruit and vegetables. With ample room for bushy strawberries and individual pockets for herbs such as basil and thyme these planters are the ultimate space-saving solution to gardening and would make any foodie gardener happy indeed. They come as a set of 2, and are also available for potatoes, vegetables and tomatoes.
6. Cardboard Bird House, £4.95
There’s no excuse for not feeding and caring for the birds, no matter what size your garden is. This cardboard bird house is an ideal size for even the smallest space, and can be discreetly mounted on any wall or flat surface. An innovative design, made out of water resistant cardboard, it will make a perfect home for small garden birds.
