Plant / flower ideas

[Annie456]

Very short of cash this xmas due to buying a house next week. Family aren't expecting presents but thought i'd buy some seeds (gardening) as a token, as it's a very cheap gesture but will be appreciated as they all love gardening. I don't know anything about the gardening timetable, what would be a really nice package of seeds to recieve at this time of year? something a bit unusual maybe?

Thanks

[BigMac]

I don't know the answer, but the Royal Horticultural Society links to the following online seed service, which offers Christmas packs:

http://www.thompson-morgan.coms

[BigMac]

Sorry - fat fingers this morning - delete the final S in the web address.

[mullein3]

suffolk herbs do different sorts of seeds ..herbs and wildflowers..etc..they have a web site and their delivery is fast so you will get what you order in time for xmas..

[nickmo]

Try here and call before ordering for hints as they are nurserymen as well as selling the seeds. http://www.secretseeds.com (UK company in the S/West)

Really nice idea to do!!

[mullein3]

nickmo thanks for that address as i dont have their seed catalogue so i have just requested one...

[WendyS]

How about some sprouting seeds, (beansprouts, alfafa, etc). which they can grow indoors? Then while it's too cold to start growing anything outside, they can watch their own salad beans start sprouting and eat them. They're great in salads and the beansprouts are good if individuals enjoy cooking Chinese stir fries. Any good garden centre should sell them and seed firms Suttons and Dobies probably sell them online as well.

[Plocket]

I don't know whether you'll like this idea or not, but I've just got my little daughter to plant pots of crocus bulbs for her grandparents. If you do them now, and keep them in the house until Christmas, they will start sprouting, but unfortunately won't be in flower for Christmas because it's a bit late.

With regard to seeds, I'd have a look at what's available at your garden centre. Pick packets that look bright and cheerful, and perhaps a bit different. They will say on the back when the seeds can be sown. A selection of herbs for the windowsil perhaps? Or how about something really different - seeds to grow a bonsai tree, or perhaps a Callistemon (bottle brush)? Present them in a plant pot for the final touch!

And another idea, and this time totally free, how about giving them "time vouchers". You might not be a gardener but could you offer them some of your time, say for cutting the grass or raking the leaves up? Present them in the form of gift vouchers but make sure you specify the jobs you are prepared to do!!!