Ask Holly: Nothing says love like a tub of worms!
By Holly Broadhagen
Okay, in theory Spring is here, but hopefully we are past the snow part and firmly into the growing season. This year I am trying to grow my gifts and I thought I would share with my readers some of my ideas.
First, gifts from children to the important people in their lives. What better activity for kids then to get their hands dirty while thinking about the perfect gift for their teachers, friends or families. Set up a small garden area for their use. Let them decorate it with rocks or statues. Now help them pick out flowers to grow that can be cut and displayed in a nice vase. If you don’t have space for a garden then grow something in a container such as an herb garden that can be given away. There are so many crafts that can come from the garden that are kid- friendly. There are wonderful books and websites that have great ideas.
As for us adults, the options are endless. Fresh clean veggies given in a decorative basket makes a wonderful gift to anyone. Dried herbs for potpourri sachets, or herbal teas for those hard to find gifts. Seedlings also make great gifts at low costs.
The possibilities are only limited by your imagination. Think squash bowl with fresh cut flowers or a fresh salad for a dinner party decorated with edible flowers. Homemade flavoured oils or vinegars add a decorative touch to any kitchen.
The gifts don’t end with what grows in a garden but what you dig up in a garden. I hit pay dirt in my garden and found clay which means lots of crafts in our future. How about a nice bag or homemade compost or decorative rocks or a nice bottle of compost tea for fertilizing their garden? Nothing says I am thinking of you like a tub of worms for worm compost!
Getting married? Maybe a handy gardener friend or family member would be willing to grow your flowers or even host the wedding or pictures. Just give them some time.
Of course, there are always end-of-season gifts — fall decorations such as pumpkins, cornstalks brooms, wheat stacks and the best gift of all — preserves. Pickled anything, salsa, jams, spices, sauces and the list goes on. Recipes are available everywhere.
Enjoy the gifts from the garden and don’t forget to share. In fact, share your seeds to begin a new season of gift-giving. Happy gardening!
Holly Brodhagen is a citizen of Dokis First Nation and holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work. askholly@gmail.com