Put Down the Coffee Mug, Here’s What a Gardener Really Wants for Mother’s Day

I’ve officially proclaimed this to be “Garden Gnome Girly” summer and these clogs have not only been my official entry into the category, they’ve changed the way I effortlessly run out to my garden with slip-on waterproof ease. The Super-Birki was designed with chefs in mind, so the comfort level is superior to any other garden clog I’ve tried. With over 10 different colors ranging from a handsome hunter green to a knockout neon pink, you can customize to your own glamor-gnome taste.

I do not know a single gardener who would refuse a fresh pair of overalls, let alone a cute mushroom print set like these. Way more comfortable than traditional denim dungarees, these are lightweight and stretchy, allowing you to bend and breathe freely with whatever task you’re tackling. They are also magically dirt-resistant; even on my messiest days I’m able to brush off and still look fresh.

I’ve become an on-the-go visor person. While I love my collection (and full-head sun protection) of traditional sun hats, there’s something about having a cute visor stashed in the trunk so you can enjoy those spur of the moment farmstand pullovers or botanical garden gallivanting without worrying about harmful rays. Not to mention it just screams instant vacation no matter where you decide to strap it on.

Is there nothing better than a little cathartic weeding? Step aside stirrup hoe, you’ve been replaced with the ultimate tear-out tool. I’ve been using this push-pull hoe exclusively for the past four years and not only does it take a beating, it will also pull up the meanest of crab grass clumps and even tackle sprouting chaos in gravel paths. It is a champion and you deserve the best.

I’m a bit of a distracted gardener at times. When I set out to start pruning in one place, I ultimately begin tinkering or weeding in another and end up working on three projects at once. Having a tool belt has really kept me moving between tasks without having to stop and search for supplies. Not only is Niwaki top-tier in quality, having both a pair of garden snips and secateurs at the ready in a chic leather pouch makes me feel not just productive but also fabulous.

Forget the harvest baskets, there are certain times of year that a heavy duty enamel bowl is exactly what is needed. From clutches of citrus to a tower of tomatoes, place items in this punchy pink bowl that’s the perfect garden-to-kitchen accessory. It can also double as a champagne chiller or punch bowl in a pinch—just saying.

Gloves or no gloves, hands take a beating in the garden. I’ve struggled to find products that not only moisturize at the level I need, but also repair and protect my skin from ongoing wear and tear. Enter PAUME, the hand care essentials kit that has exceeded all expectations. Not only is the Probiotic Hand Balm light, non-greasy, and long-lasting, but also the overnight Hand Hydration Mask had me waking up with baby-soft skin and more youthful-looking hands. This is the perfect pampering set for those of us who really love getting our hands dirty, but maybe don’t want to look that way when we step off our plots. 

Is there nothing better than the sweet encouragement and motivation that only Mr. Monty Don can bring? Now available in the states, this book is perfect for both seasoned and beginning gardeners alike. It features inspiration on how to design everything, from kid-friendly gardens, plots with kitchen essentials, and a nature habitat garden. There’s even advice for rethinking layout and usability. This book proves that your garden should be a living thing that evolves with you over time and you can learn how to make changes that serve your needs while enhancing your lifestyle.

I’m not sure there’s a lady out there who wouldn’t mind a personal hideaway for Mother’s Day. Better yet, a luxe canopied daybed oasis that may or may not be placed at the furthest end of the garden where no one will bother her unless it’s for an iced tea delivery. While this one is over-the-top (and yet I would not complain if it showed up at my house), it’s a daydream escape that is fabulous inspiration for creating a garden that serves as a restorative retreat for your mental health as well.