Christmas giving

The shops are full of sequinned frocks, wine and cider is spiked with spices, and chestnuts are being roasted on every street corner. It’s Christmastime – and my first in a country where all the clichés feel right. I won’t be here to see if London has a white Christmas – I’ll be heading south in a week’s time, where (hopefully) the sun will be shining, berries will be plentiful and wine will be chilled – but in the meantime, I’m soaking up the traditional festive cheer as I tick off my Christmas shopping list.
The last few years, my family has adopted a garden theme for gift giving, so I thought I'd share my research (and wish list!)… If you need a little inspiration, here are my favourite gift ideas for the balcony lover in your life.

The Edible Balcony (times two!)

Either of these identically named books are a great idea for someone with a balcony, whether it’s full of plants or an empty vessel. Aussies will recognise former SBS newsreader Indira Naidoo, who appeared on Celebrity Masterchef a couple of years ago. Indira’s book focuses on the harvest from her own tiny 13^th-floor allotment, while Alex showcases the myriad ways you can grow a feast in a small, elevated space, wherever you are in the world.

The Edible Balcony by Indira Naidoo is published by Penguin.
The Edible Balcony by Alex Mitchell is published by Kyle Books.

Vintage planters

These tin planter boxes have such a lovely French feel, and are so much more special than the standard plastic variety. Fill with a few herbs, or perhaps some pretty pink heather, for a sophisticated gift.

£45.95, The Balcony Gardener

Hot-pot barbecue

 

The usual barbie is such an eyesore on a balcony, but this little two-in-one wonder is a treat. Plant it out with herbs that team well with grilled meat, fish and veggies – think rosemary, lemon thyme and chives.

£99, Black + Blum

Aussies, you can buy it from Until for $199.95 if you're feeling generous!

 

Bird feeder

Who says you can't entertain birds on a balcony? This sweet ceramic feeder is perfect for pushing into pot plants. Birds will perch on the wings to feed.

£21, notonthehighstreet.com

Eco watering can bottle adaptors

These ingenious watering can tops are great for small-scale gardeners. They’ll fit on old plastic bottles, saving storage space and making recycling a breeze.

£12.95 each, The Balcony Gardener

Hand cream

Hands that are constantly potting, weeding and watering need extra-special care. This biodynamic hand cream is my all-time favourite – the rose scent is incredible.

$28, Julique

What are you giving or wishing for this Christmas?