Forget cards or boxes of chocolates. Next Valentine’s Day, give your special someone something to remember. Our guide below outlines unique gifts that’ll be tough to forget when Cupid’s arrow strikes, from air plants to orchids and bonsai trees. Scan through our picks for plant-based gifts, and watch the video above for tips from This Old House’s Jenn Nawada.
Plant-Based Valentine’s Gift Ideas
Plants make excellent Valentine’s Day gifts. They’re beautiful, long-lasting, and even offer practical benefits. Below are some of our top picks for Valentine’s Day gifts.
Rosemary Plants
Rosemary is an aromatic herb that’s decorative and useful. Read why it’s a great choice below.
- Aromatherapy: The smell of rosemary generates a calming atmosphere.
- Culinary uses: You can use rosemary to cook tasty savory dishes.
- Low maintenance: This herb is relatively easy to care for, and requires minimal attention.
You can pot rosemary plants in different styles of containers, from rustic terracotta to modern ceramic containers.
Succulents
Succulents are low-maintenance plants that come in various shapes and sizes. They offer several advantages as gifts:
- Diverse arrangements: You can plant succulents in various containers, from traditional pots to more creative vessels.
- Long-lasting: Succulents can live for many years if you care for them properly, and can serve as a lasting reminder of your affection.
- Minimal care: These plants don’t require watering, and can thrive in different light conditions.
Air Plants
Air plants, or Tillandsia, are unique plants that don’t require soil to grow. They make for intriguing gifts for the following reasons:
- Conversation starters: Their unusual appearance and growth habits make them interesting focal points in any room.
- Easy care: These plants absorb nutrients and moisture from the air. They require only occasional misting.
- Versatile display options: You can display air plants in glass globes, on driftwood, or in other unique ways.
You can hang air plants in intricate arrangements or place them in decorative containers, which adds a unique touch to home decor.
Orchids
Orchids are elegant flowering plants that add a touch of sophistication to any space. They offer the benefits below
- Architectural appeal: The unique structure of orchid plants makes them visually interesting even when they’re not in bloom.
- Long-lasting blooms: Orchid flowers can last for several weeks or even months if you properly care for them.
- Variety of colors: Orchids come in a wide range of colors.
Bonsai Trees
Bonsai trees are miniature trees that you can cultivate indoors. They symbolize harmony and balance, which makes them especially meaningful gifts. They include the following benefits:
- Artistic expression: Bonsai cultivation is an art form that involves pruning and shaping the tree over time.
- Diverse species: Choose from various bonsai species. Each has unique characteristics and care requirements.
- Long-term commitment: Bonsai trees can live for many years, and can become a part of the home that you cherish.
Flowering Bulbs
Plant flowering bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths for especially vibrant blooms. They come with the benefits below.
- Easy planting: Many bulbs are easy to plant and care for, which makes them ideal for novice gardeners.
- Indoor and outdoor options: You can plant bulbs indoors or in outdoor gardens.
- Seasonal beauty: Bulbs can bloom in different seasons and provide colorful displays that change over time.
Creative Presentation Ideas for a Plant-Based Gift
The way you present your plant-based gift can make it especially memorable. Consider the vessels below.
Unique Containers
Think beyond traditional plant pots and choose one of these alternatives:
- Decorative ceramic bowls
- Hanging glass globes
- Repurposed candle containers
- Vintage mugs or colorful glass jars
Terrariums
Terrariums are self-contained ecosystems that allow you to display a miniature garden in a glass container. Terrariums require minimal care and can thrive for years. You can create a personalized landscape with various plants, rocks, and decorative elements.
Decorative Elements
Add extra flair to your plant gift with these decorative touches:
- Colorful pebbles or sand to top the soil
- Decorative moss to cover the soil and add texture
- Miniature figurines or ornaments
- Ribbons or bows in Valentine’s Day colors
Personalized Care Instructions
Include a handwritten care guide with your gift so that the recipient knows how to properly care for it. Include the following information:
- Fertilizing recommendations
- Light requirements
- Tips for encouraging blooms
- Watering schedule and method
Caring for Your Valentine’s Day Plant Gift
Follow the tips below to help your Valentine’s Day gift thrive.
- Research the specific needs of the plant species you’ve chosen.
- Provide the appropriate light conditions, whether it’s bright indirect light or full sun.
- Water according to the plant’s needs, and be careful not to overwater.
- Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes for most plants.
- Monitor for pests and diseases. Address any issues you notice immediately.
Remember that different plants have different care requirements, so you must tailor your care routine to the specific plant you’ve chosen.
