Instead of buying cheap, mass-produced gewgaws to give out this season, show your loved ones you care with a little DIY. During Grist’s 12 days of DIY gifts, we’ll share some crafty projects, with instructions that even we can follow. There’s sure to be a whatsit or wowsit for everyone.
For the green-thumbed someone in your life, why not give the gift of life itself? That is, life that fits in a twee pot, feeds itself, and won’t chew up the furniture or your favorite pair of shoes. Succulents make the best pets: They may not come when called, but they’ll sure spruce up a room and they’re hardy enough to survive some casual neglect in the New Year.
Terrariums, succulents, and other plants make a lovely gift for anyone! They add color and life to a room, and are fairly inexpensive to purchase and assemble.
Hanging terrariums are a cute and unique option. Perfect for someone who doesn’t have a lot of living space for plants!
Or you could go the traditional route, and create a terrarium inside of a bell jar, or other glass container.
Another very popular option amongst succulent planters is the plastic dinosaur planter. These are quirky and fun — and also extremely easy to create!
If all else fails, a small potted succulent is good enough on its own! There are many varieties to pick from — and don’t forget about their plant brothers and sisters — ferns, carnivorous plants, air plants, and herbs all make great gifts as well!
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