My contractors accidentally trampled my elderly neighbor’s garden plants, and it’s just heartbreaking. She’s a dedicated gardener who spends hours every day in her yard, and she’s so passionate about her plants. I spoke to her husband, and it sounds like she just occasionally visits Lowe’s or Home Depot, no special nursery. While the contractor is covering the cost of new plants, I want to do something more meaningful to show how sorry I am.
Any suggestions on a thoughtful, garden-related gift? I want it to be something personal that shows how badly I feel about disturbing her hard work.
Thanks for all the input! I’m planning on getting a Home Depot gift card and a pair of Niwaki GR Pro Lightweight Secateurs.
Just to clarify, this is in addition to the contractor replacing her plants. This is my personal way of saying sorry as her neighbor.
A gift card to a nice, local nursery. When you’re not sure about what someone wants, a gift card is the way to go. Cash over a tool they might not want.
Moe said:
A gift card to a nice, local nursery. When you’re not sure about what someone wants, a gift card is the way to go. Cash over a tool they might not want.
I’m not much of a gardener—do people get attached to their tools or do they tend to upgrade?
@Tatum
Most gardeners have a few trusty tools they rely on, but a gift card would let her choose what she really needs to replace any damaged plants or tools. Super thoughtful that you’re thinking of her. I’m sure she’ll appreciate it. It’s always nice to see neighbors helping each other instead of letting things get tense!
@Jordan
I feel the opposite. I’ve been gifted garden tools, and some just end up collecting dust. They’re pretty big to store when they don’t get used.
@Tatum
Since she’s older, maybe get her something that makes gardening easier as she ages. Like a foldable garden stool with side handles—it’s comfy and can double as a seat. Super practical if bending is getting hard for her. I’m happy to help you find something like this if you want!
@Tatum
What a thoughtful neighbor! As a gardener, I’d definitely prefer a gift card to a local nursery over a big box store. Better variety and it supports local businesses too.
Teagan said:
Are you sure the contractor is covering the cost of her plants? Because they really should be. Mature plants can be worth hundreds!
Mature plants can be very expensive. Hopefully, the contractor won’t just throw in some small replacement plants when she had big mature ones. Fingers crossed no trees were damaged.
