As one of Australia’s most beloved gardening gurus, Melissa King spends her days surrounded by plants, gardening tools and stylish home essentials. So, the horticulturalist and Better Homes and Gardens TV presenter certainly knows a thing or two about what makes the perfect gift for plant lovers.
“I love gifting indoor plants, especially when they are all dressed up in a decorative cover pot,” Melissa tells Women’s Weekly, adding that because it’s in a beautiful pot there’s no need for wrapping paper — making it a more sustainable present.
“It’s nice to know that the plant can give years of joy and wellness to the recipient. It’s also wonderful to know that they will think of you every time they care for their plant,” she says.
Below, Melissa shares her Christmas decorating and gifting ideas that will delight both seasoned gardeners and indoor plant owners alike.
Festive decor ideas inspired by nature
When it comes to celebrating the holiday season, Melissa turns to the great outdoors for styling inspiration in both inside and outside spaces.
“I love incorporating greenery and nature into my decorations,” she says. “I always ensure my garden is entertaining-ready. For my outdoor table, I like to create potted displays as the centrepiece that can also be present throughout the summer entertaining season.”
For her indoor zones, Melissa likes to decorate the Christmas table with cut flowers and foliage straight from her garden. “I even make homemade serviette rings out of vines and flowers to embellish the table setting. I also love trying out garden-inspired cocktail recipes and pop edible flowers in as a garnish,” the garden expert adds.
Perfect presents for green thumbs
Vine Cone Pot ‘Mint’
“The Vine indoor pots are so versatile and I love the garden-inspired motif. If the person you’re giving it to loves colour, then complement the pastel shades of the pot with plants that have colourful flowers or foliage. If on the other hand, they are colour-shy, the pastel shades add a subtle pop of colour and can be matched with timeless green foliage.”
Springtime Cylinder Pot ‘Pink’
“The pastel shades of the Springtime Pot bring peace and tranquillity to any room. I love that Northcote Pottery has introduced a range of pots that really epitomise Spring, and I adore this lovely, butterfly-inspired design.”
Linea Cylinder Pot ‘White Terrazzo’
“The Linea Cylinder Pot has a timeless pattern and design, so it fits almost any garden space and style. Make a statement by filling it with architectural-looking plants like agave or combine flowers and foliage plants to create the perfect potted combo.”
Veil Water Feature
“Water features like the Veil piece are the perfect size for gift giving and bring tranquillity and calm to any indoor or alfresco space.”