The mature Japanese maple at the end of our driveway put forth a bumper crop of seedlings this spring. My mother-in-law spotted a sapling of the same variety at a local nursery bearing the price tag of almost $80! Needless to say, I am fluttering over our baby tree sprouts like an overprotective mother hen.
In a few weeks the professor and I plan to pot those tiny seedlings. The boys and I will water them through the long, hot summer. Next spring we'll have maple saplings to give away!
I'm envisioning teachers' gifts, hostess gifts, birthday gifts, and {perhaps this is a bit unconventional} maybe even wedding and baby gifts... each little tree ready to be planted in a sunny spot in someone's yard. Our costs should be minimal considering we'll only need potting soil, water, pots, and sweat... not a bad deal at all.
In this age of material surplus {do we really need anything more?}, I'm thrilled with the prospect of giving green. And, next spring I'll be excited to distribute my living gifts!
In this age of material surplus {do we really need anything more?}, I'm thrilled with the prospect of giving green. And, next spring I'll be excited to distribute my living gifts!
.jpg)
19 comments:
Oh my goodness, I would LUV to receive a sapling as a wedding gift!! Too bad I'm not getting married anytime soon... don't even have a boyfriend, *sigh*... and since you and I don't *really* know each other, that might be difficult to pull off ;) I say "here-here!" for your friends' gifts!
~ J
Very nice! Who wouldn't want a tree like that! I think it's a great idea!
Our gifts to extended family have gone green over the last few years....mostly edible things, instead of more clutter. And it's so fun to pick up things through the year...teas, jams, olive oil....and make a pretty basketful for a gift.
Betsy -- I agree. I seeing more and more value in "consumable" gifts.
You are so smart!
I am investing in some hydrangea bushes this spring. I had already thought of the future bouquets I could give as gifts, but rooted cuttings might be even better.
What a great idea! I love this one!
Pattie Martin
Meredith -- Hydrangeas, bouquets or potted, would make lovely gifts. Camellias are very easy to root and pot, they're hearty, and bloom beautifully.
I've grown on a seedling from my own Japanese Maple. My little tree is about five years old now. It is not true to it's parent but, like my own children, is a delightful new variety
I found you on blogs of note a month or so ago and have enjoyed "knowing" you via your blog. Your photography is beautiful - and I appreciate your moments of thoughtful faith.
I came across your blog from a family member's neighbor's blog- how cool to connect with people who have the same interests! Sorry if thats creepy- just wanted to let you know you are an inspiration and I really enjoy your photos!
What an awesome, awesome idea! I wished that I was your neighbor ~ as I am sure you would surprise me with one of these too. lol!
I pray that you're having a great week!
I love giving (and receiving) plants as gifts! And Japanese maples are so beautiful and versatile!! I almost always give my mom a new rose bush on Mothers Day!
Such a great idea! The recipient will be one happy person.
Can you mail these as gifts..hint, hint! :)
As always you've hit upon a beautiful way of gift giving that is as thoughtful as it is creative. Lucky friends!
I'm so happy you liked the patterns. I know you will think of fun ways to use them. It just came to me that they should belong to you.
I've stayed late at work tonight so that I could make a quick stop at all my favorite blogspots. I hope I can get my computer fixed soon. Until then, take care friend.
e.c. -- There is always the beach... See you in July!
I love the idea of giving a tree as a gift. My family plants a tree for each birth and each new home. I think that helping start a tradition like that is wonderful.
What a great idea! I can't think of a more thoughtful gift. I love you blog.
Love this idea!
What fabulous gifts these will be!
deb m
Lovely. I also give away plants from new sprouts or cuttings, after they've been tended.
Once I gave one each to the teachers in a village education program, when they were moving to new leadership and things were changed. I was using the gifts as a mini-object lesson, to illustrate that sometimes new things take a lot of care. I didn't realize how much they would totally love the plants themselves!
Post a Comment