Plants for Mother's Day

Luther Burbank was an American botanist, horticulturist and pioneer in agricultural science, developing more than 800 strains and varieties of plants. He said: "Plants always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul.”

Plants have always been a great alternative gift for Mother's Day, which is next weekend, 11 May. They last beyond the moment of one-day bouquets or chocolates that might make her feel guilty. Echoing a mother's role as bearer of the next generation, actress Audrey Hepburn once said: ”To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow."

The gift of a plant adds brightness to the home, garden and heart. From charming carnations to easy-to-grow herb kits, there’s a perfect partner in green for everyone's mom.

A present that grows beyond the present

More than just sitting pretty on the windowsill, indoor plants are living, breathing gifts that continue to give back long after Mother’s Day has passed. Plants are the ultimate feel-good presents because:

• Unlike cut flowers, potted plants thrive for months, even years with just a little TLC.
• Indoor greenery helps reduce stress, boost mood, and add moments of mindfulness to busy days.
• Many indoor plants act as natural air purifiers, making them a health-boosting bonus.
• Watching her plant grow will be a quiet, daily reminder that you love and appreciate your mom.

 Plant picks for every mom

Whether your mom is a seasoned plant lover or a budding gardener, there’s a plant that will flourish in her care. These picks are easy to love and a breeze to look after:

1. Carnations

• Known as the traditional Mother’s Day flower.
• Adds a splash of colour to any space.
• Symbolises admiration and love, a great message to the woman who's cared for you on the daily.

2. Cyclamen

• Delicate, upswept blooms in pinks, whites, reds, bicolours and purples.
• Loves cooler indoor and shady outside spots, so great for the coming colder months.
• They're compact, charming and easy to care for.
• They're favourites for their long-lasting blooms and elegant foliage.

3. Herb gardens for a mom whose happy place is the kitchen

• Sage, parsley, and chives are great to grow and add to favourite family dishes.
• Perfect for windowsills if garden space is small.
• They give your mom flavour at her fingertips while keeping the kitchen green and fragrant

4. Low-maintenance champions 

• Snake plants are tough, striking, and almost impossible to kill.
• ZZ plants are drought-tolerant and great for beginner growers.
• Peace lily: Stylish with elegant white flowers, they're fantastic for air purification.

Gifts that go beyond the blooms

Plants make beautiful gifts visually but also offer a chance for wellness and connection.

• Tending to indoor plants has been linked to lower cortisol levels and improved focus.
• Plants like peace lilies and snake plants filter out everyday indoor pollutants.
• Watering, repotting and even talking to your plants offers peaceful breaks for mindfulness.
• Herb kits keep meals exciting and encourage healthy, home-cooked dishes.

Support local, grow local

You’re supporting South African growers and keeping our gardening community thriving when you buy from your local garden centre. Look out for locally propagated plants, handcrafted pots, and eco-friendly gardening accessories to add a thoughtful, personal touch to your gift.

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