Shop Talk | Garden Variety
Trustworthy Wellies What every gardener needs? A pair of solid wellies. While most boots put practicality over style, Hunters boots come in a variety of colours, lengths, and styles without sacrificing quality. The boots are handcrafted following the original design — aptly named the Original — made almost 160 years ago in Scotland. This style has an adjustable strap for a better fit and a solid tread for grip. Pop into
Trustfund for a pair (and maybe some other things, too). $150. 493 Sussex Dr., 613-562-0999. Seedy Selection Boasting the largest seed collection in the city, Ritchie Feed & Seed has a wide variety, including organic and Italian. You’ll also find everything you need to take care of those little babies: from trowels to hoes, as well as a variety of potting soils. Word to the wise: they’ve been known to have very fair prices on burlap for brides-to-be looking to create a country-themed wedding. Seeds $2.95, trowel $9.95. 1390 Windmill Ln., 613-741-4430. Boot Beetle Lee Valley Tools, a purveyor of woodworking and gardening accessories, has more than a few items to make your horticultural life easier. The seeding square will guide your planting, leaving enough room to grow without wasting space. It’s colour-coded for ease of use and comes with a planting chart, as well as a graduated dibber. $32.50. When it’s time to kick off those Hunters without getting mud on your hands, try the boot beetle. Step on it with one foot while pulling off the other boot. Bonus: made of solid brass, it makes a lovely doorstop. $49.50. 900 Morrison Dr., 613-596-9202. Gardening Bible When it comes to gardening, Chapters is not likely on your radar. But a solid gardening book or two or three is a must. Both budding hobby gardeners and seasoned green thumbs will find Vegetable Gardening for Ontario invaluable, especially given the wealth of information it contains on starting, growing, and harvesting flora in the province’s soil and climate. Author Laura Peters’ tips and tricks are accompanied by stunning photography. $24.95. 47 Rideau St., 613-241-0073. Planting Pot If you’ve eaten at Fauna or Carben recently, you may have admired LOAM Clay Studio’s trendy dishware. In addition, LOAM also creates pottery ideal for gardens. These can be purchased in-store or commissioned to suit specific needs. Or better yet, sign up for a class and make one yourself. Pot shown, $195. 7 Hamilton Ave. N., 613-722-2529.