By Julie Thibodeaux    
    
Want to spruce up your home with some real greenery this year or surprise a gardener with a botanical gift under the tree? We perused local garden centers like Weston Gardens in Fort Worth www.westongardens.com, Redenta’s in Arlington (there's also a store in Dallas) www.redentas.com and Ron’s Organics in Mesquite, www.organicdynamics.com , which all cater to organic gardeners and eco-minded shoppers. Here are some decorating and gift ideas we gathered with garden lovers in mind.
    
 
 Photos: Decorated juniper from Weston Gardens. Living trees from Redenta’s in  Arlington and Dallas.
 
Living Trees  
If you want an environmentally friendly option for the holiday tree, try a living tree. Sue Weston, owner of Weston Gardens in Fort Worth, said she’s decorated the same living tree for 15 years. She keeps her evergreen juniper in a pot year-round outdoors and brings it in for the holiday season. Although, she said she’s picking out a new one this year as the old one has finally grown too big to move. Besides juniper trees, Weston recommends two Texas natives, yaupon holly and possumhaw, which both have colorful berries.

At Redenta’s in Arlington and Dallas, stone pine, rosemary, lemon cypress, ivy and Norfolk pines are sold as living trees. Plus, the store has stocked a variety of cheery red glazed ceramic pots to brighten up your holiday plants.
 

Photos:  Bluebonnet ornament from Weston Gardens, Cyclamen flowers from Redenta’s,  Candles from Redenta’s
Bluebonnet Ornament.  Handpainted by an Austin-based artist, these glass globes showcase the beloved Texas state flower. Handpainted wildflower wine glasses are also available. Sold at Weston Gardens.
 Festive flora. Poinsettias, which are native to Mexico, are a traditional Christmas holiday plant but consider some other festive plants that do well in Texas. Cold hardy cyclamen and snapdragon add a red pop to your garden and can be found in abundance at Redenta’s in Arlington. Plant it alongside kale, swiss chard, cilantro and parsley, which also survive through winter.
Evergreen on my mind.  Thymes aromatic scented candles combine the scent of fir trees, cedarwood and sandalwood to create a comforting aroma, reminiscent of the forest. Available at Redenta’s.

Photo: Flagstone stepping stones from Ron’s Organics, Buddha statue from Redenta’s. Hand holding butterfly from Weston Gardens, Bird houses from Redenta’s
Stone path.  These
Oklahoma flagstone stepping stones are handcut to create a unique
garden path. The stones, which cost $250 for a flat of eight, may be the
splurge item you’re looking for. Available exclusively at Ron’s
Organics.
 Meditation art.  Both Redenta’s and Weston Gardens carry a variety of unique garden statues and art, featuring everything from Buddhas to butterflies. 
For the birds.  These round bird houses from Byer of Maine are made from recycled mango tree wood. Available at Redenta’s. 

Photos: Wildflower seed packets from Weston Gardens, Texas Wild jellies and preserves from Weston Gardens,  and Garden books from Weston Gardens
Wildflower seeds and bulbs.  In North Texas, most wildflower seeds do best when planted in fall and winter. Weston Gardens carries a variety of native Texas wildflower seeds, including bluebonnets, purple coneflowers and Indian blankets. Meanwhile, Ron’s Organics is stocked with tulip bulbs, which should be planted between Thanksgiving and New Year's. Makes a great stocking stuffer for a loved one with a green thumb.
 Texas jams.  These
canned jams and jellies’ flavors are derived from native Texas plants.
The Texas Wild line sold at Weston Gardens feature some unusual flavors,
including prickly pear, wild plum, Mexican bean and mayhaw.
Garden books.  Every gardener will love having another reference book around. Weston Gardens carries an extensive collection on native Texas gardening.

Redenta’s
5111 W. Arkansas Lane
Arlington
817-451-2149

2001 Skillman
Dallas
214-823-9421

Ron’s Organics
1820 S. Beltline Road
Mesquite
972-329-4769

Weston Gardens in Bloom
8101 Anglin Drive
Fort Worth
817-572-0549

Julie Thibodeaux is a Fort Worth-based writer covering green trends, sustainable living and environmental issues. Previously she worked as a writer and editor for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Contact her at julie@jthibodeaux.com