WIRED releases 2026 gift guide for plant lovers and gardeners

WIRED has published an updated guide titled "15 Best Gifts for Plant Lovers and Gardeners", effective May 2026. The feature, authored by a reviewer with nearly three decades of experience and current testing of indoor hydroponic gardens, targets a spectrum of recipients ranging from owners of a single houseplant to those managing multi-acre farms. The guide emphasises products that integrate with existing setups or simplify plant care.

Specific recommendations include the Lettuce Grow Kratky method kit, the Planta care application, Sol Soils, AeroGarden systems, and North Spore mushroom growing kits. The article reviews a range of products including hydroponic systems, smart plant care apps, specialised soil mixes, grow lights, and gardening tools. The selection process was informed by a reviewer who has vetted, researched, and real-world tested gifts to ensure they earn their keep.

Among the new gift ideas highlighted is the Lettuce Grow Kratky method kit, a no-fuss, no-pump setup that uses wicks to draw water to seedlings. The guide also notes the availability of hanging propagation tubes with various wood finishes and a white version with coloured tubes for a stained-glass effect. For those seeking live plants, the guide suggests pairing these with a gift card to Palmstreet, an online marketplace for houseplant cuttings.

The guide also covers essential maintenance and growing aids. Sol Soils products are noted for their specialty houseplant potting mixes and additives, while grow lights from LetPot are recommended for their full-spectrum capabilities and adjustable positioning. The Planta app is featured as a central clearinghouse for plant care needs, offering custom schedules based on local weather data and a diagnostic feature for plant problems.

Further recommendations include the Goha Leaf Sweep for cleaning dust from leaves, the six-pod AeroGarden system for beginners, and North Spore mushroom growing kits which are shipped fresh for multiple fruitings. The guide also mentions automated monotubs for experienced mycologists and various hand-finished, laser-cut plant supports from brands like Treleaf to assist with vining plants.

Additional items in the guide include Lula's Garden heart-shaped boxes for succulents, the Reencle Prime kitchen composter, modular PolyRock blocks for landscaping, and heavy-duty garden carts. The feature concludes with scented candles, such as a tomato-scented option, and durable gardening gloves from Digz and Vermont Glove.