CHIC SHEARS
Although these types of hand-forged iron shears are mostly used for ikebana (Japanese flower arranging) or for shaping bonsai plants, they also are ideal for clipping roses or other vegetation with hard stalks. The popular Japanese-made shears are available with various handles to accommodate different hand shapes. They can be ordered from River by calling (860) 304-8480, or by logging on to river-ct.com.










FOR THE BIRDS
According to National Geographic, birding is one of the fastest-growing wildlife-related outdoor activities in the U.S. One way to entice avian creatures into the landscape is with the newest introduction to the Outdoor Living Products line from National Geographic—the Sculpted Ceramic Orb Fountain. Designed for outdoor use, the decorative tabletop water feature attracts birds with the sound of trickling water. Starting in November, it will be available at Wild Bird Unlimited stores, wbu.com.








CONTAIN YOURSELF
Phoenix-based Kornegay Design, LLC, introduces the Quartz Series to its growing line of finely crafted cast concrete landscape containers. Designer Larry Kornegay says he was inspired to create these durable vessels after inheriting colored quartz crystals from his father. The pots come in four sizes and a choice of custom-mixed pigments. They are available to the trade by calling (877) 252-6323, or by logging on to kornegaydesign.com.