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Walking through my local garden center over the weekend, I expected to see the usual autumnal display — rich foliage, striking grasses, and at least a pumpkin or two. Instead, spooky season had been entirely cleared away days before Halloween had even arrived. In their place stood aisles of tinsel, glittery ornaments, and holiday decor, overshadowing the plants.

While I usually refuse to acknowledge the holidays this early, the sea of sparkle got me thinking about gifting — and how a plant makes a year-round present , not something short-lived.

And once I made my way through the seasonal clutter, I noticed a display of Christmas cacti, and it instantly transported me back to my Nana’s living room.…