Britta Kallevang
Rachel Shubin
Buying Guide for Garden Gnomes
Why buy a garden gnome?
There are many garden accessories available on the market, but garden gnomes add decoration and humor to your garden. Garden gnomes come in classic styles and more garish designs, including cats and even bathroom humor, if you’re looking to switch things up.
What should you consider in buying a garden gnome?
- Theme: There are many versions of the classic garden gnome. You’ll find hilarious gnomes, friendly gnomes, tree gnomes, etc. If you’re looking for simple options, there are plenty available, and if you’re looking for functional options, consider LED gnomes to light up your outdoor area.
- Size: Some garden gnomes are created with subtle, novelty lawn decor. Other gnomes grab attention with their large size. You’ll want to take into account the available space in your garden.
- Maintenance: Many gnomes are made to withstand weather, are durable, and require no upkeep. For the solar-powered LED gnomes, they may require a bit more attention to make sure they’re conveniently placed in the direction of sunlight.
What are the origins of the garden gnome?
Garden gnomes originated during the Renaissance in the 16th century. Since then, gnomes have entered Scandinavian, Germanic, and Dutch cultures, to name a few. The garden gnome as we know it now was popularized in the 19th century. Garden gnomes made their way into the 21st century, as they come in various cute, magical, mischievous decor options.
Our Picks for the Best Garden Gnomes
By Mark & Margot Mischievous Cat Garden Gnome
Make your neighbors laugh with this garden gnome and cat statue.
$25.95 
$39.95 Save 35%
Pros: Once you’ve entered the realm of the garden gnome, you never know what you’ll find. For example, this cat garden statue…well, it’s eating the gnomes! It measures 5 by 5.5 by 9.5 inches and is handcrafted from durable resin. It is hand-painted and sure to be the centerpiece of your garden.
Cons: The little lady statue is smaller than the cat gnome and may be swallowed up by higher plants and other garden details.
Bottom Line: You can expect reactions from neighbors who pass by, mostly joyful laughter. It makes an excellent gift for the cat lover in your life.
Bits and Pieces Elf Out The Door Tree Hugger
This gnome fixture is for the tree hugger at heart.
$29.98 $34.99 Save 14%
Pros: Look there, a gnome is climbing out of that tree! That window must be magical. Install this fun decor item on a tree using the notch on the back and a nail. It measures 12 by 7.5 by 3.75 inches. The illusion of the window swinging open is complete with the swinging metal pane. This polyresin item is safe for indoor and outdoor use and is weather-resistant.
Cons: This hanging gnome may be slightly tricky to mount to your tree, and the metal piece for hanging may detach over time.
Bottom Line: This gnome can add a whimsical and imaginative touch to your tree or most places in your garden.
Alpine Corporation Garden Gnome Holding Bird
If you're looking for a familiar gnome that can fit into most spaces, this is your guy.
$16.20 $29.99 Save 46%
Pros: This classically styled garden gnome stands in your garden while holding a bird. With a vintage feel, this gnome measures 5 inches long by 5 inches wide by 12 inches high and is made of weather-resistant polyresin. Place the gnome somewhere in the garden on the patio, and before you know it, you’ll have a friend, not just a statue.
Cons: This gnome is lightweight and may tip over in the wind.
Bottom Line: This cute little gnome man holding a bird adds a playful look while bringing a bit of magic and joy to your home or garden.
Sunnydaze Cody The Garden Gnome on the Throne
Enjoy many laughs with friends, family, and neighbors over this naughty garden gnome accessory.
$32.95
Pros: This gnome man sitting on a toilet with a phone will be sure to bring laughter to your garden. It’s a unique lawn ornament that is lightweight and made with weather-resistant polyresin. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors.
Cons: The gnome should be brought inside before any freezing weather occurs.
Bottom Line: If you have a good sense of humor and want to add fun to your outdoor area, this funny gnome sitting on a toilet will be an excellent addition. Keep your guests laughing with this one.
La Jolíe Muse Garden Gnome Statue
This adorable Tomte Gnome acts as a wonderful addition to brighten up your backyard with a solar light.
$34.99
Pros: If you need to add a little light to your garden, this adorable Scandinavian Tomte gnome is a wonderful addition. This statue stands 8.5 inches tall, 5.4 inches wide, and 10.7 inches in height. The light-up magic orb absorbs sunlight with its quality built-in solar panel during the day. Press the on-button during the daytime and wait for 508 hours of light. He will stay lit for 8 to 10 hours.
Cons: The globe may fall off after some time.
Bottom Line: This high-grade resin gnome is hand-painted, finished with a UV-resistant coating, and can stand all types of weather conditions without fading, making this gnome an overall great piece to add to your space.
Final Thoughts
Keep things fun and interesting by adding a garden gnome to your outdoor space. These little men have their personality, and now you and your guests can join in on the magic, humor, or mischief they bring. Give your outdoor area life with a garden gnome.
