The Best Garden Gnomes

If you look them up, you’ll find that garden gnomes originated during the Renaissance in the 16th century. Since then, gnomes have entered Scandinavian, Germanic, and Dutch cultures, just to name a few. The garden gnome as we know it now was popularized in the 19th century. But enough with the history! Garden gnomes are cute, magical, mischievous, and very much part of the 21st century. Here are some we recommend for your lawn decor.

Picking a Garden Gnome

Here are a few things to consider:

• Theme: There are many versions of the classic garden gnome. You’ll find hilarious gnomes, friendly gnomes, LED gnomes, tree gnomes, etc. If you know what you want, that’s great. If not, have fun browsing!
• Size: Some garden gnomes are created to be subtle, novelty lawn decor. Other gnomes grab attention with their large size. What look are you going for? What size gnome would suit your garden and taste?
• Maintenance: It’s safe to say that most garden gnomes take care of themselves. Still, solar-powered LED gnomes require a bit more attention. Paint-your-own gnomes demand much more. Many of them are made to withstand weather, are durable, and require no upkeep.

Best Solar-Powered: VP Home Store LED Garden Gnome

What a paradoxical garden gnome we have here! This 6-inch by 13-inch mythical creature symbolizes the emergence of the modern era via LED solar-powered light. Put the gnome in direct sunlight and let nature and technology do the work. He lights up just as the sun sets, and he comes in three different colors!

Funniest Gnome: Mark & Margot Mischievous Cat

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! Is that a good thing? Who knows. But you can expect reactions from neighbors who pass by, mostly joyful laughter. It measures 5 by 5.5 by 9.5 inches and is handcrafted from durable resin.

Best Tree Gnome: Bits and Pieces Gnome Out The Door

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.

DIY Garden Gnome: Bright Creations Store Paint-Your-Own Gnome

Here’s your chance to stylize your garden gnome according to your own vision. This kit comes with two 5-inch polyresin gnomes, a material that works with most paints. This is a nice little project to do at home with your kids or on your own. Maybe painting gnomes will become your new hobby?

Classic Garden Gnome: Alpine Corp Garden Gnome Holding a Bird

There must be an old-style garden gnome out there. Oh, wait! Here he is, holding a bird! This vintage 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.