Outdoor living – Gardens Illustrated https://www.gardensillustrated.com Fri, 17 Mar 2023 08:16:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Best bunting to buy for the garden and home https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/outdoor-living/best-bunting/ Wed, 15 Mar 2023 13:53:12 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=102934

Shopping for bunting for a garden party or special occasion can be fun, but with so many options available, it can also be overwhelming. Not all bunting is created equal, so it’s important to consider factors like durability, versatility, and aesthetics when making a purchase. Lots of bunting on the market is made from plastic and won’t stand the test of time, whereas fabric bunting can be washed and re-used. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the nicest bunting on the market to make your decision easier.

Don’t miss our piece on entertaining in the garden.

Best bunting to buy for the garden and home

Jaragar Fabric Bunting

This vibrant and eye-catching bunting banner comes in an array of colours, making it perfect for birthdays, weddings and garden parties. The flags are double-sided, ensuring that your decor looks great from all angles. Plus, the weather-resistant fabric material makes it suitable for use both indoors and outdoors. Setting up the Jaragar fabric bunting is a breeze – simply hang it from trees, fences or walls using the included string. It’s lightweight and easy to transport, so you can take it with you wherever you go, making it great for picnics too. Whether you’re hosting a garden barbecue or a fancy indoor gala, this bunting banner will add a festive touch to your decor.

Textile Bunting

This Textile Bunting from Kidly is the perfect addition to any party decor. This bunting is made from recycled materials and is light and easy to hang. The colourful flags also feature tassels making this bunting particularly pretty and perfect for picnics and garden parties. Whether you’re looking to add a playful touch to a nursery or brighten up a birthday celebration, this textile bunting is sure to delight. It is machine washable for easy care and can be used again and again.

Floral Fabric Bunting

This fabric bunting is a beautiful addition to any outdoor celebration or event. The 42-piece bunting banner is made of high-quality cotton and features a vintage floral design on each flag. Perfect for weddings, birthdays, garden parties, or any special occasion, this bunting adds a charming touch to your decor. Measuring at a generous length of 33 feet, it can be draped across large spaces or cut into smaller sections to fit various venue sizes. This bunting is easy to install and can be hung from trees, fences, or any other outdoor structure. The GDFAN Fabric Bunting is durable and can be re-used for multiple events, making it great value for your money.

Pennant Bunting

The Pennant Bunting from H&M is a fun way to add some colour and festive vibes to your space. This trendy bunting features a string of 12 flags in a variety of bright shades, making it the perfect addition to parties, celebrations, or simply as a year-round decor item. Each flag is made from a durable cotton and linen weave and is designed to withstand wear and tear, so you can enjoy this bunting for many occasions to come.

Union Jack Fabric Bunting

Made from high-quality cotton fabric, this bunting is perfect for adding a touch of nostalgic charm to your home, garden or party venue. Featuring the iconic Union Jack flag design, each flag is double-sided so the bunting will look great from all angles. It comes in a range of lengths to suit all needs and can be easily hung on walls, fences or strung along balconies or tables using the included cotton tape. This would be perfect for garden parties celebrating royal occasions like the coronation and jubilee events.

Linen bunting

For a more rustic or bohemian look, linen is a great choice. This handmade linen bunting from Etsy features natural, earthy colours including sage and brown. It is perfect for indoor and outdoor use and can be used over and over again so is perfect if you like to host a lot. This bunting can be ordered with 8 to 89 flags, making it very versatile and useful for any sized space.

Bunting is a great addition to any garden party or picnic. If you’re hosting, why not take a look at our recommendations for tabletop heaters and garden bar ideas to take your celebration to the next level.

 

]]> Mother’s Day Garden Gifts https://www.gardensillustrated.com/feature/mothers-day-garden-presents/ Tue, 07 Mar 2023 08:00:47 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=16855

With Mother’s Day just around the corner on 19 March, it’s time to get the all-important gift sorted. There are plenty of presents out there for green-fingered mums; the choice can seem overwhelming. Whether your mum will spend her Sunday out in the garden, or wrapped up on the sofa with a cup of tea, here you will find some of the best Mother’s Day garden gifts that are sure to make this year feel extra special.

Mother’s Day Garden Gifts for 2023

Grow your own seed box

 

 

 

Seed sowing season is officially underway by the arrival of Mother’s Day, and this set from Garden Pack is the ultimate kit to get your mum growing. Containing a hundred packets of seeds along with detailed growing instructions, this set could transform any garden into a plant-filled haven. Sixty-five packets are vegetable seeds too, so if your mum is hoping to fill pots and beds with produce this year, then this pack will help her be well on her way. The wooden storage box makes this gift especially practical, as it can be easily stored. It even comes with a pair of gardening gloves.

 

Niwaki secateurs

 

These Niwaki secateurs are the real deal. Made out of carbon steel and hand forged in Yamagata, they are the pinnacle of luxury gardening tools. The 210mm Japanese pruners are useful for heavy and demanding pruning jobs.

If you want to splash out this Mother’s Day, you can also buy these secateurs as part of Niwaki’s Tokusen set (see below). The perfect present, the set contains all three of their Tokusen range wrapped in cotton and in a neat gift box – ideal for easy wrapping.  The 165mm Pruners are smaller and better for light garden pruning, dead heading and cut flowers. The final addition to the set, the Barracuda Secateurs are longer and more slender than their counterparts. These are perfect for day-to-day garden work. If your mum is planning to spend her day tidying up the garden, these tools will make it a breeze.

 

Garden speaker

Time spent in the garden can be very mindful, but sometimes hours of weeding need to be accompanied by a bit of music or a good podcast. Whereas most bluetooth speakers might be vulnerable to damage in damp grass or get lost amongst garden off-cuts, this speaker from Kitsound is freestanding. With a stake to hold the speaker in place in the ground, it can be easily placed anywhere in the garden. It is water and dust resistant and has up to eight hours of play time; plenty to get all those garden jobs done while listening to an audiobook.

Garden design book

 

If your mum is planning a big garden overhaul this year, the RHS Encyclopaedia of Garden Design would be the ideal present. With tips on how to plan, build and plant an outdoor space, this book is filled with inspiration. The guide will teach you the fundamentals of garden design, help you to find your own style and show you how to bring these ideas to life. The book contains tips on building and planting up ponds and perennials as well as assessing garden drainage and laying patios. Showcasing a portfolio of garden styles, including Japanese, modernist, urban, family and cottage gardens, the book has ideas to suit all tastes.

A bouquet of flowers

© Bloom & Wild

The classic Mother’s Day gift, and one that will always be a winner, is a bouquet of flowers. If you’re planning on having a relaxing day in with your mum, a bunch of flowers will definitely brighten up the house. Bloom and Wild have a beautiful selection of flowers, including some Mother’s Day exclusives.

 

If one bunch of flowers isn’t enough, how about a flower subscription. There are some brilliant companies out there that can keep your mum’s house full of flowers for weeks to come.

 

 

 

Cherry blossom cushion

The RHS have released a new cherry blossom collection using a print held at the Lindley Library. Kondo Yuho’s 1888 ‘Double Cherry Blossom’ print has been adapted by designers into an exclusive range of homewares, soft furnishings and accessories for the RHS. The cushions from this new collection would make an excellent Mother’s Day gift. The bold, ruffled cherry blossom design screams of spring and would be a welcome burst of colour to any outdoor sofa.

 

Herringbone throw

If a couple of cushions weren’t quite enough to make a Mother’s Day on the sofa more comfortable, why not add a woollen throw to go with them. This Herringbone Throw from the National Trust would be absolutely perfect. Made from one hundred percent wool, the blanket has a soft and cosy texture. It can be bought in several colours, but we think the petrol blue would go well in any room.

 

 

Indoor watering can

 

Houseplants are the perfect addition to any home, but they can often come with a lot of plastic care equipment that needs hiding away. Burgon and Ball have a range of houseplant accessories that you’ll want to keep on display, like this charcoal grey watering can. Moulded in steel for a smooth finish, this watering can is durable and will stand the test of time. The wood handle is made from FSC beech wood and allows precise control over watering, while the slender spout is perfect for delivering water only to the spot where it is needed. We think that this would make a perfect gift for any houseplant-loving parent on Mothering Sunday.

 

Gardens Illustrated magazine subscription

A subscription to Gardens Illustrated would make an excellent Mother’s Day present. Each issue is filled with planting ideas, beautiful gardens and expert advice all accompanied by stunning photography.

Year-round garden visits

 

For a gift that will keep on giving all year, why not buy your mum a membership that will allow her to visit hundreds of beautiful gardens and parks through all the seasons.

An RHS membership grants access to all five RHS gardens, as well as over two hundred partner gardens. Members also receive a monthly magazine and personalised gardening advice. Another great membership to gift is for The National Trust. This will provide access to hundreds of stately homes and gardens, as well free parking at National Trust beauty spots all over the country.

Looking for more inspiration? Find fantastic present ideas for younger family members in our round-up of the best gardening gifts for kids.

 

]]> Gardening gifts 2023: 60 top gift ideas for gardeners https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/best-gardening-gifts/ Tue, 07 Mar 2023 08:00:09 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=22939

Finding that perfect gift for the gardener in your life can be hard work. Unless they’re a complete gardening novice, your gardening friend or loved one probably has quite a lot of the tools, clothes and seeds that they need. But shopping doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, when it comes to finding the perfect gardening gifts we’ve done a significant amount of the work for you.

We’ve put together the below list of unusual, innovative, unique gifts for gardeners who have everything. But there should be gardening gift ideas to suit every level of garden knowledge, from people who you want to encourage into gardening, to those who are starting their journey, to those who are experts.

Behind the scenes at our gardening gift guide shoot

Our list is also a round up of gifts for garden lovers – they don’t have to be into digging and mulching, they can just love the outdoors, appreciate an excellent planting plan and be enthused by the wonders of botany.

These gardening gifts are a real mixture of things we’ve spotted from our favourite brands, but also gifts that surprised us and charmed us too. Some are for entertaining in the garden, some are for the nitty gritty garden tasks, some just have a gardening theme. We’re certain you’ll find the gifts you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for garden furniture, we’ve rounded up the best.

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A vase of flowers in front of a cardboard box in front of a window.

Gardening gift ideas

Best gardening gifts for flower lovers

Fresh flower subscription

A flower subscription makes a wonderful gift and the regular deliveries bring joy again and again as the months go on. So, it’s a great choice if you know someone who loves to have a steady supply of fresh blooms in their home.

Bloom & Wild is one of the UK’s most popular flower subscription providers, delivering fresh bouquets in fully recyclable, letterbox-friendly packaging. Delivery prices vary between £19.58 and £26.66 per month, and you can choose a three-, six- or 12-month subscription, or an ongoing monthly order.

To browse alternative packages, check out our list of the UK’s top flower subscription services. Or, if your intended recipient is more of a plant-lover, why not take a look at our favourite plant delivery boxes?

Seed Tin

 

 

This seed tin is sure to help out a messy gardener who is in need of some organisation. 

The team here at Gardens Illustrated love the simple yet fun design of this seed tin from Suttons. There are internal compartments to help create a neat system so seeds are easy to find. It is made with powder-coated steel and we think it would look super perched on any window sill or greenhouse ledge. The handles also make it easy to carry when on the move. 

It is also available in dark grey and cream if you fancy selecting a different colour. 

Don’t miss our list of favourite seed boxes to buy. 

Gardening gifts for indoor gardeners

 

Plantsmith Houseplant gift set

Most of us have built up a healthy house plant obsession in recent years, and succulents, which were absolutely in vogue before 2020 hit, are still high on the houseplant list for many people. Even if your loved one is a seasoned gardener, we’d wager they probably don’t have something as stylish as this  house plant care set, which will help keep your plants looking and feeling healthy.

The set is designed to offer everything you need to keep your house plants alive, with all the essential nutrients they might need.  It’s a lovely and thoughtful gift from for the gardener who has everything.

 

Jute Rope Flowerpot

The perfect way to add a touch of style to large house plants in plastic pots, this jute pot is both flexible and sturdy. 

We love the rustic appearance of this handmade item and feel it would look gorgeous in a bright, sunny porch or even a corridor to help create a relaxing feel to the space. 

When it’s not filled with beautiful plants, it can be used as a storage basket – perhaps for vegetables or plant ties, twine and your bits and pieces –  so this is a handy gift any gardener could make use of. The handles mean it can be easily carried and moved from room to room. 

It is 28cm in width and height and best fits a 25cm flower pot. 

If you want a good list of eco plant pots, don’t miss our round up. 

Take a look at more great pot cover ideas here.

 

Indoor Herb Growing Kit

One of the best gifts for gardeners, especially those who don’t actually have much space outside. This zesty herb kit from Plant Theory comes with everything you need in order to grow your own herbs. The seeds and compost are organic and vegan and the kit is 100 per cent plastic free.

There are five classic cooking herbs in the kit, basil, chives, oregano, parsley and thyme, alongside biodegradable bamboo pots, wooden plant labels, vegan, peat free compost, a pencil, tweezer, jute bag and instructions. A whole series of gardening gifts in one, and even those gardeners who have everything will likely put these to good use.

Haws Copper Indoor and Seedling Watering Can

As attractive as it is useful, the Haws copper watering can would make a great gift for those who take great pride in caring for their beloved indoor plants. 

It is particularly suited for greenhouse use too, so it is a solid option for a friend who has lots of greenhouse seedlings to look after. The watering can can be polished to retain the sleek finish or if left alone, it will eventually turn green, giving it a more rustic look.  

It is 16cm in height and 36cm in length and can hold 1 litre of water.  

Check out our selection of the best watering cans for gardeners.

 

Terrarium Bottle and Extending Tool Set

Terrariums may be all the rage, but there’s a reason for that: they’re beautiful and easy to maintain too. If you know someone who’d be great at experimenting with growing their own this 5 litre glass bottle terrarium is an excellent place to start.

There’s a telescopic shovel and rake for you to help adjust your curated ecosystem, but note: this gardening gift doesn’t come with the soil, pebbles or plants themselves. Those will need to be sourced separately. For tips on how to plant a terrarium, head to our guide.

Gold mister plant set

A stylish and functional mister made from stainless steel and complete with an ergonomic handle that makes it easy to look after your plants. The mister holds 300 ml of water and is 15 cm high. This bundle comes with a nifty plant and pot that will make the entire set look very fetching on your windowsill.

Find more cleverly designed gear in our guide to the best ergonomic garden tools you can buy online.

 

 

Best gardening gifts for young gardeners and families

Bee Brick

If you’re stumped for gardening gift ideas, this Bee Brick would make a fail-safe choice. Designed by Green and Blue in Cornwall, the Bee Brick is an innovative concrete block, created to support the declining bee population. The concrete brick can be left as a freestanding bee home in the garden or it can be built into a wall for an integrated look.

The bee bricks contain cavities for solitary bees to lay their eggs in safety; their offspring emerge the following spring and the cycle begins again. It’s an eco-friendly gift that would be perfect for a sustainable gardener or a bee-lover.

The bee brick comes with high praise too; it won the Soil Association’s 2014 Innovation Award, sponsored by the Duchy Future Farming Programme.

Looking for bee hives? We’d recommend these.

Tree Vision: Know Your Trees in 30 Cards by Tony Kirkham and Holly Exley

 

If you’re looking for gifts for young gardeners or just gardeners wanting to know more about trees, look no further. Both a gardening gift and an educational gift, the card game format will help players learn about a tree’s leaves, seeds, flowers and more in an accessible and fun way. Ash, beech, birch, cedar, hornbeam, juniper, lime, maple, oak, pine, spruce, sycamore, yew are just a few examples of trees that players will soon be able to recognise in a flash!

Each card is beautifully illustrated by Holly Exley and the text is written by Tony Kirkham, former Head of Arboretum, Gardens and Horticulture Services at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, so you can rest assured that you’ll be learning from an expert.

Here’s our guide on how to identify oaks.

The Botanist’s Sticker Anthology

Gardening is one of the most mindful activities you can do, but over the winter we have to find other activities to keep us busy. If you’re looking for a gift for a busy gardener, a young gardener, or just an arty, nature lover, this sticker anthology should tick your box. Mindful and pleasing on the eye, this sticker anthology is packed full of vintage, intricate botanical drawings; including flowers, ferns, exotic plants and fungi.

Perfect for scrapbook lovers, or gardeners in need of some plant escapism during the colder months, this is a gardening gift that brings nearly as much joy and mindfulness from the act of gardening itself.

Find more outdoor-inspired presents in our edit of the best gardening gifts for kids.

Beeswax Wrap DIY Kits

 

These DIY Beeswax wraps are a great, eco-friendly alternative to plastic wraps for food that will keep your produce fresh in a natural way.

A great feature of these wraps is that they are reusable. This would make a fantastic gift for an eco-conscious friend who is actively trying to reduce their plastic consumption.

The kit contains a set of detailed instructions, three organic cotton fabric squares, two pieces of baking paper, three beeswax blend bars – made with pine resin and organic jojoba oil – and a fairtrade canvas tea towel. To make the wraps, you’ll need an iron.

Looking to make them literally from scratch? Here’s our guide on how to make beeswax wraps. 

A Bee Grow Bar

No, this isn’t something to help your grow bees, instead it’s the gardening gift for people who care about wildlife but aren’t expert gardeners. Grow Bars makes planting extra easy and curates a series of seeds around themes. This one is catered for making bees happy – and who doesn’t like doing that?

All you do is put the bar in a container, keep it watered and place in a sunny position and eventually the seeds should start to germinate. Once they’ve grown up a bit, you can plant them around the garden. Easy.

The seeds include hyssop, verbena and lavender. A perfect gift for garden lovers and an unusual gardening gift too.

We also love these seed bombs. 

Gardening gifts for fruit and vegetable gardeners

Garden Bag

For those who prefer not to use a traditional garden trug to carry their garden goods, this altogether more rugged canvas bag is a perfect alternative. 

Whatever needs to be carried from the garden into the house – vegetables, fruit, bulbs or even a leftover coffee cup –  this handy khaki bag is sure to help. It would also make a nifty storage bag that could live in a shed or a greenhouse. 

The khaki bag is made with waterproof canvas and has a capacity of 15 litres. 

 

RHS Flora and Fauna Kneelo Kneeler

You can help your loved ones have a more comfortable time in the garden with this delightful kneeler from Burgon and Ball’s RHS Flora & Fauna collection.  

Spending hours at a time weeding and planting can be tough on knees, so this kneeling pad – which is made with memory foam technology – would be a perfect gift for those looking for a bit of extra support. 

It also prevents gardeners from ruining their favourite jeans so it’s a pretty useful item to have.  

Thanks to the cut-out handle, the pad is easy to carry and after a long day’s work, it can hang up in the shed for easy storage.  

You’ll find more garden kneeler recommendations in our list of the best garden kneelers.

Rob Smith Heritage Veg Selection

Begone plastic novelty gifts, here’s a gardening gift that connects your loved one directly with the earth. The perfect gardening gift for either a person new to gardening or a pro, this veg collection offers a host of seeds for planting in the coming year, something lovely and very, very tasty, to look forward to.

This gardening gift includes bean seeds, cucumber seeds, pea seeds and squash seeds, the heritage veg harks back to more traditional garden growing times: don’t expect any of these newfangled cucamelons. As such, the selection is bound to excite the gardener or garden lover in your life and what’s more, they aren’t difficult to grow either.

Here’s more on where to buy seeds online.

Apple Tree

© Creative Touch Imaging Ltd./NurPhoto via Getty Images

Give the gardening gift of a lifetime this season, with this apple bramleys seedling – the ultimate English cooking apple. This particular version Is on dwarf rootstock, which means it’s the perfect gardening gift for smaller gardens.

Autumn and winter are the perfect seasons to plant a tree, something that we should all be doing much, much more of in order to support the wildlife and local eco system. These apples can be harvested from October, and ideally you’d grow this tree near another apple tree, as it isn’t a self pollinator.

We’d class this as one of the of garden gifts which is good for the gardener in your life, but also nature, birds and bees too. Plus you could also be on the receiving end of some very tasty apple pie. This apple tree needs to be planted in a sunny border in well drained soil. For more on how to plant a tree, head to our guide.

Sussex Garden Trug

This handcrafted trug is perfect for those of your gardening friends who enjoy spending an afternoon picking delicious fruit and vegetables. 

It is made with naturally rot-resistant birch aircraft ply wood in a gorgeous colour and is durable enough to guarantee long lifespan and years of good looks. 

It measures 53cm long, by 28cm wide so it’s ideal for longer produce such as leeks and asparagus… Or anything that want to look great in your new garden trug.

 

Ceramic Plant Labels Set of five

For gardeners who are well into their herb growing, these little labels are a thoughtful and handy present. 

These ceramic plant labels allow herb growers to organise their produce so they know exactly what they have planted and where. 

There are five sticks in the pack and you can either get them pre marked or ask for your own. 

Looking for more plant labels? We love these. 

And take a look at our favourite seed suppliers.

Gardening days out and subscription gifts

Gardens Illustrated Magazine Subscription

An absolutely necessary gift for the intrepid gardener, a year’s subscription to Gardens Illustrated will be absolutely worth you while. Yes, we’re biased, but we are confident that gardener in your life will love the mixture of beautiful photography, inspiring gardens, practical advice and plant expertise. Make sure they never miss a copy by getting it delivered direct to their door each month.

What’s more there’s always a fabulous offer or two available and you can save up to 50% on a subscription in our Christmas offer.

 

National Trust Membership

© Chris Lacey

2020 was, to put it mildly, a tumultuous year. But one of the key things many people took away from the last few month was a greater appreciation of nature, open spaces, trees and greenery. What better way to continue the connection than by investing in a membership for the National Trust, which does vital nature management work up and down the country and conserves historic, fascinating buildings and gardens for the country.

The charity, as with many charities, suffered during lockdown, having to content with decreased visitor numbers, so supporting the organisation goes some way to helping with that.

 

Become an RHS Member

 

The vital work the Royal Horticultural Society does throughout the UK is a huge part of the country’s world-beating reputation in horticulture and gardens. There are four RHS gardens, soon to be a fifth, alongside 218 RHS partner gardens, all of which have something unique and exciting to offer.As the world continues to change and understanding about nature, wildlife, the earth and growing becomes vital to all of us, the RHS stands as a place for experimentation, research and education.

If you buy a gift membership before the 24th December, you will receive a £15 voucher to spend at RHS Garden Centres.

Looking for more garden subscriptions? 

Best garden clothing gifts

 

Canvas Garden Apron, Khaki

 

 

If your friend spends most of their time in the garden, often with damp soil on their jeans and hand wipe marks on their top, this khaki canvas apron from Garden Trading is the perfect gift for them.

Designed to ensure that their clothes will stay clean underneath, ready for a full day of gardening, the apron is a practical piece of kit. The waist strap is long enough to tie at the front of the apron for an even better and closer fit. In addition to this, there is a handy front pocket for keeping gardening tools close to hand. 

Our list of the best garden aprons will also provide you with more potential options.

Birkenstock Schuhe Super-Birki Clog

Available in a range of colours and sizes, the versatile Super-Birki can be worn by anyone and everyone. Made from dirt-resistant polyurethane, with a fabric footbed lining and non-slip sole, these are both practical and durable. The super-resilient shoe can actually be washed at up to 60C.

Plus, the removable, cork-latex footbed can be removed and popped in the washing machine. A practical addition to keep by your door or in your allotment or greenhouse for sliding on and off.

Take a look at the best boot scrapers for clean hallways and wellies!

For more garden footwear recommendations see our list of the best gardening shoes.

Evercreatures Raspnavy Tall Wellies

A top pair of wellies are an essential piece of garden gear. 

The unembellished yet attractive design makes these boots from Evercreatures easy to wear with a range of different items, whether it’s a mucky pair of overalls or a nice pair of jeans. As well as running along the bottom of the boot, the red raspberry stripe can be found at the back too. 

For a very reasonable price, these reliable wellington boots are a practical gift that your outdoor loving friend is likely to make great use of. 

Here’s our list of the best wellies to buy.

Burgon & Ball Tweed Gardening Gloves, Medium Grey

Great for protecting every gardener’s most valuable tools, these stylish gloves will not only keep busy hands safe when working in the garden but also warm during the colder months. The gloves have an adjustable strap allowing for maximum comfort and are recommended for people with medium-sized hands. The strap itself is a rip-tape fastener so the wearer will be able to tighten or loosen the gloves with ease.

They feature some padded protection with a soft felt liner in the palms and fingers which won’t stiffen when the gloves are dried. There is also a breathable mesh that will ensure that fingers are kept cool with improved mobility.

For more stylish handwear visit our list of the best gardening gloves.

Boot Socks

These stylish Merino wool boot socks from HJ Hall are the perfect gift when paired with walking boots for countryside strolls and dog walks for any nature lover.

With 135 years in the industry you know that you’re in good hands (or socks!) with HJ Hall’s products. Merino wool is known for its ability to help regulate body temperature making these fashionable socks an appealing choice that should keep your feet comfortable, warm and dry. The socks also come with a six month guarantee.

 

Belstaff jacket

Made for adventurers, Belstaff products are designed to stand the test of time. Although they were originally intended for use with motorsports when the brand launched in 1924, they’ve since found fans across the world. Che Guevara, Amelia Earhart and David Beckham have all owned Belstaff jackets. And Steve McQueen wore one in The Great Escape. 

The Trialmaster has been around since 1948 and is Belstaff’s ‘definitive’ jacket. With its waxed navy cotton, checked twill lining and brushed corduroy linings at the collar, cuffs and hem, it’s a smart choice. 

Don’t miss our round up of the best garden jackets for women and the best jackets for men.

Statement Donegal Jumper, oatmeal

 

 

An 100 per cent wool jacket will keep you warm when you’re working in the cold outside and make you feel 100 per cent better about yourself. This chic, traditional style jumper is like a lovely, warm cup of cocoa and you’ll love it every time you put it on. We’d recommend for days in or for working in the garden too.

 

Rab down jacket

Warm yet lightweight, down jackets are becoming more and more popular, and a Rab version is a great choice if you’re looking for a slightly higher-end option. Founded by climber Rab Carrington, who started out making technical sleeping bags designed to withstand the icy conditions on mountains, the brand specialises in cold-weather gear.

This lightweight Rab jacket is the one to buy for easy storage as it comes with a convenient stuff sack, which you can clip to a larger bag. It’s filled with recycled, hydrophobic down and has three pockets and a stiffened peak on the hood. 

For more great men’s gardening jackets take a look here.

Gardening tool gifts

Fallen Fruits copper plated trowel

A garden trowel that’s brilliantly stylish as well as being very high quality. This copper plated trowel includes a leather loop for storage and measurements on the blade to make sure you’re planting at the right depth. You can use it for removing weeds as well as planting and if you want, you can get it engraved with your loved one’s name to make it an extra special present.

The perfect gift for a gardener that’s also lovely to look at.

Here is our round up of the best trowels for the garden. 

Copper plated dibber

A dibber is a must for any dedicated gardener. Essentially a little stick that you push into the ground to make a hole, a dibber is perfect for planting seeds, seedlings and also small bulbs. This smart, copper-plated version has a lovely look to it and a handy leather strap from which to hang it. It also goes very well with the copper plated trowel, seen above.

Copper plated row marker

Complete the set with this lovely copper plated row marker. If you’re planning any kind of garden, be it vegetable or flower patch, knowing you’re planting in a straight line can be very helpful. That’s where this row marker comes in. Use natural twine to mark out the space between planting on your seed beds so you’re giving your plants enough space and everything grows in the right spot.

Niwaki 4′ Tripod Ladder

Tripod ladders are a garden essential, allowing you to get up close and personal with your subject for pruning, sculpting, crop picking and more. The third – front – leg negates the need to prop the ladder against anything so you can place them anywhere without requiring something firm (and bruiseable) to lean against. Niwaki have been bringing their Japanese gardening know-how to bear globally since 1997 – the tripod ladder being their first product to market, so they’re truly kings in this court!

Available in nine sizes from 4 feet to 15 feet high, there’s something for every purpose, being built-to-last from tough and sturdy (yet light and portable) aluminium.

Here’s our round up of the best garden ladders.

 

Niwaki Tool Roll

Niwaki tools are some of the best in the business and we’d recommend this as a gardening gift for the gardener who has everything. It’s a handy tool roll, with five lined pockets for all your essential tools. Made from weatherproof canvas, you could fit anything in it from pruners to cutlery for picnics. The linings are for the sharp items, so you won’t cut through to your clothes and it wraps easily and neatly round the waist for ease of transportation. A perfect gardening gift.

Garden scissors

 

These stainless steel gardening scissors look beautiful and are perfectly sized for simple jobs. Use them to cut flowers, prune, snip off dead stalks: have them near when you’re in the garden at all times.

These snips take their inspiration from Japanese bonsai scissors, which have precise cuts. These come in stainless steel and have a polished brass finish and come in a handwoven bamboo bag. They could be the perfect quirky garden gift for your loved one.

Here are a few more ideas for great pruners. 

Niwaki Rattan Kiridashi Knife

 

This is a hand forged blue carbon steel blade, that has a handle hand wrapped in wisteria rattan. Niwaki are the best in the business when it comes to specialist garden tools, and their designs are a pleasure to use.

This is a comfortable knife, that comes complete with a leather pocket sheath. It’s the sort of knife you can use for the kitchen, garden, craft jobs and more. It is an incredibly sharp knife, but also, because of the nature of the way it is forged and the material it is made from, quite brittle. So not for use on heavy handed jobs.

Don’t miss our round up of the best pocket knives for the garden. 

Shuro brush

This small but very very fetching hand broom is a perfect addition to a carefully thought through cleaning cupboard. The brush is made from palm fibres of Trachycarpus fortunei and bound together with copper wire. It’s the perfect tool for delicate jobs such as sweeping up around a bonsai or in corners of terraces and patios.

Unusual gardening gifts

Sprout Pencils

If you’re looking for an unusual gardening gift that they won’t expect, these plantable graphite pencils from Sprout are a great gift idea.

Once the pencils are worn and too short to use, you plant them upside down in soil and wait for them to grow. The pencils can grow into luscious flowers, fragrant herbs and even fresh vegetables.

They are made from sustainable and certified wood and are 100 per cent natural and non-toxic. This packet of eight pencils features a range of seeds, with each pencil indicating what plant it will grow. A brilliant and unusual gift for the gardener who has everything.

The Urban Forager: Find and Cook Wild Food in the City by Wross Lawrence

Another cool title from Hoxton Mini Press who publish great little books packed with class and style. The Urban Forager tackles the intriguing and enlightening subject of city foraging. If you know any urban gardeners who love nothing more than a day on the veg patch, this would make the perfect garden gift for them. Writer Wross Lawrence, a professional forager, supplies 32 vegetarian recipes, all using ingredients sourced from the city streets and green spaces. Cherry blossom shortbread or nettle ravioli anyone?

With more and more people turning to vegetarian and vegan diets due to the worries surrounding climate change, this is a timely book that would interest many an eco-savvy gardener, or help to reconnect an urban dweller to nature. Don’t forget our list of the best gardening books for more great reads.

For a practical gift, take a look at the best boot scrapers.

Emma Bridgewater Ladybird Mug

If you know of someone in need of a new favourite garden mug, this cute option from Emma Bridgewater could be a winner.

 It is made from earthenware so it’s suitable for everyday use and it is also dishwasher safe. Holding half a pint, it’s a great option for when you want a big cuppa to take outside. 

The sweet and delicate ladybird paintings make this mug a top choice when having a spot of tea and cake in the sunshine. 

Looking for more mug inspiration? Don’t miss our garden cup round up. 

Great Trees of London Map by Blue Crow Media

We are slowly understanding more and more about the wonders of trees; Judi Dench’s documentary My Passion for Trees and Richard Powers’s book The Overstory are just two recent examples which have contributed to society’s rediscovered fascination for them. If you know a tree-lover, this specialist tree map would make a fab gift choice for them. It focuses on 50 trees throughout our nation’s capital, from magnificent English oaks to delicate cherry trees.

Each tree has a description from Paul Wood, the founder of the Urban Tree Festival and Tree Talk. The map is printed on recycled paper and comes with a protective band, helpful for when you are carrying it out and about.

Don’t miss our round up of the best books about gardening. 

An Opinionated Guide to London Green Spaces by Harry Ades and Marco Kesseler

Did you know that half of the area of London is made up of green spaces? With a staggering 3,000 parks, London is one of the greenest cities on the planet. In this beautifully photographed book, Harry Ades breaks down the city’s top 50 hot spots when it comes to natural, green areas. Urban parks, canals, woodlands and stately gardens are just a few examples of what London has to offer.

This aesthetically pleasing and informative book would make a fab gift for style-savvy urban gardeners or for those wanting to discover more about city gardens and beneficial public green spaces.

The Almanac: a Seasonal Guide to 2023

Now in its fifth edition Lia Leendertz’ annual Almanac is a must-have for anyone who spends their time out in the open working through the seasons.  We’d absolutely recommend Lia Leendertz’ Almanac, which compiles all sorts of interesting lore and tales of the natural world, as well as the moon’s phases, tide timetables, sun rises, seasonal recipes and gardening tips. A perfect Christmas gift for the thoughtful, discerning, smart gardener.

Behind the scenes at our gardening gift guide shoot

Kikkerland Shovel Bottle Opener

Perhaps a gift for the gardener in your life who likes to round off a hard day’s work outside with a refreshing drink. A subtly themed and beautifully designed item which could also be classed as an essential tool.

With a copper plated finish, this is 17.4 cm in length and is part of John Lewis’ smart copper’ series. A great novelty gift for a gardener.

Gardener’s leather journal

This beautiful brown leather covered journal is the perfect garden journal for the gardener in your life. Protected from the weather and muddy feet and paws by its lovely brown cover, inside are 60 pages of plain white craft paper that can be used as you might wish. Sketches? Weather recording? Planting plans? This journal offers everything you might need from a garden journal.

It’s the perfect garden gift for those sorts of gardeners who like to think and plan and will be a cherished item for years to come. Who doesn’t enjoy looking back over their journals at what they had been up to in the past?

There is chestnut and walnut browns available in the series, plus there’s a journal size which is w15cm x h19cm and a sketchbook size, which is w19.5cm x h23cm.

Want more garden journals? Here is our list. 

Botanical gardening gifts

Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin

We tasted this gin as part of our quest to discover the best gin with botanicals (the results of which you can see here). It’s called Monkey 47 because there are a whopping 47 botanicals listed, including lingonberries, locally sourced near the distillery in the Black Forest.

It has a gorgeous nose and a bottle that we love – think apothecary aesthetic and there’s a great story behind the company, which was originally started by British RAF officer Montgomery Collins who was posted to Germany after the second world war and stayed for good.

Seedlip Drinks

Seedlip has been busy in the garden developing a new range of non-alcoholic spirits inspired by botanicals. The spirit garden option is infused with the taste of hand picked peas and homegrown hay and will likely transport you to the countryside at first sip. Other flavours include citrus grove, spice and the drinks are sugar and sweeteners free, calorie free, without allergens, artificial colours or flavours.

These could be a tasty, refreshing gift for a thirsty gardener who wants a drink but doesn’t want to be distracted from the job in hand. Perfect for serving while entertaining in the garden.

Looking for more botanical drinks? Here’s our list of the best botanical gins. 

Epicurean Herb Melamine Picnic Rectangular Serving Platter

This serving platter does a grand job of holding tasty treats for hardworking gardeners in need of a break.

You’ll find dill, parsley and thyme printed on this rectangular tray so it’s another item on our list for the herb growers in your life. It is made with shatter-resistant melamine so it’s appropriate for outdoor use and it’s also dishwasher safe. 

Whether it’s for a picnic or a party platter, this is a gardening gift that is sure to be used. 

Garden lifestyle gifts

Kilburn and Scott Wool throw

To prevent an outdoor party from being cut short, it’s always a good idea to have a cosy blanket close by. 

This woven throw from John Lewis is a beautiful addition and although it can’t be put in the washing machine, its natural fibres will make it a robust addition to your picnic plans.  Whatever the deco, this pink number would look fabulous in any garden. 

Drape it over an outdoor sofa or day bed for extra cosiness or take it inside to add a fun splash of mustard and brighten up a room. 

Here are lots more blankets we love. 

Lion wall mounted feature

This neo-classical eye-catcher is a great addition to anyone’s garden, whether it be big or small. A water feature is always a must, with the sound and motion of the fountain guaranteed to set of beautiful corners of your space and make them feel bigger and calmer. We love this lion-design, which harks to grandeur but can be presented with chic style and subtlety. There’s also LED lights atop the lion’s head so this is a perfect feature for night or day.

 

Gardener Man Illustration

A beautiful and unique illustration, hand drawn digitally using an iPad Pro by artist Emily Lou Holmes, her print ‘Gardener Man’ is a wonderful piece of art that will make a brilliant gift for a gardener who already has everything.

The illustration print is available in sizes A2 and A3, but also as a greeting card and can be gift wrapped if desired.

It is part of a series of illustrations by the artist where she found inspiration from British gardeners and lovers of the outdoors. We think that it’s a lovely piece or art that would make a brilliant gift for any passionate gardener. There is also a female version of the print called ‘Gardener Woman’ available to shop on Etsy.

 

Barrington Fire Pit

The Barrington Fire Pit from Garden Trading is formed in raw metal and is available in two sizes. Intended for use with logs only, the Barrington’s exterior is curved, creating an attractive and contemporary design. Similar to other fire pits left exposed to the elements, this model will naturally age and become rusted over time.

Dome Gozney oven and stand

 

A beautifully designed professional grade outdoor wood-fired oven, the Dome works for beginners for open air cooking and for professional chefs. You can roast, stem or bake with this oven and although wood fuel is recommended for taste, there is the option of a built in gas burner. It comes complete with a digital thermometer, excellent heat retention and a weather resistant outdoor shield that will protect it from whatever mother nature throws at it.

Trancoso beach bat set

 

One of the things we love best about this bat set – perfect for beach or garden games – is that for every bat sold, a tree will be planted. This bat is made from five pieces of sustainably sourced Brazilian wood offcuts and heat stamped. It is coated in natural waterproof and sand-resistant resin and comes with balls to boot. This is a bat set that will last you a lifetime and beyond.

 

Lexon Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

A wireless Bluetooth speaker may not seem like an obvious choice when it comes to gifts for gardeners, but these handy gadgets are a joy for those working outside for long periods, wanting to listen to music or a podcast hands free and without the faff of earphones or headphones.

When the weather is warmer, they’re also a great accessory for garden parties and entertaining in the garden. This particular Bluetooth speaker has a battery life of three hours, and takes only an hour to charge. Simply stream your music, podcast, audiobook or radio station via your smartphone or tablet.

Find more fun tech in our guide to the best smart garden products and the best garden gadgets for a quick upgrade.

Check out our handy gift guide for outdoor entertaining too.

St Ives Harbour Outdoor Pendant Light

 

An outdoor light is a much needed item when your garden dinner party continues late into the night. 

This pendant is weatherproof but can also be used inside. There is a 2.5m cable which can be adjusted so you can hang the light at the height of your choice, making it suitable for a variety of spaces. It could be used as a reading light over a comfortable chair, or it could hang over a table for al-fresco entertainment. 

It is worth noting that the light needs to be wired in and it is recommended that you use the help of a qualified electrician.

Here’s our list of the best outdoor lights.

Picnic, garden party and decorating gifts

Corkcicle X Rifle Paper Co Canteen

 

Flasks are an essential item for gardeners; they keep us cool and hydrated in the summer and warm in the winter. This water bottle is a great gift for gardeners as it does two jobs in one: it keeps cold drinks cold for up to 25 hours and hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours. 

Better yet, it has been beautifully designed by American stationery company Rifle Paper Co., known for its striking floral designs, and Corkcicle, a clever brand creating innovative barware and sustainable drinking vessels.

A practical and pretty gift, this would be a welcome addition to a gardener’s essential kit.

Each stainless steel bottle takes up to 16 oz. 

Looking for more picnic ideas?

 

Matchbox Seat Pads

Garden seating doesn’t have to be dull. And thanks to these bright, retro-inspired cushions, you can really liven up dark or outdated garden furniture. If you know a gardener who loves to entertain, these would be an ideal gift for them.

Taking inspiration from retro matchboxes, these handmade cushions come in a range of quirky designs including lovebirds, parrots and cockerels – a great gift for gardeners and for nature lovers alike. The pads can be used both indoor and out too, making them a great transitional item.

Each seat pad measures 5cm in height, 40cm in width and 40cm in depth.

And take a look at our favourite selection of garden seating here.

 

Eucalyptus & Laurel Wreath

Bring the outdoors in with this stunning fabric work of art from decoration experts Lights4Fun. The soft fabric leaves are amazingly life-like, giving the appearance of freshly picked Eucalyptus and Laurel, while the delicate linen bow adds a stylish decorative finish. Give your guests a festive welcome by hanging the wreath on your door, or it could be hung on your wall, or even lain flat on the dinner table as a striking centrepiece.

This botanical wreath would also make a wonderful garden-themed gift which loved ones can bring out year after year, without having to worry about any unhappy, crispy leaves!

The wreath measures 50cm in diameter.

And learn how to make your own garden wreath here.

 

Kikkerland Ivy String Lights

A great addition to brighten up any outdoor or indoor area, these remote controlled ivy-inspired string lights by Kikkerland will add a gorgeous level of comforting light to any room or outdoors area at home. Guaranteed to make rooms feel cosier in the evenings and less up-keep than real ivy!

The lights are 10 feet long and features eight different animation settings that you’re able to toggle between using the remote control provided. Batteries are also included for the remote control when you buy the string lights and all is required is a USB port to plug the lights into.

Don’t miss our picks of the best string lights for gardens. 

 

Don’t miss our Christmas hub page for gift and decoration ideas.

]]> 9 of the best bird feeders https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/tools/best-bird-feeders/ Fri, 03 Mar 2023 08:00:16 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=2279

So long as they’re not after any seeds you’ve planted, it’s always a delight to watch birds visit your garden. And between October and April, when food in the wild is much more scarce, a predictable source of food will be highly appreciated by your feathered visitors. 

Feeders come in all shapes and sizes, to cater for all shapes, sizes, species and feeding habits of birds, but to be sure of attracting the widest range and leaving no bird out an all-in-one feeding station is your guarantee of maximum delivery.

So if they want to peck at peanuts, nibble at seed or feast on a fat ball these one-stop solutions have something for every bird.

And should you want to offer your visitors somewhere to drink and bathe, take a look at our list of the best bird baths. And for more information on which berries and plants your winged guests will appreciate for food, read our article on plants for birds.

Want some tips on how to attract birds into your garden?

Where is the best place to put bird feeders?

You’ll want to put your feeder in a sheltered place that is difficult for cats, squirrels, rats and other pests to access. Birds will avoid your feeder if they see any predators near it. Hanging feeders can be attached to tree branches clear of the ground, but you should still make sure there aren’t any nearby branches that might allow pests to bother your birds. Bird tables are best erected on a tall post that keeps them well clear of the ground

Best bird feeders to buy in the UK 2023

Large Bempton Bird Table

Best table design

This quaint, wood and copper bird table is perfect if you’re lacking sturdy trees in your garden to hang a bird feeder from, or if you’re looking to adorn a fence or section of latticework. Painted in a verdant green, and with a real copper Verdigris roof, as well as enclosed sides for protection, this bird table provides a safe and easily accessible area for feeding.

RSPB Signpost wooden feeding station

Best alternative bird feeder

If you’re after something a little different, we love this sturdy, yet stylish feeding station from the RSPB. Designed to replicate a traditional signpost, this feeding station offers four hooks for bird feeders to hang from. It’s a durable option, made in the UK from FSC certified timber and held together by strong bolts.

One up, one down bird feeder

Best contemporary bird feeder

On split levels, this small but multi-use feeder allows room for a birds large and small to graze your winter spread, and the aluminium roof will keep the birds and their food dry.

Simple in design and easy to clean, this feeder would suit an urban garden with less space: a balcony or roof terrace perhaps. Just remember to hang it away from any windows so the birds don’t run the risk of flying into them. 

 

Tom Chambers Elegance Bird Feeding Station

Best multi bird feeder

Sporting an attractive copper finish, this elegant and shapely feeder is both eye-catching and practical. There are 10 hooks in total to hang feeders, as well as a heavy duty seed tray – ideal for suet balls – and water tray for the birds to enjoy a drink and a wash. 

This is a very sturdy option and it looks smart. Plus all the feeding stations are situated a good distance from the ground to give more protection to the birds. If you have the space and love to welcome lots of feathery friends into the garden, this multi-armed feeding station will attract species large and small and you can spend many a relaxing moment watching them come and go.

 

Premium Bird Feeding Station

Best traditional bird feeder

This wooden bird feeding station has four platforms for your garden birds to feed from. It’s suitable for any feed of your choice, and there’s room to add more hooks for hanging feeders if you find you need extra. 

Made from FSC certified timer and slate, this design is more traditional in appearance and would lovely in a cottage-style or country garden. The solid base will help prevent the table from toppling over easily and the whole frame has been protected with a weatherproof finish to ensure it’s long-lasting.

Kingfisher Bronze Copper Effect Solar Powered Bird Hotel

Best designer bird feeder

A ‘hotel’ is a great way to describe this rather grand feeding station. It has a bird bath, bird feeder, garden light and built in planter, so you can add a plantsman’s touch. 

It is quite lightweight so you will need to find a way of holding it in place in winter, but the copper finish is resistant to all extremes of weather and temperatures. It looks the part for a fraction of the price.

 

Wild Wings Feeding Station

Best elegant bird feeder

One assured way of bringing lots of birds into your garden is by setting up a bird table on your lawn, with several points of access. This shapely feeding station, which will certainly be hard for cats or foxes to climb, stands at 2.4 metres tall and has five feeder arms, a water tray and a seed tray.

In a slate grey, it’ll look good in any style of garden and we love the small details, such as the cut out robin perched on the top and the elegant curls of the hooks. A very attractive piece for the birds to dine out on.

Garden Selections Wild Bird Feeding Station

Best practical bird feeder

Buy now from Garden Selections (£19.99)

This steel, bronze-finished bird station from Garden Selections will turn your garden into a bustling hangout for your local birds. It features a water tray, four separate feeders and, what the manufacturers delightfully describe as ‘bathing facilities’. Seriously, you might want to start charging admission.

 

Finches Friend Cleaner Feeder

Best bird feeder for cleaning

Buy now from Finches Friend (£44.99)

Finches Friend bird feeders have been specifically created to make cleaning easy, which is vital to stop the spread of disease in garden birds. With greenfinches on the Red List and chaffinches in dramatic decline, improving hygiene in wild bird feeding is hugely important.

The Finches Friend Cleaner Feeder 1 features a single chamber and holds up to 1.79 litres of bird food (sunflower hearts are recommended) – more than the capacity of a standard feeder. It weighs 1.2kg empty and 2.4kg full.

The clever design separates the feed store from where the birds perch to eat. It features a unique, removable, enclosed feed station which minimises wastage and enables easier cleaning. The innovative design also protects the feed from the elements and ensures that it always stays clean, dry and safe, thanks to a water drainage system. A 360-degree feeding station allows multiple birds to feed at once, whilst a narrowed feeding tray make it inaccessible to larger birds such as crows.

Made in Britain, Finches Friend Feeders are a sustainable choice that are built to last. Using components and packaging that are fully recyclable, they are made from durable, UV-stabilised polycarbonate that won’t weaken or discolour in the sun.

Remember, different styles of bird feeder require different types of food, from peanuts, to fat balls, to seeds. If you’ve got your eye on a particular bird feeder, why not check out the best bird feed to fill it with?

Remember to keep your bird feeders clean. Here’s how to avoid diseases and keep good bird feeder hygiene. 

]]> Best garden storage boxes for 2023 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/outdoor-living/best-garden-storage-boxes/ Thu, 02 Mar 2023 10:00:30 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=51446

We all need storage space, whether it’s in our homes or gardens. Often, chests and other outdoor boxes are overlooked, but these days, there are hundreds of practical and beautiful ones on the market. And some even come in the form of multi-functional tables and benches. 

From plastic and moulded resin to steel and treated wood, there are numerous styles available when it comes to garden storage boxes. Plus, you’ll find options in a wide range of colours, including grey, brown and black, as well as natural wood tones. 

So, whether your outdoor space has a modern look, or whether your home is more rustic in style, you’re sure to find a high-quality garden storage box to suit it. Keep scrolling for our pick of the best ones out there. 

Looking for more clever storage? See our favourite tool organisers. 

Best garden storage boxes

Arbor Garden Solutions Wooden Tool Chest

If you’re looking for a garden storage box with a natural look, try this rustic garden chest made from responsibly sourced softwood pine. The frame has been pressure-treated to maximise its strength and durability, and the base is raised off the ground to keep it dry and rot-free. 

This garden storage box is 127cm in length and has an internal capacity of over 1,140L, so there’s plenty of room to store outdoor furniture and equipment.

Deuba 190L Storage Box

Thanks to its compact dimensions, this attractive storage box would work just as well on balconies and terraces as it would in a large garden. It’s just 78cm in length and has a capacity of 190 litres – ideal for keeping cushions, blankets and small belongings out of the rain.

Despite being made of plastic, this storage box has a wood-textured finish. And it comes with two side recesses, so picking it up is easy. Plus, there’s a hinged lid and a space to add a padlock for security.

Garden Trading Aldsworth Outdoor Storage Box

You can always rely on Garden Trading to sell beautiful yet practical products. This outdoor storage box is part of the brand’s Aldsworth range, which is made from grey-washed Spruce. 

There are two sizes available, with widths of 80cm and 104cm, but both have a slanted, hinged lid made from galvanised sheet metal to protect them from the elements.

 

Keter 570L Resin Storage Box

For a simple, practical storage solution, look no further than this 570L garden box from Keter. Although it’s designed to look like textured wood, it’s made from recycled moulded resin, which is water, rust and rot resistant. It also has soft-close pistons in the lid for easy access, and is lockable, so your belongings will be secure. 

When the lid is down, use the storage box as handy extra seating or a table top for food and drinks.

 

Kettler Palma Aluminium Garden Cushion Storage Box

This industrial-style garden storage box should fit in well with modern gardens. The exterior shell is constructed from powder-coated aluminium, so it will stand up to the elements without rusting. The lid is fitted with gas pistons for easy lifting, and there are wheels on one side of the box, so moving it to your desired location should be hassle-free. 

The chest as a whole is 138cm in length and 67cm deep, and it comes complete with a zip-up waterproof lining to give the contents added protection. 

Lifestyle Garden Aruba cushion box

 

This attractive yet sturdy box is perfect for storing your cushions and other garden essentials, protecting them from the elements. It is made from weatherproof synthetic rattan with a contemporary grey birch finish, it can safely be left outside all year round. Measuring 150cm x 76cm x 70cm, it is supplied with a 5-year guarantee against fading, cracking, splitting and peeling.

Rowlinson Prestbury Cushion Box

Although this garden storage box appears to be a natural, woven rattan chest, it comes fitted with pneumatic lid struts for easy lifting and a heavy-duty, zip-up waterproof liner. There’s also extra weatherproofing in the lid to make sure the box’s contents stay dry.

At 120cm wide and 81cm deep, the storage box has 572L of space to keep your outdoor bits and bobs tidy. But it should blend in nicely, thanks to its pale grey colouring. With its simple, understated design and attractive finish, it’s well suited to a wide range of outdoor spaces, from minimal, modern settings to rustic cottage gardens.

Why not combine this box with other furniture items from the Rowlinson Prestbury range? There are many garden products available, from the bistro and lounger sets to the six-seater dining table.

Suncast Resin Wicker Deck Box 

Thanks to its double-layer resin walls, this large garden storage box is robust, waterproof and attractive, with a woven-style finish. You won’t need any tools to put it together, and you can attach your own padlock for added security. 

In total, the garden box is 127cm in length and 65cm in height and depth, with 375L of internal storage space – enough for outdoor furniture and other bulky items. If you’re after a slightly smaller chest in the same style, take a look at Suncast’s cube version. 

 

]]> Best insect houses to support local wildlife https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/outdoor-living/best-insect-houses/ Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:00:11 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=61095

Investing in an insect house is a fantastic way to support the local wildlife, and having more bugs in our gardens has its benefits for us humans too. Not only are they often fascinating to watch, but they also pollinate our plants and feed on pests like aphids. 

Luckily, encouraging insects into our gardens is fairly simple – even in urban areas. By introducing pollinator-friendly plants and installing a bug hotel or two, you can make sure your outdoor space is a welcoming environment for local wildlife.

Check out our selection of the best insect houses available below.

How to install and care for an insect house

The best insect houses are fairly low-maintenance, but there are a few steps you can take to make sure they provide a safe environment for your garden critters. 

  • Place the insect house in a sunny spot at least a metre off the ground and away from leaves and other plants
  • Whether you attach the bug hotel to a tree, fence post or wall, make sure it’s stable and doesn’t move in the wind
  • Check your insect house every year at the end of summer and get rid of any debris to stop mould growth and mites, which could harm the hotel’s next inhabitants
  • Take the insect house down and replace it when it starts to deteriorate – usually, this happens after two or more years, but you can replace certain parts of the hotel if the main structure is sound

 

Best insect houses to buy today

Woodside wooden insect and bee house

For a reasonably priced insect house with room for a variety of different species, you can’t go wrong with this bug hotel from Woodside. It has dead wood for earwigs, bamboo for bees and butterflies and pine cones for green lacewings.

Not only do the untreated wooden sections create an ideal habitat for all kinds of different creatures, but they should also blend in with the foliage in your garden. 

The bug hotel measures 37cm in height and 26cm across. To hang it from a tree or wall, just use the included mounting plate on the back. 

 

Bee brick

If you’re after something a little different, why not try a bee block? It’s made from polished cast concrete, so it should survive even the harshest of conditions for years to come. 

You don’t even need to hang the block from a vertical surface; simply place it in a sunny spot and let the bees do the rest. They’ll choose a cavity, lay eggs and seal up the opening with dirt or leaves. If you’re lucky, you should see the young emerge in the spring, leaving the brick empty for the next lot of bees to lay their eggs.

 

Small insect house

Perfect for attaching to tree trunks, this small insect hotel is just 12.5cm across and 9.5cm deep. 

Despite its compact size, it still houses an array of different materials, creating a safe habitat for bugs including ladybirds, solitary bees, lacewings and earwigs. Inside, you’ll find everything from FSC-certified wood to bamboo and pine cones.

And, as an added bonus, each of these small insect hotels arrived in recyclable packaging to further support the environment.

 

Avel hanging bumblebee & butterfly house

One of the largest insect houses available to buy, this roomy one measures 31cm tall by 30.5cm across. It’s best suited to garden walls and fences, and the slanted roof should protect it against rain and damp. 

The main structure is crafted from fir wood and filled with offcuts, bamboo and pine cones to attract bees, lacewings and other bugs. A handy metal mesh keeps everything neat and tidy inside while protecting the inhabitants from curious animals and birds. 

Related read: the best plants for bees and butterflies 

Spruce wild bee house

This six-sided bee hotel tips its hat to the hexagonal honeycomb created by the hardworking bees it’s designed to attract. But it’s practical as well as attractive, as it’s filled to the brim with bamboo to provide plenty of room for a swarm of bees.

As a finishing touch, the manufacturers dip each bee house in a non-toxic, water-based wood stain to improve its appearance and longevity without harming future inhabitants. 

 

Varya free-standing insect hotel

If you want to go all-out and create a sprawling hotel for your garden critters, take a look at this impressive freestanding model, which reaches almost 80cm in height. After attaching the two wooden legs, you just push them into the ground in a sheltered spot. 

In time, bees, butterflies and other insects should take up residence, thanks to the varied selection of wood blocks, bamboo and pine cones. One of the added benefits of this bug house is the extra space in the middle for butterflies. 

You can also mount the hotel to the wall if you prefer not to use the wooden stakes. 

Bumblebee villa and colony

If you really want to create a haven for wildlife, try establishing a bee colony in your garden. With this kit, you actually set up a cluster of bumblebees in their own villa. Then, the queens go on to create their own colonies nearby. 

Order your house to coincide with the bees’ life cycle; usually they’re available between April and July. As bumblebees don’t live as long as honey bees, this kit also comes with a voucher for a replacement colony. So, you can keep your garden – and the local area – abuzz with bees. 

Welcome animals as well as insects by building your own hedgehog house.

]]> 14 of the best bird baths 2023: from the modern to the classic https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/outdoor-living/best-bird-baths/ Fri, 17 Feb 2023 11:00:28 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=657

Watching wildlife enjoy the garden as much as you do is a wonderful thing, and providing plants for birds, plus supplementary food and water is an easy way to encourage feathered visitors. A bird bath is one of the best ways to attract birds to your garden.

While many of us put out bird food in bird feeders, bird tables and bird boxes, many of us forget to provide water. Birds need bird baths to drink from but also to bathe in – essential to keep their feathers clean and for preening. Water is especially important in winter and summer, when natural sources may be frozen or dried up.

If you want to encourage more wildlife into your garden, take a look at our guides to helping hedgehogs and building a hedgehog house. And to get a closer look, consider check out our recommended bird watching kits for kids and wildlife cameras.

Where to put a bird bath

Birds are at their most vulnerable to predators when bathing, so they are less at risk from attack if you situate the bird bath at least two metres from cover, such as a hedge, tree or shrub. This means they will spot the bird bath easily, but can dart for cover easily if needed. If cats visit your garden, choose a bird bath that is raised high off the ground.

Place your birdbath out of direct sunlight so that the water doesn’t become to warm or uncomfortable. Putting a bird bath in a shady spot will reduce evaporation, and slows the growth of algae.

What kind of bird bath is best for birds?

A good bird bath is sturdy and easy to clean and refill. Ideally it should have shallow sloping sides, to give a shallow approach to the water. Ideally, the water should be from 2.5cm to 10cm deep, with shallower areas for smaller birds and fledglings and deeper areas for larger birds. Rough, not smooth, sides will also mean that birds won’t slip and can grip on with their claws. If your bird bath doesn’t have sloping sides or is deep, add some large pebbles at the base for birds to perch on.

How to clean a bird bath

Ideally, a bird bath should be rinsed out daily and cleaned thoroughly every week to avoid a build-up of bird droppings, dead leaves and algae. Wear gloves and use a non-toxic household disinfectant, making sure you rinse thoroughly.

How to stop water freezing in a bird bath

To prevent water in a bird bath freezing in winter, add a small ball to the water. It will jog about in the breeze, keeping an area ice free. Alternatively, use some hot water from the kettle to defrost an area.

Types of bird bath

Bird baths can be as decorative as they are functional. Some are designed to sit on an existing piece of garden furniture, some are on pedestals and can be placed as a focal point in a border or lawn, and some can be hung from a hook. Whether you’re looking for something modern, simple or a statement piece you are sure to find the right bird bath for you among our suggestions. We’ve selected 14 of the best bird baths on the market in contemporary and classic designs to help you find the best bird bath for your garden.  

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Pulmonaria 'Silver Bouquet'

14 of the best bird baths

 

This Gardenesque freestanding bird bath has a weathered, antique finish that would look at home in any garden, whether it is traditional or more contemporary. Nestle it within a border, or stand it on a patio or lawn area as a focal point. This bird bath is made from clay that is sturdy and frost-proof. The dish is detachable and has rough, sloping sides that are easy for birds to grip. It’s worth adding a few pebbles at the base to accommodate smaller birds that prefer a shallower depth.

Dimensions: 63cm x 53cm x 63cm. Weight: 26 kg

Gardman Aura Wild Bird Bath

If you’re looking for a contemporary bird bath, look no further than the Gardman Aura Wild Bird Bath. Part of the contemporary Aura range of bird accessories from Gardman, it has a beautiful polished bronze-effect bowl and tripod legs. It would add a stunning contemporary touch to your a small or modern garden, or even a balcony. No tools are required for quick and easy assembly – just twist the legs together, and then screw on the top. This bird bath won the ‘Best New Product’ award for the wild bird care category at the garden industry GLEE tradeshow in 2021.

Dimensions: 10.5cm x 38.5cm x 38.5cm

 

Bonnlo Wild Bird Bath

 

 

With its weathered look and fleur-de-lis motifs, this attractive bird bath has an aged patina and an antique look, but is actually made of modern, high density resin. It is both durable and weather proof. The hollow stand can be filled with sand, rocks or water to make it more heavy and sturdy – useful if your garden is prone to winds. Three stakes are included that can be sunk into the ground to hold the base steady, too. It is easy to assemble and clean. It’s worth adding a few pebbles at the base to accommodate smaller birds.

Dimensions: 71cm x 50cm x 38cm. Depth of bath: 6cm.

Rainbow Flight Bowl

 

This rainbow sandstone bird bath is a warmly coloured and decorative way to invite birds into your outdoor space. Rainbow sandstone has natural striations that differ in shade, design and colour. This bird bath is carved from a single block of sandstone – a unique centerpiece that’s seamless and smooth. The bowl is relatively lightweight and can therefore be moved easily around. 

Dimensions: H10cm x W42cm x L42cm

Stake bird bath 

 

A stake bird bath is easy to sink into a border and easy to move around if necesssary. This bath from Crocus has a bird perch over a cast aluminium bowl, which can be filled with water or food and removed for easy cleaning. Available in a range of colours including white, pale green and grey.

Dimensions: Height 100cm, width 23cm

Modern Bird Bath

The contemporary Bird Bath from Green & Blue is a beautiful and modern bird bath, handmade to order. It is designed and handmade in Cornwall and is made from cast concrete using up to 75% recycled material from the Cornish china clay industry. Buy the bird bath top dish on its own and place safely in your garden or buy as many base rings as you like to create the perfect height for your space.

Dimensions: The top dish is 9.5cm x 40cm. The rings are 21cm x 40cm.

Zinc leaf bird bath

This antique-style leaf bird bath is made from cast aluminium with an attractive chalky zinc patina to resemble aged lead. An attractive feature in its own right, sit it on a table, wall or step. It can also be filled with bird food.

Dimensions: 32cm x 30cm x 6cm

Simple bird bath

The bold, simple design of this bird bath would look great in a contemporary garden. It is handmade by skilled British craftsmen using local reconstituted stone and traditional methods.

 

Hanging Bird Bath

A hanging bird bath can be hung from the branch of a tree, a garden arch or pergola, or from a hook. Made from frost-resistant glazed ceramic and supplied with hanging chains, this bird bath has a special shallow end for smaller birds and fledglings. Hanging upside down optional!

Nature Oasis Bird Bath & Drinker

This classic bird bath looks like stone but is in fact 100% recycled and made from a frost-proof material called Polyboo. Plastic and natural bamboo fibres form the material that’s said to be both weighty and robust but also allow flex for coping with changing temperatures. 

Designed to be a safe depth for small birds to bathe in, the shallow steps around the edge of this bird bath should also allow pollinators to access the water. Patterned outer edges add to the natural stone look. This is a budget-friendly bird bath for the sustainably minded. Place it on the ground if you garden is free of visiting cats, or stand on a table or bench.

Echoes Terracotta Bird Bath with 3 Glazed Feet

Primrose

A quote from English Poet, William Blake’s Auguries of Innocence is inscribed on the rim of this mottled green terracotta bird bath: “To see a world in a grain of sand and heaven in a wild flower, hold infinity in the palm of your hand and eternity in an hour”. 

Made from frost-resistant glazed terracotta, this bird bath comes with three glazed mounting feet to keep it raised off the ground and protected from cold damage. 

Surfside Bird Bath in Stone

Wayfair

This bird bath brings together rustic ceramic with the bright blues and whites of a traditional blue and white pattern. The textured edges contrasted with the smooth colourful centre gives it both an antique and chic feel.

The bowl offers a wide surface area for birds to drink and bathe in. A small bird statuette is a playful touch. 

Dimensions: 34cm x 34cm

Natural Basin Bird Bath

If you’re looking for a sculptural bird bath, this natural-style basin made from granite gives the understated feel of one that’s been made by nature itself.  

The bowl is carved into the rock which has a naturally dark shade and is robust in construction. It also sits low to the ground unlike many bird baths, which adds to its natural style. 45cm in length, this is one would slip seamlessly into a garden and give centre stage to the birds that visit it.

Dimensions: 45cm x 45cm x 19cm

RSPB Bronze effect bird bath

Lightweight and weatherproof resin forms the stem and 7cm-wide bowl of this bronze finished bird bath. It’s a modern, easy-to-clean version of traditional metal designs without the risk of rust. 

You secure this bird bath with ground pegs that are provided but for extra stability, and it’s recommended that you fill its base with sand. Assembly is  simple and achievable without tools, so if you’re looking for a simple and stylish bird bath that’s minimal fuss to install, this could be one to consider. 

Dimensions: Height 71 cm, diameter 51.5 cm.

 

]]> Best garden furniture for 2023 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/outdoor-living/best-garden-furniture/ Thu, 16 Feb 2023 13:05:55 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=100742

We know how garden furniture can make a good garden great. You only need to see the lovely fire pit in this garden, or the beautiful chairs in this green urban oasis to know that your garden furniture is a big part of your overall garden design.

And while we have great guides on everything from the best garden day beds, rattan garden furniture to swing chairs, we wanted to put together this list of all the pieces that we really rate. These are the garden furniture pieces that could change your garden from run of the mill to awe-inspiring.

We’d recommend always buying to suit your space, so make sure you have worked out where your garden sofa or table is going to go before you invest, and think carefully about the space you’re using. Perhaps there’s an overlooked area of the garden that will be revitalised with a simple bistro table and chairs? Or even a lovely wooden bench?

The garden furniture we’ve selected are all the best examples of products in their type. We either love their durability, their design, their comfort or the fact that they combine all of these things perfectly together. We”d always recommend looking for sustainable items, and things that will fit in with your overall aesthetic – are you cottage garden chic? Are you going for modern minimalist? Hopefully there should be something on this list for every taste.

Best garden furniture to buy in 2023

Globo Garden Hanging Chair

Best for: luxury

An egg or cocoon seat is an absolute must in pretty much any garden and this particular one has our hearts fluttering.  An egg swing seat suggests the height of luxury and indulgence and this Globo is one of the best out there. Its round, curvy sides and its lovely plump cushions will have you whiling away hours in the garden without noticing the time passing. The cover is washable and what’s even more exciting is that you don’t have to use the stand: you can hang the chair from a tree if you’d prefer.

Here’s more cocoon chairs for you

Malta 6-Seater Steel Corner Dining Set

Best for: patios and decking

There are lots of garden dining sets out there, so it’s often hard to find the wood from the trees. This stylish set is on our pick of the best because it combines rattan – a traditional style we adore – with a modern aesthetic. The cushions are very comfortable and the overall set would several combinations of groups of people – up to six. The smoked glass table top is the icing on the cake and the two stools are the cherry on top. This one is perfect for patios or decking in a lovely shady spot.

Head here for a lovely rattan garden day bed

Sleeper Wooden Traditional Garden Bench

Best for: simplicity and natural materials

 

We love simple, sturdy and natural materials. This beautiful solid wood bench from Forest Garden ticks all those boxes. Its smooth veneer is lovely to touch and its big enough for two, and even three at a squeeze. It will boost the atmosphere of a natural-looking, calm garden and looks effortlessly chic. You could use it in lots of different style gardens, including classic and modern, which makes its design so versatile. The timber is FSC-certified and there’s a 15 year guarantee on it. Plus two separate sizes, either 120 or 180 cm wide.

Here’s more inspiration for garden benches. 

 

Rowlinson Winchester

Best for: enhancing a viewpoint and storage

An arbour can add to a lovely nook or cranny, but it also enhances your enjoyment of certain viewpoints from within your garden. This stunning example is beautifully made, with a natural finish. But it’s on this best garden furniture list because it could easily be discreet and simply enhances the feel of the planting around it. We also love that there’s an underseat storage (we all need more storage) for blankets, tools or whatever else you might need to hand.

The roof is metal and it’s made using FSC-certified timber.

We are also obsessed with the noah’s ark arbour.

 

Three seater metal garden bench

Best for: value

This is one of the best garden furniture ranges out there. It emulates the gloriously stylish Palissade metal garden furniture range without it being too hefty on the pockets. This seat has a matte painted finish and is built to last all year round in the garden. You don’t need cushions, although we’d recommend some garden-suitable ones for extra comfort. There’s a one year warranty from the manufacturer too.

Here’s more modern metal garden furniture

The classic ‘steam’ lounger

Best for: classic design

This garden chair is all about the classic design. Inspired by the chairs used on the decks of steam liners, this modern version is perfect for lounging in the sun and with a good book. It’s versatile: there are a choice of five positions, from straight up, through to lying flatter for a snooze in the sun. We like its natural look and its easy to pack away too.

We’ve rounded up the best garden seats here

Outsunny Wooden Porch A-Frame Swing Chair

Best for: garden swing seats

 

We may have already included an egg or cocoon seat on this best garden furniture list, but we haven’t included a general swing seat, which is a very different ball-game. A swing seat is an absolute must in pretty much any garden and this particular one has our hearts fluttering. It’s compact, but big enough for two and there’s a small canopy for shade from the sun. We love the swoops and curves of the design, which make it feel more calm and natural. The maximum load on this is 200kg and pretty much the only downside is there’s a bit of assembly required. It’s full size is length 190cm x depth 130cm x height 192cm, so make sure you’ve definitely got the space to fit it.

 

Here are more garden swing chairs to choose from 

Lyndhurst Rocking Chair

Best for: comfort

 

Rocking chairs once had a bad rap in the style world: fusty and traditional, everyone has an image of a rocking chair in their mind. But in recent years there has been a surefire resurgence of love for the humble rocking chair, with designs being adapted to suit all tastes and places. The garden is a perfect spot for a rocking chair, which can provide gentle, calming motion as you sit amid the swaying trees and bushes. We love this cushioned version, which is minimalist and easy to clean. Plus you could use it indoor or out.

We also love the salsa rocking chair here

Metal Folding Two Seat Bistro Set

Best for: cottage gardens

A bistro set is a wonderful thing: it can transform an area of your garden into a relaxed spot that feels like you’ve been transported from the busyness of real life. This particular bistro set has a brilliant classic feel to it, with slender legs and an elegant pattern that will enhance any cottage garden. The table is big enough for two and perfect for entertaining or simply bird watching in your garden.

 

We also love the Scandinavian-style bistro set here 

EVRE Goa Acapulco Styled Garden Furniture Set

Best for: exotic gardens

Handwoven acapulco complete with a small, but perfectly proportioned glass topped coffee table, this garden dining set is a thing of beauty. The woven rattan weave adjusts to the shape of your body meaning the chairs are very comfortable. Maximum weight allowance is up to 110kg per seat. Available in a range of colours including natural, teal, black, grey and bumblebee yellow (pictured).

 

Here are more acapulco furniture options

Fatboy Original Outdoor Bean Bag in Stripe Ocean Blue

Best for: families and small spaces

The Fatboy is one of the original outdoor beanbags and we couldn’t not include it on our best garden furniture list. These beanbags are so versatile there’s tons of ways you can sit or enjoy it, from straight up as a chair, to flat on the floor as a lounging pad. Kids love them and adults do too.

We also love the fact that the cover is water and dirt repellant, but you can also machine wash it too.

Indoor Outdoor Double Bean Bag in Soft Grey

Best for: modern gardens

The Fatboy bean bag may be a classic, but this bean bag sofa from Cox and Cox is a very special thing. Enjoy the comfort and relaxation of a bean bag with your friends and family close. The seating set gives off a very relaxed vibe and these would be perfect in any modern-style garden.

Argos Home Lexy Rattan Garden Sofa Set

Best for: versatile spaces

We just keep coming back to rattan on this list, and one of the reasons for that is how versatile a style it can be. This egg-shaped seating sofa and airy rattan weave doesn’t feel too much like traditional rattan, while also giving off an exotic look. It’s very easy to move around, so the beauty of this piece of garden furniture is that you can move it to wherever you want to sit in your garden. There are two matching chairs, seven cushions and the glass top table. Just add a tabletop patio heater for a cosy glow in the evenings.

 

Blue Vintage Folding Table

Best for: vintage aesthetic

Rustic is one of the most lovely of garden trends at the moment and the nice thing is you can extend that feel to the furniture you have in your garden. This beautiful blue folding table feels like a vintage find and indeed, the tables were originally used for festivals and weddings in India. The colour is so vibrant it will work with all your blooms in the summer and will be an attractive piece all on its own in the cooler months.

It’s made from solid tropical hardwood and has iron legs. Don’t expect the table to be pristeen! It’s charm comes from its vintage. It measures 150 x 60 x 75cm and can be used both indoors and outdoors.

 

OKA Hanway Luxury Parasols

Best for: patios and swimming pools

This is one of two luxury parasols, that will provide perfect shade over loungers. With a lovely small table, the perfect size to go alongside a lounger, this parasol is probably one of the best out there for poolsides. The pole is made from ash and it comes with a fabric cover.

Buy the Hanway Garden Parasol Table here, available in Driftwood or Flint Grey.

Don’t miss our round up of the best garden sofa sets. 

]]> Best garden benches https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/outdoor-living/best-garden-benches/ Thu, 16 Feb 2023 10:51:50 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=100582

A garden bench is a great addition to any garden. They add a nice place to sit and enjoy your garden from and can also be decorative. Benches can be used as a focal point in a garden design or placed under an archway covered in climbing plants.

Whether you’re looking for a garden bench made out of wood or metal, or for a classic or more modern design there are plenty of options to suit all tastes.

We’ve rounded up some of the nicest benches on the market so that you can fill your garden with comfortable and beautiful places to sit.

Here’s more garden seating ideas and don’t miss our round up of the best garden furniture. 

Best garden benches

HLC Metal Antique Garden Bench

This decorative metal garden bench from HLC Store would make a lovely addition to a traditional or country garden on a lawn, patio, decking area or within a planting design. It can seat two people making it the perfect place to pause for a chat while wandering around the garden. It has also been designed in a classic style that will enhance any garden and comes in black or bronze. The back and arms of the bench have been decorated using twisted metalwork. Made from wrought iron, it is also durable and rust-proof.

BrackenStyle Oxford Teak Garden Bench

This sturdy wooden garden bench would fit in well with any garden design from modern to cottage style. Sold by furniture experts BrackenStyle who have been supplying garden furniture for twenty years, this piece is sure to last the test of time. It is made using ethical grade-A teak from sustainable forestry and constructed with durability in mind. Teak is a hardwood capable of withstanding hot and cold temperatures and the textured grain makes for an attractive appearance. This bench is fitted with classic scrolled arms and an ergonomic curved seating design to support posture.

Classic 2.5 seater bench

Norfolk Garden Furniture produces galvanised steel benches with an eighteenth and nineteenth century design. They come in a full range of colours from azure to buttercup so you can choose one to suit the style of your garden. The cross-over of traditional design with modern materials makes for garden benches that fit seamlessly into the landscape whilst also being durable and hard-wearing.

Ravenna Bench

This stylish bench from Cox & Cox would make a beautiful addition to a country garden. Constructed in acacia wood with a washed finish, this garden bench has an elegant design. The curved arms and soft grey seat cushion would make it the perfect spot to settle down with a book in the garden or chat with friends over a G&T on a sunny day.

Teak Garden Furniture San Francisco Bench

This curved bench from Luxus Home and Garden would make a lovely addition to a lawn or patio. It is made from grade-A teak and is sanded to a smooth finish and can stay outdoors in all weather; it needs no assembly or maintenance and is very hard-wearing. This bench also comes with a fitted cushion making it a particularly comfy option and a great place to relax in the garden.

Sleeper Wooden Traditional Bench

This simple garden bench from Forest Garden is a solid and sturdy option. The basic design means that this bench would work well in a range of different gardens from modern to classic and would blend well into its surroundings. Made from FSC-certified timber, it also comes with a 15-year guarantee and comes in two different sizes.

Gartenbank

This garden bench from Dakota Fields is made in a classic British design which would work well in a traditional or cottage garden. The frame is made from black lacquered cast iron and lion heads decorate the arms. The mahogany coloured hardwood boards are easy to maintain and create a comfortable seat. It would make the perfect place to sit and relax or perhaps to watch the birds in the garden.

Wooden Garden Bench

This acacia-wood bench is a more modern garden seating option which would work well in a small city garden or on a patio. It comes in ready to assemble sections and is easy to maintain with a little teak oil to keep the wood looking vibrant.

If a garden bench isn’t quite what you’re looking for, take a look at our recommendations for the best outdoor sofas, the best swing chairs or the nicest rattan furniture sets.

 

 

]]> Garden furniture: the best garden seats https://www.gardensillustrated.com/garden-equipment/outdoor-living/garden-furniture-best-seats-chairs/ Tue, 14 Feb 2023 09:36:50 +0000 https://www.gardensillustrated.com/?p=18787

As summer arrives, make sure you have all your garden seating areas sorted. Here are a selection of the best garden chairs and seats to add to your garden furniture collection.

Here’s our round up of the best garden furniture

1

The classic ‘steam’ lounger

Inspired by the classic design first used on the decks of the legendary steam liners, this modern take is super-comfy with support for the legs and arms with brass details. It’s perfect for reclining on with a choice of 5 positions from the perfect reading angle right through to catching a few rays while you snooze. It comes with the added bonus of being easy to fold and store away.

Buy KETTLER RHS Chelsea Garden Steamer Chair from John Lewis

2

Scooped and stylish

A practical and comfortable chair suitable for use both indoor and outdoors. Safe to leave outside in the inevitable occasional rain, it shrugs off bad weather as much as it embraces the sun, while its flexible strand construction is as comfortable as it is striking to the eye. It’s made from metal and easy to assemble. This chic chair will add an exotic touch to any garden.

Buy Bay Isle Home Swarthmore Garden Chair from Wayfair

3

Retro hanging chair

Right on trend for 2021 – relax and enjoy a good book while safely cocooned in this ultra-chic retro-styled hanging egg chair. Made from woven poly rattan it comes complete with a comfy cushion and with its single chain support from above will gently rock you to relaxation as it is caught by the breeze. All this and it looks amazing too.

Buy Lyra hanging chair from Made.com

4

The modern winged back

This Scandinavian-style chair will look stunning in your garden, fusing inside and outside styles for a little of that ‘bringing the inside – out’ magic. Blur the line between your living or family room and your patio and your ground floor just got a whole lot bigger! It’s made from a combination of steel and wrapped with PE bamboo – meaning it’s a stylish and sustainable choice.

5

Stylish for indoors or out

Go on. Treat yourself. While clearly in need of a little shelter over the chillier moments its fabulous design is crafted with weather-resistant material so if you do get caught in a downpour there’s no need to panic. The stainless steel-capped teak frame is complemented by plush comfy cushions making it the perfect option for a covered seating area, magically turning your garden into a new living room. And with a quality build it’ll last and last past your old deckchairs and be the centrepiece for many garden occasions to come.

6

Two for one

Stock up on new furniture fast and get two matching chairs in one simple package. Furnish a single low table for drinks or create your own outdoor banquet with as many of these matching chairs as you require. Keep it formal for dining or add your own plush outdoor cushions and transform the design into a stylish sun chair.

7

Colourful and tropical

The dramatic curve shape and eclectic mix of bright blue shades will add a tropical touch to your garden seating area. Use as a single centrepiece, as an offset to more angular or formal seating, or create an informal idyl with a pair placed face to face around a low bistro table.

Buy Yuri garden lounge chair from Made.com

8

Pop-up

Simple and stylish. This star-print pop-up chair is a practical solution for extra seating for garden parties and dining, with its clever metal frame not only appearing to defy gravity but folding almost completely flat when not in use. Plus, its strong cover is easy to maintain by simply wiping clean with a damp cloth.

Buy Star Print Pop-Up Deck Chair from Graham & Green

9

Timeless style

Get serious in your garden and go for this winged chair that oozes class. It’s that little bit comfier and more than a bit plusher than your garden may be used to. This luxe armchair is an optimal choice for bringing family and friends together for entertaining. An open weave frame is complemented by gorgeous, soft cushions – perfect for sinking and hard to resist all summer long.

Find more high-quality furniture pieces for the garden in our guides to the best day beds and outdoor sofas.

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